Ask anyone in the community where to eat Ethiopian food in America, and most will point you to Washington. The DC area is widely described as home to the largest Ethiopian population in the country, and that shows in the sheer number of restaurants, from tiny carryouts to white tablecloth dining rooms.
This list is a starting point, not a final ranking. We picked places that are recommended by local food critics and that appear to be open as of October 2026. Hours and menus change, so call ahead before you go.
Chercher (Shaw)
At 1334 9th St NW, a rowhouse turned cozy dining room, Chercher is a favorite for spicy tibs, fish dulet and one of the most generous vegan platters in town. It is a great first stop if you are bringing friends who are new to Ethiopian food. Chercher also runs locations at 3608 14th St NW and in Bethesda.
Das Ethiopian Cuisine (Georgetown)
If you want a special night out, Das is the polished choice, with soft lighting, attentive service and family style plates. The restaurant says it is listed in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide. You will find it at 1201 28th St NW, at the corner of 28th and M.
Elfegne (Adams Morgan)
Family owned and set in the space that once housed Zenebech, Elfegne, at 2420 18th St NW, pairs vibrant art with traditional dishes given a modern touch. Try the lentil sambusa and the doro tibs. It also appears in the MICHELIN Guide.
Habesha Market and Carry Out (Shaw)
At 1919 9th St NW, part grocery and part carryout, Habesha is a neighborhood institution. Portions are big, prices are friendly, and you can pick up spices and injera on your way out.
Family Ethiopian Restaurant (Shaw)
At 1414 9th St NW, this relaxed, homey spot opened in 2020 and is recommended by critics for comforting classics like gomen with cabbage and potatoes.
Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar (Adams Morgan)
At 2429 18th St NW and run by sisters and inspired by their mother’s recipes, Tsehay has a reputation for fresh food and good injera.
Eatopia Eatery (U Street)
A stylish spot at 1301 U St NW, known for its tej and sambusa.
More worth trying
- Feru Ethiopian Cuisine, 1128 H St NE
- Nazret Ethiopian Restaurant, 3821 S George Mason Dr, Falls Church, Virginia
- Hawwi Ethiopian, 1125 Queen St, Alexandria, Virginia
- Beteseb Restaurant, 8201 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, named a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist according to Eater DC, and loved for its breakfast firfir
Find more
See every Ethiopian restaurant we list in the area on our Washington DC metro hub. Own a restaurant that should be here? List your business for free.
Featured image: Miguel Discart, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.