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oChef » Senait – Seattle
Senait - Seattle
Photo from Senait
Senait at a glance
Seattle Lake City
- 🥘 Ethiopian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 33 of the guests
#60 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#3 Ethiopian Restaurant out of 17 in Seattle
Excellent
8.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
238
Reviews
90.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Authentic cuisine
- Friendly service
- Great value
Frequently criticized
- Discriminatory service
- Inconsistent quality
- Unwelcoming atmosphere
The restaurant Senait Restaurant Ethiopian Cuisine is a delightful Ethiopian restaurant nestled in Seattle’s vibrant Lake City neighborhood. You’ll discover a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
With a focus on healthy and vegan options, Senait offers a welcoming dining experience for everyone. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find delicious small plates and coffee to complete your meal.
Overview: Introducting Senait
Senait offers a compelling Ethiopian dining experience, frequently lauded for its authentic and flavorful cuisine. Many appreciate the generous portions, with particular praise for dishes like fir fir and freshly made injera.
The establishment often feels like a comforting, safe, and cheery place, contributing to a pleasant visit. However, some experiences at Senait have been less positive.
While service is often described as friendly and attentive, there are concerning reports of an unwelcoming atmosphere and instances of bigotry. Additionally, a few customers noted inconsistencies in dish quality, such as limited chicken in certain orders.
Excellent
8.8
out of 10
238
Reviews
90.8%
Satisfaction
14
negative
8
neutral
216
positive
Senait achieves an excellent overall score of 8.8, reflecting a generally positive customer experience. This is further supported by an impressive 90.8% customer satisfaction rate, indicating that most diners leave content.
These figures are based on 238 customer observations, with a strong majority of 216 positive remarks. Delving into specifics, Service stands out with an excellent (9.4), often highlighted by the friendly owners and staff.
Value also rates highly (8.9), with many finding the prices fair, especially for an affordable lunch. The Food receives a strong (8.8), celebrated for its authentic flavors, while the Ambience is rated well at (7.8), often described as cozy and casual.
What people like
- Authentic, flavorful food
- Exceptional, friendly service
- Great value pricing
What people don't like
- Discriminatory service claims
- Inconsistent dish quality
- Unwelcoming atmosphere reports
Senait presents a strong case for those seeking authentic Ethiopian flavors and a welcoming, family-owned feel. The high Recommendation Score of 9 suggests that for many, the positives, particularly the food and service, significantly outweigh the negatives.
If you prioritize delicious, well-priced Ethiopian food and a generally friendly atmosphere, Senait is certainly worth considering. However, be mindful of the isolated but serious concerns regarding service and atmosphere, which some patrons have unfortunately encountered.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Senait
Food (8.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
Diners are consistently raving about the food here, with an excellent score of 8.8 and a stellar 90.9% customer satisfaction. Based on 130 positive remarks, guests frequently highlight the delicious vegetarian platters, flavorful sambusas, and the perfect blend of spices. Many appreciate the fresh food, generous portions, and authentic injera, making it a fantastic choice for both meat-eaters and those with vegan needs.
However, a small number of 8 negative comments suggest occasional issues. Some experiences included a dish that reportedly tasted and smelled rotten, or a Doro Wot with surprisingly little chicken. While these instances are rare, they point to potential inconsistencies in dish preparation or ingredient quality, such as perceived corner cutting.
Food
143
Reviews
90%
Satisfaction
8
negative
5
neutral
130
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious Veggie Platter
- Food is Fresh
- Rich Spices, Flavor
What people don't like
- Rotten Tasting Dish
- Doro Wot Lacked Chicken
Often praised
- foodI absolutely loved the fir fir for breakfast and even went back for the meat combo. The food is really wonderful, the berbere is nice and spicy, and the injera is freshly made. The portions were enough for several meals.
- injeraThe injera is authentic made from "Teff."
- Ethiopian foodThis is the 6th Ethiopian restaurant we've eaten at in Seattle, and I'd rank it top 3. The food was probably the spiciest Ethiopian food I've had, which I enjoy. However, if you're sensitive to spice, you might need to ask them for mild options.
- FoodFood:5
- veggie comboWe got a meat combo and veggie combo and both were tasty
- meat comboWe got a meat combo and veggie combo and both were tasty
- Ethiopian restaurantThis is a wonderful Ethiopian restaurant.
- meatI would definitely go back. The vegetarian options are to die for; while the meat was good, the vegetarian dishes were truly amazing.
- portionsThe FOOD IS WELL PREPARED, and the staff can explain how to eat new delicious items so they can be enjoyed. The PORTIONS ARE LARGE, with extra going home. I also enjoyed the LOVELY SPICED BLACK TEA, which was nice on the way home from shopping or the library.
- vegetarian comboThe vegetarian combo is vegan and gluten free. It is my go-to even though I'm a meat eater. It's just so good.
Frequently criticized
- Doro WotI ordered takeout and the Doro Wot had almost no chicken in it. Truly just two tiny strips, enough for the three of us to each have a bite.
- Lamb TibsOrdered Lamb Tibs was served MUTTON instead
- chickenI ordered takeout and the Doro Wot had almost no chicken in it. Truly just two tiny strips, enough for the three of us to each have a bite.
- cutting cornersThey cut corners
- drink orderShe completely ignored my drink order
- greasyNot greasy
- muttonserved MUTTON instead and it was disgusting
- tasted and smelled rottentasted and smells rotten
If you're craving delicious, fresh Ethiopian food with excellent vegetarian and vegan options, this spot is a must-try. Despite a few rare reports of inconsistency, the vast majority of diners find the food truly satisfying and worth the visit.
Service (9.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 83% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot truly shines! With an excellent score of 9.4 and a fantastic 95% customer satisfaction, its clear guests feel well-cared for. Based on 57 positive opinions, many rave about the friendly owners and staff who offer personal service and hospitality, making everyone feel welcomed like family.
However, its important to note the 3 negative opinions that mention serious concerns. These highlight issues with service and staff exhibiting bigotry, specifically being hostile towards LGBTQ individuals. This is a significant point to consider for potential diners.
Service
60
Reviews
95%
Satisfaction
3
negative
0
neutral
57
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, welcoming owners
- Excellent customer service
- Personalized hospitality
What people don't like
- Hostile to LGBTQ
- Exhibits bigotry
Often praised
- ownersWe also had the ceremonial Ethiopian coffee and it was amazing! The owners are so nice, providing excellent customer service. We’ll definitely be back!
- serviceI found it to be the best place ever during my short stay in the area. The food was really good, as was the service and atmosphere. They offer both a really good meat combination and a vegetarian combination.
- ServiceService:5
- staffMy experience at this Ethiopian restaurant was quite positive. The staff was friendly, and we ordered a veggie combo and a meat combo to go. This is the 6th Ethiopian restaurant we've eaten at in Seattle, and I'd rank it top 3.
- coupleThe couple that runs the place are super sweet
- customer serviceWe also had the ceremonial Ethiopian coffee and it was amazing! The owners are so nice, providing excellent customer service. We’ll definitely be back!
- hostsMy hosts were charming.
- peopleVery friendly humble people.
- KailitaKailita was very gracious to me
- Wait timeWait time:No wait
Frequently criticized
- bigotryhealthy dose of bigotry
- serviceextremely hostile towards LGBTQ and refused to talk to me
- staffStaff is rude to queer people
Overall, the service here is overwhelmingly praised for its warmth and attentiveness, making most guests feel right at home. However, the serious accusations of hostility towards LGBTQ individuals are a major red flag. If inclusivity is a top priority for you, this might be a place to approach with caution, despite the otherwise stellar service.
Ambience (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 45% of the guests
The ambience here generally hits the mark, boasting a good score of 7.8 and customer satisfaction at 77.8%. Many rave about its hole in the wall vibe and proper gem feel, often highlighting the local/cozy appearance and casual atmosphere. Guests appreciate the quiet noise level, making it a comforting, safe, cheery place that feels like an Ethiopian village.
However, its not universally adored. While 21 positive comments praise the vibe, 3 of the 27 total mentions describe a less pleasant atmosphere. Some found it an unwelcoming place, with reports of a hostile environment where other customers' glared.
This suggests that while rare, the experience can sometimes be inconsistent for a few.
Ambience
27
Reviews
77%
Satisfaction
3
negative
3
neutral
21
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy, casual atmosphere
- Quiet, comforting space
- Unique 'hole in wall' charm
What people don't like
- Unwelcoming atmosphere
- Hostile environment
Often praised
- atmosphereI found it to be the best place ever during my short stay in the area. The food was really good, as was the service and atmosphere. They offer both a really good meat combination and a vegetarian combination.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- Hole in the wall vibeHole in the wall vibe, and that’s what you want
- Noise levelNoise level:Quiet, easy to talk
- casual atmospherecasual atmosphere
- family owned restaurantAmazing family owned restaurant
- hidden gemstumbled upon this hidden gem
- interiorThe unassuming interior of the restaurant allows the hospitality
- local/cozy appearanceappearance of the restaurant is very local/cozy
- placeI also enjoyed the LOVELY SPICED BLACK TEA, which was nice on the way home from shopping or the library. It's a VERY COMFORTING SAFE CHEERY PLACE with shade trees out front. Welcome to Lake City :) !
Frequently criticized
- atmospherethe environment was so hostile
- other customersevery customer that came in glared at me
- unwelcoming placemost unwelcoming place both from the owners and the patrons
Overall, if you're looking for a cozy, casual spot with a unique, homey feel, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that a very small minority have reported less welcoming experiences, so keep an open mind.
Value (8.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 17% of the guests
When it comes to value, this place truly hits the mark! Guests consistently praise the price , affordable lunch , and reasonable prices , often noting the value is unbeatable. With 8 positive remarks, its clear customers feel the cost is very fair, even allowing for treating friends.
This fantastic feedback contributes to an excellent customer satisfaction of 100%. Whats truly remarkable is that out of 8 total customer observations, there were absolutely no negative comments about value. This means you won't encounter any complaints regarding pricing or affordability here, which is always a welcome relief.
The overall score for value stands at an impressive 8.9, indicating an excellent experience all around.
Value
8
Reviews
100%
Satisfaction
0
negative
0
neutral
8
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable lunch
- Unbeatable value
- Fair prices
What people don't like
Often praised
- priceWelcome to Lake City :) ! It's PRICED FOR FAMILIES, FRIENDS, GOOD NEIGHBORS. We feel included & welcomed.
- affordable lunchvery affordable lunch for two people
- friends mealeven paid for my friends meal
- pricesThe prices are great
- reasonable pricesVery reeasonable prices
- valuethe value is unbeatable
Frequently criticized
No complaints so far.
If youre searching for a spot where your money stretches further, this restaurant is a must-try. You can confidently expect very fair and affordable prices, making it ideal for enjoying meals with friends and family without breaking the bank. Its a clear winner for budget-conscious diners!
How are the prices at Senait?
On average, you’ll spend around 20 per person – from 33 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $11–$20 category. For an Ethiopian Restaurant, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
While most diners land in the $11–$20 range, a good number also spend a bit more, reaching the $21–$30 bracket.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 33 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for an Ethiopian Restaurant in Seattle. You’re getting a solid mid-range experience without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Senait
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
8
Good Meat and Friendly Service
My experience at the restaurant was positive. I bought meat 3 weeks ago and it was a good one. The service was nice, and Senait and the workers are very friendly.
- meat8
- service9
- workers9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
1
Disgusting Mutton Instead of Lamb Tibs
My experience at this restaurant was extremely disappointing. I ordered the Lamb Tibs, but was instead served mutton, which was absolutely disgusting. It tasted and smelled rotten – definitely mutton, yuck.
It seems they are cutting corners, and because of this, they have lost a customer and earned themselves a 1-star review.
- Lamb Tibs1
- mutton1
- tasted and smelled rotten1
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Delicious Food, Friendly Owners!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I had the meat combo and thoroughly enjoyed it, cleaning my plate. The owners were very friendly, contributing to a great overall experience.
- meat combo10
- owners9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Delicious Beef Tibs and Generous Portions!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I was so impressed that I went to leave a review and discovered I had already rated it five stars. The beef tibs were absolutely delicious, and I was pleased that they always provide a generous amount of injera.
It's clear they value customer satisfaction with their food.
- beef tibs10
- injera9
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Best Ethiopian Food Ever!
My experience at this restaurant was exceptional. I found it to be the best Ethiopian restaurant ever. I particularly loved the meat combos and the veggie combo.
The sambosa was also the best I've ever tasted. The food quality was outstanding, with the sambosa being a standout dish.
- meat combos10
- veggie combo10
- sambosa10
What Senait offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Healthy options
- Coffee
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
What dietary options are available at Senait Restaurant Ethiopian Cuisine?
At Senait Restaurant Ethiopian Cuisine, you’ll find a variety of dietary-friendly choices. They proudly offer delicious vegan options, healthy options, and vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something for every preference to enjoy.
Can you make reservations and what are the parking options at Senait?
Yes, Senait Restaurant Ethiopian Cuisine accepts reservations for your convenience. When you visit, you’ll find parking is easy with a paid parking lot available, free street parking, and usually plenty of parking nearby.
How does Senait score overall?
Senait achieves an excellent overall score of 8.8, with high marks for Service (9.4), Value (8.9), and Food (8.8). Ambience also rates well at (7.8).
What are the food highlights at Senait?
Customers frequently praise the fir fir, fresh injera, and flavorful meat and veggie combos. Portions are often noted as generous, and the spice level is appreciated by many.
Are there any concerns to be aware of before visiting Senait?
While generally positive, some reports mention inconsistent dish quality, such as limited chicken in Doro Wot or mutton instead of lamb. There are also serious concerns regarding unwelcoming service and atmosphere.