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Kitfo – Authentic Ethiopian Seasoned Beef in Winnipeg

(76 reviews)

Kitfo is Ethiopia's answer to steak tartare — finely chopped prime beef mixed with seasoned kibbeh (clarified spiced butter) and mitmita spice blend. At Merkato Restaurant in Winnipeg, Kitfo is served exactly as tradition dictates: raw, medium, or well done, accompanied by injera and fresh ayib (Ethiopian cottage cheese).

Made to Order
Spice Level: Spiced
House Specialty
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Authentic Ethiopian Kitfo seasoned beef at Merkato Restaurant in Winnipeg

About Merkato's Kitfo

Kitfo is one of the most revered dishes in Ethiopian cuisine — a testament to the quality of the beef and the precision of the seasoning. At Merkato, prime beef is finely hand-chopped and mixed with kibbeh (herb-infused clarified butter) and mitmita, a fiery Ethiopian spice blend made from cardamom, dried chilies, and cloves. Guests choose their preferred doneness: raw (traditional), leb leb (medium), or well done.

Often served at celebrations and special occasions in Ethiopia, Kitfo at Merkato Winnipeg is a unique and memorable dining experience. First-time guests are guided through the dish by the attentive staff, ensuring everyone can enjoy it comfortably. It is served with injera and a side of gommen (collard greens) or ayib.

What Customers Say About Merkato Restaurant

Danielle D.

TripAdvisor Reviewer

"Sam, the owner, treats us like we are family. He wants to make sure we enjoy the food. And we ALWAYS do! He will customize food to make sure we enjoy it! The portions are great! Prices are reasonable. You can taste the richness! It's a delight."

August 2024

Jeff C.

Winnipeg Regular

"Merkato is my favourite restaurant in Winnipeg. Everything, from the decor and music, to the food, to the proprietress, perfectly emulates the style of a typical Ethiopian cafe. Never crowded, you won't be rushed as you select from an incredible variety of dishes. Serving sizes are large despite the inexpensive prices."

October 2012

Cannuckk

TripAdvisor Reviewer

"We were served by the friendly owner of the restaurant, and he suggested the mixed platter, which had seven different dishes (three meat and four vegetable based). Eating Ethiopian style — no utensils, just hands aided by the spongy flatbread — was a fun and unique experience. The total bill was only $50 Cdn all in, so it certainly was good value."

September 2023

Try Winnipeg's Best Authentic Kitfo

Order online for pickup or dine-in at 352 Cumberland Ave, Winnipeg

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Find Us in Winnipeg

Merkato Restaurant

Address:
352 Cumberland Ave
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1T3, Canada

Phone:
+1 204-947-9802

Hours:

  • Monday: 1 PM – 12 AM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday – Sunday: 1 PM – 12 AM
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