@lydtefera: 💔❤️🩹 @Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant DC When my dad passed, the idea of closing Dukem felt impossible, even though it was something he and my mom had already talked about and were eventually planning toward. I think for me, keeping it going became a way of holding onto a piece of him. For the past two years, I’ve worked my 9–5 and then come straight to Dukem and the lounge after work almost every single day. But I’m really proud of everything we’ve been able to do and how much of myself I’ve poured into this place. I’m also so proud of my sister and, most importantly, my mom. I don’t think people will ever fully understand how much she’s given to Dukem over the past 30 years. And I’m so grateful for our staff who have truly become family, and for all of the friendships and relationships I’ve made along the way because of Dukem and the lounge. This place has brought so many special people into my life. Our last day will be November 7, so please come see us, eat, drink, and make a few more memories with us before then. Dukem and the lounge may be closing, but I’ll continue carrying my dad’s legacy forward. It’ll just look a little different moving forward.
Lydia
Region: US
Thursday 01 October 2026 21:17:34 GMT
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Eboné :
Keith Lee just went there
2026-10-01 23:29:59
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KEKE BOO. :
everything on U Street is closing 😩
2026-10-01 22:52:19
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theeritreanhalimo ✨ :
Awwww took this photo back in 2014 when I went cause the food was SO GOOD! Wish you and your family all the best!
2026-10-02 00:11:05
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Trell1418 :
I was one of your dad’s bankers 🏦 Mr. Zewdie was so kind and always talked about his girls. He even bought me an Ethiopian painting back one year when he came from Ethiopia when he’d go every year around Christmas 🎄 best wishes to you all.
2026-10-01 23:01:40
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yo :
I can’t believe Dukem Restaurant is closing permanently. I have so many great memories there from the early 2000s. Dukem was truly one of the best, and it’s so sad to see such a special place close its doors.
So many memories, so much history. You will definitely be missed.
Rest in peace, Tafara. ❤️
2026-10-01 22:36:57
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Tim :
You continue to do your Father’s legacy justice ❤️
2026-10-01 21:53:42
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ChiroAdari :
Dukem! My comfort place when I came to this country! After a rough day, I used to feel totally home replenished before I go for the night . God bless your family.
2026-10-01 23:02:06
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jgaile007 :
this is the first Ethiopian restaurant I've ever been to. thank you for the memories and condolences to you and your family
2026-10-02 02:51:31
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Amanda :
U Street will never, ever be the same. Always my favorite place to bring people from out of town. Thank you for everything ❤️
2026-10-02 00:03:28
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tiarasimoneeee :
So sorry to hear that…Dukem was my first try of Ethiopian food and Ive been hooked ever since…
2026-10-02 02:57:52
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Jas_The_UniFairy :
Wow! DC is losing a gem 💎!!
2026-10-01 23:04:17
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gnashxyz :
Ah man I’m sad to hear the news. Looking forward to what’s next!
2026-10-01 21:51:18
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melanie :
sending you all so much love ❤️the restaurant might be closing but your legacy will live on forever — trust!
2026-10-01 22:03:33
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cristina ashly 🧡 :
i just hope you know we’re ALLLL proud of you! you reallllllly did the work. it does not go unnoticed! you 10000% have a career in programming.
2026-10-01 22:01:40
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azraelflash :
:( thanks for the memories & Tibs! [Broken heart]
2026-10-02 09:56:41
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Caroline Jhingory :
I'm sending you and your family a hug. Thank you for being an amazing institution in our amazing city ❤️
2026-10-02 09:13:10
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ErictheMuse :
I’m so so sorry Lydia 🥺🫂🙏🏼
2026-10-02 08:20:36
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The most beautiful Lily :
I’m so sorry
2026-10-02 07:21:17
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Mary7865 :
I am sad to hear that 😔 . Dukem is one of the og Ethiopian restaurant in the DMV .
2026-10-01 22:19:10
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babygurll333 :
Maybe try to do a food truck or something smaller operation wise ?
2026-10-01 22:42:03
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Todo :
I never got the chance to go since I live on the other coast, but you frequently came across my page and I was always rooting for you/family business from afar. The love and passion yall have is palpable and wishing you all the best in yours future endeavors. Such an incredible accomplishment to even made it this far ❤️
2026-10-01 23:10:41
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Nunu :
please no what can we do
2026-10-02 02:57:12
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SonyaAnnette :
Oh wow we will miss this place my hubby proposed to me here and we spend our anniversary here for dinner for not than 20 years best Ethiopian food and a warm welcoming atmosphere!!!!! A Dc staple but I totally understand you all have to do what's best for your family!!!!!!!
2026-10-01 23:05:59
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thatssofaee :
my fav Ethiopian restaurant, I’m so sad to hear this! 💔💔
2026-10-01 23:45:05
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PoohKee🗝️ :
First place I ever eaten Ethiopian food and the experience was amazing….God Bless
2026-10-02 00:53:33
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