Abem takes its name from Gurage, one of Ethiopia's languages, meaning "God gave me." Chef Genet grew up in Harare, Ethiopia, where she learned to cook at her grandparents' and later her parents' restaurant before working at restaurants and coffee shops after moving to the United States. She runs Abem with Mezmur, bringing that family cooking background to Antioch.
The menu covers savory injera, tibs, and kitfo, built with traditional Ethiopian spices and premium meat cuts, alongside breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with vegan and vegetarian dishes included. Every meal comes with 100% teff injera, making the gluten-free option standard rather than an add-on. The coffee program runs alongside the kitchen, with freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, tea, juices, and smoothies rounding out the offerings.
Lamb tibs come up often among regulars, alongside praise for the atmosphere and a warm welcome from the owners. The restaurant has been reviewed by The Infatuation.
The menu covers savory injera, tibs, and kitfo, built with traditional Ethiopian spices and premium meat cuts, alongside breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with vegan and vegetarian dishes included. Every meal comes with 100% teff injera, making the gluten-free option standard rather than an add-on. The coffee program runs alongside the kitchen, with freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, tea, juices, and smoothies rounding out the offerings.
Lamb tibs come up often among regulars, alongside praise for the atmosphere and a warm welcome from the owners. The restaurant has been reviewed by The Infatuation.