Sahlu Okebato, who emigrated from his native Ethiopia to the United States in 1991, took over the San Jose Coffee Shop on Aug. 16, 2003,
adding Ethiopian food to his offerings in late September.
Although Sahlu grew up in the restaurant business-his late father owned one in Ethiopia-he had no desire to have a restaurant when he came
to the United States in 1991. He knew it would be hard work.
After graduating from San Jose State University in 2000 with a degree in electrical engineering, Sahlu went to work for Compaq. Two and half
years later, the HP takeover left him exploring his options.
Sahlu knew he wanted his own business and listened to friends and family members who told him an Ethiopian restaurant was the way to go.
When he saw the current location, he like it and decided to lease it.
But, Sahlu gives all credit to his sister, Lomi, who is the chef in charge of the Ethiopian dishes, and whose loving efforts produce the wonderful
food they present. Now the restaurant is open 7 days a week
adding Ethiopian food to his offerings in late September.
Although Sahlu grew up in the restaurant business-his late father owned one in Ethiopia-he had no desire to have a restaurant when he came
to the United States in 1991. He knew it would be hard work.
After graduating from San Jose State University in 2000 with a degree in electrical engineering, Sahlu went to work for Compaq. Two and half
years later, the HP takeover left him exploring his options.
Sahlu knew he wanted his own business and listened to friends and family members who told him an Ethiopian restaurant was the way to go.
When he saw the current location, he like it and decided to lease it.
But, Sahlu gives all credit to his sister, Lomi, who is the chef in charge of the Ethiopian dishes, and whose loving efforts produce the wonderful
food they present. Now the restaurant is open 7 days a week
| HOW WE STARTED |
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