Top 5 Ethiopian Restaurants in Toronto
- Rendez‑Vous Ethiopian & Eritrean Restaurant (Danforth East)
A cornerstone of Little Ethiopia since 2001. Loved for its family-style platters, vegetarian options, and warm, welcoming vibe. Traditional coffee ceremony offered.
Quote from Reddit: “Rendezvous is my favourite Ethiopian in the city.” - Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant (Bloor Street West)
Classic and authentic menu with flavorful dishes like Doro Wat, Tibs, and vegetarian stews. A well-established favorite for decades.
Quote from Reddit: “If you are a carnivore, I cannot recommend the meat combination enough!” - Lucy Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar (Danforth near Coxwell)
A top pick in Toronto, offering consistently delicious food. Great for groups and late-night dining.
Frequently rated #1 for Ethiopian food in Yelp reviews. - Blue Nile Restaurant (Danforth East)
Cozy atmosphere with generous platters and a full Ethiopian coffee ceremony experience. Good for both vegan and meat-based palates.
Praised for ambiance and drinks. - Wazema Ethiopian Restaurant (Danforth East)
Known for bold spice levels, live music on weekends, and a vibrant, energetic setting.
Quote from Reddit: “Wazema is the best.”
Honorable Mentions:
- Ethiopian House (Yonge/Wellesley): One of the oldest in the city. Cultural ambiance and traditional dishes.
- Nazareth, African Palace, and Nunu Ethiopian Fusion: All known for great food and service.
Quick Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Area | Notable For |
|---|---|---|
| Rendez‑Vous | Danforth East | Coffee ceremony, communal platters |
| Lalibela | Bloor West | Meat combos, vegetarian classics |
| Lucy | Danforth | Late hours, friendly service |
| Blue Nile | Danforth East | Cozy vibe, veg & meat options |
| Wazema | Danforth East | Live music, bold flavors, vibrant energy |
Must-Try Dishes:
- Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew)
- Kitfo (beef tartare)
- Tibs (sautéed meat combos)
- Shiro, Misir Wat (lentil stew), Gomen (collard greens) for vegetarians
Bonus Tip: Experience a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony—an authentic and rich cultural tradition.
