There are few local public restaurants that have a unique space, great hospitality and above all – viewing of the capital than Union Cocktail Bar & Restaurant.
Located by Mesqel Square, inside the compound that houses the Addis Ababa Museum, the restaurant that opened about two years ago has become a popular destination for diplomats and expats from African nations.
“There are few places that cater Kenyan foods, in particular Ugali Nyama Choma, than this place. To expats from Kenya and neighboring nations, this has been our meeting place as well as where we gather every Friday night as we listen to African music, eat and kick and relax”, said Julian Barassa.
Decorated to perfection with images of African leaders of the past on its spacious wall, elegant to a fault, Union has also been known for its variety of cocktails, more than its food and its fast distinguishing it from many similar other establishments in Addis.
With a Kenyan young manager who frequently comes to each table to inspect and converse with guests, a Kenyan embassy diplomat reflected with The Reporter what makes Union standout to him and others.
“I come here because the place is clean and I can bring guests to try and sample all kinds of cuisine, as well as drinks served in a dignified, non-rushed way and my fellow Kenyan manager is a friend and he makes sure our needs are catered to and we like the place. Where else can you eat Ethiopian, sometimes Kenyan and other times European cuisine but here”, he asked.
The Trip advisor of the establishment is also complementary to the place.
“The Union cocktail bar and restaurant has a very nice looking place, with a great view of Addis bus station”, one wrote, adding, “It’s quite el decorated and has very good salads. The food is okay, nothing spectacular but the ambiance is good. The bat is well stocked”.
“Great view and prime location for big celebrations on Meskel Square, and a nice terrace to rent for private events, food is quite decent, although not the best I’ve ever had,” another wrote.
The restaurant has an ample space on top of its restaurants allowing many to take advantage of a beautiful atmosphere in perfect Ethiopian weather.
Blen Alemu recently hosted her engagement here.
A visitor from Maryland, in the United States, the place was recommended to her by a friend. She was surprised by what she found and her guests were elated by the choice of cocktails and snacks that was on the offering.
“I had a family member book it for me and make all the choices on my behalf. When we walked in, about two dozen, we were impressed by all the COVID precautions that had been taken care of, the cleanness of the restrooms, the service and the affordability”, she told The Reporter.
“What was also most impressive was the prime viewing we had of Addis Ababa, as we sipped good, quality and tailored cocktails. Above all else, the place afforded us a unique opportunity to snap photos that soon became most memorable”, she added.
On a Monday evening when The Reporter visited, a few days before the Ethiopian New Year, Union was quiet, its unusual self, but the staff were busy hosting a birthday party at a corner room. There were giggles, laughter and good times with many young people.
It seemed they were having a beautiful time.
“A beautiful time is all we want, that is whether it’s a big crowd or small and something the owners want from this establishment”, a waiter said as her voice was partially swallowed by the noise coming from the mega Mesqel Square project not far from Union.
