7 Ethiopian Restaurants In Minnesota That Locals Swear By

Minnesota might be known for its lakes and cold winters, but the state’s food scene offers incredible global flavors too. Ethiopian cuisine, with its rich spices, communal dining style, and spongy injera bread, has found a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans.

These Ethiopian restaurants across the Twin Cities have earned loyal followings among locals who crave authentic East African flavors without leaving the North Star State.

1. The Red Sea – Minneapolis’ West Bank Gem

Located in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, The Red Sea has been part of Minneapolis dining since 1990. The restaurant offers both Ethiopian and Eritrean dishes in a casual setting that doubles as a popular bar.

Favorites like doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and kitfo appear alongside vegetarian platters that are staples of the cuisine. The Red Sea is also well-known in the West Bank neighborhood for its late-night hours and lively social scene.

2. Dilla Ethiopian Restaurant – Flavor Paradise

Family-owned Dilla brings authentic Ethiopian flavors to its Minneapolis location near the Seward neighborhood. Its vegetarian combo platter showcases multiple stews and sides, making it a favorite among plant-based diners.

The restaurant emphasizes traditional spices such as berbere and freshly prepared injera. Dilla has earned strong reviews from locals who see it as one of the Twin Cities’ most consistent Ethiopian kitchens.

3. Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant – Community Table

Mesob, located in St. Paul, takes its name from the traditional woven table where Ethiopian meals are shared. Its menu highlights classics like tibs, shiro, and kitfo, all served on house-made injera.

The restaurant is frequently praised for the quality of its vegetarian dishes and for its approachable service. Mesob has become a reliable destination for both first-time diners and longtime fans of Ethiopian cuisine.

4. Bolé Ethiopian Cuisine – St. Paul’s Spice Haven

After a 2019 fire destroyed its original location, Bolé reopened in St. Paul’s Como neighborhood. It quickly re-established itself as one of the most popular Ethiopian spots in the Twin Cities.

Signature dishes include beef and lamb tibs, which are served sizzling with caramelized edges, and a range of vegetarian stews. Owners Rekik Abaineh and Solomon Hailie have built Bolé into a community favorite with both dine-in and takeout options.

5. Demera Ethiopian Restaurant – Frogtown Favorite

In St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood, Demera offers a straightforward but well-loved menu of Ethiopian staples. Items like shiro wat (chickpea stew) and lamb tibs are favorites among regulars.

The restaurant has a reputation for generous portions and affordable pricing, drawing diners from across the city. Demera’s welcoming service adds to its appeal as a neighborhood mainstay.

6. Erta Ale Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar – Lowertown Legacy

Named after a volcano in Ethiopia, Erta Ale is located in Lowertown St. Paul near CHS Field. The menu includes combination platters that allow diners to sample several dishes at once.

Traditional drinks such as honey wine (tej) are served, and the restaurant is also known for its bar atmosphere. Erta Ale has become a convenient stop for those looking to enjoy Ethiopian food before or after downtown events.

7. Agelgil Ethiopian Restaurant – West Seventh Wonder

Agelgil sits along West Seventh in St. Paul, serving a full range of Ethiopian stews and meats. Lamb alicha and doro wat are among the most popular items on the menu.

The restaurant’s injera is freshly made and often singled out in reviews for its authentic flavor and texture. Agelgil provides a casual setting that emphasizes traditional food at reasonable prices.