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Located in the historic Adams Point District next to Lake Merritt, the friendly Enssarro Ethiopian restaurant family will welcome you to the warm embrace of classic Ethiopian cuisine. Many ingredients and spices are brought directly from the town of Enssaro in Ethiopia providing the adventurous diner with a unique flavors not experienced anywhere else. We offer gluten-free and vegan options!
Simple, cozy Ethiopian eatery serving a small menu of spicy specialties, plus tej, beer & wine.
Hours
| Friday | 11 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM–11 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM–10 PM |
| Monday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–10 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 357-A Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Phone: (510) 238-9050
Website: http://www.enssarooakland.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Order: Order online
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Related Web Results
Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant
Voted East Bay’s Best Ethiopian Restaurant by East Bay Express and Oakland Magazine. Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten-free options. 357-A Grand Ave, Oakland, CA …
Enssaro Ethiopian (@enssarooakland) · Oakland, CA – Instagram
3K+ followers · 308 posts · Gluten-Free, Halal, Vegan & Vegetarian options, Tea, Coffee and Full-Bar. Outdoor seating available. #restaurant #oakland …
Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant | Oakland CA – Facebook
Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant is at Oakland Lake Merrittt. Feb 18, 2024 FAMILY STYLE- serve everybody’s choice on one BIG plate to share together!
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Reviews
Don Hoffman
Enssaro is a solid Ethiopian lunch option in Oakland, not far from Lake Merritt. The dining room feels cheerful albeit a bit dark and slightly worn, with hardwood floors that make the space pretty loud even when only a handful of people are inside.
I ordered the meat sampler for one, which comes with several Ethiopian stews served on injera. Everything was tasty with rich spices and good variety across the different dishes. That said, the dishes here don’t really stand out compared to better Ethiopian food in the Bay Area.
The meal is eaten traditionally with injera instead of utensils, which is fun but can be a little challenging to manage gracefully. Lunch cost about $30.
Overall, seems like a dependable if not standout spot for Ethiopian food. Also, they’re moving to Rockridge soon.
… moreI ordered the meat sampler for one, which comes with several Ethiopian stews served on injera. Everything was tasty with rich spices and good variety across the different dishes. That said, the dishes here don’t really stand out compared to better Ethiopian food in the Bay Area.
The meal is eaten traditionally with injera instead of utensils, which is fun but can be a little challenging to manage gracefully. Lunch cost about $30.
Overall, seems like a dependable if not standout spot for Ethiopian food. Also, they’re moving to Rockridge soon.
Jasmeet Kalra
Authentic, Family-Owned Gem near Lake Merritt!
If you are looking for some of the best Ethiopian food in the Bay Area, look no further. We came here for Sunday lunch and were able to find a table easily. Parking was also relatively stress-free with metered street spots right out front and more near the park and lake.
The Atmosphere:
I love that this is a true family-owned business and the place has some cool ethnic decor. The mother is the head chef, the son manages the bar, and the daughter is the hostess. We chatted with the son and daughter, and they couldn’t have been friendlier or more accommodating. It gives the place such a warm, welcoming vibe.
The Food:
We ordered the Meat and Veggie Sampler for 4, and it was an absolute feast. Every single dish had a distinct, unique flavor profile. Our platter included:
* Doro Wot: The national dish (bone-in chicken)–so flavorful we actually ordered an extra side of it!
* Ye Beg Tibs (Lamb) & Ye Bere Tibs (Beef): Perfectly cooked and seasoned.
* Ye Doro Tibs: Delicious diced chicken.
* The Veggies: Red and yellow lentils (Ye Messer Wot), savory kale/greens, and a fresh sauté of cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms.
The house-made injera was top-tier–tangy and fresh. We also ordered a side of basmati white rice, which paired surprisingly well with the Doro Wot gravy.
The Drinks:
Do not sleep on the cocktails! The Honey Wine Pineapple Cider was the hands-down winner of the table. We also tried the traditional honey wine, a solid Old Fashioned, and a Campari drink. Everything was well-balanced and hit the spot.
Final Thoughts:
From the authentic flavors to the wonderful family running the show, this is easily a top-tier Ethiopian spot. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Enssaro is a must-visit.
… moreIf you are looking for some of the best Ethiopian food in the Bay Area, look no further. We came here for Sunday lunch and were able to find a table easily. Parking was also relatively stress-free with metered street spots right out front and more near the park and lake.
The Atmosphere:
I love that this is a true family-owned business and the place has some cool ethnic decor. The mother is the head chef, the son manages the bar, and the daughter is the hostess. We chatted with the son and daughter, and they couldn’t have been friendlier or more accommodating. It gives the place such a warm, welcoming vibe.
The Food:
We ordered the Meat and Veggie Sampler for 4, and it was an absolute feast. Every single dish had a distinct, unique flavor profile. Our platter included:
* Doro Wot: The national dish (bone-in chicken)–so flavorful we actually ordered an extra side of it!
* Ye Beg Tibs (Lamb) & Ye Bere Tibs (Beef): Perfectly cooked and seasoned.
* Ye Doro Tibs: Delicious diced chicken.
* The Veggies: Red and yellow lentils (Ye Messer Wot), savory kale/greens, and a fresh sauté of cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms.
The house-made injera was top-tier–tangy and fresh. We also ordered a side of basmati white rice, which paired surprisingly well with the Doro Wot gravy.
The Drinks:
Do not sleep on the cocktails! The Honey Wine Pineapple Cider was the hands-down winner of the table. We also tried the traditional honey wine, a solid Old Fashioned, and a Campari drink. Everything was well-balanced and hit the spot.
Final Thoughts:
From the authentic flavors to the wonderful family running the show, this is easily a top-tier Ethiopian spot. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Enssaro is a must-visit.
Dominique Garcia
First time trying Ethiopian food and wow, it did not disappoint! If you’re stuck in a routine, this is your sign to step out of your comfort zone and dive into new flavors. Honestly, this was a 10/10 experience from the moment I walked in and placed my order over the phone . The staff here are so caring and welcoming—they truly made my first Ethiopian food experience special.
Even though I never grew up with an Ethiopian friend, I’m so happy I finally took the leap to try something new and support a local business here in the Bay Area. If you’re looking to spice up your food game, I highly recommend giving this a shot! ✨
… moreEven though I never grew up with an Ethiopian friend, I’m so happy I finally took the leap to try something new and support a local business here in the Bay Area. If you’re looking to spice up your food game, I highly recommend giving this a shot! ✨
Jeremiah Moore
I ordered takeout from Enssaro for a work appreciation luncheon, and the experience was fantastic from start to finish. The young lady who helped me (whose name I don’t want to misspell) was incredibly kind, patient, and welcoming. While I waited, she offered me some tea and even shared Vegan Gluten-Free Ethiopian Hummus (Butacha) and Gluten-Free Injera. She also took the time to show me how to properly enjoy the food with injera, just as it’s traditionally done in Ethiopia — such a thoughtful and memorable gesture.
The food was excellent, the service was exceptional, and the hospitality truly stood out. I’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend Enssaro!
P.S. My apologies for the poor photos! Only took one as an afterthought.
… moreThe food was excellent, the service was exceptional, and the hospitality truly stood out. I’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend Enssaro!
P.S. My apologies for the poor photos! Only took one as an afterthought.
Y Guintu
I love Enssaro so much! This is my go-to for a solo meal, big group, and dates. Everything is delicious and spiced perfectly if you like heat!! The appetizers are a must – especially the hummus and nachos (photo).The drinks are great too. Raphael & Solomon are great hosts and neighborly. Portions are generous and they have many combinations for meat lovers and vegetarians. I keep coming back!
… moreNami N.
Ensarro is the place to go whenever I’m craving something cozy and delicious. The food is quality and always hits the spot. This year I was lucky to have my birthday celebrated there and had the most easy and wonderful experience surrounded by my loved ones and so much incredible food! My entire party was so happy with everything. Such a kind family that owns this fine establishment. Thank you so much, Solomon and Nesanet, for making my birthday so special and to the rest of your family for always providing so much love and warmth to your patrons and to the food you provide. I can’t tell you how much it means to me, I’m so grateful!
… moreJackie
Amazing Ethiopian food! The honey wine was so much smoother than we anticipated and the sweetness was just the right amount. The bread was really well done and the spices were super well balanced. We got the veggie and meat for 2 and the beef sambusas. Highly recommend for first timers (which we were). The service was amazing and the team was so kind to introduce the cuisine and how to eat it to us. We had a really great time – we’ll definitely be introducing it to others! If you have leftovers – don’t forget the bread at the bottom! We almost did, but it’s the best and sauciest. Flavor town.
Parking available at the front of the restaurant on the street.
… moreParking available at the front of the restaurant on the street.
Marcela Ma
I’m giving this a 4star because I don’t know Ethiopian food that much so not much to compare. But the food was delicious. Injera was just the perfect sour, red lentils were on fire like spicy! Cabbage and potatoes so so good, the chicken was yummy and the lamb tibs was so good a little lamb-y but good
The service was awesome.. so nice and kind
… moreThe service was awesome.. so nice and kind
phillips frank
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had such a wonderful experience at Enssaro! The staff greeted me with warm smiles and provided excellent service throughout my visit. The food was absolutely delicious — every Ethiopian dish was full of authentic flavor and made with so much care. I truly loved everything I tried. I came all the way from Atlanta, Georgia, the meal was well worth the trip. Highly recommend Enssaro to anyone who wants to enjoy amazing Ethiopian cuisine!
… moreI had such a wonderful experience at Enssaro! The staff greeted me with warm smiles and provided excellent service throughout my visit. The food was absolutely delicious — every Ethiopian dish was full of authentic flavor and made with so much care. I truly loved everything I tried. I came all the way from Atlanta, Georgia, the meal was well worth the trip. Highly recommend Enssaro to anyone who wants to enjoy amazing Ethiopian cuisine!
Brian Carlsen
Went recently after a drink at a nearby neighborhood bar. Great low key dinner spot. The food was delicious and there are great vegetarian options. They’re moving soon as I understand it and I’ll definitely visit the new location.
… more