Ethiopian Jazz and Wine at Lore, Leimert Park

Two hours, one live band and a pour of Ethiopian honey wine: that is the whole pitch, and it is a good one. On Friday, October 16, The Mendir Fellowship plays an evening of Ethiopian jazz at Lore in Leimert Park, with tej served alongside the music. If you are sorting through things to do in Los Angeles this week and want something that feels specific to a neighborhood rather than a big-room production, this is a strong candidate.

When: Friday, October 16, 2026, 7 to 9 PM Where: Lore, 4334 Degnan Blvd, Los Angeles, CA Tickets: $23.18 on Eventbrite

What to expect

The listing describes it as an evening of Ethiopian jazz, live music and Ethiopian honey wine with The Mendir Fellowship. Ethiopian jazz has its own sound, shaped by the modal, groove-heavy playing that came out of Addis Ababa's club scene, and a trio on a small stage is a good way to hear it up close. The flyer photo shows a guitarist, a drummer and a bassist under an arched mural, which tells you the room is intimate.

The drink side is tej, the honey wine traditionally served at Ethiopian celebrations. The flyer credits Spirit of the Ancestors with pouring it. Tej is sweeter and more floral than grape wine, so if you have only had it in passing at a restaurant, a proper pour in a room built around the music is a different experience.

Practical info

Tickets run $23.18 through Eventbrite, and the organizer listed is Community Labs. The event is a short two-hour window, so plan to arrive close to 7 PM. The listing does not mention food service, so eat beforehand if you want a full dinner, and check the ticket page for any updates before you go.

Lore sits on Degnan Blvd in the Leimert Park area, a part of the city long tied to Black music, art and community gathering. Street parking in the neighborhood can fill up on busy nights, so give yourself a few extra minutes or rideshare in. The Metro K Line serves Leimert Park Village a short walk away.

Making a night of it

Friday evenings are when LA events this weekend start to stack up, and a 7 PM start leaves room for a late bite afterward. Leimert Park Village has a walkable core of shops and cafes, so you can pair the show with a stroll beforehand. For more in the same vein, browse our food and drink category for tastings, pop-ups and neighborhood nights across the city.