Ethiopian food truck Merkato cafe’ in Cary - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

This is the first time I tried Ethiopian food, I have no other word to describe than amazing ❤️❤️ loved every bite of it . The best part I liked is they made everything fresh , it took around 30 mins for the food . But yes if u want to eat healthy and fresh food it takes minimal 30 mins !!

Fresh and tasty Ethiopian food. Really great customer service!

Amazing food and friendly people,shirk was Delicious!!!

Delicious Ethiopian food with friendly service!

First time having Ethiopian food, and this place is instantly a favorite, the food was delicious and they were super nice! Best meal I’ve had in awhile !

This is some of the best Ethiopian food we've had! Great quality and quantity. Great berbere!

The food is delicious and the service is very friendly!

The people here are wonderful and so is their food! They are parked outside the Perfect Piece on Chatham Street on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s healthy and tasty food.

Absolutely incredible food, wow!!! Including the only beets I'll eat and enjoy! This is the kind of food truck you track down weekly to get... And friendly staff! What more could you need?!

Delicious!! Can't wait to visit again!

I stumbled across this food truck as I was driving along highway 54. I had never tried Ethiopian food so I didn't really know what to expect. I was greeted by the wonderful Benny who probably read the puzzled look on my face as I read the menu and graciously suggested I try the Merkato special. Again...I had no idea so I put all my trust in Benny and boy am I so glad I did. I assume the quality of the food is the same across the board but the merkato special was amazing. You can tell when a business has poured its heart and soul into their craft. Every bite was a delicious surprise. In addition, Benny had no obligation to do so but her personally delivered my plate to my table and even shared some incredible wisdom. Eating with your hands is just better...and there's neuroscience to back that up...and I won't spoil it but let Benny explain it to you so please check him out!!!

This food truck is so good. I like that it's less spicy than other Ethiopian places. Love spice but I'm not very good at tolerating sadly. But this place is amazing, the food is so flavorful and the owners are so kind and great service. I went to Fortnite brewery and bought an order of the Mercato specials with my cousin and friend who is Ethiopian and we loved the food.

A must try. Don’t miss it. Also the guy who took my order- super nice.

Amazing food served by amazing people. 10/10

The food was so good and flavorful something I have never experienced before. The owner was so nice and friendly helped us figure out what to order. this food is all clean ingredients no GMOs. also the beef is SOO good with some spice! AMAZING PLACE

Food was amazing!!! Would 1000% recommend!

Wow! So good! Both of the employees were so friendly. It’s nice to see a food truck with some good vegetarian options. And the food is tasty and healthy! Bonus star because I wish I could give them more! ⭐️

Merkato cafe brings the exotic tastes of Ethiopia to the mobile culinary scene. As soon as I stopped by the aroma of spices coming from the truck created an irresistible allure. I had the Merkato Special and was amazed by the diverse array of flavors, colors, and textures. Every bite infused with aromatic spices offered a delightful experience to the taste buds. Injera was spongy and excellent. The owners, who provided excellent customer service, were very informative in explaining how injera is used as a utensil. In addition, they were welcoming, attentive, and eager to guide newcomers through the menu. The concept of serving Ethiopian cuisine from a food truck adds an element of excitement and accessibility allowing clients to indulge in authentic flavors on the go. I highly recommend visiting Merkato cafe!

The passion the owners have for this food truck is abundantly apparent in both the food and in their interactions with customers. Absolutely amazing. Highly recommend. This restaurant is rated so highly for a reason.

First time having Ethiopian food it was phenomenal so good, and the owner took the time to explain how to eat the whole staff is friendly and passionate about what they’re making give it a try you won’t be disappointed

Delicious, so nice, and really great value. Will be back a million times. Best Ethiopian food I’ve had in forever.

Fabulous food. Great meat and vegetable options at a good price. Extremely friendly and gracious. Wonderful addition to town.

So delicious! Wonderful service! Definitely will be back!

We had a great experience trying out Merkato Cafe. The food was delicious and amazingly spiced with great portions. We got the Merkato Special. The owners are extremely friendly and helpful with any questions we had. Please be patient as it could take 15 minutes for you to get your order, but that just means your food is being made fresh with care! We look forward to our next visit!

The food is authentically Ethiopian! Make sure to eat with your hands to fully enjoy!!

Great people, great food that is full of flavors, and quick service. Must try.

I had the pleasure to try for the first time their food this past weekend and WOW. Delicious and you get so much for what you are paying. The services could not be better, it felt like family. looking forward to eat again this amazing food!!!

Outstanding food, service and suggestions!

I was looking for something filling and somewhat healthy. This Merkato Special was so tasty with just the right amount of spicy. Will find them again!

The workers were incredibly polite to me and gave me a great recommendation. Even showed a newbie like me how to eat Ethiopian food! The food was delicious and so flavorful with a perfect amount of spice. I will be back to have more!

Delicious food and very kind owner, will definitely get it the next time we see them! No pic since we ate it too fast

Delicious dinner - healthy, filling and flavorful. Highly recommend trying them out. Top notch food truck.

Great Food. Delicious. This food truck has delicious food. The staff was super friendly. We had the Mercato special! Can’t wait to eat this again. Thank you!! Roger & Carol

If you’re on the fence, this is your sign! Just TRY IT! It’s sooo rare to get great food CONSISTENTLY! Our 2nd trip (we’re 45mins MINIMUM from the locations for this food truck) & mannn I’m ready to go back again today! Plus, they remembered us from our last visit! Food fresh hot & delicious! They deserve every last one of these 5 stars!

Was at Eno River Farm on Sunday. Had the most amazing chicken tibs. Delicious injera. Great portion. Fair price. Fast service. Friendly staff. Highly recommended!

Such great food! I ate at their food truck this evening and the food was delicious and the service was wonderful. I will definitely eat here again!

Delicious food, friendly service, and a good value.

The folks who run this truck are so friendly and anyone who can get me to actually enjoy lentils and split peas gets 5-stars in my book. Win-win!

Tried this food truck for the first time at Pluck Farm and WOW! I was blown away. We’ll be following these guys all over the triangle… so good!

Y’all. Run don’t walk and get you some of this. I have never had better Ethiopian food in my life. I’m ready to start following them on tour like a favorite band. The service was excellent as well. I’m a stan.

Just ordered dinner from the food truck, would definitely recommend!! Great food, really nice people. Loved it!

First time trying Ethiopian Food .. Hands down, delicious and amazing flavors in a plate . It is not overpowering but a food that is on par with Indian vegetarian options ... I'm a fan now of Merkato .. The food truck won me over

I was craving Ethiopian food yesterday and the place I usually order from was closed. I googled to see if there was another place nearby and found Merkato. I went with the owner's recommendation. The food filled the air with a delicious aroma, I couldn't wait to eat my food at home (long drive away). My husband and I shared both meals and devoured it, wanting more. I'm glad I found Merkato!! I wish you would come to my neighborhood in Garner.

Amazing food, excellent service! First time, whole family loved it, dog was jealous.

I have to drive past Fortnight Brewing every night, and I spend a lot of time at TRC in Raleigh. Any time I see the sign for Merkato, we cancel any pre-existing plans. Hands down the best food truck. Nothing on the menu will leave you wishing you got something else. On top of the food, they are the sweetest, most wholesome and friendly people I have ever met. This is the type of business you will always feel good supporting.

Merkato Ethiopian was a delicious and delightful experience, with spiced beef and chicken and three vegetables served with a naan-esque bread accompaniment. Service was excellent and kind.

You really can't go wrong with anything ordered from the food truck. It's all wonderful! Very friendly service!

I had the Merkato Special and my wife had the Vegetarian special. The flavors were phenomenal. I am not a foodie but I do appreciate and know a good meal when I have one. My first time having Ethiopian food and it will not be my last. The Merkato Cafe food truck was one of my best food truck experiences.

Tasty food + knowledgeable staff + openness to teaching folks about new cultures = merkato! We weren't sure what to order but the folks running the truck enthusiastically explained each item and recommended great options. When we got the food, we were blown away. So fun to eat and so so tasty! Will absolutely be following along so we can try more from them.

This is the most delicious food! I went out in freezing weather to get it and it was totally worth it.

Such great Ethiopian food, and a lot of it! We were so thrilled to find good Ethiopian around here. Thank you!

I'm sorry I don't have pictures because I ate it so fast. Everything I repeat Everything is so so so tasteful. I want to go back to Fortnight Brewery and get another plate for dinner tomorrow. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️💥💥💥💥💥💥

I can’t say enough great things about Merkato Café! The food is delicious and the owners are wonderful!!

Delicious! Best Ethiopian food around.

DELICIOUS!!!! They were super accommodating. Helped me and my extended family have a fantastic time. Were super kind too. We placed a rather large order and they brought it to us (not expected, greatly appreciated). Thank you!!!!

This is the best food. It’s hearty, delicious, filling, healthy. We just inhaled the veggie and shiro wat combos, both were amazing. They also are wonderful people!!

Fresh and super tasty meal at the food truck. The injera was soft and ample amounts, the chicken and cabbage were cooked to perfection.

The food is delicious and the staff is very friendly and accommodating. I've had this food truck a few times now at different breweries and cideries and they are worth a visit anywhere you find them! Their food is filling while not making you feel overfull. Great vegetarian options too!

Delicious and authentic! Super kind and accommodating.

Service was very friendly. Food was different than anything I've had before but really freakin good. Would eat again.

Super delicious with bit portions and kind staff!

We just enjoyed our first Ethiopian cuisine from food truck at Bond Brothers in Cary. Very tasty! We loved, highly recommend! Owners very helpful explaining menu and cuisine.

Listen y’all. I lived in Ethiopia for 1.5 years. This is legit Ethiopian food and it is delicious! For first timers I recommend the beef tibs and the shiro (vegetarian). Many items are vegan/GF. The owners are so kind and greet each customer with famous Ethiopian hospitality. If you can’t make it to Addis, be sure to find your way to this amazing food truck. Ameseganalo!!

The food is delicious and the staff is most welcoming. They greet you genuinely and warmly. I enjoy the cuisine's new (to me) spices, healthy options, and flavors. All-around great experience. Look for them!

Amazing food and amazing service!!

Best food I've had in a long time! Highly reccomend.

What truly sets this Ethiopian food truck apart is its commitment to authenticity and quality. Each dish feels like a labor of love, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional Ethiopian spices, transporting you straight to the heart of Addis Ababa. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of Ethiopian cuisine or a curious foodie looking to expand your palate, this food truck is a culinary gem that offers a delectable taste of Ethiopia on wheels!

Wow. Caught them at Cotton House on Thursday night and my entire group was over the moon with their dishes. So well spiced.

Can't say enough good things about the owners, service and food!

So many amazing Gluten Free options!!! 10/10

Finally got a chance to experience this delicious food today at East Bower. Just saying - I hope they come Back to East Bower. My favorite spot for drinks and now my favorite food truck in this area.

The food was delicious and the service was great! I had the veggie platter and devoured every bit. So wonderfully spiced and the portions are the perfect size.

Very very nice food, just the right amount of spice not too much for those who don’t handle heat, but enough for those who like a some spiciness! 10/10 hit the spot just right. And the veggies options were amazing as well this is a great place to eat for veggie lovers

The food was delicious and when they ran out of one thing they substituted something else that was absolutely delicious. They said they make everything with love and I said I can tell!

Merkato is delicious and the staff is very friendly and gracious-thank you! I Had to order a second combination platter because it was so good! The red lentils were just spicy enough and went perfectly with the injera (our favorite) I highly recommend trying all the vegetables-everything is spiced beautifully and NOT hot spicy. Our toddler really liked the chicken. We can’t wait for this truck to come back out!

The owners are super friendly & awesome here. Although the Google Maps location may not be right - better go to their website, click the calendar icon & check where they’re at today. Prices are reasonable; food is glorious. Injera is GF. Merkato special is their meat combo & they also have a veggie combo.

Incredible dining experience and even better customer service. Does not disappoint!!

All of the staff is so friendly and goes out of there way for you! The food is absolutely amazing!

Deeeelicious! We tried the food truck while at East Bower Cider. My goodness, our dinner was amazing. Benny was so kind and you could tell his work is his passion. Do yourself a favor and follow this food truck!

The food is so savory yet healthy. I could eat it everyday. 10/10 would highly recommend!