Dining with us is a unique experience, as Ethiopian food is eaten communally from a shared plate using the traditional bread, injera, as your utensil. Featuring a variety of dishes including vegan and gluten free options, Zemam’s has long been a staple of the Tucson global gastronomic experience.
The Founder: Amanuel Gebremariam
Amanuel fled his homeland over 40 years ago and found safety in the United States as a refugee with nothing in his pockets. Once he and his family settled in Tucson, Amanuel was called to share the unique tastes he remembered his mother preparing for her family back home. He opened the original Zemam’s in 1993 in a small house on Broadway with just five tables. Tucson immediately embraced the small establishment and soon Zemam’s became a well known destination for diners looking for a different experience. In 2014, Amanuel purchased the old Garland restaurant and opened a second restaurant, Zemam’s, too!. His sons have since joined him in the business and together they see a future with more to come.
The Managers: Lucas and Noah Gebremariam
Noah has been involved with the restaurants since 2011. Upon graduating from the University of Arizona in the same year, he decided to join forces with his dad in the family business. He is part owner and manager of the original Zemam’s on Broadway.
Lucas is the newest member of the management team. A graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA, Luke saw an opportunity to return to his Tucson home in 2016 and help his dad grow the business. He is part owner and manager of the Zemam’s, too! location on Speedway.
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