Ethiopian Cuisine by Friends, LLC

From one Ethiopian to another, the food wasn’t the best. There was a lack of seasoning in everything we ordered. Our food took 30-45mins to arrive so we expected fresh food but the food came out lukewarm. I was expecting flavorful food by going off of the reviews but one African to another this did not hit at all. I brought a friend with me & she didn’t like it also. Would I try this again? No, the only way I’d try it again is if it had more spices & seasonings in the food. If it wasn’t a small restaurant I would’ve asked for a discount based off how the food wasn’t good at all.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

My experience with Chef was unforgettable. She took me on a journey through Ethiopian cuisine — teaching me about the spices, flavors, cooking techniques, and the rich history behind each dish. Every bite told a story. Her food was absolutely incredible, and I still think about it to this day! Chef is incredibly talented, kind, and hardworking. Truly one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had here in Pensacola. Trust me you'll want to eat here. Chef is also a military spouse and my gosh I admire her so much! Her love of cooking and sharing glows within her!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Btw… if you have not tried Ethiopian Cuisine By Friends, you are missing out. We had it again tonight and it was absolutely fabulous. We all had sampler platters because frankly, we can’t decide on a favorite. The owners are as friendly as they are talented. Truly a gem in Northwest Florida.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Almost 5 stars on Google reviews speaks for itself… It is 100% well deserved.. I think the best part is how fresh and wholesome the food and ingredients are… You can really tell the food is made with sincere love and care and not carelessly thrown together. It feels like I was sitting down for dinner in somebody’s home and they had a wonderful dinner prepared. This place will always be one of my favorite spots!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The restaurant is in the coffee shop!! It is a shared kitchen and worth your time. Eskidar is a wonderful and generous. The food is the delicious and very clean. There are games for kids and the coffee shop also offers nice treats.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Nothing fancy, friendly staff and food is good! I found it a little pricey for what you get. I've been to many Ethiopian restaurants and although this one is sub-par in comparison to DC's, I'm glad it's here. It's definitely worth a try!

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 4

Service: 4

So glad to have a nice Ethiopian spot in Pensacola! Would give it 6 stars if I could, this small business deserves it. The food was delicious and it’s perfect to share with a group (we had the sampler platter, plenty for 4). It may take a while for certain things to come out but that’s because it’s being made to order by 1 person in the back, so be patient!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The food was absolutely incredible and everyone was so kind and welcoming! I loved the vegan options! Will be back many times with friends 💖

Was soooooooo yummy! I was running late for the airport, but she rushed my food for me and was so sweet. Im so glad I squeezed it in. I got one of the vegan plates. Loved all of it & was so healthy. I did have a hard time finding it. It is a pop-up restaurant inside Gather: a culinary collective. Its off Barrancas, right where Barrancas runs into Navy Blvd.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This was ACTUALLY delicious... and a great price!

Food: 5

Haven’t had a bad dish yet, but the beef stew is my favorite so far. The owners are kind people. If you want to “support local business,” and enjoy a healthier, tastier, more thoughtful, and higher-quality meal than your average dining experience, eat here.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I was so excited to try Ethiopian food for the first time and I am happy to say I was not disappointed. I had the spicy stew with greens and cheese and that amazing bread. All of it was delicious together. I don’t know what took me so long. Thank you 🙏🏽 for having such an offering in West Pensacola and Pensacola period. Everyone should try this.

Had the absolute best dining experience at Ethiopian Cuisine by Friends. It seems to be family run, and it feels that way with the service. The owners son was our server and was just about the sweetest young person you’ve ever met. Timid smile, knowledgeable about the menu, quick service. The owner came out to speak to us and explain a little bit about the co-op format they use (it’s a collective space; different “restaurants” use the same space on different days). EVERYTHING on the menu was flavorful, colorful, fresh, filling, and delicious. I will try to visit any time I am in the area!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: TIBS, Beets and Greens, Doro Wot, Gomen Collard Greens

Pensacola is attracting more international cuisine. Ethiopian food has finally arrived! I'm so excited to have my favorite food in the city that I now reside in. It is a family owned business with a great menu to sample.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Shiro

The food was amazing, the atmosphere was cozy, and the owner was so sweet and personable. I love that there are board games to play while you wait for your food. We drove an hour in a downpour just to come try this place out and it was well worth it! My husband is part Ethiopian and he literally had tears in his eyes while eating this food. He said it tasted just like what his grandmother used to make him when she was still alive. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.

Oh, and don't forget to try the coffee! It is soooo good!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Injera A la Carte, Doro Wot, 2 Veggie 3 Oz Each Option 2 Meat 8 Oz Each Option 25 00