Planning
- Accepts reservations
oChef » Zobel Ethiopian – Seattle
Zobel Ethiopian - Seattle
Photo from Zobel Ethiopian
Zobel Ethiopian at a glance
Seattle Yesler Terrace
- 🥘 Ethiopian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 49 of the guests
#478 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#15 Ethiopian Restaurant out of 17 in Seattle
Good
7.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
390
Reviews
73.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Authentic food
- Generous portions
- Great value
Frequently criticized
- Slow service
- Poor ambiance
- Salty food
The restaurant Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine is an authentic Ethiopian Restaurant nestled in Seattle’s vibrant Yesler Terrace neighborhood. You will discover a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal.
This spot is known for its healthy options and welcoming vibe, making it a delightful culinary destination in the city.
Overview: Introducting Zobel Ethiopian
Zobel Ethiopian offers a culinary journey where the focus is clearly on the plate. Many appreciate the authentic Ethiopian food and generous portions, often highlighting the great value for a satisfying meal.
The kitchen’s flexibility, like being accommodating with oil requests, also stands out. However, the dining experience can be a mixed bag.
While some praise the warm and inviting staff, others note concerns about waiting time and service attentiveness. The ambiance also draws varied comments, with some finding it run down despite efforts to decorate.
Good
7.4
out of 10
390
Reviews
73.8%
Satisfaction
91
negative
11
neutral
288
positive
Zobel Ethiopian generally earns a solid 7.4 out of 10, reflecting a good overall experience for many diners. This is supported by a 73.8% customer satisfaction rate, indicating that most visitors leave content.
The restaurant’s strengths clearly lie in its Food (8.1), which consistently receives high marks for its quality and authenticity. Many remarks, totaling 288 positive comments against 91 negative, frequently highlight the generous portions and delicious flavors.
While the culinary aspect shines, other areas present a more mixed picture. Value (7.9) is also rated highly, with many appreciating the affordability for the substantial meals.
However, Ambience (6.4) and Service (6.2) fall into the average range. While some experiences are positive, these areas sometimes receive criticism regarding wait times or the general atmosphere.
What people like
- Authentic Ethiopian food
- Generous meal portions
- Excellent overall value
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service speed
- Unkempt dining ambiance
- Occasional food saltiness
Zobel Ethiopian, with a 7.6 recommendation score, is certainly worth considering if you prioritize authentic and generously portioned Ethiopian cuisine at a good price. It’s a place where the food genuinely shines, making it a strong contender for those seeking a flavorful and filling meal.
However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service and a less polished dining environment. If you’re flexible with these aspects and your main goal is excellent Ethiopian food, Zobel Ethiopian could be a rewarding culinary experience.
Similar Restaurants in Seattle
- Ethiopian Restaurant
9
out of 10
out of 10
407
92.9%
- $$
- Madison Valley
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Ethiopian Restaurant
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
140
88.6%
- $$
- NewHolly
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Ethiopian Restaurant
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
238
90.8%
- $$
- Lake City
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Ethiopian Restaurant
8.6
out of 10
out of 10
502
89%
- $$
- Brighton
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Ethiopian Restaurant
8.4
out of 10
out of 10
463
86%
- $$
- Madrona
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Ethiopian Restaurant
8.3
out of 10
out of 10
377
87.8%
- $$
- Madison Valley
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Zobel Ethiopian
Food (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 93% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark! With a strong score of 8.1 and customer satisfaction at a solid 81.5%, diners frequently rave about the delicious, authentic Ethiopian food, often highlighting the huge portions and rich flavors. Out of 211 customer remarks, a whopping 172 were positive, showing a clear appreciation for the culinary experience.
However, not every dish is a winner, as 34 negative remarks point out some areas for improvement. Some guests found certain items to be too salty, not as fresh as expected, or noted that the beef could be tough. A few also mentioned that portions, particularly of injera, occasionally felt small, which can be a bit of a letdown.
Food
211
Reviews
81%
Satisfaction
34
negative
5
neutral
172
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious flavors
- Huge portions
- Authentic Ethiopian
What people don't like
- Too salty
- Not fresh
- Tough beef
Often praised
- foodWe ordered a combo plate for $20, and holy smokes, there was so much food that the three of us left stuffed. It was also absolutely incredible! We visited on a quiet Sunday holiday, going pretty late, so we basically had the whole restaurant to ourselves.
- Ethiopian foodMy experience at this restaurant was centered around the best Ethiopian food in town. While the ambience of the restaurant was a bit shady, it ultimately led to a good dining experience overall.
- Zobel combothe Zobel combo is an amazing price and easily feeds two hungry people
- FoodFood:5
- portionsThe food was great and the prices were reasonably priced compared to other Ethiopian restaurants in the area. They even provided 2 extra breads with the chicken tibs, and the portions were big. It felt like a family-run place with nice people.
- injeraThe injera wasn’t too thick and was so springy and tangy and perfectly soft
- portion sizewhat arrived was enough food to feed a family of 3!
- delicious foodDelicious food, great staff, huge portions
- Zobel ComboThe Zobel Combo is always delicious
- authentic Ethiopian foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I found it to be a great place for authentic Ethiopian food. The price was super affordable for the very tasty food.
Frequently criticized
- injeraThe injera had some black freckles
- foodThe appearance and texture of the food led me to believe that it was far from fresh. Worst of all, the food was so salty that it was almost inedible. I am not sensitive to salt, but this was extreme.
- dishI ordered what I think was zil zil kitfo, and it took a 45-minute wait for our food. One dish was partially bland but spicy, while the other was spicy but excessively salty and extremely dry. For the wait, it was not worth it at all.
- freshnessI ordered the vegetarian combo. The appearance and texture of the food led me to believe that it was far from fresh. Worst of all, the food was so salty that it was almost inedible.
- portionsthe portions were small
- Sega Wotconfused my order of Sega wot with an order of dog-food grade beef chunks
- Zobel Combotoo much salt in all kind
- beefthe beef was a bit tough
- beef chunksdog-food grade beef chunks so riddled with collagen that you could barely bite off any of the meat
- beerthe beer tastes skunky
If youre craving authentic Ethiopian cuisine with generous portions and delicious flavors, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that some dishes might lean a bit salty or occasionally lack freshness, but overall, its a solid choice for a satisfying meal.
Service (6.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 60% of the guests
When it comes to service, many diners have had some really positive experiences here! With 54 positive remarks out of 90 total, guests frequently praise the friendly staff, especially the owners, for being so kind and accommodating. Many also appreciate the quick service and how fast their food comes out, contributing to a generally pleasant dining atmosphere.
The service score sits at an average 6.2. However, it's not all smooth sailing, as 35 negative comments point to some areas needing improvement. Several guests reported significant waiting times for their food or orders, and some felt ignored by the staff.
Issues like disorganization and occasional rudeness also popped up, suggesting that consistency can be a challenge. Customer satisfaction is a mixed 60%.
Service
90
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
35
negative
1
neutral
54
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, kind staff
- Accommodating owners
- Quick food delivery
What people don't like
- Long waiting times
- Lack staff attention
- Service disorganization
Often praised
- serviceThe service and atmosphere were both rated a 5 out of 5
- staffwarm and inviting staff, one server himself was so kind
- ServiceService:5
- ownerThe owner recognized me as soon as I walked in
- serverone server himself was so kind
- peopleVery nice people
- Friendly staffFriendly staff
- Wait timeNo wait
- accommodatingI called last minute and asked if they could cook with olive or coconut oil instead of vegetable or canola oil. The lady was very accommodating and told me to give her 45 minutes, and she'd be able to cook with olive oil. This level of flexibility was impressive, as I had called three other Ethiopian restaurants that were not willing to make this substitution.
- close lateThey close late
Frequently criticized
- waiting time20 minutes after that I was handed my food
- serviceThe service was pretty laid back though.
- foodThe atmosphere was awkward as it was completely empty. The service was kind, but the food took forever to come out, which really pushed me to think that it was definitely made last minute and not spent cooking and stewing through the day. I will definitely be back for the pasta though.
- staffThe food was decent, but the environment was the weirdest I've ever eaten in. It was completely silent, except for the staff talking and watching videos on their phones while not actively attending to us. While our server was friendly, the overall service wasn't great.
- waitFor the wait it was not worth it at all.
- waiterDespite other tables already being served, we were the only ones in the restaurant. Our waiter didn't speak a word, only nodding his head. I ordered what I think was zil zil kitfo, and it took a 45-minute wait for our food.
- Grubhub serviceMy experience was frustrating because there was no service for Grubhub. This was despite the owner having his business on Grubhub and me having an order ready for pickup.
- asking for billHad to ask for the bill
- asking for drinksHad to ask again for drinks
- asking for foodWe had to go to the bar to ask for food
If youre patient and value friendly interactions, you might find the service here quite charming, especially with the accommodating owners. However, be prepared for potential long waits and occasional inconsistencies, which could be a dealbreaker if youre in a hurry.
Ambience (6.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 40% of the guests
The atmosphere here gets an average score of 6.4, with a mixed customer satisfaction of 61.8%. Many guests, 34 to be exact, found it to be a calm, beautifully decorated place with a cozy and comforting atmosphere. They loved the welcoming vibe, often feeling right at home, especially for a late dinner.
However, 17 other comments pointed out some issues. Some found the vibes awkward or uncomfortable, describing the environment as unkempt, dirty, or even run down. Concerns about cleanliness and lighting being too low for a date were also noted, suggesting room for improvement.
Ambience
55
Reviews
61%
Satisfaction
17
negative
4
neutral
34
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Calm, cozy atmosphere
- Welcoming, homey vibe
- Great for late dinner
What people don't like
- Unkempt, dirty environment
- Awkward, uncomfortable vibes
- Needs renovation
Often praised
- atmosphereOur dinner was enhanced by a family having dinner and welcoming some family members home
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- Ethiopian touchecomforting atmosphere with Ethiopian touche
- ambianceThe ambiance of this place is super cool
- bathroomsthe bathrooms are clean
- beautifully decoratedbeautifully decorated place
- calm placesuch a calm, beautifully decorated place
- comforting atmosphereNice ambiance and comforting atmosphere
- contemporary vibeThe restaurant has a contemporary vibe
- cozy little buildingGreat food at a cozy little building
Frequently criticized
- ParkingService was excellent, scoring a 5. Parking is available on a side street one block away, though finding a spot can be somewhat difficult. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all group sizes.
- atmosphereThe atmosphere was awkward as it was completely empty
- ambianceThe ambiance is not great, it is kind of run down
- ambienceambience but overall good dining experience
- cleanlinessThe ambiance is not great; it is kind of run down. I was scared to order at first since the place did not look too clean.
- comfortable on a dateToo much to be comfortable on a date.
- customersNo workers or customers
- draught beer tapsthe draught beer taps have probably never been cleaned
- environmentweirdest environment I’ve ever eaten in
- hygienepoor hygiene we got stomach upsetf
Overall, the ambiance is a bit of a mixed bag. If youre looking for a relaxed, cozy spot for a late meal and dont mind a potentially rustic feel, it could be a good fit. However, if cleanliness and a polished, romantic setting are top priorities, you might want to manage your expectations.
Value (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 31% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.9 and a customer satisfaction of 82.4%, most diners agree it's a good deal. Many praise the cheap and reasonably priced options, often calling it great value for money with generous portions, as seen in 28 positive remarks.
However, not everyone feels the same. A few experiences, noted in 5 comments, mention feeling that some dishes were expensive for the portion size or even a rip off. It seems consistency might be an issue for certain items.
Value
34
Reviews
82%
Satisfaction
5
negative
1
neutral
28
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great value
- Generous portions
- Affordable prices
What people don't like
- Small portions costly
- Some dishes overpriced
Often praised
- priceLocation and price are literally the reason.
- pricesThe people were very nice, and the food was terrific. We were also impressed with the great prices. We were able to feed our family of seven for less than at any other Ethiopian restaurant we've visited.
- valueIt was my first time trying Ethiopian food, and I had a great time exploring new flavors. The portion sizes were generous, offering great value for the price. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was very enjoyable.
- $20$20 for a sampler
- $23$23 for the massive plate!!!
- cheapThe Ethiopian food was pretty good, and the portions were big. It was also very cheap; the most expensive combo, priced at $16, could easily feed three people.
- combo platecombo plate for $20, but holy smokes, there was so much food
- expensive combothe most expensive combo ($16) can easily feed three
- family of sevenfed our family of seven for less than any other Ethiopian restaurant
- foodfood was incredibly cheap
Frequently criticized
- $20My experience at the restaurant was disappointing. I ordered the 21 yebeg tibis, which was an extra small portion and mostly onion for $20. It felt like a rip off 😪.
- meat in the pastafor the small amount of meat in the pasta it was a bit expensive
- pricefor 11 it's a disgrace
- ratingRating isn’t justified.
- rip offWhat a rip off
Overall, if you're looking for a place that generally offers great bang for your buck, especially with larger portions, this restaurant is worth checking out. Just be mindful that a few specific dishes might not always deliver the same perceived value.
How are the prices at Zobel Ethiopian?
You’re looking at roughly 19 per person – reported by 49 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For an Ethiopian Restaurant in Seattle, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most guests find themselves spending right in this sweet spot, with the majority of prices clustering around the $11–$20 range, making it a pretty consistent experience.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 49 reviews.
Comparing value for money: how this restaurant stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for an Ethiopian spot in Seattle. It offers good value for a mid-range experience, making it a solid choice.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Zobel Ethiopian
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Incredible Value and Flavorful Food
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic, offering the best value for your money. The $23 Zobel combo is incredibly generous and will feed 3 people a full meal. Be prepared to eat with your hands, which adds to the unique experience.
The food received a rating of 4, and the atmosphere was also rated a 4. Service was excellent, scoring a 5. Parking is available on a side street one block away, though finding a spot can be somewhat difficult.
The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all group sizes. Vegetarian dishes are clearly labeled, and it's somewhat recommended for vegetarians. There was no wait time.
- Zobel combo10
- value for money10
- eat with your hands6
- Parking3
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Delicious Ethiopian Food & Great Service
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I found the food to be delicious and the service to be great. It's currently my favorite Ethiopian restaurant, and I would definitely come again.
- food10
- service9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Solid Ethiopian, Open Late
I'm not sure why this place has lower ratings. My experience was VERY solid. Their combo plate was better than many other Ethiopian spots I've tried.
Plus, the kitchen stays open past midnight, which is a huge plus.
- combo plate9
- kitchen10
- food8
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Takeout
2
No Grubhub Service Available
My experience was frustrating because there was no service for Grubhub. This was despite the owner having his business on Grubhub and me having an order ready for pickup.
- Grubhub service1
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Consistently Great Ethiopian Food
I come here often. The food is consistently good. Their Lamb yebeg tibs is something I could eat for days in a row without getting tired of it.
Firfir and the meat combo are also my go-to choices. The service and atmosphere were both rated a 5 out of 5.
- food10
- Lamb yebeg tibs10
- Firfir9
What Zobel Ethiopian 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
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Hard liquor
- 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
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
Does Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine offer options for specific dietary preferences?
Yes, Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine in Seattle provides a variety of choices to suit your dietary needs. You can find healthy options, along with dedicated vegan and vegetarian dishes. They ensure there’s something delicious for everyone to enjoy.
What service options and accessibility features are available at Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine?
At Zobel Ethiopian Cuisine, you can choose between dine-in, takeout, or delivery. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, including the entrance, seating, and restroom. While street parking can sometimes be difficult, free street parking is usually available.
How does Zobel Ethiopian generally rate among customers?
Zobel Ethiopian holds a good overall score of 7.4 out of 10, with customer satisfaction at 73.8%. Its Food (8.1) and Value (7.9) are highly praised, though Service (6.2) and Ambience (6.4) are rated as average.
What are the main highlights of dining at Zobel Ethiopian?
Customers frequently praise the authentic and delicious Ethiopian food, noting the generous portion sizes and excellent value for money.
Are there any common drawbacks to consider before visiting Zobel Ethiopian?
Some diners have experienced longer waiting times for service and found the ambiance to be a bit run down or not as clean as desired.