Meet the Chef

Chef Seife’s Story

 
Chef Seife’s journey is a beautiful one, connecting his Ethiopian roots with a deep passion for Japanese cuisine. After leaving Ethiopia in the early 1990s, he spent over 30 years in Japan, fully immersing himself in the country’s culinary world.
 
During that time, he became a sought-after chef, serving at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo where he cooked for diplomats. He later went on to successfully run his own Ethiopian & Mediterranean restaurant in Tokyo—a place where he proudly shared the flavors of his homeland, a legacy that continues to this day.
 
Now back in Addis Ababa, Chef Seife is bringing this incredible experience home. His philosophy is simple and heartfelt:
“Cook from the heart. Understand the culture behind the cuisine. Don’t rush the process—excellence takes time.”
 
To him, Kokoro is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural space driven by passion, where two unique traditions meet in harmony. And if you visit, you might just find Chef Seife himself at your table, happily sharing the story behind his dishes and his remarkable journey.

GALLERY

Our REVIEW

LEAVE REVIEW

FOLLOW US ON

A Taste of Japan in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa has a few great spots for Japanese cuisine, offering a taste of Japan’s traditional flavors, from sushi to ramen and beyond. These restaurants blend authentic recipes with local ingredients, bringing a unique twist to the dining experience. Whether you’re craving sushi, tempura, or a steaming bowl of ramen, you can find a cozy spot to indulge in Japanese dishes in Ethiopia’s capital.

One of the standout optiont is KOKORO Japanese Resturant Addis Abeba. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a blend of authentic Japanese dishes with a modern twist. From the freshest sushi to flavorful ramen and tempura, this restaurant provides an immersive Japanese dining experience. The ambiance is relaxed yet stylish, making it a great choice for both casual meals and special occasions.

Meet the Chef

Chef Seife’s Story

 
Chef Seife’s journey is a beautiful one, connecting his Ethiopian roots with a deep passion for Japanese cuisine. After leaving Ethiopia in the early 1990s, he spent over 30 years in Japan, fully immersing himself in the country’s culinary world.
 
During that time, he became a sought-after chef, serving at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo where he cooked for diplomats. He later went on to successfully run his own Ethiopian & Mediterranean restaurant in Tokyo—a place where he proudly shared the flavors of his homeland, a legacy that continues to this day.
 
Now back in Addis Ababa, Chef Seife is bringing this incredible experience home. His philosophy is simple and heartfelt:
“Cook from the heart. Understand the culture behind the cuisine. Don’t rush the process—excellence takes time.”
 
To him, Kokoro is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural space driven by passion, where two unique traditions meet in harmony. And if you visit, you might just find Chef Seife himself at your table, happily sharing the story behind his dishes and his remarkable journey.

GALLERY

REVIEW

LEAVE REVIEW