Ethiopian roots,
Canadian home
Ethiopia’s culinary culture is rooted in togetherness, from sharing injera at the table to enjoying a traditional coffee ceremony. Mahi saw an opportunity to bring this sense of connection to Canada—a melting pot where diverse cultures thrive.
By introducing authentic Ethiopian dishes to a new audience, she hopes to celebrate both her roots and Canada’s multicultural spirit, inviting guests to discover, connect, and savor each meal in true Ethiopian fashion.
Meet the owner
Mahi's Culinary Passion
Mahi, our founder and head chef, was born in Ethiopia, where her love for cooking began at an early age. She grew up learning family recipes passed down through generations, discovering how food can bring people together and spark lasting memories.
Determined to share the warmth and hospitality of her homeland, Mahi set out to create Gursha as a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy Ethiopian cuisine in a friendly, communal atmosphere.
The flavors &
spices of Gursha
At Gursha, every dish is a vibrant tapestry of bold spices and fresh ingredients. Signature Ethiopian blends like berbere and mitmita lend depth and heat, while staples like turmeric and garlic bring warmth and aroma.
By carefully balancing these flavors, we create meals that honor tradition yet feel accessible and exciting to all palates. From tangy injera to slow-cooked stews, our menu is a testament to Mahi’s commitment to quality, authenticity, and the rich tapestry of Ethiopian cuisine—now lovingly served in Canada.
Ethiopian coffee: A tradition steeped in history
Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, where the beloved bean has grown wild in the lush forests of the southwestern highlands for centuries. Legend has it that a goat herder named Kaldi first discovered coffee’s magic when he noticed his goats acting unusually energetic after eating the red cherries from a certain plant. Curious, he shared his discovery with nearby monks, who initially feared the beans were the work of the devil. But when they tossed them into the fire, the rich aroma that filled the air changed everything. The monks soon realized that a drink made from these roasted beans helped them stay awake during long nights of prayer—thus, the world’s love affair with coffee began.
More than a drink—a ceremony
In Ethiopia, coffee is far more than just a beverage; it is a cultural cornerstone, a symbol of hospitality, respect, and connection. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a deeply rooted tradition that brings people together in a ritual of preparation, conversation, and shared moments. The ceremony, often performed by women dressed in traditional white tilit dresses, begins with the roasting of raw coffee beans over an open flame. As the beans darken and release their fragrant oils, guests take in the aroma, wafting the rich scent toward themselves—a gesture believed to bring blessings and warmth.
Once roasted to perfection, the beans are ground using a wooden mortar and pestle, then slowly brewed in a jebena—a round-bottomed, black clay coffee pot with a slender spout. The coffee is poured into small handleless cups and traditionally served in three rounds: Abol (the first and strongest cup), Tona, and Baraka (the final cup, symbolizing blessing).
A taste of Ethiopia in every sip
Ethiopian coffee is known for its complex flavors—bright, floral, and sometimes spiced with hints of citrus and chocolate. Whether you enjoy it bold and black or lightly sweetened, every sip carries the essence of Ethiopia’s rich coffee heritage. The phrase "Buna Tetu"—which means “Come, have coffee”—is an open invitation, welcoming everyone to slow down, connect, and share in the experience.
At Gursha, we honor this time-honored tradition, offering a taste of Ethiopia’s finest organic highland coffee, brewed just as it has been for generations. Whether you're here for a meal or simply for a warm cup of buna, you’re invited to take part in a ritual that has been bringing people together for centuries.
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