Bunna Cafe

Tucked into a quiet corner of Bushwick, **Bunna Cafe** has spent over a decade redefining vegan Ethiopian cuisine with its vibrant platters, aromatic coffee ceremonies, and a steadfast commitment to community. This 100% plant-based gem at 1084 Flushing Avenue thrives as a cultural anchor, blending tradition with Brooklyn’s eclectic energy.  

## Culinary Experience  
Bunna’s menu is a celebration of Ethiopia’s rich culinary heritage, reimagined through a vegan lens. Diners share communal platters laden with **slow-stewed shiro** (spiced chickpea puree), **misir wot** (fiery red lentils), and **gomen** (collard greens sautéed with garlic)[1][5]. The star is the spongy **injera**, a sourdough flatbread used to scoop up every flavorful bite. For brunch, the **ful medames** (fava bean stew) and **tibs** (sautéed mushrooms) draw crowds, while the **key sir** (beet salad) adds a refreshing crunch[4][5].  

**Don’t miss**: The traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where beans are roasted tableside and served with burning frankincense—a ritual that transforms caffeine into theater[4].  

## Ambiance & Vibe  
The low-lit dining room balances Bushwick’s industrial edge with warm, earthy tones. Wooden tables and a tented outdoor area invite lingering, whether for a romantic date (the corner booth is a favorite)[1] or a solo meal with a book. Playlists swing from Frank Sinatra to hip-hop, mirroring the neighborhood’s eclectic spirit[2][4].  

## A Decade of Roots  
Founded in 2013 by Sam Saverance and partners, Bunna began as a Smorgasburg stall before taking over a former Southern joint, Mama Joy’s[2]. Despite its cult following, the team resists expansion. “We want to do this right,” says co-owner Liyuw Ayalew, prioritizing quality over scale[2]. Regulars like photographer Delphine Diallo praise its “welcoming” aura, noting little has changed beyond the menu’s seasonal twists[2].  

## Events & Community  
Beyond dinner, Bunna hosts **live music**, **cooking classes**, and pop-ups featuring Ethiopian artists. The full bar serves **bespoke cocktails** like the *Tej* (honey wine with citrus) and *Spiced Rum Punch*, alongside Ethiopian beers[4][5].  

*Why it endures*: In a neighborhood (and city) prone to flux, Bunna remains a haven where veganism feels indulgent, tradition feels fresh, and every meal is a shared story. As chef Kedega Srage puts it: “Our food feeds the soul”[5].