African Restaurants in San Diego, CA

“African Spices is proof that some of the best places are tucked into the most ordinary-looking blocks. The surroundings are simple—just tires on pavement and a random row of storefronts—but the moment you step inside, it becomes something you experience.

It’s on a busy main avenue, and the driveway is small enough that it’s easy to miss while you’re searching for the sign. But once you find it, you’re immediately hit with the best kind of sensory overload: the layout, the shelves, the aromas, the lively conversations, and the warmth of everyone inside.

Food-wise: the Sambusa (I tried both chicken and beef) was unreal—crispy, deeply seasoned, and that filling had the kind of flavor you remember later. I also had a custard/cream-filled donut ball (so good), and the sautéed liver dish (beer iyo basal / suqaar-style) with veggies and spices was absolutely delicious.

Great service, wonderful people, and a real gem of a place.“

“Found this place at San Diego December nights 2023 and fell in love. Went back today to check out the actual restaurant and the food is even better. Absolutely love this place and the staff couldn’t have been friendlier / helpful.“

“The food is amazing!! We got the spicy and sweet chicken, coconut rice, plantains, and juice. We got there at 8:01pm, because the website says they are open until 9, and Google says they are open until 8:30. The blonde woman who works there was incredibly kind. She heated us up food to go even though they were technically closed. Amazing food and employees. But please update your hours.“

“Found this place at San Diego December nights 2023 and fell in love. Went back today to check out the actual restaurant and the food is even better. Absolutely love this place and the staff couldn’t have been friendlier / helpful.“

“I Tasted the delicious wonder of Addis Ethiopian Restaurant food and it was heavenly good :)
Treat yourself, friends, and family to this incredible experience. This family owned business has so much heart and rich culture. They made me feel right at home. The vegetarian dish was immaculately. I highly recommend you visit this place and enjoy a glimpse of the motherland Ethiopia Africa where life began. As the legend goes, our origin story as human being began in Eden -and Ethiopia was our first dwelling place. Let us return back to where heaven and earth united in purity, love, and the best food of course that makes everyone happy.
No forks or spoons needed. Finger licking good with the best hospitality“

“Delicious food and prompt service“

“Addis restaurant is very family oriented style and the food test is very authentic, and generously portioned. I would recommend anyone who crave for Ethiopian food or who wants to try for the first time. Meat combos and veggies combo would give you a test of everything.“

“Pleasantly surprised by this restaurant. So much delicious food! Chicken plate was fabulous, moist, and seasoned well. The lamb was tender and flavorful. Will be returning.“

“I have nothing but sweet words about this place. I am a tourist here and have tried another Nigerian restaurant that was not much to write home about. I ordered ogbona and egusi for myself and hubby and it tasted like home food.
The portions were big too and we could have shared a soup instead of buying two meals.
Customer service was good though the setup does not encourage physical contact. A sweet young boy came out to inform us that our order was being prepared.

Ordering was easy via the kiosk in the waiting room and wait was not too long.

Worthy to note is that there are multiple food places in the same place and they each have their ordering kiosk. You Order & pay online or via the kiosk and your food is brought out to you.

Food is a bit pricey but worth it. Will return again but hope I can get my chinchin this time.“

“I subscribed to the Mama Africa monthly Sunday dinner from April, 2021 until the service was discontinued in April 2023, and enjoyed it immensely. It became a tradition to get together with friends once a month and enjoy the meal together. The food was always very interesting and satisfying, the sambusas were always a favorite (I would love to purchase the spicy peanut sauce in a bottle!!). I was sorry that the Sunday dinner program was discontinued, but I'd definitely use Mama Africa the next time I need an event catered.“

“I had the federation — half rice, half pasta — with one chicken suqaar and one beef suqaar. The rice was cooked to perfection, light and fragrant, while the pasta carried the spices beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Both suqaar plates were tender, well-seasoned, and balanced — not greasy, just clean flavor. Paired with fresh salad and banana, everything came together the way Somali food is meant to.

Easily some of the best Somali food I’ve had so far.“

“Name is LG. I enjoy eating Nagerian food alot and I've tried numerous places in SD. I gotta say this place food was so fresh, delicious and perfect portion (taste and look as well). The Efo riro with egusi soup was amazing. The place doesn't look that fancy but I guess that's because it's still new. The food worth it.“