WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — One beloved D.C. restaurant that has brought smiles to faces and created memories for families across the DMV announced that it is closing its doors.
Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant family shared a statement in a post on Instagram on Thursday to announce the restaurant will close after serving the community for nearly 30 years.
“To every guest who shared a meal with us, every employee who became part of the Dukem family, and every regular, friend, neighbor and community member who supported us along the way: thank you,” wrote Hiwot Gebru, Yodit Tefera and Lydia Tefera in the statement.
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The family-owned Ethiopian restaurant first opened in 1997 in the heart of D.C.’s U Street. The business began with Owner and Founder Tefera Zewdie. Zewdie passed away in 2022, and his children continued his legacy.
Dukem has grown to be a long-time staple in the community and is ranked as a top spot for restaurants in Washington, D.C. In 2026, Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant won the Savor Award for Excellence in Ethiopian Injera.
The restaurant also won the Best Ethiopian Restaurant award for the Best of City Washington Paper in 2026. Eater also named Dukem as one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in D.C.
In 2024, social media influencer Keith Lee visited the restaurant, adding another spotlight to Dukem’s dishes.
“Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of serving generations of guests. You celebrated with us, gathered around our tables, and joined us upstairs for music, drinks and countless late nights. Those memories and relationships mean more to us than words can express,” wrote the family.
The last day of business for Dukem is Nov. 7.
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