Zema Bar & Restaurant

Really? Was craving some good Ethiopian food after handling my business for the day. Googled up places in the area, and this one had the most stars. So I guess I'd try it out when I got there. There was no parking available because the place sits off in a parking lot. Adjacent to a car lot and it's very tight to get in there. So I spent 15 minutes just to find parking. The place is clean. The atmosphere is clean. The host was attentive. I ordered my food and when it came. I was underwhelmed because I was expecting more of a traditional Ethiopian style. Food, but it seems like the food is more catered to people that are not familiar with the cuisine and it seems more americanized than the actual culture of the food. The plate I ordered was twenty five dollars altogether with tax and I ordered a light beer to go with it just not enough sides and the food was grilled as if to have ordered instead of stewed. I'm not gonna lie.I was very disappointed and it did not satisfy me.So I ended up going to tats sub Sandwiches.

I’ve tried three different Ethiopian restaurants in Washington, and hands down Zema Bar and Restaurant is NUMBER ONE! The location is right in the heart of Seattle. Parking can be a little tricky depending on the time, but I was lucky enough to find a spot at the restaurant itself and it’s worth the effort regardless. The space is beautiful, clean, and you can tell the owners take real pride in creating an inviting atmosphere not just for guests, but also for their staff. That energy really shows. Now the food …. WOW. Every single dish was packed with flavor, and the honey wine was absolutely delicious. Honestly, everything I tried was amazing. On top of that, the customer service was top tier. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. If you’ve been wanting to try Ethiopian food, this is the place to do it. You will NOT be disappointed. I’ll definitely be back, this spot is a 10/10!

Had a great lunch here! The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was quiet and comfortable. The menu had a nice selection of entrees, which made it easy for someone new to this cuisine to find something to enjoy.

The food is impressive!! I have been to billions of restaurant of the world but this is the first time I can say I am in love with the food. The lamp is seasoned so well but not too strong. You can taste the real spice and herb not powder. I usually do not like pasta. Their pasta is heavenly. The tomato sauce is infused with spices. Vegetable platter has 7 different of beans and vegetables. Each one has it own flavor. Injera bread taste like a gelly bread. When combining with any good here, it just take the taste to another level.

Rarely you come across a restaurant who’s food takes you back to the country of origin. Zema blew away all expectations with each bite being perfectly balanced. While I do prefer more spice, I understand the people of Seattle are a bit more timid of heat. 10/10 one of the best tasting Ethiopians restaurants I have encountered in the USA