Our story
Mesob began with two sisters, a collection of recipes and a simple promise: prepare Ethiopian food with care and welcome every guest as family.
Built by sisters. Sustained by community.
Growing up in Ethiopia in a family of ten children, the sisters learned that food was how their family celebrated, comforted one another, welcomed guests, and strengthened bonds.
Berekti built a career in corporate America while cooking Ethiopian meals on weekends as a passion. After traveling through Africa and Europe, she realized her greatest joy came from bringing people together through food. She and Aki decided to follow their hearts and open a restaurant, not simply to serve meals, but to share their culture and hospitality.
Over more than two decades, the restaurant has become a familiar gathering place for families, vegans, meat lovers, first-time diners and guests who travel across New Jersey for a meal. Learn more about Mesob and what makes the dining experience unique.
Resilience and gratitude.
Like many small businesses, we have faced difficult times. We survived the COVID-19 pandemic. We endured the devastation of Hurricane Ida, which forced us to close for several months.
There were moments when the future was uncertain, but every challenge reminded us how fortunate we were to have a loyal community standing beside us. Your encouragement, your patience, and your unwavering support gave us the strength to continue.
Today, very few independently owned restaurants in our town have served their community for more than two decades. Reaching this milestone is not something we achieved alone. It belongs to every customer who chose to dine with us, every employee who became part of our family, every friend who recommended us, and every neighbor who believed in our dream.
Thank you for allowing us to share the flavors of Ethiopia, the traditions of our homeland, and the warmth of Ethiopian hospitality with you.
The details that make Mesob, Mesob.
Spices with purpose
Imported Ethiopian spices are blended to create layered heat, aroma and depth, not one-note "spiciness."
Fresh preparation
Produce is selected fresh and sauces are prepared with the patience traditional dishes require.
A shared table
Platters are designed to be explored together, making the meal naturally social and memorable.
Warm hospitality
Guests return not only for the food but for the personal welcome and sense of belonging.
Tradition without intimidation.
You do not need to know the menu before you arrive. Ask questions, tell us what flavors you enjoy, and let us help build a platter for your table.
Join us in Montclair.
Come for a shared platter, stay for coffee, and leave with a new favorite dish.