Sora Ethiopian Market & Cafe on Duke Street has permanently closed after 12 years in business, with an online auction of its equipment confirming the shutdown of a business that served as both a market and community gathering place.
The restaurant, which opened in 2013, closed over the weekend of Aug. 31, according to customers who posted in a local Facebook group. The building at 5145 Duke St. sold for $2.85 million on July 1 to ADRS Properties LP, according to Alexandria property records.
Located in the Landmark/Van Dorn Corridor, Sora specialized in authentic Ethiopian cuisine with a focus on vegetarian and vegan options. The closure has disappointed regular customers who praised the restaurant’s customizable dishes and reasonable prices. “They are HANDS DOWN my absolutely favorite Ethiopian restaurant in the whole area,” wrote one customer on Facebook.
According to the Facebook posts, restaurant staff told customers they hoped to find another location but expected it would “take a while.”
An online auction hosted by Rasmus.com and closing Monday, Sept. 22, is selling the restaurant’s kitchen equipment, dining furniture, and other items. The comprehensive nature of the sale indicates a permanent closure rather than a temporary shutdown, despite the business’s website stating hours had “temporarily changed.”
ALXnow has reached out to Sora for comment but has not received a response.
