Another favourite place to dine in the Mother City has closed their doors after months of no income amid the coronavirus pandemic. Addis in Cape is a much-loved spot in the Cape Town CBD where dinners indulged and experienced the culture and flavours of Ethiopian cuisine, in an ideal, colourful setting.
In a heart-warming post on their Facebook Page, the owner Senait Mekonnen expressed her sadness at closing their doors and said they will return if they manage to weather the storm.
The post on their page read:
“Dearest Addis fans, suppliers, co working companies and Cape Town tourism.
I am the owner of Addis in Cape, the big red building on the corner of Church and Long street.
I always try to look outwards and travel with a bright light, welcoming change wherever I go. However, the change that is currently taking place for all of us isn’t what I imagined or expected was even possible. This isn’t really a choice as much as it’s allowing myself to go with the flow, trusting the bright light to reestablish a path, as Mother Nature’s will continues to unfold.
I have tried everything I could to not have to tear down this lovely place called Addis in Cape. It makes the heart sink. I know yours does, as does mine, as it was a place that touched the hearts of many who walked through its doors.
We had a memorable time and introduced the Ethiopian cuisine and culture to travellers and locals alike , including our people from Khayelitsha, Gugulethu and other townships who learned to prepare the food and are now experts. I want to thank our Johannesburg summer visitors who kept Addis in Cape on their to-do list, Capetonians and others who decided to actually visit Ethiopia after their experience with Addis in Cape, the vegan community who shared the food that is equally popular with non-vegans, the halal community who knew that they were always safe with us and finally, those who trusted us to be gluten-free and knew that we were just that. That was Addis in Cape. No wonder the landlord called Addis in Cape “an institute”, not that the Addis team didn’t know that, but either way it was great to hear. A big thanks to him for his unforgettable kindness and support these past few months.
Thank you to all our clients, local and international, for accepting us as raw and earthy as we were and supporting us through it all. You were the pillars of the business. We are moving into a different time and norm and although a lot is uncertain, we will try to weather the storm as we allow the universe to unfold some more. Until the bright light awakens us again, we say, See you! Sabonana! Kitlakubona! Totsiens!”
In response to the announcement, regulars commented on their unforgettable experienced at Addis in Cape and expressed their sadness.
“What a terribly sad day, Senait. Our hearts are aching with yours. We will miss your beautiful space and food. But Addis lives on in our hearts. Bridget & Jacob,” said one.
“I’m deeply sorry Senait! All the love and energy you have given through the years. I will always remember the greatness!!” – said another.
The comments are a true reflection of the warm hospitality and incredible food that patrons will miss.
Pictures: Addis in Cape Facebook