The capital is a delicious melting pot of international cuisine, with Ethiopian food becoming as popular as ever. Wherever you go, expect a treat to the senses as you tuck into wat stews, marinated meats, vegan plates and injera (fermented bread) as they arrive by the platter. If, like us, that’s given you a serious craving, then here are the best Ethiopian restaurants in London for you to enjoy.
Andu Ethiopian Vegan Café
Over at Andu Ethiopian Vegan Café, colours pop off your plate from a blend of vegetables, lentils and fiery spices. While they only have six choices on the menu, each is as delicious as the last. Want to try them all? Then opt for The Sampler, which serves the sauces alongside injera and rice, or The Traditional, which is the same but with everything on the bread with slightly larger portions.
Enjoy a kaleidoscope of eats at this plant-based favourite.
Addis
Addis, a family-owned Ethiopian restaurant in the heart of King’s Cross, have made a name for themselves by serving up moreish plates of bona fide grub and imported booze at a price that won’t break the bank. The venue is full of character, with East African interiors, furniture and decorations throughout. If you happen to visit on a Sunday evening, you’ll also be guest to entrancing live music.
Flamingo Restaurant
With an ever-changing menu of East African fare and seasonal delights, Flamingo is one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in London. The Shepherd’s Bush hotspot offers a welcoming environment, with walls covered in beautiful clothing, pelts and pieces of art. They’re well-known for their hearty wats (spicy meat stew) and tangy injera, as well as their many enticing vegan dishes.
Flamingo is a fantastic spot for dates, mates and families.
Merkato
Serving up quality Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine at their restaurant in King's Cross, Merkato offers a tasting experience like no other. Feast on delicious platters of meat, fish and veggies, all served with sour flatbread. Highlights include a special ktfo (steak tartare) and ades (lentil stew), as well as tej (a tasty honey wine). Overloaded on the goods and need a bit of a pick me up? Then finish your evening with a customary coffee ceremony on the terrace.
Lalibela
Having launched back in 1993, Lalibela has become a firm favourite among locals. With an extensive menu offering everything to satiate your cravings, from shiro to kik and plenty of side dishes, you're in for a serious sensory experience. Dig into their vibrant bites and feel like you’ve been transported to the country itself, as the venue features carved-wood tables, vintage chairs and gorgeous African paintings. There's also plenty to drink, with craft beer, wine, coffee or tea available all day.
Try popcorn and coffee, a simple Eritrean and Ethiopian dessert.
Marathon
Impress your mates by escorting them to a Marathon, a beautiful Ethiopian restaurant in North London. Combining traditional cuisine with contemporary cooking techniques, this dining destination is a haven of shiro wat, special tibs, fresh fish and desserts. The venue itself is striking, with cultural furnishings and a glowing bar offering tasty beers and soft drinks. A must-visit for carnivores and vegans alike.
Delina
Not only can you pop in for breakfast, lunch or takeaway at Delina, you can also partake in cooking workshops so that you can master their signature dishes. A contemporary eatery in Shepherd’s Bush Market, the venue posses bare brick walls, festoon lighting and spacious bench seating. To experience an important part of Ethiopia’s social and culture heritage, enjoy their superb coffee ceremony before sampling wonderful wats atop fermented teff bread.
Make your way over to Delina for brunch, cooking classes and more.
Beza
In search of vegan Ethiopian food in London? Then look no further; having started as a pop-up in Camden Market, the team behind Beza opened a permanent venue in Elephant and Castle. With rustic-chic décor, pretty plates and outdoor seating, this place is a trendy hangout for healthy food that feels indulgent. Munch on authentic, slowly simmered curries, lentil extravaganzas and jazzed-up veggies. To wash it down? Enjoy a glass of wine, beer or bubbles.
St. Gabriel Café
Offering a tantalising array of cheap eats, St. Gabriel Café in Kennington is a fantastic choice for those looking to tighten the purse strings. On entry, you may think it’s a simple deli – but don’t be fooled. Whether you order from their menu or ask their knowledgeable staff for recommendations, you'll enjoy an authentic taste of Ethiopia. There's also plenty of veggie and meat options, so diners have plenty to choose from.
For top notch affordable grub, give St. Gabriel Café a visit.
Yeshi Ethiopian Cuisine
It’s all about customer experience at Yeshi Ethiopian Cuisine. While the venue boasts a stylish interior, relaxed ambience and impeccable service, the chefs are masters of flavour, with seriously tasty stews and colourful vegan platters flowing out of the kitchen. Chow down while listening to traditional music and catching up with friends, all at one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in Finsbury Park.
If you're hungry for more restaurant recommendations, check out our list of the London eateries now taking bookings here.
