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oChef » Red Sea – San Diego
Red Sea - San Diego
Photo from Red Sea
Red Sea at a glance
San Diego Mid-City
- 🥘 Ethiopian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 86 of the guests
#38 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#2 Ethiopian Restaurant out of 4 in San Diego
Excellent
8.9 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
489
Reviews
92.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Exceptional service
- Authentic cuisine
- Inviting ambiance
Frequently criticized
- No tap water
- Parking issues
- Long waits
The restaurant Red Sea is an authentic Ethiopian Restaurant located in the vibrant Mid-City neighborhood of San Diego. You’ll find a culinary journey with its rich flavors and communal dining experience.
This spot offers a diverse menu, including healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options, alongside satisfying late-night food. It’s a destination for those seeking a cozy and casual atmosphere for lunch or dinner.
Overview: Introducting Red Sea
Red Sea offers a genuinely warm dining experience, with many guests praising the amazing food and best Ethiopian food they’ve enjoyed. The service often stands out, with friendly staff and welcoming owners creating a pleasant atmosphere.
It’s a place where generous portions and flavorful dishes are frequently highlighted. While the culinary journey is largely positive, a few diners have noted concerns about the waiting time and occasional issues with parking.
There are also some differing views on the food quality, with a small number finding certain dishes bland or portions small. However, these seem to be isolated points amidst a generally well-received experience.
Excellent
8.9
out of 10
489
Reviews
92.8%
Satisfaction
30
negative
5
neutral
454
positive
Red Sea generally delivers a strong performance, reflected in its impressive Restaurant Score of 8.9. This is further supported by an excellent Customer Satisfaction rate of 92.8%, indicating a highly positive experience for most patrons.
These figures are drawn from a substantial number of customer observations, with 454 positive remarks outweighing 30 negative ones, painting a clear picture of consistent quality. Delving into specifics, the Service (9.3) truly shines, often exceeding expectations, while the Food (9) also receives high marks for its quality and variety.
The Ambience (8.5) contributes positively to the dining experience, creating a welcoming setting. Value (6.9) is considered good, though it doesn’t quite reach the same heights as other aspects, suggesting it’s a solid but not outstanding point for some.
What people like
- Exceptional customer service
- Authentic Ethiopian food
- Warm, inviting atmosphere
What people don't like
- No complimentary tap water
- Occasional parking difficulty
- Potential for long waits
Red Sea comes highly recommended, with a strong Recommendation Score of 9.2. If you’re seeking a place with genuinely flavorful Ethiopian cuisine and attentive service in a pleasant setting, it’s certainly worth a visit.
Most diners leave with a positive impression, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal. While you might encounter some minor inconveniences like finding parking or the policy on tap water, these are generally outweighed by the overall positive experience.
For those open to exploring rich flavors and a welcoming atmosphere, Red Sea offers a consistent and enjoyable dining journey.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Red Sea
Food (9 out of 10)
mentioned by 100% of the guests
When it comes to food, this spot truly shines! With an excellent score of 9 and an impressive 94.6% customer satisfaction, its clear diners are consistently delighted. Based on 280 positive remarks, guests rave about the authentic Ethiopian cuisine and the depth and complexity of the flavors.
Many appreciate the generous portions and describe the delicious and well-prepared dishes as deeply flavorful comfort food. However, a few diners (16 out of 296 total opinions) had less stellar experiences. Some found the portions to be small or even horrible for the price, while others mentioned disgusting bread or that everything tastes bland.
There were also comments about poorly cooked injera, ' suggesting some inconsistency in execution.
Food
296
Reviews
94%
Satisfaction
16
negative
0
neutral
280
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Ethiopian cuisine
- Flavorful, well-prepared dishes
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Bland taste
- Poorly cooked injera
- Disappointing bread
Often praised
- foodMy friend and I visited this restaurant based on a recommendation from a rideshare driver, and it turned out to be the best recommendation ever. The place has a wonderfully quaint atmosphere and served us amazing food. I highly recommend trying the meat and/or vegetarian combo to experience the variety.
- Ethiopian foodHowever, my step-father, who is Ethiopian, introduced me to The Red Sea, and I've been happy ever since! Now, instead of a long 12+ hour flight, I can enjoy some of the best Ethiopian food just a 20-minute drive away. How cool is that!
- injeraFrom the moment I stepped in, I was welcomed by the owners, Yetm & Shimeles, and the warm and inviting atmosphere, which set the stage for an authentic Ethiopian dining experience. The menu offers a delightful array of traditional Ethiopian dishes, each bursting with flavor and served with injera, the spongy and tangy flatbread. The variety of options, from rich stews to colorful vegetable dishes, allows you to explore the vibrant and diverse Ethiopian cuisine.
- vegetarian comboWe got the kitfo and the yebeg tibs and the vegetarian combo. Everything was amazing
- food qualityThe food quality, presentation and of course the most important, TASTE!
- honey wineWe enjoyed healthy, delicious, hearty food with great service. For our group of six (two women, four men), we ordered two veggie combos, one meat combo, and zilzil tibs, along with a bottle of honey wine. We finished everything quickly, and it was the perfect amount for us.
- veggie comboI practically live here because everything is amazing. I highly recommend trying the gored gored, special shiro, meat combo, veggie combo, the delicious salad, awaze spicy sauce and chili powder, and the lamb. The owners are the best, super kind and welcoming!
- FoodFood:5
- vegetarian optionsGreat vegetarian options, which were my favorite
- portionsportions were very generous
Frequently criticized
- Ethiopian foodThe worst Ethiopian food
- beefthe beef was about 2 to 3 tablespoons
- beef and chicken combothe beef and chicken combo was about 2 to 3 tablespoons
- breadthe disgusting bread
- chickenI didn’t like chicken though
- coffeecoffee in a tiny coffee cup
- combination menutheir combination menu is not good
- foodEverything tastes bland
- injeraanjeera is poorly cooked
- meat combinationtheir meat combination is not good not fancy
If you're seeking an authentic Ethiopian culinary adventure with rich, flavorful dishes and hearty servings, this place is definitely worth a try. Just be aware that while most experiences are fantastic, a rare few have noted issues with portion size or consistency in taste.
Service (9.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 66% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot truly shines! With an excellent score of 9.3 and a fantastic 95.9% customer satisfaction, its clear guests feel well looked after. Out of 98 comments, a whopping 94 rave about the experience, highlighting the incredibly friendly staff, excellent customer service, and how welcomed and cared for everyone feels.
Expect genuine hospitality and helpful recommendations. However, a few of the 98 comments did point out some areas for improvement. There were 4 instances mentioning concerns about customer service, including a communication barrier during ordering and occasional waiting times.
While rare, it suggests that sometimes you might need a little patience, especially if youre in a rush.
Service
98
Reviews
95%
Satisfaction
4
negative
0
neutral
94
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, caring staff
- Excellent hospitality
- Quick, attentive service
What people don't like
- Communication issues
- Potential waiting times
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! We enjoyed healthy, delicious, hearty food with great service. For our group of six (two women, four men), we ordered two veggie combos, one meat combo, and zilzil tibs, along with a bottle of honey wine.
- staffI loved bringing my friends here and they can't wait to come back. Staff are so friendly and take great care of you. Support this amazing local business!
- ownersThe 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.
- ServiceService:5
- customer servicethe customer service is top tier
- waitressThe waitress we had was absolutely so helpful
- customersThey treat our customers very nicely
- hospitalityexcellent job with hospitality
- peopleThis is a great spot that we keep returning to. The food is delicious, the people are nice, and the presentation is excellent. It's also well priced.
- recommendationsThey gave awesome recommendations
Frequently criticized
- customer serviceBad customer service. The lady had a rude attitude
- communication barriercommunication barrier with ordering
- waiting timeDon't come in a rush to eat. Be ready to take your time
If you value a dining experience where you feel genuinely welcomed and cared for, this place is definitely worth a visit. The overwhelmingly positive feedback on service suggests youll be in good hands, though be prepared for a potential wait if youre on a tight schedule.
Ambience (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 45% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot truly shines! With a fantastic score of 8.5 and customer satisfaction soaring at 88.2%, its clear guests are loving the vibe. Out of 76 total remarks, a whopping 67 were positive, highlighting everything from the "beautiful curtains" and "unique dining experience" to the "amazing atmosphere" and "cozy, thoughtful decor.
" It sounds like a place that really transports you! However, its not entirely without its quirks, with 4 negative remarks. A few folks mentioned parking as a bit of a challenge, and one guest noted that Fox News playing loudly detracted from their experience.
So, while the overall feel is overwhelmingly positive, it's good to be aware of these minor points.
Ambience
76
Reviews
88%
Satisfaction
4
negative
5
neutral
67
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic cultural experience
- Inviting, cozy decor
- Amazing, homey atmosphere
What people don't like
- Difficult parking
- Loud TV news
Often praised
- atmosphereThe service is exceptional; the staff are attentive, personable, and knowledgeable, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the overall dining experience and makes every visit feel like a warm homecoming. The atmosphere, much like the cuisine, is a tribute to the vibrant Ethiopian culture, with cozy, thoughtful decor that transports you to Addis Ababa. It encapsulates the perfect blend of comfort and cultural immersion.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- parkingYou 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 :)
- placethe place is very clean
- ambianceThe service ambiance and food is amazing
- environmentthe environment is welcoming
- Ethiopian cultureThe food was delicious 😋, and the people were the most friendly in the world. Nothing beats Ethiopian culture. If you've never tried Ethiopian food, I highly recommend going to the Red Sea for an authentic Ethiopian experience.
- Ethiopian decornice Ethiopian decor
- Ethiopian experienceThe staff was incredibly friendly, and the food was great. It offered an authentic Ethiopian experience, and my favorite part was the coffee ceremony.
- Noise levelQuiet, easy to talk
Frequently criticized
- parkingdue to construction zone the street it's hard to find parking
- Fox NewsThere's a pleasant, medium-strength perfume you smell upon entering (if you're sensitive to scents, it's good to be aware). The only drawback was that Fox News was playing pretty loudly over the dining room, which detracted from the experience.
- parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
If you're looking for an authentic, inviting, and culturally rich dining atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful of potential parking challenges, and if a quiet, news-free meal is a must, you might want to check ahead.
Value (6.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 16% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark! Many diners rave about the pricing being reasonable, offering great value for money, and being quite affordable. With 13 positive remarks out of 19 total, it’s clear that many feel the prices are great and even unbeatable, making it a solid choice for your wallet.
Overall, the value scores a respectable 6.9, which is considered good. However, there are a few quirks to consider. While the overall value is good, customer satisfaction sits at a more mixed 68.4%.
Some guests have noted that you have to purchase water, as tap water isn't served, which can be an unexpected cost. A few also felt the portion size was not great for the price, leading to some feeling the establishment was a bit cheap in certain aspects, as highlighted by 6 negative comments.
Value
19
Reviews
68%
Satisfaction
6
negative
0
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great value for money
- Affordable pricing
- Unbeatable prices
What people don't like
- Must purchase water
- No tap water served
- Poor portion for price
Often praised
- priceportion size and price is unbeatable
- pricesThe prices are unmatched.
- affordableVery affordable
- inexpensiveand inexpensive
- low priceat a low price
- pricedIt was very reasonably priced
- pricingpricing was reasonable
- value for moneyGood value for money as well
- well pricedIt's also well priced
Frequently criticized
- priceThis is the only Ethiopian restaurant we will eat at! Everywhere else is not as good food or service and twice the price! By far our favorite!
- cheapthese people are cheap
- personal water bottlesThe food is excellent, truly a highlight of the dining experience. However, be aware that you must purchase water, as personal water bottles are not allowed and tap water is not served. This policy is a bit unusual and might be a point of consideration for some diners.
- tap waterthey don’t serve tap water
- wateryou have to purchase water
If you're looking for a place where your money goes a long way, especially regarding the main offerings, this spot is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for the water situation, as it might add an unexpected cost to an otherwise well-priced meal.
How are the prices at Red Sea?
You’re looking at roughly 22 per person – reported by 86 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For an Ethiopian Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at the spread, most diners find themselves in the $11–$20 and $21–$30 brackets, showing prices are pretty consistent around that mid-range sweet spot.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 86 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value compares to similar places in San Diego.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for an Ethiopian Restaurant. You’re getting good value for a delicious, communal dining experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Red Sea
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Authentic Ethiopian Gem in San Diego
My experience at this restaurant was wonderful. The food was very nice, and the atmosphere was authentic, with an old-style, original Ethiopian environment. It truly feels like home.
I consider it the best African restaurant in San Diego.
- food9
- atmosphere10
- feels like home10
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Best Ethiopian Food in San Diego!
My wife and I have been on an Ethiopian food kick, and this is by far the best place we've been to in San Diego. She loves the vegetarian combo, and I love the zilzil tibs – so good!
- vegetarian combo10
- zilzil tibs10
- best place10
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine & Top-Notch Service
I had an amazing experience trying authentic Ethiopian cuisine here. The injera was delicious, and the service was top-notch! It's a must-visit spot in San Diego.
- authentic Ethiopian cuisine10
- injera10
- service10
Service Intent
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
3
Disappointing Portions for the Price
My experience at Red Sea for lunch was a mixed bag. I wasn't aware there was parking in the back of the building, which was a pleasant surprise. The food itself was good, but the portion size was horrible for the price.
I ordered item number 11, which I believe included items number one, eight, and nine, though I'm not entirely sure which was which. The amount of beef was only about 2 to 3 tablespoons, and the beef and chicken combo was also around 2 to 3 tablespoons. Even the salad portion was a mere 2 to 3 tablespoons.
Given these portion sizes, I will not be returning.
- parking8
- food7
- portion size2
- beef2
- beef and chicken combo2
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing Ethiopian Food and Atmosphere!
I had a very happy experience at this restaurant, which offers traditional style Ethiopian cuisine. Any dish with a side of their amazing awaze is a must-try. The food, service, and atmosphere were all rated a perfect 5 out of 5.
- awaze9
- food10
- service10
What Red Sea offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Vegan options
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Quiet
FAQs
What dining options and atmosphere can you expect at Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant?
At Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant, you can enjoy a cozy and casual dining experience with table service for lunch and dinner. The atmosphere is quiet, making it ideal for conversation. They offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious Ethiopian cuisine however you prefer.
Does Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant cater to specific dietary needs and offer beverages?
Yes, Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant is highly accommodating, providing excellent healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options. You can also pair your meal with a selection of beverages, including wine, beer, and coffee. They also serve small plates, perfect for sharing and exploring various flavors.
How does Red Sea perform overall, and what are its strongest aspects?
Red Sea holds a strong Restaurant Score of 8.9, with Customer Satisfaction at 92.8%. Its Service (9.3) and Food (9) are particularly excellent, while the Ambience (8.5) is also highly rated. Value (6.9) is considered good.
Does Red Sea offer good options for vegetarians?
Yes, many customers highlight the great vegetarian options and recommend trying the vegetarian combo for its variety and flavor.
What should I know about dining at Red Sea regarding practicalities?
Be aware that parking can sometimes be challenging, and the restaurant has a policy where you must purchase water as tap water is not served. Some guests also noted potential waiting time.