LISC Phoenix program officer David Longoria sat down for lunch at Authentic EthioAfrica with owner Anduale Hassan, who emigrated from Ethiopia in the 1990s with a vision for creating a community space—and two decades of experience in the food business to help make it a reality.
When Anduale Hassan emigrated from Ethiopia in the 1990s, a life in Arizona wasn't initially part of his plan. But he had a vision for creating a community space, and two decades of experience in the food business to help make it a reality.
In 2012, Hassan and his wife, Elsabet Tiruneh, opened Authentic EthioAfrican as a small, primarily takeout restaurant in Phoenix. By 2021, the Phoenix New Times named it the best African food in town, and they were ready to expand. With a $100,000 loan from LISC, EthioAfrican renovated and moved into a larger space next door, with their original space converted to a small marketplace featuring goods made by local immigrants.
LISC Phoenix program officer David Longoria had the opportunity to speak briefly with Hassan while having lunch at EthioAfrican. Hassan made time during the midday rush to express how vital LISC’s capital was to his small business. Even in a short conversation, Longoria “was struck by his immense sense of humility and optimism in light of his journey and how difficult things have been over the last two years.”
“[Hassan’s] clear spirit of service speaks volumes about the importance and impact entrepreneurs like him have on the surrounding community and local economy,” Longoria added. “His story is evidence of the progress we are making on the (Miracle) Mile through capacity building and engagement, and we remain committed to reinvestment and revitalization in this area exactly because of these kinds of outcomes.”
EthioAfrican is bringing on new staff and able to seat more patrons than in its original space. What started as a one room restaurant is now is a vibrant sit-down space with live Afro-beat and jazz music performances.