There is one reason why a person dines at Cafe Ethiopia: the food. If a person has any other goals for eating out other than consuming delicious food, this is probably not the spot for you, said with love. I ordered the Kantishara spicy mushrooms cooked with onions and tomatoes over injera bread with green salad. OMGoddess. Perfect meal alert! If forced to choose one favorite cuisine from around the globe, I would likely select for myself Ethiopian and Eritrean food. No insults meant toward any other cuisines. However, as a vegetarian that can be vegan-friendly, and as someone who can appreciate the effort and care required for food preparation, this is food that I cannot replicate at home. I'm not a huge mushroom fan and here I am glowing after eating a healthy portion of this delicious dish, kantishara. The green salad is nothing special and yet when lightly dressed and paired with the mushrooms using the spongy injera bread as the "utensil," magic happens in my mouth. The injera itself is mild and fresh and unlike anything else in western cuisines. This food tastes like it was perfected over millennia by the most skilled cooks, and it literally was, which is another mind-blown eating experience. Yogurt at extra charge is available and some might find that a nice cooling addition to the "spicy" but not "hot" taste of the kantishara. I didn't need it everything was delicious. Service is kind and again, not why you come here. It's all about the food. read more

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Cafe Ethiopia continues to be one of those comforting Mission staples that always feels like a good idea when you want a satisfying, communal meal. It's low-key, relaxed, and focused on what matters most: flavorful Ethiopian food served on injera meant to be shared. We ordered a spread that hit all the right notes. The Veggie Combo for One was colorful and hearty, with a mix of lentils and vegetables that were well seasoned and deeply comforting. Each scoop tasted distinct, and everything paired perfectly with the tangy injera underneath. It's filling without feeling heavy and a great way to sample multiple dishes at once. The Zigni stood out with its rich, slow-simmered beef and warm spices. The sauce was bold and aromatic, soaking beautifully into the injera. It had that classic depth you want from Ethiopian stews and felt especially satisfying alongside the vegetarian dishes. We also had the Tibsie Chicken, which added a nice contrast to the stewed items. The chicken was flavorful and savory, and it balanced the plate nicely with its slightly lighter texture. Extra injera was a must, and we were glad we ordered it. Everything on the table invited scooping and sharing, and having more injera just made the experience better. The atmosphere was calm and unpretentious, making it easy to relax and enjoy the meal. Service was friendly and straightforward, and the whole experience felt authentic and comforting. If you're looking for a dependable Ethiopian spot in the Mission with solid combo platters and rich, satisfying flavors, Cafe Ethiopia is absolutely worth a visit. read more

I don't eat Ethiopian food often, but this place was solid! Located in a central part of Valencia St, this restaurant's unassuming from the outside but homey on the inside. I came with two other friends (one was vegeterian) and we got the veggie combo to split plus a personal plate or two. It was very flavorful, and I liked the medley of veggies and lentils on the injera. It was overall pretty light meal and the space was pretty empty on a weekday night read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Vegetarian Combo - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

WARNING: do not come here if you have Trypophobia!!! I came here with some friends and we ordered a bunch of different dips to try. I'm not the biggest fan of eating with my hands, but really wanted to try this place. There were definitely some dips that were great (like the lentil ones and the potato/carrot ones) but some of them were lacking in flavor and tasted pretty similar to one another. I would also say the portions are a bit small given the price, and I left still a bit hungry. Service was good, and the restaurant is pretty neat. read more

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I have been coming to this place for 20 yrs. This was the only time I had just an okay meal. The zigni beef used to be great and not it's just middle range. The split peas were also kinda mushy. Not sure if they have a new cook. Hope my next time is better. read more

Walked by this restaurant with a group of friends while waiting for a table at another restaurant. Due to hunger we decided to change our plans. This place had a diverse menu with many options including vegetarian. I have had many experiences with Ethiopian food and would say this place did not blow me away with their quality. I felt it was good with a variety of options on their menu. read more

My favorite restaurant in SF and favorite Ethiopian restaurant in the Bay. I love eating here. The vegetarian combo platter is amazing. I love getting it with either the tofu tibsie or the fish. With homemade cottage cheese on the side. The restaurant is also nice and quiet. Service is great. No nonsense. I wish I could eat here everyday! read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is not a bad spot for some Ethiopian food. I had never had it before and really enjoyed it. The lentils were great and the beef had good flavor. We grabbed for takeout, but you can also dine inside! read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

Portion size was absolutely amazing! Huge plate took up the entire table - the additional order of tofu and chicken was added and also tasted great. Spicy but not too much. Staff super friendly, polite and kind. Felt very authentic and neighborly. Also appreciated the tofu options because ya boy needs his protein read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

A very long time favorite! The same high quality as always. We have been going here for decades. Wonderful owners. Incredible food. And still affordable! read more

I'm so glad I came here with friends! I split a Meat & Veggie combo with #2, #6, and #16 with a friend and it was the perfect amount. I highly recommend and will definitely be back! read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Meat & Vegetarian Comb with #2, #6, and #16! All were delicious! - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

Some items were good and others not so much. Service was slow and not the friendliest. Good place to get a decent Ethiopian fix in Mission though. Casual restaurant, brightly lit. We came for dinner on a Friday. No issues getting seated. While there were many tables it was strangely quiet. We tried their meat and veggie combo (with Zignia beef stew, tsebhi begee lamb, and bersin red lentils) and shrimp & hamli. The zigni was the favorite. The lamb and red lentils were unremarkable, but the beef was incredibly flavorful and tender. I would skip the shrimp, not good. read more

Cafe Ethiopia - 6. Zigni beef, 9. tsebhi begee (lamb), 14. Bersin, 25. Shrimp & Hamli - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Walked in on a Friday around 8pm as a group of three and were seated quickly. I'd say half the restaurant was full so easy spot to walk into. Food: order one veggie platter and one meat and veggie platter which came on one large injera to share with additional injera on the side Tsebhi Derho - a stewed spicy chicken drumsticks with warm spices, the sauce was thick and flavorful, chicken was slightly dry but still tasty Hamili - stewed collard greens with onions and a light broth, a nice veggie option that adds contrast to all the heavily spiced dishes Ater - split peas stewed in lots of spices and seasoning reminded me of a yellow dal, this was spicy but good Bersin - lentils cooked with tomatoes, flavorful and rich Whole lentils - similar to the Ater we thought this had an added nuttiness which was really nice Zigni - beef stew with lots of rich warm spices, also really saucey Service was fine, a little bit slow since there was only one person serving but understandable. Overall a decent Ethiopian spot in the mission, limited menu of mostly stewed items. Wish the injera was warmed up, the meal ate a bit cold but not a deal breaker. There's a 4% service fee for credit cards FYI. read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Veggie and Meat Combo Platter - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is our go-to spot for Ethiopian food in the Mission. It is conveniently located and close, and the food is generally decent to good. We came here for dinner at around 6 p.m. on a Monday, and were promptly seated since there weren't a lot of customers. We ordered a meat and veggie combo (Tsebhi derho, Tsebhi Begee, Bersin, and Hamili) for each of us and a side of veggie (Ater). The food came out quickly. The chicken seemed a bit dry, but the dish itself was flavorful. The split peas and red lentils were tasty, and the lamb dish was good too. The meat was juicy and the sauce was flavorful. Overall, this place offers decent service(at least on weekdays) and decent food (if you like Ethiopian food). The place is clean and quiet. read more

4.5 / 5 Amazing Ethiopian food, one of my go-to restaurants in the mission! Interior is modest and has plenty of space, feels as if you're sitting in your grandpa's living room with a comforting home cooked meal. I really recommend the vegetarian combo, there's a good variety of flavors and always consistently cooked with generous portions. You can get it for as many people as you have in your group, but I think it's better to get one size smaller if you also want to get a meat dish on the side. The lamb and the fish are really delicious. Of course, everything pairs well with the nice fluffy injera. Try their honey wine if you like sweet drinks, and they have some interesting Ethiopian beers as well. Service may be slow sometimes (there's only been one server when I've gone) but it's a family run restaurant after all. Prices are standard for SF read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Vegetarian Combo for 6 - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Ethiopia serves traditional Ethiopian food. Customers will be awed by the authentic flavors. It is located in the San Francisco Mission District. Right on Valencia Street, this establishment is conveniently central. The menu is mainly meat, but there are vegetarian or vegan upon request dishes. This place feels cozy and casual, despite it being a bit plain. There is not much decorations, but some Ethiopian decor up on the counter. There are a ton of seats for all types of group settings. There was just one person holding down the restaurant when it was busy, so the service was slow and steady. The man did a great job juggling multiple orders all the while giving great service by himself. I ordered a veggie combo plate with three options of my choice being ater, alecha ater, and atakelt kilkil. Personally, nothing really stood out. Although this plate on the menu said vegetarian, it is vegan as well. I have to say that the plate was $20, but it was simple and filling that satisfied my cravings. Otherwise, there are plenty of other similar places but cheaper in San Francisco or in the Bay Area. read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Vegetarian combo (also is vegan) with personal three choices of ater, alecha ater, and atakelt kilkil. Injera is included with the order - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

This food is SOOOOOOO flavorful !! They also have the seating for a traditional coffee ceremony.

Give me a spicy drumstick curry on injera bread and bury me with it Chief. The spices are so good- I love the man who's always serving us there too. Don't skimp out on the Italian sodas too- they're so tasty. read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Italian soda vanilla - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

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The service here is terrible. It doesn't cost anything to smile or be friendly to patrons. Because the host was so rude, we didn't even stay to try the food. It turned out well, cause we found a bomb ass Senegalese place elsewhere. read more

The place is in a good location and the food is adequate but a little boring. Honestly, the restaurant is pretty dirty (there was graffiti on the outside window for example ) and the service was underwhelming. It's as if the whole place was depressed and would rather not be there. read more

Delicious! We had a great meal after a long day. Friendly and efficient service. Thanks!

Recently went to Cafe Ethiopia with some friends. I have been a fan of Ethiopian food for a long time. I am a longtime vegan of 21 years so know that Ethiopian food always has tasty & nourishing plant based options. My go to at Ethiopian restaurants is usually the veggie combo. At Cafe Ethiopia when you order the Veggie Combo you choose three items of the half dozen available options for the Veggie Combo. Went with: 1. Ater- Split peas in spicy sauce 2. Bersin- split red lentils in a medium spicy sauce 3. Atakelte Kilikil- potatoes, carrot, & cabbage not spicy It was served w/ these three items along w/ a salad w/ a nice dressing along w/ heaps of injera bread. My friends also each got a Veggie Combo. We all enjoyed it. I feel Cafe Ethiopia is a solid option to experience Ethiopian food in San Francisco & in the Mission district. I lived three years in the East Bay & tried a lot of different Ethiopian restaurants in Oakland along w/ Berkeley so my favorite Ethiopian restaurants might be in the East Bay yet can never go wrong w/ Ethiopian. read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Been going here for years Love the meat combination plate! And at $20, it's a great deal, too Very nice owners read more

This place is super authentic & you can feel it from the moment you step foot inside. The ambiance is very nostalgic to Ethiopia & the service was phenomenal. Our two year old especially liked our sever interacting with her. We ordered the Vegetarian combo platter for 3 with extra injera & extra spicy lentils because that's our favorite. First off, the presentation took our breath away! The food was all hot, fresh, & flavorful. There was an abundance of each dish but, we pretty much polished off every last bite. Glad we have found yet another gem here on Valencia St & we will definitely be back soon. read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Vegetarian Combo (for 3) - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Delicious Ethiopian food! The veggie combo is solid, and each item is amazing. -0.5 stars for slow service but it's still not bad for a family owned business. read more

I love Ethiopian food, so in every city I visit, I feel the need to find an Ethiopian restaurant. This place was just okay. The flavors were a bit muted for Ethiopian, which is all about spices and stewed goodness. I ordered the veggie combo. Not much to say. Lots of people have commented on the server and I didn't think he was rude but he wasn't friendly either. Just "here's your food--eat it" energy. I wouldn't go back. Probably would explore other Ethiopian restaurants in the area. read more

my two friends and i stumbled upon this place when walking down Valencia st. The interior is pretty spacious, with a very cozy feel to it! we ordered the meat and veggie combo, but did two veggie and one meat with the Tsebhi Begee (lamb), Ater, and Atakelt Kilkil. The curry that the lamb came in was absolutely delicious and the lamb just melted in your mouth! The Ater is similar to Dal if you've had indian food, but also was amazing and the Atakelt Kilkil is a combination of potato, cabbage and carrot. All yummy and amazing! they are served all family style on top of a large injera, with extra injera on the side. They have you order per person, but it doesn't have to be the number of people you came with. Had we known that, we would have ordered 2 meat and veggie combos as that would have been the perfect level of food for the 3 of us. Regardless, the food was very tasty and full of spices- definitely would come back! read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

Such a cute mom and pop type restaurant, the type with one person managing all the tables. The food was amazing and the quantity was so good for the price. We ordered the veg platter for two. The food was so simple and homey, will definitely be coming back! read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Vegetarian Combo - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

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The veggie combo is super yummy. Service is no no none sense no frills... the food is well done and we usually get more injira bread! Family style with no forks... enjoy! read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Indoor decor - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

Still the best Ethiopian spot in the city highly recommend getting the chicken drumsticks as a choice of meat- everything is fantastic read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Meat & Vegetarian Comb Vegetarian - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Great food and wonderful service I highly recommend going here Nice place to eat and drink read more

My favorite Ethiopian place in the city. Their hours are a bit limiting, which is disappointing because there have been times I've wanted to go and this place is closed. Otherwise this place is a must if I have a friend visiting. read more

Such a beautiful space! Lovely friendly staff. Yummy food. A big welcoming bar. Must eat here. read more

3.5 stars Ethiopian food might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of SF's Mission District, but this inconspicuous restaurant on bustling Valencia St turns out delicious home cooking in a friendly, humble setting! Everything you order on the menu is served on injera, a sourdough flatbread made with teff flour, and you simply rip off pieces of the bread and scoop up the different stews, meats, and vegetables! For meats, I tried the chicken doro tibs (chicken sauteed with tomatoes, onions, and sauce) and tsebhi begee (a delicious spicy stew with bone-in lamb). My favorites items on the plate were actually the vegetarian selections--the Atakelte Kilikil was a stew of potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and we also had the Ater (spicy split peas), the whole lentils in a spicy sauce, and the hamli (sauteed collard greens). All of the elements were just spiced so perfectly, with just the right balance of flavor and texture! Simple, homey, and no frills! read more

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I've tried almost every Ethiopian restaurant in San Francisco and this one is my #1 on the list! HIGHLY RECOMMEND this restaurant to everyone ! read more

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We ordered two cups of $3.50 "Ethiopian spiced tea" and got Lipton "America's favorite tea" Could have at least taken the labels off to make us feel better at getting totally jibbed read more

Cafe Ethiopia - Ethiopian Near Me - San Francisco, California

The Ethiopian food is good here, not an expert. But big fan of the ingera bread thing. Got the meat and veggie combo. The stewed lamb thing they had was very tasty. I thought the service was good. read more

Amazing food, consistently delicious. Been going here for years and I'm never disappointed. Love getting a glass or two of tej with the veggie combo! read more

We love their vegetarian platter!! It comes in two plastic takeaway containers, and each container has 3 different veggie dishes on top of injera, along with salad. Our favorites are Ater (kik Wat) - Split peas in berbere sauce Bersin (misir Wat) - Split lentils in berbere sauce Alecha Ater (kik Alecha) - Purees yellow split peas It's definitely enough food for two with the vegetarian platter. We've always had leftovers for lunch the next day, except one time when my husband was crazy hungry and just scarfed everything down. But that was really unusual... Highly recommend if you like Ethiopian food OR if you're looking for something new and different to add to the COVID-delivery-mix. read more

Love this place. (This should be 4.5 stars.) Potatoes and cabbage are always perfectly done and seasoned, not too much and not too little--just right. I always start with these and expand the flavor profile out with some other dish. The other vegetable and lentil dishes mix well into the potatoes, as do the meat dishes. Try the lamb! The restaurant is a nice cozy little spot, too. This isn't a wow your friends and IG kind of place. Rather, I've drawn for hours and slowly enjoyed my meal there. Wish they would up their tea selection. But the warmth and smell of the food feels just right inside. SF needs more of these humble places. Like most restaurants, I wish there were an option for half the food and half the price, but I guess you get leftovers to make it more affordable. But this place is well worth the SF inflation prices, unlike other restaurants in the neighborhood that charge the same or more for significantly inferior quality. Happy eating. read more