Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant in Oakland - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

Rafael & Solomon are amazing, along with the rest of the staff here. They’re all so attentive, kind, compassionate and passionate about the amazing food they serve. You can really feel the love in every bite. I love this place

👎🏽DISGUSTING UNPROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR!👎🏽 I just left this restaurant upset because one of the owners told me about how he "could still taste his wife", then proceeded to lick his lips. I said, "I don't need to hear that!" He said, "what I'm proud." I motined for him to come over, so I could talk to him privately about the matter. Then he let his friends come over to invade my personal space. He never wanted to talk to me privately. I won't ever visit this restaurant again.

Great food & great selections. Super friendly staff no matter the circumstances. Acoustics make it difficult to hear your own conversation but the flavorful food made up for it. : )

First time trying Ethiopian food! It was delicious.

Oh my gosh, I have been searching for a good Ethiopian place since I moved and this is it. The lamb stew and cabbage is fantastic! Also 10$ for a lunch plate with perfect portions, and 3 rolls of injera?! Are you kidding?! This is the best thing I've eaten in a long time

Been eating here for over a decade and they never disappoint with service or food!

Everyone needs to visit Ensarro! It's an Oakland favorite! Everything is delicious, authentic, and fine!!!!

If you’re in the mood for some incredible Ethiopian food, Ensarro in Oakland serves up deliciously rich and flavorful dishes that will leave you wanting more.

One of my favorite restaurants, the food is soooo good 👌🏾

Ooof hard to imagine being hit harder with the real goodness. Spices popped, everything was fresh and cooked to perfection. Twelve stars, hilarious and attentive service, and an absolutely magical munch. Will return!!!

Our table of four left after ordering one veggie sample platter for two and one meat sample platter for two and waiting for 40 minutes. Afterwards the owner came running after us out to the street to berate us. He said “you see we have a full house, we all have watches”. If you have a full house, either have more staff, make sure your staff is working efficiently (they are aimlessly wandering) or tell people that they will wait 40 minutes for their food so they can make an informed decision.

The lamb chop is so tender and juicy .

The food was delish. I wanted more beef than veg that day and there were potatoes in my meat...so that's why my rating is reflecting my "saltiness" at this moment. I will go back though and take lots o friends. Great vibe. The brothers were kind and attentive.

Absolutely great food, great customer service, and the best location to find parking.

This is the Everest of Ethiopian food so far as I’ve been able to eat. Been to about 8 different spots in Oakland and 3-4 spots in SF and there’s no clear 2nd place as this is the best in every category. As always I’m open to any suggestions to change my mind as it always means a new spot to try

good sized portions and gluten free injera available

Great vibes, excellent food, the tea latte is so tasty & perfectly spiced. Super kind bartender! Would recommend.

We had veggie platter and mushroom in this fancy Ethiopian restaurant, the food was very flavorful and delicious. I recommend vegan people should try it.

Delicious vegetarian and vegan choices! Well spiced flavorful! Attentive service. S great night out!

The one and only true Ethiopian food experience is Enssaro , it come with gunwin hospitality as same as Ethiopians been known for centuries,go and experience food And hospitality goes hand to creates up lifting atmosphere while you sip the house special mix drinks.

I had the best red lentils I've ever tasted here. The vegetable wot is especially good, well seasoned greens, cabbage, corn, etc. on injera. And the parking's good, especially for Berkeley. My companion and I each got parking spots right in front of the restaurant.

Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant did catering for a work gathering . Absolutely the BEST Ethiopian I have ever had. Solomon has such a positive vibe and helped us with everything we needed to make our party a great time! I am for sure going to visit Enssaro when in the area and our org will continue to work with Solomon for future events . ALL of us highly recommend Enssaro. Joseph

We go here once a week, twice if we’re lucky. Best Ethiopian food in the Town. Maybe in the country?! For real good and down home food that leaves us full and happy every time

Good food. A little chilly inside when the door is constantly opened. Qr code menu and limited service.

Not authentic Ethiopian food. Catered for south Asian and other Asian palate. If you’re Ethiopian, AVOID! Might as well get yourself some tikka Masala and Palak paneer from an Indian restaurant

Best Ethiopian Spots in the Bay.

In fairness, I hadn't had Ethiopian food before this visit so I can't compare to other Ethiopian places here in Oakland However, the food was AMAZING! We got the veggie combo with lots of lentils, cabbage, etc and Enssaro meat combos. The service was excellent too and the stuff was very patient and helpful. Oh, and the mix drinks delish too! Always tasty and good for the soul. Highly recommend this place for great authentic Ethiopian cuisine.

Great food, service, vibe, and their house-made honey wine is off the charts!

Went to this place on Christmas Day because it was one of the few places that were open. Loved everything about the food and the service. I ate here with my friend who found it in one of the periodicals that she read and we were definitely not disappointed. It lived up to its hype. Can't wait to go back!

The man with the dreads behind the bar is so weird. Made flirtatious comments about my underage daughters and was overall weird. I went back another time with a friend and I was obviously angry about the previous situation and he asks my friend “is she always this serious, why doesn’t she smile” (referring to me).

Enssaro never disappoints! Every single good review they have received is well deserved. The food is classic Ethiopian with a few new appetizer options. The vegan shiro wat sampler platter is my go-to order. I had never had shiro wat before and they accidentally brought with my order the first time I came. I’ve been hooked ever since. The service is reliable and they obviously take pride in their restaurant. This is one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in California.

Outstanding. Hands down, the best Ethiopian food we’ve ever had. We’ve been coming here since it opened, and these folks consistently deliver. Service is always excellent. You can’t go wrong. If you eat here, and you don’t like the food, you just don’t like Ethiopian food.

Food is delicious, filling, has good portion sizes, and a wonderful and unique spice flavoring. There is a really good variety of dishes in the veggie platters and the injera has a good texture, good flavor, and good amount given so there is enough to finish everything! The coffee is also smooth and high quality, and I will definitely be coming back here for more!

Distinct and fresh clean flavors. Will come back to try more.

It was my first time ever going there today, and the food is BOMB! And affordable. I highly recommend. I had got two lunch plates for 22 dollars. Me and my boyfriend loved the food, go try it out promise you won’t be disappointed.

This is my all time favorite Ethiopian food restaurant hands down. Whenever I’m hungry and I want Ethiopian food I go here. They always take care of me and show love. That honey wine is on point.

Enssaro is a one of my most frequented neighborhood eateries. The food is always delicious, the atmosphere is cozy, and the service is attentive. I highly recommend: bere alicha (beef curry stew), the hummus platter, and try both variations of the injera. If available, grab a slice of the chocolate mousse cake. 😋

The food was great! We got the meat and veggie samplers and a beef appetizer. The decor was simple but interesting with authentic Ethiopian art and artifacts. There was plenty of food for two people, plus leftovers.

Enssaro is a great establishment - whether I’m on a date, hanging out with friends, getting dinner with family, I think I would always enjoy Enssaro. The food is incredible and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere is perfect in my opinion. Looking forward to next time :)

I love da food fantastic customer service

This is my favorite Ethiopian food spot in town! I’ve been a number of times and all the staff are lovely. Food is amazing. Maybe I am biased because I only know Ethiopian cuisine in the Bay Area, but I think this one is the best. I personally love all the veggie combos as well as sambosas and the Ethiopian nachos! Their key lime pie for dessert is the little treat you didn’t know you needed, if you saved room! Recently, I had a large and last minute birthday dinner here and the staff were so eager to make sure I had a great time were super accommodating bc and helped me celebrate. I had so much fun and I’m looking forward to my continued usual visits to this restaurant!

Great food. Amazing atmosphere. Their shiro entre was one of the best meals I've ever had!!

Really great place to get a meal especially if you have not had African or Ethiopian 🇪🇹 food before! Get some honey wine, Ethiopian tea or coffee as well ☕️

We got the Ethiopian nachos and the meat and veggie sampler for three. Every single thing was so tasty. We devoured the entire thing. We brought home the bread from the bottom of the plate. I can't wait to eat it tomorrow. We can't wait to come back!

$80 for 2 people. The food was not good at ALL. It seemed fresh, and a lot of effort was put into it, but maybe I don't personally enjoy Ethiopian food (first-time trying), or maybe it's an acquired taste? Idk, but I tried all the meat, and not ONE was edible...the flavors and/or spices were so off-putting. Even my husband who eats almost EVERY food could NOT eat it. Also, the rolled up pancake textured bread we were supposed to eat with the meats was even worse. It tasted like it had too much yeast in it. I would've preferred literally any bread or heck a hotdog bread would've tasted better. They clearly have a small niche of clients that enjoy their food, so to each their own, but anyone that enjoys Middle Eastern spices would probably be thrown off by this food style. The lady who took our order was kind, so there are 2 stars for that, but the guy with dreads was annoying. Here, we are paying almost $100 to support a local business for MEDIOCRE food, and he has the audacity to tell us he already poured the drinks into cups when we said we actually wanted canned drinks. I dont care if you're poured soda into a cup. Maybe double-check what the customers ordered? After covid, this is not an unreasonable request. We always tip 20% or more, but this time we didn't. Food took a while to make, and we usually don't mind waiting, but because it was so inedible, it was disappointing. First and last time trying Ethiopian food. I guess its an aquired taste I'm ok with never having. I wish the business luck though.

Beef tibs, injera and cabbage side dish were my favorites. Very tasty. Better than I remembered at any Ethiopian restaurant in the Bay Area.

Our favorite local Ethiopian restaurant. Having tried most of them in the area, I still believe Ensarro has the best injera. They’re veggie sampler is typically my go to especially when I’m nursing a hangover or coming home from vacation after being away from Oakland too long. I love their meat sampler and shiro as well.

Everyone we knew said that we needed to try one of the Ethiopian restaurants in Oakland. As Enssaro was near to where we were staying and a favorite of our host, we went for lunch. Everything was delicious, the service was excellent and we enjoyed it very much. We even had leftovers! Would definitely return.

Good authentic food:) Samosa was excellent!

We went for dinner with a fairly large group. Inside had warm dimmed lights and faintly smelled of incense. The server was very kind and answered questions we had about the menu. Even with our group's various dietary restrictions, we all found something we could eat that did not sacrifice flavor or experience! So delicious and filling! No one left hungry and we had leftovers for breakfast, too. Will definitely visit again!

Always a pleasure eating at Enssaro. Returning after 4 years. Food is amazing as always. Loved sharing the beef samosas (spicy alert) and the veg platter for two. Food is good. Ordering via the app became bit painful but got thru it. Staff was super friendly and helpful. Place is beautiful, full of lovely art. Bathrooms clean. Can't wait to come back with family and friends

Great for meat eaters but vegans beware: ghee is used in the items that are labeled vegan. This is inexcusable. It's unclear if Enssaro has any truly vegan options to begin with. On their menu, they list items containing ghee as vegan and a dessert with honey as "vegan". Multiple people in the local community have said that items labeled vegan were never actually vegan, and unfortunately, that seems to be my assessment as well after more times of trying to talk with the restaurant and get answers. If you ask staff if they have vegan options, they just made a joke about things having no flavor and won't answer clearly.

I love the Gomen with Lamb, ata kilt, salad, and buticha. Once I start eating I can’t stop! It’s so good. It doesn’t take too long to get your food after you order and it’s consistent service

This place is often unbearably loud. A lot of people don't factor this in, but it's worth noting if you're sensitive or want to have a quiet conversation: this is not the place to do it. The food is good though and the service is great.

Consistently delicious. I do miss the timatim fitfit, but everything is always on point! Update: The timatim fitfit is back on the menu! Such a delicious dish. We generally order the meat and veggie sampler as well, and it always hits the spot!

Beautiful restaurant with a great selection of food, and great flavor. good service too.

Great food, service, and Ethiopian Wine!

Best Ethiopian food & greeted with a smile & True Loving Hospitality. ❤️

Wonderful food, great homely vibe and fantastic service! They care for their customers! The spiced red lentils and lamb stew is to die for...love the injera bread!

Nasty owner always speaking with attitude especially with delivery drivers.

Great food and service! Love supporting this small business!

Always a must stop when in the area! Delicious 🤤

Such wonderful people… the food was delicious and aura was vibrant even while ordering inside to takeout. My experience was rather pleasant. I will come again 💚😊

Really good Ethiopian food. The meats had a nice char and the bread wasn't too sour. Service was fast and friendly.

This food is so good and was enough for leftovers. All sorts of people from different walks of life gather here and that’s how imI knew I had to see what all the excitement was about. After a walk around the lake, I dined in at the Dog friendly outdoor patio I didn’t have any problems with my pitbull. you can order your services from the QR codes on the tables although the data collection is intrusive and overwhelming just to enjoy a meal. I do insist the managers learn from this to improve.

Our party of 3 tried several dishes, including vegan. Everything was hot and delicious. Prices are reasonable. Relaxing atmosphere.

Been coming here for years (used to be across the street), consistently excellent food and warm service. Always get the veggie sampler and/or Shiro (saucy goodness made from garbanzo powder). Also love the Doro wat (braised chicken with spices, hard boiled egg). The gomen (stewed collard greens) are excellent and comes with most platters. Makes a hearty and healthy lunch or dinner.

Food Medicine! I was slowly coming off a liquid diet due to a narly GI tract infection. I was despondent with all the conflicting information I found online about which foods were suitable. The brother I encountered at Enssaro consulted with me darn near like a PHARMACIST and helped me to select mild but favorable steamed veggies and plain rice. It was a DELICIOUS, nutritious and satisfying meal. I had to eat it in multiple small portion to avoid upset but it was well worth the slow go. The food helped to boost my moral. ALL NATURAL expertly prepared nutritious fare. Deep bow and gratitude.

When I go to a restaurant and the food is ok it’s whatever. I’m hungry I get full and I forget all about it………. However, when the food is bad/over priced and the service is terrible I gotta let people know to not to waste their time here. Guy with the dreads I don’t know if your the owner or not but you need to fix your attitude. Welcome your guest and smile to create a positive atmosphere. This is a business be professional. Definitely not returning to this place.

One of my favorite East African cuisine in the Bay Area. Delicious 😋

Service was a slow and they were visibly understaffed. The quality has gone down significantly since the good days of 2014-2018. Not the same after the pandemic. Went there a month ago and it was a disappointing experience.

OMG , The best shiro I've ever tried.

I would definitely recommend coming back here. We ordered a sampler plate for three people with one of the members in our party being new to Ethiopian food. He absolutely fell in love with the flavors, which I did as well. I’ve had Ethiopian food on numerous occasions in a few different cities and restaurants and Enssaro is one that I think has became a new favorite with the quality in the food 🤤 Our party did not have enough injera but that might be because we also ordered rice. Regardless, if you end up having leftovers from here, the food only gets better. I’m drooling just thinking about this place again as I’m writing this review!!

Absolute best Ethiopian food in the bay.

So good! Favorite ethiopian in lakeshore area. I usually get the veggie combo whenever I get ethiopian and every item in it was just delicious from this place. The coffee was also good (cardamom-y). They’ll also let you buy just injera to go ($1 each) if you want to pick up a few to have on hand. I like to wrap scrambled eggs in it for breakfast, and it keeps well for a few days.

Guy Working In The Bar Area, is so rude with attitude in his behavior & thinking Rest all other thing is awesome but that guy should improve himself otherwise in coming future, u guys will be loosing customers

Delicious and savory food done with pride and love.

Decent Ethiopian food, but found it to be less well filled and varied in terms of items on the injera. However this type of cuisine has generally less variation and it is hard to say this one stands out from the others.

The second I stepped in the door, the aromas signaled what would become one of the greatest dinners of my life. If I was on death row, I would make a call to Enssaro without wasting a second. God bless this restaurant, God bless this food, and God bless Ethiopia.

Place is overrated for what it is worth it. A vegetarian combo costed $40 (before tip) Taste was average! Portion size small! Service slow! Having had food in the likes of Zeni in San Jose , Enssaro is a passable outing!

Delicious food (try the potato nachos appetizer and herbal chai tea, too). Friendly staff and gorgeous place. You order from a QR code at the table.

Delicious food and great service

One of our favorite spots. Slow build of heat. Always delicious. Get the tea!

Unfassbar lecker und sehr freundliches Personal. Bernd Bridges Show

One of the best Ethiopian places I’ve eaten at in the US. Wonderful ambience, great cocktails, flavorful food. Highly recommend.

Celebrated my birthday here and had a great time!! The QR takes a little getting used to (particularly if your reception isn't great) but it's so efficient. Our food and drinks flowed, with no one waiting too long. The masked staff were welcoming and didn't rush us to leave.The general vibe was very friendly. I can recommend the French 75, Ethiopian Hummus, veggie sampler and gluten free injera. Thank you Enssaro!

Has been my family's go-to place for years when we visit. Very shareable, so flavorful, friendly to many diets, great staff.

Authentic feel & vibe; smells were wonderful. Lamb dish was very good. Would definitely recommend 👌🏾

Warm and friendly staff. We enjoyed our sampler meat for two. The taste is authentic and the ambiance is a classic. Do visit this place and try their mouth watering Ethiopian food.

Moved away, visited for 2 days, had to make it to Enssaro. Incredibly good, rich with nutrition and flavor, thrilled they appear to be thriving, miss them terribly. Cannot be found in many places, what a gift!

I'm impressed never been there but it s good got to order to go

Best Ethiopian food in the Bay Area! The staff is great, the location is amazing, and the coffee is an all expense paid vacation to Ethiopia it's self!

Very good food, good service. Large selection of samplers with meats and veggies.

Been dining here for over 10 years. Best Eithiopian cuisine around. The owner and staff are friendly and personable. Highly recommend.

Best Ethiopian food in town. My favorite place & feels like driving there every other week at least

Delicious food and great service!

Best Samosa's I have ever had, and I have had many. Great job Ensarro👊🏼

Very good food. The service is amazing. Really friendly and quick! I would certainly come back again but it's not my favorite Ethiopian. Would recommend the vegan plate.

The food was good, the service was slow.

I’m so happy to have found an amazing Ethiopian restaurant that made me feel so at home. I feel much more at home in SF today. ❤️😊