Kebena Ethiopian Restaurant

This looks like an authentic Ethiopian place. When I walked in, there was a lively table of patrons who had plenty of drinks together. They were surprisingly loud, and I was already a little shaken up. The table I was sat at still needed to be cleaned so I wasn't super thrilled by that. I ordered a beef dish and when it came out it was sizzling fajita hot. I could still see the oil bubbling. I was actually not comfortable touching my food for a while because of how hot the cast iron was and how much of Ethiopian is eaten with your hands. Luckily I was given tongs and a knife. The meat was kind of tough so to help myself, I made a point of always cutting against the grain. That made it easier to chew. This place is truly designed for folks who are already familiar with this genre of food. Don't come looking for a learning experience, this is for the advanced.

From the moment I stepped into Kebena Ethiopian Restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The dining area is a vibrant showcase of Ethiopian culture, adorned with stunning arts and crafts that immediately transport you to East Africa. The cleanliness, especially the sparkling bathroom, speaks volumes about their attention to detail.I decided to try the TIBS with Injera on the waitress's recommendation, accompanied by two intriguing sauces - a fiery mustard that hit just the right level of heat and a red sauce whose complexity piqued my curiosity. The TIBS, a flavorful stir-fried beef with onions and jalapenos, paired perfectly with the uniquely soft and tasty injera, creating a delightful culinary experience that grew on me with every bite.The cherry on top was meeting the chef and owner, whose passion for authentic Ethiopian cuisine shines through in her cooking. Learning about the traditional methods and secret family recipes she employs made the meal even more special. It's not just food; it's an experience, one that leaves you with a longing for more. Kebena isn't just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Ethiopian culture and culinary excellence. I can't wait to return!

This restaurant has the best Ethiopian food in Seattle. The Veggie Combo is fantastic. It is freshly made that day, not just heated from last night (like other places).The place is immaculately clean. The bathrooms are literally sparkling.The waitress was so kind to us and patient with our small kids.The owner is so welcoming and kind. 5 stars doesn't do this place Justice.I'll be back again.

Great traditional food, especially loved the tibs! The place is beautifully decorated and with lots of parking/accessible by bus too. Highly recommend