Red Sea Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine Restaurant

For a place that's been around for 45 years I figured they had nailed down the food (at least). The menu was filled with typos and the ordering site had its sambusa information mixed up.

The dive-y atmosphere seems to work for the folks who were hanging out in the (loud) bar that led to the dining room. But the music poured into the room and collided with the atmospheric (random) music.
I was intrigued and pleasantly surprised by the salad with injeera in it along with mayo pesto dressing. That was good and perhaps the highlight of the meal, though biting into jalapenos and raw onions somewhat made it unsettling.

We got the vegetarian sampler and the shiro. The discordant artwork on the walls and the lack of detail was reflected in the plate too. The potatoes and carrot pieces were too big and underwhelming. The shiro took a while to grow on me, but it definitely has a lot to address. The shining jewel was the okra in tomato sauce. If only the pigeon peas and red lentils were as flavored this would have been a good experience. The collard greens, as is the case in all Ethiopian restaurants, was forgettable.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 3

Service: 4

I’d consider getting the okra dish again for takeout only. I don’t think I’d dine here again. The place was half bar half restaurant but the music in each poured into both spaces and clashed. Everything seemed very worn and dated, and like it hasn’t been thought about in years. We had the vegetarian combo and the bismiya (okra) dish. the food was fine enough, some items were underwhelming. the only thing worth mentioning was the okra dish- that we thoroughly enjoyed.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 3

Service: 4

Terrible customer service. The staff were rude and careless the whole time. Food was okay but I will not be coming back unless they fix their attitude. Very disappointed.

Atmosphere: 1

Authentic Eritrean/Ethiopian cuisine. The food is delicious and great service. You have a choice of the patio area, the restaurant, and the bar area. Overall the best Eritrean/Ethiopian food in the Bay Area.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Veggie Combo, Injera

I had the pleasure of trying this fish and vegetable dish served on injera, and it was absolutely delicious! The fish was tender and flavorful, cooked perfectly with a blend of sautéed greens, onions, and herbs. The vegetables added a fresh and savory balance, while the injera soaked up all the rich juices, enhancing every bite.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Pleasant environment. Variety of Ethiopian food choices both for vegetarian and non-vegeterian.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Not the lady at the counters fault cos she’s obviously the only one there and way overworked. As a result of this the food was cold and took a fair amount of time. Portions weren’t that big either compared to other Ethiopian places in the area. Would skip.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 2

Service: 2

Super slow service. Amazing food and chai.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 2

Went here to dine in. There was no one there. My friend & I still at the door waiting for a few minutes before seating ourselves. The waitress bought 2 menus & we didn't see her again. We left & drove a few minutes to Asmarra. We got better service there.

Service: 1

Our food had a legit stone in it for which when told, server took no responsibility and just 🤷🏽‍♀️. To top it off, we felt super uncomfortable and farty the whole night.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Amazing food and great vibe

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Long time to deliver the food, only one waiter serving the restaurant and bar… very poor service

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

This is my favorite Ethiopian/Eritrean restaurant of all time. The food is fantastic. There are great options for vegetarians. I like it spicy and my wife likes it mild and they satisfy us both. If you are not sure what to order, just discuss the menu and options with the server. The service here is exceptionally gracious and personal. The restaurant is comfy not fancy and you can dress any way you want. I highly recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Injera, Hummus

I just love it here. Yummy food, the njera is just soft and fluffy and sour enough and BIG! spicy dishes but not overwhelming. Super tasty. I've traveled extensively there and i gotta say that this is as good as it gets pretty much!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Best Ethiopian food around. The food and service is amazing, got the veggie and the Red Sea combo had the best birthday dinner we have had in years 10/10 would recommend!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5