Merkato Restaurant — Serving Winnipeg Since 2002
Experience the rich flavours of Ethiopia and Eritrea at Merkato Restaurant in downtown Winnipeg. Our traditional injera-based dining brings together slow-cooked stews, seasoned meats, and vegetarian platters — a communal, hands-on dining experience that is both delicious and culturally immersive. Order online for pickup or join us for dine-in at 352 Cumberland Ave.
At Merkato Restaurant, every meal is a journey to the heart of East Africa. Our traditional injera-based dining features slow-cooked wots (stews), grilled tibs, and generous vegetarian platters — all served on large spongy flatbread made from teff or wheat. Tear off pieces of injera and scoop up richly spiced dishes in a communal dining experience that has delighted Winnipeg for over two decades.
Discover our most-loved Ethiopian and Eritrean dishes, prepared with authentic spice blends and served the traditional way — on injera flatbread. From slow-cooked stews to seasoned grilled meats, every dish celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia.
Legs of free-range chicken slow-cooked in a dense stew of onions, berbere, kibbeh (Ethiopian ghee), herbs, and boiled egg. A classic Ethiopian comfort dish and one of our most celebrated specialties.
A generous platter featuring Miser Wat, Ater Kik Wat, Dinch Wat, Gomen Wat, and Shiro Wat — served on injera. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and first-time visitors exploring Ethiopian cuisine.
Finely chopped prime beef mixed with seasoned butter (kibbeh) and mitmita spice, served raw, medium, or well done. Ethiopia's answer to steak tartare — a must-try for adventurous food lovers.
Chunks of lean beef sautéed with onion, tomato, green pepper, and purified butter. Available mild or spicy — one of Merkato's signature dishes and a favourite among our regular guests.
Chopped prime beef with hot green peppers, onions, and garlic wrapped in homemade thin flatbread, served hot. A crowd-favourite appetizer that pairs perfectly with any of our main dishes.
Tender marinated lamb cooked with peppers, onions, tomatoes, rosemary, and spices, served on injera. A rich and flavourful specialty for lamb lovers and a true taste of Ethiopian culinary tradition.
Merkato Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine in Winnipeg for over two decades. Named after the famous Merkato market in Addis Ababa — one of Africa's largest open-air markets — our restaurant reflects a deep connection to Ethiopian culture and heritage. Family-owned and operated, with a warm atmosphere, casual décor, and staff who treat every guest like family. Whether you're new to Ethiopian food or a longtime regular, Merkato offers generous portions at reasonable prices.
Find answers to common questions about Ethiopian food, our services, delivery areas, menu options, and more.
You can order through multiple channels:
We deliver to neighbourhoods across Winnipeg including:
Delivery fees and minimum order requirements may vary by location.
Our most popular Ethiopian dishes include:
Absolutely! Ethiopian cuisine is naturally rich in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Our Vegetarian Combo — our best seller — features five different stews including Miser Wat (red lentils), Ater Kik Wat (split peas), Dinch Wat (potatoes), Gomen Wat (collard greens), and Shiro Wat (chickpea flour). All served on injera with no animal products. Many more vegetarian options are available on our menu.
We're open most days of the week:
We're located at 352 Cumberland Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3B 1T3, Canada. We're in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, close to the Exchange District and conveniently accessible from West Broadway, Wolseley, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Yes, we offer catering services for events of all sizes — from family gatherings to corporate events. Our catering menu includes popular dishes that can be customized to your preferences. Contact us at +1 (204) 947-9802 to discuss your catering needs.
Yes! We offer imported gluten-free Ye'Teff Injera — traditional teff flatbread — as an alternative to our standard wheat injera. Many of our stews and meat dishes are naturally gluten-free. Please inform our staff about any dietary restrictions or allergies when placing your order.
352 Cumberland Ave
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1T3, Canada
