Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant

4.6 ( 498 reviews )
Checking... 12:00 AM - 09:30 PM See Hours
$10–20
4717 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105, United States
+1 619-285-9722

If you're searching for authentic Ethiopian cuisine in San Diego, Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant stands out as a hidden gem on University Ave. Customers rave about the depth of flavor and an extensive menu packed with generously portioned dishes at reasonable prices.

Highlights from reviews include the delectable sambusa, rich yebeg siga wot, and delightful yedero tibs. Patrons consistently praise the service, especially the staff's willingness to share cultural insights, making every visit not just a meal but an enriching experience. The cozy atmosphere, accented by Ethiopian art, adds to the uniqueness of dining here.

Reviewers often mention the warm hospitality of the owners, who seem to infuse love and care into every dish. Whether it’s enjoying Tej wine or the comforting ambiance, guests leave feeling satisfied and eager to return. In short, Red Sea isn’t just about food; it’s about community and cultural celebration. With easy parking and attentive service, it’s a spot you won’t want to miss!

Amenities and More

  • Service options
    • Delivery
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Fast service
  • Popular for
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Offerings
    • Alcohol
    • Beer
    • Coffee
    • Comfort food
    • Healthy options
    • Late-night food
    • Small plates
    • Vegan options
    • Vegetarian options
    • Wine
  • Dining options
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Seating
    • Table service
  • Amenities
    • Bar on site
    • Toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Groups
    • Tourists
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Parking

Reviews For Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant

LJ
Jul 5,2025
I was hesitant about writing a review bc I wanted to gate keep this restaurant for myself but this is a small, family owned business. This will be my go-to restaurant for Ethiopian cuisine in the SD area. The depth of flavor and spices along with the portion size and price is unbeatable. The service was a highlight and I saw that the waitress happily answered a lot of cultural questions for the other customers too.
Sweet Hot
Jun 7,2025
In town for a brief visit. Found Red Sea after a Google search for highly rated inexpensive places open for lunch. It also happens to be only a couple minutes away from our AirBnb. So glad we tried it! Food was extremely delicious & flavorful, portions were very generous and pricing was reasonable. We had the sambusa, yebeg siga wot, yedero tibs, and Tej wine. Didn't know there was parking in the back, but fortunately found street parking nearby. Inside wasn't fancy, but clean with comfortable chairs. There was nice music playing in the background, but couldn't hear it too well because of the news show on the TV that was on at the same time. Didn't think to ask if they would turn it down a bit so we could enjoy the tunes. Pleasant, attentive service that wasn't too overbearing. Overall a good experience and I recommend Red Sea.
Gytenis “G” Borusas
May 27,2025
Super cool place. Food is very authentic (or so I was told). It was our first time trying it and it was super good. We have tried pan roasted strips of beef and vegetarian combo (for two of us). Tasted amazing. Yeti, our server, was very nice and helped us pick the food. Very happy with the choice we made for our date night and we will be recommending this place to other ppl too!
Freddi Linda
May 20,2025
I had a lovely experience dining here. The food was delicious, they accommodated my gf request, the service was amazing, and the atmosphere was adorable. The food was flavored and spiced perfectly. I will definitely be coming back!! The owners were so sweet and down to earth. You can tell how much love and care they put into their food. Parking in the area was easy. It was very reasonably priced as well :)
SHERMIKA WILLIAMS
May 16,2025
Say it with me DEL-LISH-OUS I have frequent this authentic Ethiopian Restaurant during the past few years of living in San Diego, and I still can't get enough!. Food quality, presentation and of course the most important, TASTE! The owners are truly blessings to the community. Upon entry, the restaurant has a museum like feel, highlighting great Ethiopians and art from the culture I HIGHLY RECOMMEND stopping by for a taste for any occasion! Ask for the Honey wine!
Gabriela Kuran
May 15,2025
Such yummy food!! Great vegetarian options, which were my favorite even compared to the meat offerings. Great relaxed atmosphere and sweet waitress. Prices were pretty reasonable as well - give this spot a try.
Akiko T
Mar 29,2025
Excellent food! Between my friend and myself, we ordered the meat & veggie combos. The spices were just right and the injera was well made. Highly recommend!
Elizabeth Kilrain
Mar 21,2025
As always, one of my favourite restaurants. The food quality is always consistent and delicious. Love coming in on weekends for the gomen besiga! Gluten-free injera available for our celiac friends. Owner and staff are friendly and feel like family! If you have a group of friends who love coffee, ask for the coffee ceremony for the end of your meal. The toasting of the beans and the lovely smell of frankincense plus the traditional service is an experience. Just prepare to be highly caffeinated!

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