All of Amy Alexander
As a Mexican American, I’ve really come to love Ethiopian food. After moving here from California, I made it a mission to try different Ethiopian spots in Washington State. My first stop in Seattle was AMAZING everything from the food to the service was unforgettable.
I really wanted to love this place because normally what draws me in about Ethiopian restaurants is the atmosphere, the welcoming customer service, and of course the food. But sadly, I wasn’t happy with my experience here.
The restaurant itself is very small and tight, with very limited seating. The menu was also different from what I had seen in past reviews, which made things a little confusing. I came in close to closing, so maybe that was part of it, but the girl at the counter seemed rushed. I tried to explain that I was hoping for more of a combo plate with different items, but she wasn’t much help. She was noticeably more attentive and informative with the group behind me, which was frustrating.
I paid $36 for my plate plus an extra $4 for injera (since they charge for more). The injera my food was served on was thin and soggy, when normally it should be thicker and hold up better. The curry and cabbage I ordered were decent, but for $40 total, I was expecting a lot more in terms of both quality and service.
For that price, I’d rather make the trip from Mount Vernon to Seattle to eat at Delish Ethiopian Cuisine, where the food, injera, and customer service are worth every penny
… moreJonathan Taylor
The first impression when I walked in was that this little restaurant isn’t interested in making the food more to the tastes of what I as an American would be use to.
Thank God.
I very much enjoyed a meal that I can honestly say I’ve never had before and to eat it at a place I knew worked hard to make it the way it’s supposed to be. I very much am enjoying the sweet and sour tingles on my mouth after the hearty lamb stew I ate, the almost spongey flat bread soped up all the flavors of it, and the home made cottage cheese adjacent crumble I had with it gave the whole meal a delightful tang on top of it. I am looking forward to trying the rest of their menu!
… moreKayak
Can’t believe we waited so long to try this place! This was the first time we’ve had Ethiopian cuisine, and it lived up to the hype and good reviews. Service is friendly and helpful. We’ve been meaning to check it out and finally made it in, so glad we did.
We went for a combination plate to try ~75% of the menu, which was fun and gave an opportunity to see what it’s all about. Definitely loved the “hot sauce” they make in house – really unique with great flavor. If you have a family member that doesn’t enjoy “spicy food” this was definitely NOT “spicy-hot” though deliciously flavored with spices.
The lamb stew and red lentils were definite stand-outs, but everything was really good.
The meal paired really well with Boundary Bay Scotch Ale (definitely appreciate some local beer selection).
… moreEmily Goodin
Excellent vegetarian options. We’ve visited four times in person and we got take-out one time (during Covid). Basically all the sides except the “cottage cheese” are veg and three entrees are veg. We have tried all the veg entrees and all the sides – everything was wonderful! Make sure you ask for the hot sauce (I didn’t think to, and the owner offered – so glad she did!) It was very flavorful, but not too spicy. TIP: After you enter, order at the counter, then take a seat. There’s seating for about 20, with two 3-person tables, an 8 person table and a 6 person table.
… morePaul Brennan
Oh my word! The best Ethiopian food I have had since I was in Ethiopia. I was transported right back with the flavors! If you already like Ethiopian food you will not be disappointed, and if you have never had it before, please visit, you will love it. The portions are huge, the food is just delicious and the service was exemplary. My wife and I loved talking with the owner and our server, and cannot wait to come back
… moreFrank Li
I never thought it’s so good. I haven’t try African foods before. Today’s visit totally changed me. In my opinion, beef is the best choice. Will try others later.
… moreA J
This family owned restaurant offers counter service style Ethiopian food at resonable prices. This was our first time visiting. There is a cold case with beverages options like soda, hard seltzer and kombucha to accompany your meal. There are a few basic tables to eat on site. Food served quickly after ordering. They seemed to have a decent takeout customer base. Interesting and delicious home style cooking in full and half size portions. Half size was a generous portion of stew ed main and selection of a side dish served atop their flatbread which is somewhat like an unsweetened pancake. The homade cottage cheese was a fresh and cold.
… moreK W
This is a small business with authentic Ethiopian food.
I was warmly welcomed and my order promptly taken. The food was hot and delicious. I ordered the 1/2 Doro Wat with a side of Cabbage Stew and extra Injera bread. With tip I spent $15.00.
Support a small business and maybe try something new!!
… moreSuzan Aemmer
First time trying Ethiopian food 🙂 Loved it! Wow, all those different flavors and textures (Doro Wat-thigh, with the side of cabbage stew) was so delicious! You do get huge portions. I had ordered a 1/2 order and was happy to see I still had enough left over to have it for lunch. Now that was a bonus win for me 🙂
… moreAlyssa Springs
I’ve enjoyed the food at Ambo for years. I visit with friends and family when they’re in town. I love introducing people to Ethiopian food & seeing their reaction (it’s always good). My father & step-mom recently visited from Pennsylvania. They are not adventurous foodies and were hesitant to try it. They loved the food here! It’s served community style, unless otherwise requested. They really liked the injera bread and the flavors.
My little sister is vegetarian and had no problem finding several items on the menu. I always suggest trying the owner’s homemade cottage cheese because it’s quite different from what you’d buy at the store. I love the mix of textures and tastes on each plate.
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