Bete Ethiopian Cuisine Cafe Permanently Closes in Downtown Silver Spring

Bete Ethiopian Cuisine & Cafe has permanently closed after 16 years of operation in downtown Silver Spring. Opened in 2009, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite, praised by Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema for its authentic Ethiopian flavors. Reader Ken D. reported that his web order was canceled last weekend, as the restaurant was closed with its phone number disconnected. The establishment had previously shut down for renovations in 2023, which raised concerns about its sustainability.

Most interior fixtures and furniture have been removed, indicating the finality of the closure. The restaurant's location at 811 Roeder Road will remain vacant for the time being as there is no known replacement tenant. Bete, which means "my house" in Amharic, leaves behind a legacy of culinary appreciation in the community. This closure highlights the challenges faced by local eateries in maintaining operations in a competitive environment.