7 Questions with Ethiopian Diamond owner, Almaz Yigizaw
Owner Almaz Yigizaw with a platter of Ethiopian cuisine
7 Questions with Ethiopian Diamond owner Almaz Yigizaw
Can you tell us a little about your business and how long it has been located in Edgewater?
The business opened 13 ½ years ago as one of the first Ethiopian restaurants in Chicago. Ethiopian Diamond is a comfortable atmosphere with live entertainment on Friday and Saturday. We can accommodate up to 175 guests and we provide a private area for special events. We are open from 11:30 to 10:30 Sunday through Thursday and 11:30 to 11:30 on Friday and Saturday. We have a variety of dinner packages to choose from and a full bar is also available.
Can you give us a brief overview of your cuisine and menu?
From the Traditional to the unexpected, Ethiopian Cuisine is a variety of flavors. It all starts with our bread called Injera. Injera is used to soak up the flavors and also used as your utensil. Ethiopian cuisine is eaten with your fingers.
We serve a variety of vegetarian items and several meat choices; lamb, beef, chicken and seafood. You have your choice if you want it spicy, mild or plain on most entrees. There is a little of something for everyone.
What are the top three keys to Ethiopian Diamond’s success?
We take pride in (1) our consistency, (2) the friendly environment, and of course (3) our flavorful, authentic cuisine.
What do you like best about having your business located in Edgewater?
Edgewater is a multi ethnic neighborhood where people are not afraid to try something different. It is close to Loyola and Northwestern colleges which brings a lot of new faces to the area.
How has the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce helped your business?
The Edgewater Chamber was the first to recognize the Ethiopian Diamond Restaurant for 4 awards the first year in business. This helped us with publicity in the community and neighborhood. Now they include us in many events and meetings which are held many times in our restaurant, this also helps bring in new customers.
What advice do you have for other businesses in the neighborhood?
If you are not currently a member, become one. Attend all meetings and events, become active in the neighborhood and volunteer whenever possible.
Do you have any exciting news you would like to share with Chamber members and the neighborhood?
Yes, due to the success of our current restaurant we have expanded and we are opening our second location at 7537 N. Clark. We are planning our grand opening for the weekend of October 23rd. Here we will serve from the same menu and the food items will remain the same. However, this location will be more for the night owls. We will be open until 2am and we will have entertainment on most nights. We will have Sunday brunch at this location and there is free parking all day and night. Come check it out!!!
Come enjoy “Ethiopian Flavors with the Spice of Life!”