The Egyptian and Lebanese eatery Koshari is moving into a new space in Ballard at 5604 17th Ave NW.
Koshari is owned by husband-and-wife team Ayman Almasri and Amani Abouammo. According to the restaurant’s website, Ayman was born in Kuwait, grew up between Kuwait and Egypt, and has Palestinian roots and an Egyptian mother. He previously worked in agriculture and horticulture before moving to the United States and entering the food industry. Amani is Lebanese and also has an Egyptian mother.
The couple developed Koshari’s menu together, drawing on Egyptian and Lebanese food traditions. They began serving at local markets before opening inside Salt & Sugar in September 2024.
Koshari has been on the lookout for a new home since it left Salt & Sugar’s space in August. And now, they’re taking over the former Kahlo & Loyal space, which closed after just five months of operating last year.
The space has housed several businesses in recent years. Before Kahlo & Loyal, Little Prague Bakery operated there for about two years, following the Corner Spot, which lasted three years. The space was previously occupied by the Crooked Nail Pub, which closed in 2018.
In early September, Koshari owners Amani and Ayman announced they had identified a new potential space just a few blocks from their former home and launched a GoFundMe to help secure it.
The fundraiser had a $30,000 goal, with an immediate focus on closing an $8,000 funding gap. The owners said additional funds would help cover permits, kitchen equipment, plumbing and electrical work, furniture, signage, and opening inventory. The new location will give Koshari its own kitchen, dining room, and storefront, along with the ability to offer expanded hours.
As of September 21, Koshari has raised $5,490 through its GoFundMe campaign.
“Those of you who have been following our search know that we weren’t looking for just any space. We had our eyes—and our hearts—set on one very particular spot,” they wrote on Instagram.
Koshari doesn’t have an opening date set yet, but we’ll keep you posted.
Photo: Koshari