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oChef » Massawa – Seattle
Massawa - Seattle
Photo from Massawa
Massawa at a glance
Seattle Rainier Valley
- 🥘 Ethiopian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 11 of the guests
#725 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#17 Ethiopian Restaurant out of 17 in Seattle
Good
6.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
118
Reviews
58.5%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Authentic flavors
- Friendly service
- Cultural ambiance
Frequently criticized
- Slow service
- Dirty restrooms
- Bad parking
The restaurant, Massawa Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant, is a beloved Ethiopian Restaurant nestled in Seattle’s vibrant Rainier Valley. You’ll discover a truly authentic culinary journey here, where the cozy atmosphere invites you to relax and savor every moment.
This spot is perfect for those seeking a casual yet memorable dining experience, offering a taste of East Africa right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for dinner, lunch, or even catering, Massawa provides a welcoming setting for all.
Overview: Introducting Massawa
Massawa offers a vibrant dining experience, often praised for its delicious flavor and generous portions of authentic cuisine. Many guests appreciate the attentive and friendly service, noting the staff’s gracious and kind demeanor, which contributes to a welcoming atmosphere.
However, some diners have found the food to be occasionally dry and lacking in flavor, with concerns about cold entrees or soggy injera. The ambiance, while often described as having a nice vibe with cultural decorations, sometimes faces criticism for filthy restrooms and a run-down appearance.
Good
6.2
out of 10
118
Reviews
58.5%
Satisfaction
41
negative
8
neutral
69
positive
Massawa holds an overall restaurant score of 6.2, placing it squarely in the average category. Customer satisfaction stands at 58.5%, indicating a mixed reception among diners.
This suggests that while many find aspects to enjoy, there are also notable areas where experiences fall short. These insights are drawn from a total of 118 customer remarks, comprising 69 positive and 41 negative observations.
Diving deeper, the Food (6.3) receives an average rating, with opinions often split between delicious flavors and occasional dryness. Service (6.2) also lands in the average range, praised for friendliness but sometimes criticized for slow delivery.
The Ambience (6.2) similarly hovers around average, offering cultural charm but sometimes needing updates. Value (5.8) is perceived as average, with some feeling portions are generous for the price, while others express concerns about pricing and order accuracy.
What people like
- Delicious, authentic flavors
- Attentive, friendly service
- Vibrant cultural ambiance
What people don't like
- Slow service speed
- Filthy restrooms
- Difficult parking
With a recommendation score of 6.5, Massawa presents itself as a place with potential, offering a taste of authentic cuisine and a lively atmosphere. If you prioritize flavorful dishes and a welcoming staff, it could be a worthwhile visit, especially for its cultural experience.
However, be prepared for potentially slow service and be mindful of the restroom conditions and parking situation. It’s a spot that might delight with its strengths but could also disappoint in areas needing attention, so manage your expectations accordingly.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Massawa
Food (6.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
Based on 66 observations, the food here earns an average 6.3 score, with 59.1% customer satisfaction indicating a mixed but generally appreciative reception. Many of the 39 positive comments rave about the kitfoo , dry tibs , and especially the collard greens . Guests frequently praise the well spiced and delicious flavor of dishes, often highlighting generous portions and soft injera .
However, there are 23 negative comments that point to some areas needing attention. Concerns include dishes like raw beef not being clearly disclosed, incomplete food orders, and issues with the overall quality of food . Some experiences were marred by finding hair in food or soggy injera , suggesting inconsistency in execution and presentation.
Food
66
Reviews
59%
Satisfaction
23
negative
4
neutral
39
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious, flavorful food
- Well-spiced dishes
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Undisclosed raw beef
- Hygiene issues reported
Often praised
- foodIt was a late night and we were hungry, so we discovered this place was open for delivery. When the food arrived and we started eating, we were mind-blown by how delicious it was, especially the collard greens! It's amazing how this food is so good and so close by, and we were unaware.
- collard greensThe food was absolutely delicious and tasted very authentic. I especially enjoyed the collard greens from the vegetarian tray, though one selection was quite spicy but tolerable. Be cautious with the red spice powder, as it's not for the faint of heart.
- Eritrean foodThey also offer a traditional boon ceremony with beautiful cultural decorations. I highly recommend it for good Eritrean food and a nice atmosphere.
- dishesIncredibly flavorful dishes
- portionsportions so big I needed a box
- Ethiopian beersthey have a nice offering of Ethiopian beers
- Kitcha FitFitAnd it was amazingggg
- delicious flavorEverything was well spiced, with a delicious flavor
- dry tibsthe dry tibs ohh yem
- firfirThe shiro and firfir were my favorites
Frequently criticized
- foodfood is somewhat dry and lacking in flavor
- injeraThe injera completely broke down into an oatmeal consistency underneath the meat, extremely soggy
- saladSalad was not provided although it was listed as a side included
- Ethiopian foodamazing Ethiopian food? This is not it!
- Gored GoredAll 3 of us ate raw beef, without knowing what it was
- TibsTo be frank, I didn't like their food. I visited twice and ordered two different meals: Tibs and Tibs Firir. It felt as if I was trapped.
- Tibs Firirordered two different meals: Tibs Firir
- combination plategave me meat combination which is cheaper
- cup of teait took 15 minutes to get a cup of tea
- entrees coldWhile the food did take a while to arrive, the wait was worth it, and they have a nice selection of Ethiopian beers to enjoy in the meantime. My only critique is that some of the entrees were on the cold side, though this is understandable given the preparation time for some dishes. Overall, I enjoyed the food and atmosphere and would go back.
If you're seeking flavorful, well-spiced Ethiopian/Eritrean dishes with generous portions, this place often delivers. However, be aware of potential inconsistencies in order accuracy and food quality, which might lead to a less satisfying experience for some.
Service (6.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 57% of the guests
When it comes to service, many guests had a pleasant experience, with 14 positive remarks out of 25 total. Youll often hear about the beautiful service and attentive and friendly customer service from the gracious and kind staff. This contributes to an overall customer satisfaction of 56%, indicating a somewhat mixed but often welcoming vibe.
However, its not all smooth sailing, as 9 negative opinions point to some areas needing attention. Concerns include staff masks not being worn, server confusion, and issues with service speed leading to a long wait. The overall score for service sits at an average 6.2, suggesting there's definitely room for improvement in consistency.
Service
25
Reviews
56%
Satisfaction
9
negative
2
neutral
14
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, kind staff
- Attentive customer service
- Welcoming atmosphere
What people don't like
- Slow service speed
- No staff masks
- Server confusion
Often praised
- servicethe service and personal touch was amazing
- staffThe staff were all super nice
- beautiful serviceThe dry tibs were also amazing. I highly recommend going and enjoying the food with the most beautiful service.
- customer servicecustomer service was attentive and friendly
- gracious and kindeveryone was gracious and kind
- owners or employeescalled the owners or the employees to thank them
- peoplethe people were all very friendly and welcoming
- take outGreat for take out too
- waiterswaiters are very professional
Frequently criticized
- calling themcalled them four times and they didn’t answer
- customer servicenot great of customer service on the line
- hostessbarely catch the eye of the young woman hostess
- hung upI attempted to resolve this by calling them four times, but they didn't answer. On the fifth call, after being told they would speak to the kitchen, they hung up in my face and never called back.
- long waitThe staff were all super nice, even though they seemed a bit overwhelmed. It was packed, with a seriously long wait despite the simple menu. Perhaps adding a few more tables would help improve the overall experience.
- server confusionthe server looked all confused when I asked about it
- serviceService only suffered because of language barriers
- service speedthe service is exceptionally slow
- staff masksnone of the staff are wearing masks
If youre looking for a place with generally friendly staff, youll likely be pleased. However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service speed or communication, especially during busy times. It's a bit of a mixed bag, so manage your expectations.
Ambience (6.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 43% of the guests
Stepping into this spot, you'll find an ambiance that truly shines in several areas. Many guests, accounting for 14 positive remarks out of 23 total, absolutely love the stunning decor, the lively vibe, and the unique cultural decorations for the traditional boon ceremony. The setting, complete with a bar, stage, and dance area, often creates a buzzing and enjoyable atmosphere.
However, the overall experience is a bit of a mixed bag, reflected in an average score of 6.2 and customer satisfaction sitting at 60.9%. Some of the 8 negative opinions point to significant drawbacks like filthy restrooms, a generally run-down appearance, and frustrating parking struggles. It seems the inside vibe and upkeep could definitely use some updates.
Ambience
23
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
8
negative
1
neutral
14
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Stunning decor
- Lively atmosphere
- Cultural ceremonies
What people don't like
- Filthy restrooms
- Parking struggles
- Dated decor
Often praised
- vibethe vibe was perfect
- atmospherea nice atmosphere
- barThere is a bar/restaurant/stage and dance area
- boon ceremonyserve the traditional boon ceremony with beautiful cultural decorations
- cultural decorationsThe venue features a bar, restaurant area, stage, and dance area. They also offer a traditional boon ceremony with beautiful cultural decorations. I highly recommend it for good Eritrean food and a nice atmosphere.
- dance areaThere is a bar/restaurant/stage and dance area
- decorthe decor is stunningly beautiful
- parkingplenty of other parking options
- peopleSeriously buzzing with people
- restaurantThere is a bar/restaurant/stage and dance area
Frequently criticized
- parkingthe parking sucks!
- Friday Saturday closedevery Friday Saturday is closed 6 a.m. morning
- decor and furnitureDecor and furniture could definitely use some taste and updates
- inside vibedid not like the inside vibe
- parking lotsthe down part parking lots
- placethe place looks run down
- restroomsthe restrooms are filthy
If youre looking for a lively spot with unique cultural flair and dont mind potential issues with parking or the state of the restrooms, this place could be worth a visit. Just be prepared for a mixed experience regarding the overall upkeep, as the vibe can be great but some practicalities fall short.
Value (5.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 14% of the guests
When it comes to value, things are a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.8 putting it squarely in the average range. Customers have given some love, noting an awesome rating of 4.5 stars and feeling things were generous for the price. With 2 positive remarks out of 4 total, it seems the rating and price can sometimes hit the mark.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 50%, indicating theres definitely room for improvement. One customer felt scammed over money after ordering a cheaper combination plate than expected and couldnt get a resolution despite multiple calls. This single negative comment out of 4 total highlights a potential issue with how value is perceived and issues are handled.
Value
4
Reviews
50%
Satisfaction
1
negative
1
neutral
2
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Generous portions
- Fair pricing
What people don't like
- Poor issue resolution
- Questionable pricing practices
Often praised
- pricegenerous for the price
- ratinggot an awesome rating of 4.5 stars
Frequently criticized
- moneyMy experience was that I ordered food from them via Uber, spending $27 on the food plus $18 for shipping, totaling over $40 for a combination plate. I felt like they lowkey scammed me out of my money by giving me a meat combination, which is cheaper. I attempted to resolve this by calling them four times, but they didn't answer.
If youre looking for generous portions and fair pricing, you might find some good value here. However, be cautious, as theres a risk of feeling short-changed and encountering poor customer service if issues arise.
How are the prices at Massawa?
You’re looking at roughly 24 per person – reported by 11 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 what people spend, prices are quite spread out, from budget-friendly bites to more premium experiences, not just clustered around the average.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 11 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for an Ethiopian Restaurant in Seattle. It offers good value for a mid-range dining experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Massawa
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Exceptional Experience: Food, Service, and Ambiance!
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. Everything was spot on, starting with the food, which was hearty and featured enhanced flavors. The decor is stunningly beautiful, contributing to a perfect atmosphere.
The service made us feel very welcome, and the staff were efficient. The quality of the food is better than my last visit, and the overall vibe was perfect.
- food9
- decor10
- service9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Flavorful Food, Gorgeous Setting, Great Service!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The dishes were incredibly flavorful, and the portions were so big I needed a box to take some home. The vibe was lovely, and the staff were very helpful and professional.
The setting is gorgeous, and the kitchen has definitely stepped up their game. Overall, a 10/10 experience!
- dishes10
- portions9
- vibe9
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
7
Decent Food, Nice Staff, Long Wait
My lunch experience at the restaurant on S Mead St was mixed. The food was decent, but the portion size felt a little small for the price. The staff were all super nice, even though they seemed a bit overwhelmed.
It was packed, with a seriously long wait despite the simple menu. Perhaps adding a few more tables would help improve the overall experience.
- food6
- portion size5
- staff9
- long wait3
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Loud
8
Amazing Collard Greens, Packed Spot!
My experience at Kitfoo on S Mead St was quite lively! The restaurant was packed and buzzing with people. The collard greens were absolutely insane – truly the star of the show.
I was also pleased with the generous portions for the price. However, parking was a bit of a nightmare, so I'd suggest visiting during off-peak hours. I think it would be great if they offered a small takeout counter outside for easier grabbing.
- collard greens10
- portions8
- price8
- parking3
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Delivery
1
Scammed on Delivery Order
My experience was that I ordered food from them via Uber, spending $27 on the food plus $18 for shipping, totaling over $40 for a combination plate. I felt like they lowkey scammed me out of my money by giving me a meat combination, which is cheaper. I attempted to resolve this by calling them four times, but they didn't answer.
On the fifth call, after being told they would speak to the kitchen, they hung up in my face and never called back.
- combination plate2
- money1
- calling them1
What Massawa offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Vegan options
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Catering
- Table service
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Massawa Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant?
At Massawa Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant, you can look forward to a cozy and casual dining experience perfect for lunch or dinner. The restaurant offers table service and is known for being good for kids, making it a welcoming spot for families. You can also enjoy a selection of wine, coffee, and beer from the bar onsite.
Does Massawa Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant offer options for specific dietary needs or convenient service?
Yes, Massawa Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant caters to various preferences with healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options readily available. For your convenience, you can choose from dine-in, takeout, or delivery services. They also accept reservations, and free street parking or a free parking lot is available.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Massawa?
Massawa has an overall restaurant score of 6.2 and a customer satisfaction of 58.5%. While the Food (6.3), Service (6.2), and Ambience (6.2) are generally average, Value (5.8) is slightly lower, indicating a mixed experience for many.
What are the standout positive aspects of Massawa?
Customers frequently praise Massawa for its delicious and authentic flavors, particularly dishes like collard greens and dry tibs. The staff is often described as attentive and friendly, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere with beautiful cultural decorations.
Are there any common issues or drawbacks at Massawa?
Some diners have noted concerns regarding slow service and occasional inconsistencies in food quality, such as entrees being cold or injera becoming soggy. Additionally, issues with filthy restrooms and difficult parking have been mentioned.