Lemat Ethiopian Restaurant is widely regarded as one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in the Bay Area, known for authentic Ethiopian food prepared with care, depth, and tradition. Celebrated for its best vegetarian and gluten-free options, Lemat pairs bold flavors with the best service and a warm, inviting setting. With a space that’s great for large groups, a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere offering the best ambiance, and a thoughtfully curated bar often praised for the best cocktails, Lemat has earned its reputation through years of consistency and community trust.
Decorative baskets hang from the ceiling at this warm, wood-lined spot with vegan options.
Matty Easton
If you’re looking to branch into your first try at Ethiopian food, Lemat is the place — excellent ingredients and helpful staff make this a great place to go for East African cuisine in Berkeley.
Cocktail list is extensive and lots of options for vegetarian and meat-based preferences. Our group of four opted for the veggie and meat samplers and we weren’t able to finish all the food — plenty to go around for all. Nothing was too spicy or intensely flavored, though be prepared to eat with your hands (in the traditional Ethiopian style).
The waitress was friendly and helped us choose the best samplers for a first time visit. The ambiance of the restaurant was nice, though when we arrived it was quite smoky — as though something in the back had badly burned. It took awhile to clear the smoke and smell from the dining area, but otherwise it was a great visit.
… moreYeo
Gorgeous in all ways. Our server was just lovely. The dishes were incredible, notably the chicken stew (wot? definitely a newbie to the cuisine). The coffee was unbelievable. The ambiance is perfect–feels just upscale enough to give that elevated dining experience while still being very approachable and comfortable. Obviously a place favored by many groups, families, regulars. The cultural artifacts and art are beautifully displayed and open up one’s learning about Ethiopian culture (particularly their musical instruments and of course the revered coffee ceremony). We chatted with the owner after our meal, who is clearly on a joyful mission to spread love and insight about his deep and beautiful culture. Just a perfect meal and experience. For us, worth going over the bridge for, for sure! Continued blessings to you.
… morekavitha sridharan
A lovely place tucked in Berkeley. Had the veg combo. The injera was soft and tasty. The plate had 2 greens, cabbage, 2 lentil curries and a beetroot curry.The red lentil curry was an explosion of flavours. The high point was the honey wine. The beautiful atmosphere was enhanced with a live singing performance. Service was on point and everyone was friendly and courteous.
A great place to pamper yourself with a good Ethiopian fare.
… moreSteve Kelem
Excellent dishes. Good variety of tastes. I’ve dined at many Ethiopian restaurants. This is the first time I’ve had fish, and it was cooked perfectly!
… moreRohit Nallapeta
The restaurant excels in its food and offerings but is terribly slow in service. We had to wait 50 minutes for our appetizer, and the service was minimal, to the point where we weren’t even provided with silverware or plates. The business owners don’t seem to care about the waiting time and don’t set any expectations.
While I appreciate small businesses, the service here was abysmal. Also, don’t take your kids – they’ll be starved waiting for the food to arrive.
The ambiance and cocktails are great. This place is worth visiting if you have about three hours to spare for a meal.
… moreJohn Houston (Ghost2Post)
The food was good, don’t get me wrong, but I had to wonder did the chief drop the spice rack onto the floor before cooking our meal? The food simply lacked the usual Ethiopian spices that make your mouth water.
… moreAlexandria Maisoka
We’ve been coming here since their grand opening, we consider Gezu & family friends. They are kind & gracious hosts, the food is always hot & fresh, portions are generous. We’ve had 3 of my daughter’s birthdays here. We love the decor & ambiance, miss dining in. We’ve been getting occasional to-go during SIP. Highly recommend the veggie combo, it’s vegan.
… moreDurga Kale
One of the best Ethiopian restaurants in the area.
I always go for the veggie combo. The portion size is ideal for one person.
Very friendly staff and one can find seating easily – for large or small groups.
It was a long time since I dined in, and it was worth it.
… moreKesha Lynne
My first time here I had to get my food to go. My second time just stopped by for some wine! By my third time I was like … I need to just budget for once a month ! The people are amazing! The waitress, the owners and close friends; yes I had a chance to mingle with them all! We had meaningful conversations and just a cozy place! Fresh ingredients , love and culture!
… moreJohn Sachs
Excellent Ethiopian food. Like the best I’ve had. I’ve tried many Ethiopian places in the bay area and not sure how I missed this one, but glad I found it. They have amazing life music on Fridays! I tried honey wine for the first time and really good. This is my new regular stop for Ethiopian.
… more