There’s a special kind of hunger that comes from being far away from home. For Ethiopians living in London, this niche hunger often arrives unannounced, calling not just for any meal, but for the warmth of injera, the aroma of berbere, that can only be found at the top Ethiopian restaurants in London.
In a foreign land where accents differ and the weather surprises, finding a place that serves a plate of food that feels like your mother’s kitchen is a small victory. And the good news is you don’t have to search too far. Across London, a handful of Ethiopian restaurants have carved out spaces that feel like home. Since I relocated to England, these spots have become my dining sanctuaries, my space to reconnect with home. The music is familiar, the spices are just right, and the staff often knows exactly what you want before you speak.
Whether you’re longing for a weekend injera or introducing a friend to the beauty of Habesha cuisine, these top Ethiopian restaurants in London are worth a visit.
1. Mosob Restaurant – Maida Hill, London
Walk into Mosob, and the first thing you’ll notice is the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The second? The mouthwatering scent of spices greets you at the door. With a 4.5-star rating on Open Table, Mosob has earned its reputation as one of the top Ethiopian restaurants in London. Founded and run by an Ethiopian family, Mosob is a tribute to the down-to-earth Habesha tradition where every dish is prepared with love, just the way it should be. From tibs to shiro, and everything in between, you’ll find the soul of Ethiopia on every plate.
2. Zeret Kitchen- Camberwell, London
Zeret Kitchen has meals for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. With meal options like Kategna, Ye-timatim salata, Azefa, Ye-beg fitfit, Misir besiga, Bozena shuro, and many more.
3. Marathon Restaurant – Kings Cross, London.
Right in the heart of North London (193A Caledonian Road, Kings Cross, London, N1 0SL) is a classic Habesha Restaurant that is home to the best traditional Ethiopian cuisine. At Marathon Restaurant, they serve only the finest steaks, sourced from the best local farms.
4. Adulis Restaurant and Bar – Brixton, London
Operational since 1996, Adulis has proven with time that they are a big player in the world of top Ethiopian restaurants in London. They boast of a unique selection of Habesha dishes like Kitfo, Kwanta fit fit, and many more. Adulis is perfect for enjoying traditional, high-quality meals. Catch them on 44-46 Brixton Road, Brixton SW9 6BT, London.
5. Merkato – Kings Cross, London.
Named after a famous market in Addis Ababa, you will easily feel at home here. They serve a wide collection of Ethiopian meals on pavement tables and under colourful lights. At Merkato restaurant, you can enjoy meals like Kcha Ft Ft, Sambusa, Ajbo Ms’Hamli, Derho Alcha, traditional honey wine, and more. Located on New Caledonian Road near Kings Cross, London, enjoy unlimited access to Ethiopian cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Meat lovers and vegans alike will find a welcoming table at these top Ethiopian restaurants in London. Each restaurant captures the true spirit of Ethiopia with the comforting aroma of berbere, the soft texture of fresh injera, and dishes prepared with care.
A visit to any of these spots is more than a meal; it is a chance to reconnect with home, share traditions with friends, and celebrate the richness of Habesha culture. Living far from your homeland does not mean losing its taste. In London, a sense of home can be just a short walk away, and that feeling often begins with a warm, flavorful plate.
