Harer Messob Ethiopian Restaurant in Virginia Beach - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

Went there today super excited for the reviews. The place was closed , no note nothing. Online hours show open too

I absolutely always love the coffee and the food here, with great service this place is a must go to.

It's sad , this is the only place where you can eat injera in Virginia Beach. There's a huge potential and they could've killed it but they have no chance with how it is now.

This is it, this is my place, the food is so therapeutical to the mouth, can’t help but enjoy every bite, the service is outstanding, they are passionate about what they do, I usually go with my husband and my daughter, we enjoy every bit of time we spend there, we do take outs and delivery too it never disappoints, we went there for lunch today, and am already craving it for dinner, Ya!it’s that kinda place

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Mesob Restaurant in Hampton Roads, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The decor beautifully reflects Ethiopian culture, with vibrant colors and traditional artwork that transport you to another place. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, eager to explain the dishes and make recommendations. The food was simply outstanding. Every dish was bursting with flavor, and the spices were perfectly balanced. The injera, a traditional Ethiopian bread, was the perfect accompaniment to the rich and savory stews. The vegetarian options were particularly impressive. The Misir Wat (spiced lentils) was hearty and delicious, while the Gomen (collard greens) were cooked to perfection with a delightful blend of spices. The Shiro (chickpea stew) was another highlight—smooth, flavorful, and comforting. What truly set Mesob apart was the attention to detail and the passion evident in every aspect of the dining experience. It’s clear that the owners and staff take great pride in sharing their culture and cuisine with the community. I left not only satisfied but also with a deeper appreciation for Ethiopian food and culture. If you're looking for an authentic and delightful culinary adventure, Mesob Restaurant is a must-visit. I can’t wait to return and explore more of their menu. Thank you, Mesob, for a memorable evening!

They have terrible customer service. Last time I ate here I got sick. Against my better judgement, I decided to give it a try months later because I have family from Ethiopia and sadly there aren’t a lot of Ethiopian restaurants around. They messed my order up, took no accountability and then wanted me to pay again instead of re-making my food. The menus online do not match the menus in the restaurant and they’re ALWAYS out of doro wot. I definitely will not be returning.

We go here about once every other month. REALLY yummy and authentic

Everything was delicious! Not a single thing disappointed! The food was amazing and the coffee was perfect!

This is a hidden gem. The food and coffee is very fresh and delicious! This has got to be the cleanest eatery I've ever been to. Very quiet and private. The lady that served us was so sweet. I will be coming back. If you're in the mood to try something new, this is the spot!

Excellent Ethiopian cuisine. Delicious and affordable. I would definitely recommend but warn that they keep it very warm inside the restaurant even in summer.

Okay food, okay service but this is a vegetarian option for locals. Not many options for East African restaurants so check it out!

They made me feel at home while I dined there and the food was so amazing and authentic.

We ordered their Mesob Special Tibs and Ye Tibs Fitfit. I loved their food! However, they do not have many non veg options in their menu. Even from the small menu, they did not have many of the items available which was frustrating. The service can be improved!

This little place is amazing. If you haven't had Ethiopian food go here, if you have had Ethiopian food go here. It is amazing everytime. Mesob has it right with amount, taste and customer service. 10 out of 5 stars!

Got food from this place for the first time today, first time ever trying Ethiopian food and I’m definitely loving it!!! The service staff was very friendly, and the siga wot is phenomenal! The injera is amazing too! Definitely recommend to anyone wanting to try Ethiopian!

Update March 2024 We come here regularly because their food is amazing. We live in Suffolk but it's worth the drive. However I don't know what's going on with the hours lately. I suggest maybe calling to see if they are open before you go to avoid disappointment. We were there Saturday 2:40 pm and the restaurant was closed. There was no notice or signs explained why it was closed. _____________________________________________ Nothing bad to say about this place. Cozy and clean. The owner was very polite and friendly. This is my first time trying Ethiopian food and I loved it. Will definitely be back again.

I'm not impressed with food or cost. Will not be going back.

Delicious and clean food thanks guys.

Small coffee $6. UNACCEPTABLE.Even Starbucks doesn't have that kind of price for a small coffee. RIP off. I paid $6 out of my pocket. Atwashu.

Yehabesha leba endezhe alayehum. $6 small size coffee. Horrible pricing. I paid $6 out of my pocket.

See this place? Right yur? I order the same thing. Every. Single. Time. Kitfo (mid rare) + Extra injera. It's so damn good I almost cry and sometimes don't even make it out of the parking lot and tip 50% the order. Always. Family owned. Family food. If I could tip $100 on every $20 I ordered. I absolutely would. I give my dog my last bite of injera + kitfo because it's to be shared.

Amazing service, delicious food, coffee, and tea! The food is authentic- highly recommend!!!

What a great and authentic experience! This family-owned restaurant is small but so delicious! The coffee was perfect. Injera was made that day, and we had beef tibbs, cabbage and carrots, salad and a few other selections. Highly recommend!!!

Amazing food - perfectly spiced and super soft and fresh injera.

My experience has been great. They food is amazing and really healthy. I just wish there where more Ethiopian restaurants in Hampton roads.

Very cozy Ethiopian Restaurant tucked in Virginia Beach! Food was very delicious and I can’t wait to come back again. The food was prepared very fast! The seasoning was a party in my mouth. Thank you Mesob Cafe!!

The food was amazing! It is a small dining atmosphere with authentic ethiopion cuisine. Absolutely delicious, reasonably priced and worth the little wait.

Coffee was good vegetables also was disappointed in kifta

Delicious, fresh vegetarian food.

Absolutely stunning authentic Ethiopian food. The very best I have ever had. Small hidden away place.

The food here is top quality. I could eat here every day. My husband and I each got the siga wot, which was absolutely delicious. Sometimes Ethiopian cuisine is so intensely spicy that I cannot eat much, but the siga wot was perfect for me as someone who likes spicy food. The bread was also very good and complimented the food perfectly. The ambience here is minimal. It is clear that the focus is on the food. While it may not be the fanciest dine-in restaurant, it is still pleasant. This could be a good place for a business lunch.

Store was not even open 20 minutes after their open time. Employees were waiting outside. Told us it could take another 20minutes. So when do you prep for the day and cook fresh food if you are not even open 40minutes after store hours. From outside the curtains looked uncared for improperly hanging. I can't imagine what's going on if first impressions are not important.

I absolutely love mesob! I order to go atleast once a month. Best Ethiopian in the area just make sure you call ahead of time, they are a small business and they work really hard! Always kind and the food is ALWAYS good! #supportlocalbusinesses

First time tried Ethiopian/Eritrean food, was good

Website says open on Sunday at 2 pm came around 2:30 pm not open wasted my time drove 45 minutes to get there. Very unreliable don't waste your time. Not reliable 😔

This is the BEST Ethiopian food I’ve ever had! The place is very peaceful and welcoming and just overall lovely! The food is amazing and the service is beautiful! You won’t be disappointed!

Enjoyed dinner here at this authentic Ethiopian restaurant. Friendly staff, and delicious food, I ordered the beef ribs, collard greens with yellow lentils. Will definitely return

Amazing Ethiopian traditional cusin with pleasant service. I would recommend this place for anybody who wants to try real habesha food in the hampton roads area.

We found this location after Desmond's failed to provide service to us. Great ambiance, open doors, welcoming environment and stellar customer service, attractiveWe loved it. They over delivered excellence. We'll be back tomorrow Desmond

Delicious food, Amazing customer service 😋, family operated small business. Please support and enjoy!

Great place for vegan options and a delicious meal.

Love Ethiopian food and I regularly patron this restaurant. Food is yummy, and lots of vegan options. Tastes like home cooking instead of commercial.

The smell of the food is very good, the taste is different. It is very good and clean food. I ate roast beef and vegetables. The approach is different and the price is reasonable. Thank you.🙏🙏🙏

This was my second visit and the food did not disappoint!! I took my sista-friend there for her birthday. She is Caribbean and absolutely loved her first Ethiopian food experience! You can taste the love poured into cooking this authentic food. I got the Doro Wot/Siga Wot Combo and she got the Mesob Special Tibs! I love how flavorful with just the right amount of spice it has. We both tried the Injera which was kind of a spongy consistency. Needless to say, I am hooked on Ethiopian food now!🥰 You must visit this quaint little restaurant and let these wonderful ladies feed your soul. Oh, and you must get the lemon cake for dessert!!!

This place is a gem! Mesob Cafe offers Eastern VA's only authentic Ethiopian/Eritrean cuisine. Dishes include spicy beef, chicken and lamb curries with a host of veggies. All dishes are served with INJERA (sour pancake-like flatbread) to grasp your curries - less intrepid diners may request forks! Mesob Cafe boasts a following of loyal patrons (some native to Egypt/Ethiopia/Sudan) who drive up to 30 miles for an authentic meal. Mesob Cafe does not serve alcohol, so my friend and I were able to dine well for about $35 + tax + tip. We received friendly and attentive service from Seble.

Best Siga Wat I've had. The restaurant is family friendly/family run. The service is wonderful and the staff kind and inviting. I highly recommend.

Small restaurant, delicious food!! First time trying Ethiopian food and I can’t wait to come back!

All stars and def worth it!! This was my first time trying Ethiopian food and Mesob was a recommendation for my friends as I. It did not disappoint, delivering, flavor, great portions, fantastic service, an amazing atmosphere and all at a great price!

This is probably one of the best Ethiopia place I have been to in a while. Highly recommend..

Delicious authentic food. Definitely coming back.

We had an amazing experience at Mesob! They were out of chicken stew. But they accommodated us with another item (#3) but with chicken instead. We had the green beans, cabbage.., and lentil stew. 1st class! Plenty of food! We had to leave because the spot was getting packed, and the wait time was long. However, we understand as I believe there was only one lady cooking. I don't understand why some of the reviews were negative in regards to the wait time. Anyway, we WILL be returning.

Very good food and great services 👌

Taste just like authentic Ethiopian food. So glad there is still one place left like this in Hampton Roads.

Google says they opened at 2pm. We waited until about 230 and they never opened the doors. I called and got no answer. If the hours are wrong on Google they should update. I really wanted to give this place a try since Ethiopian options are scarce in my area.

The combos they offer is very reasonably priced. It's great food and the service was good too. I suggest it to anyone wanting to try something new. I had #1 and #2 meat collards and the BBQ lentils. It was absolutely delicious. Don't pass up on exta injera!!

A hidden gem! My husband found this spot through a browser search and I'm glad that he did. We ordered the vegetarian platter with 4 vegetarian options. All were infused with lots of flavor. We will be back soon! Next time, I'd love to try some coffee.

Authentic food. You can feel The love in the cooking! I enjoy visiting this place when I need some comfort food that Nourishes you. Must try for experiencing something different and nutritious.

That food was so good! Definitely will be back again. The old woman that was running the place put her whole foot in that pot I swear!!

I was in Norfolk for one year, and been here at least 4-5 times. Kitfo was so good, injera were very soft and tasty, tasted perfect with the lentil spice mix. And one of the places which I miss about being in Hamptons.

Very healthy food and Very nice customer service

Very good food. Affordable. Love this place :) takeout only since the pandemic began. Wait time for food anywhere from 10-30 mins depending on how busy they are. Worth the wait. Good vegetarian/vegan options

Was there at 7:15 but was told that only takeouts are being entertained - this after a 15-mile drive based on the reviews. We love Ethiopian food; it would serve customers better if the timings/type of service are correctly advertised.

Delicious food, friendly attitude and only Ethiopian restaurant in the area.

Delicious food and zainb the owner is such a smily welcoming person

Drove 39 minutes for lunch- so delicious! Authentic Ethiopian, absolutely the best. Wish there were multiple locations. It’s a must try!

We want to eat lunch with my kids we are four with three kids we came from Maryland Silver Spring MD we had searched for any Ethiopian Restaurants but there was only this one when we arrived and opened the door to try and get to the tables one lady comes out the kitchen said no we said why we came from faraway she is unprofessional and she She Doesn't respect the kids we Ethiopian we said She can't perform as Ethiopian because we Ethiopian respect our children and our customers we had bad experiences Thanks God we Had Nice lunch lately Restaurant we get Disappointed buy our follow Sister NO problem we Will Tell our family and friend when they are coming Virginia Dot Go to Mesob Restaurant we wish Reale Ethiopian opening New Ethiopian Restaurant God bless Her

8.11.22 First time here and I got the veggie platter. It was tasty. Support Small Business

Food was great and there are plenty of vegetarian/vegan friendly menu items. The injera was a little more sour than some I've had before which I found to be a good thing and really enjoyed. The lentils and split yellow peas were incredibly delicious. Don't really have much negatives to say from this first visit. The price and portions were great and the food was tasty. 5/5

Friendly, warm atmosphere. This is a small seems to be family own not completely sure. I say that so that you bring your patience. The food is definitely worth the wait!!! I would have taken a picture of my food but before the thought occurred to me I was already half way done. High recommend highly recommended!!!

This is my 2nd time here and I got the siga wot. It is beef tenderloin in a spicy red pepper sauce, it was amazing as I love spicy food. The dish also came with two sides; one was a little salad with a light dressing and the other was a cabbage and carrot side that had nice flavor and plenty of injera bread. I also got the Ethiopian coffee. It tasted bitter like instant coffee - I wasn’t a fan of it but everything else tasted great.

So so good! So so yummy in my tummy! I get the Mesir Wot

Delicious meal. Everything tasted great. Comes with a generous portion of injera. Can't wait to go back.

FINALLY tried this place out and my only regret is that this was my first time. So Ethiopian food is not like any other that I've ever had. Pro tip...it is eaten without silverware ( I knew this and still asked for silverware out of habit 😂🤷‍♂️🤦🏼‍♂️). It's served on a flatbread called enjera. I can only compare it too a big fluffy sourdough tortilla. Kind of a cross between a tortilla, naan bread and a pancake. Maybe like a thick crepe? Hard to describe but I love it! Grew up with some friends from Ethiopia and always loved eating at their house because we ate with our fingers! You tear pieces of the enjera and scoop the food up to eat it. This place definitely took me back! Ok so the food. I'm not going to try to be super cool and get all the names for the dishes in here I can never remember. The menu has the proper dish names and description so you won't have a problem finding what you want. I got the veggie platter which let's you pick four dishes and comes with enough enjera for a small family! I had lentils, green beans, cabbage and collards. I also added a hard boiled egg. You can choose regular or spicy. I went with regular. Flavors were on point and portions as you can see were huge! Great authentic Ethiopian food and as far as I know the only spot in Hampton Roads! Check it out if you're a fan OR if you love trying new food! Of note as of 13 May 2022 they are only offering to go.

Warning - they are not doing in-person dining. The person I spoke with suggested they may return to in-person dining after Easter. Edit: as of 2 May, still no dine-in service. Maybe in 2 weeks, they said...

Not open when they say they are. Completely wasted my time EDIT : I came back a week or so later, and again....they aren’t open. It says on Saturday they open from 11-8 but here I am at 11:15 and the doors are locked. Edit #2: I really don’t know how anyone gets food from here because every time I’ve come they’re closed 😭 they have a sign up that says they’ll open on April 2nd and still no one is here.

Such nice friendly people and the food was terrific.

The only Ethiopian food in Hampton Roads, I believe. The food is decently good. The running of the place is quite poor unfortunately: never picks up phone call for pick up orders, runs out of almost all veggies, takes a very long time for food. I keep wanting to believe in the place but it’s hard! I still go (again only Ethiopian) but I would really enjoy a better tan business (as a customer). If the food was “spectacular” I could probably forgive/forget the management side. Update Jan 2022- Management must better

Excellent!!! My first time. I got the #3

Good selection of vegetarian food... YUM!

Said open but when we got there it was not open.

Great food and amazing people! I loved tilapia and the spinach so much!!🤩 The espresso coffee was the bomb!!!!! WOW!!!! They don't just give you a shot. They give you a pot instead lol It was almost 4 shots in a cute pot!! Loved having conversations with mamas there! Thank you everything!😌🙌🏼🙌🏼

I keep forgetting to take pictures before we devour this food. It is absolutely delicious. The injera is amazing, and if you order this to go, you are given extra. The first time we ordered “extra injera” we laughed because we had SO MUCH INJERA!!! The normal extra, plus an extra styrofoam container completely full of injera. I’ve ordered all the vegetarian dishes plus lamb tibbs and beef tibbs. The greens, tibbs, and the shiro are my favorite. Pro-tip, you can special order kibbeh, but you have to order it ahead of time.

I ordered the mesir wat, green beans, cabbage, and yellow split peas (all vegetarian) for take out. It was all very good and I was given a good portion of injera bread. I would definitely recommend Mesob especially for vegetarians looking for a healthy option.

I love the authenticity of this place. The vegan options are excellent. My children love it too!

Great Ethiopian cuisine. Had the kitfo (lebleb). Update: 07/20/2021 (downgraded to 3 stars) 2nd visit and food quality was very inconsistent and far from my previous experience. I'm from Addis and I'm telling you: this is not it! Maybe a different chef? Won't be going back anytime soon.

Friendly staff, peaceful on the inside, and good food. I tried the yellow split pea and found it to be just what I was looking for. It was hearty, had a nice flavor, and had minimal spice for those who do not wish to partake in that sort of thing. 😊 Will come back again.

Been here three times in the last six months and it's been great each time!

Amazing food! A great place to try something new.

It was great. We had to ask for enjera multiple times coz they gave us only one very thin for 3 person dinners 🙄. And we asked for three hot tea we got two it took us a while to get another glass which the tea was cold by the time we got it.

Delightful cuisine and a steller review long overdue! It was a slight challenge to locate their place, (GPS and all) but, the whole-in-the-wall facade is the perfect front for this particular restaurant. It felt as though I was a truly cool person to have found it at all. Their menu items don't appear to be anything extraordinary, BUT, suffice it to say that they made something as basic as green beans, for example, the most delectable food I've had so far in my lifetime. I felt cheated that I'd lived this long, in fact, eating ordinary green beans when I could have had them prepared as Mesob had done. Now, please know that this perfection extends to everything on their menu--not just green beans. {}

So delicious! We ordered three entrees for 2 adults/2 kids and it was the perfect amount of food. We tried the chicken (not spicy), beef tips (not spicy) and beef (spicy) and it was all so great.

I just had an amazing lunch at Mesob Cafe. This was such an authentic and high quality experience. Many vegan options and pescatarian options as well. We had a combination vegetable plate with spicy grilled shrimp and it was served family style. The flavors were amazing! What a lovely experience, my fiancé and I had a wonderful time eating the meal with our hands. I finished the meal with their Shai house tea, tastes a little like Chai, but better! Both the meal and service were fantastic. We are looking forward to eating here again soon!

Delicious food, friendly service. Small place, went on a Sunday for dinner and had no wait. I suggest getting more foods combination s to try the tasty dishes on their menu.

"Best of the Best"! My daughter Jasmine took me and grand girl for some tasty cuisine. Quaint atmosphere, food made to perfection and friendly service. Clean, inviting and covid compliant♡

Mesob offers a positive and delicious experience every time. I've ordered from here at least 5 times and I'm always so so so happy when I eat. Small locale with intimate seating but offers convenient take out options and always willing to offer suggestions and answer any questions.

Amazing food, and great service at a reasonable price

Super awesome, never had anything like it before. Incredible flavors even if you have no idea what you’re eating - it’s all amazing. We ate with our hands, very cool experience and high quality.

I love this restaurant. I enjoy the owners the food and the atmosphere. If you are looking for something is not ordinary this is the place to come, enjoy the food and the relaxation of the restaurant. If you have on your list to try something different and enjoyble, try here.

The best in Va ..nice people and very clean atmosphere....fresh food always

Needed to visit the area from New Jersey for Ikea and my boyfriend and I were craving for Ethiopian food. I am so glad that we decided to get it for dinner tonight. We enjoyed it so much in our hotel. Our highlight of our mini trip to Virginia! We ordered the Mahberawi and the Shrimp 😋