Founded by Simon Javan Okelo, Kezira Café is the heartbeat of Seattle's African diaspora community. It is a space where the aroma of freshly roasted Ethiopian coffee blends with the rhythmic beats of live music and the warmth of shared stories.
Kezira Café Seattle is a community-centered café inspired by Kezira, a historic neighborhood in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Anchored by the legacy of Nigist Kidane and the work of Simon Javan Okelo, Kezira Café brings together healthy African food, coffee, live music, and storytelling.
Connect & Celebrate
African coffee is more than a drink—it’s a shared experience rooted in community. Grown in rich, high-altitude soils across the continent, it’s known for bright flavors, floral aromas, and deep character.
A savory, triangular pastry with a thin, crispy, deep-fried shell, filled with fragrant, boldly seasoned vegetables or tender minced beef or chicken—available in both spicy and mild varieties.
We offer a rotating selection of daily staples, thoughtfully prepared to bring variety and freshness to our menu. Each day features different comforting favorites, giving guests something new to enjoy while still celebrating the familiar flavors they love.
Founder of Madaraka Festival, One Vibe Media, the Madaraka Festival Podcast, and One Vibe Band, Simon is driven by a commitment to honor and continue the legacy of Nigist Kidane, who stewarded Kezira Café for over a decade. His vision brings years of cultural and community work into a permanent home—building on events produced across Seattle, from MoPOP, where Madaraka Festival was born, to Pier 62, its 2025 venue.
With a deep passion for African culture and a vision to preserve its heritage, Simon Javan Okelo has dedicated his life to creating a space where people can experience the richness of African cuisine, coffee, and storytelling. His commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation is clear in every aspect of Kezira Café Seattle, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
