BAK-ELABak-Ela is a bold fusion of Ethiopian and American Soul Food, rooted in the culinary journey of Armani, an Ethiopian-born chef, and Sam, an American soul food enthusiast. Together, they discovered that, despite their different culinary traditions, one humble ingredient connected them: beans. What started as a simple realization soon became a vision for a restaurant that celebrates this often-overlooked ingredient, elevating it to the menu's star. Bak-Ela blends Ethiopia's rich, spicy flavors with the comforting, hearty dishes of the American South, creating an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s name, derived from the Amharic word for ‘beans,’ embodies the brand’s playful but thoughtful nature, blending deep-rooted traditions with a modern twist and a dash of satirical charm. Bak-Ela isn’t just a place to eat; it’s where cultures meet, flavors collide, and beans get their long-overdue moment in the spotlight.
Bak-Ela was the recipient of an AAF Greenville ADDY Award for brand design.
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Brand Story, Brand System, Mockup Design
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Research, Project Brief, Visual Identity System, Pitch Presentation, User Experience
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Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Figma
Welcome to Bak-Ela, where beans are more than just a sidekick—they’re the star of the show. Pull up a chair, take it all in, and let the flavors of Ethiopian and American Soul Food fuse into something unforgettable.
Here’s a menu, fresh off the press! Hungry? Thirsty? Whether it’s a bold bite or a perfectly spiced sip, we’ve got just the thing to satisfy your cravings.
Lost in the sauce—or the stew? Don’t worry. Just follow the bean trail, and we’ll make sure you’re right where you’re meant to be.
Oh, you caught sight of Tipsy Beans, didn’t you? A quick right turn, and you’re in a wonderland where beans fuel both your coffee buzz and cocktail dreams.
Got questions? Need a hand? Look out for our certified bean experts—they’ve mastered the art of bean-centric service and bad jokes alike.
Long day? Tiny beans wearing you out? No need to panic. Hop online, and we’ll make sure the beans come straight to your door.
Already heading out? Don’t leave the beans behind! Grab some gear or a little something to keep the good vibes—and the beans—rolling.
From the first sip of coffee to the last bite of soulfully spiced stew, every detail of Bak-Ela is designed to celebrate the humble bean in all its glory. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing a to-go order, or rocking some stylish merch, you're part of the fusion of Ethiopian and American Soul that ties everything together. And that's what we call the full bean experience.