Dama is the father of all Damas' who has been operating the Restaurant or the Pastry and Cafe. He passed away in 1967. He was a known for his hard work, kindness and care for his community.
The first Dama Restaurant was originally opened in 1982 on North Capitol Street in Washington D.C. by the oldest Dama sister – Yeshi Dama and closed its doors for business four years later in 1986.
In 1999, over a decade later, Kelem Dama opened a new Dama Restaurant, this time in Arlington, Virginia to serve the community as a traditional Ethiopian Restaurant and Market. The community’s strong embrace of Dama Restaurant and Market was and still is a key reason for its continued success.
Shortly thereafter in 2000, Almaz Dama, an experienced pastry chef, Hailu Dama, and Amsale Saife-Selassie joined together to open Dama Pastry & Café next door to the Restaurant. Dama Pastry & Café specializes in traditional cakes and vegan cakes as well.
With over 20 years of experience in the industry and our diverse clientele, Dama Restaurant and Dama Pastry & Cafe have been able to cater to the Metropolitan Washington DC Area and we look forward to serving you.