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Welcome to Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine

Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine, located in San Luis Obispo, CA, offers an authentic and vibrant dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Ethiopian culinary traditions. Known for its entirely vegan and gluten-free menu, the restaurant features generous portion sizes and beautifully presented dishes, including standout items like spicy misir wot, goman, and light, springy injera bread made from teff. The warm and inviting ambiance, complemented by a lovely outdoor patio, creates a perfect setting for enjoying shared meals with friends and family. Guests rave about the attentive service and the fresh, nourishing meals that leave them feeling satisfied yet light, making it a must-visit culinary gem.

Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine: Reviews & Ratings

Emily
Emily

Four of us were happy to enjoy a shared dinner that included everything on the menu. Each dish had its own unique flavor and textures. The dinner was lovely to look at and savory and delicious to eat. We felt full without being overstuffed. It was all healthy and tasty. A lovely experience. We will be back again.

Betsy Turner
Betsy Turner

I love this place! The vegetarian food is delicious and fresh. It is a great place for people who don't eat gluten, Ethiopian food is naturally gluten-free. I always feel fantastic after eating here - I feel light, nourished and satisfied, it is just right! The portion size is perfect. I have favorites, such as the Goman, lentil dishes and gluten-free teff brownies (!) - but every item I have tried I totally loved. Even if you don't think you like vegetarian food, give this place a try, it is delish! The ambiance is fun and friendly and the music sets a pleasant and lively vibe. Highly recommend!

Sarah Robinson
Sarah Robinson

We love Ebony! All vegan & gluten free menu. Super delicious food. Beautiful decor, very casual setting, order at the counter, can sit inside or outside on the beautiful creekside patio. Love that they're open with a full menu now and do family style plates for sharing (no more to-go contsiners). The Injera bread is light and springy and fantastic, made with teff. The standout dish for us is the spicy misir wot (red lentil dish). Other favorites are the goman (kale & onions), defen misir alicha wot (green lentils) and denech alicha wot (potatoes & carrots). Also the Ethiopian tea is a must for me, has such a delicious cardamom, ginger, clove, and cinnamon flavor. Also love that they have a water fill station with cups in-house. Overall is a bit pricey but absolutely worth it! The single order has two menu items plus a side salad for 18, the family style comes with four items plus the side salad, serves two people for 39. They also have a larger family style option for more people. Overall very filling! A must visit location, supporting a women-owned local small business

Daniel Aderaw Yeshiwas
Daniel Aderaw Yeshiwas

I recently visited Ebony SLO and was absolutely blown away! This Ethiopian gem offers not just incredible food, but also a delightful dining atmosphere. The interior decor is warm, stylish, and authentic, making you feel like you’ve been transported to another world. One of the standout features is their beautiful outdoor patio – it’s spacious, thoughtfully arranged, and perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco. Every detail of the presentation, from the table settings to the dishes themselves, was immaculate. The food was absolutely delicious, with vibrant flavors and generous portions. Each dish felt like it was prepared with care and attention to detail. The staff were friendly and attentive, making the entire experience even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for a place with great ambiance, top-notch Ethiopian cuisine, and a welcoming vibe, I highly recommend Ebony! It’s a true treasure.

Naimisha Sisodia
Naimisha Sisodia

This was my second time at this unique restaurant and each visit has been an utmost pleasure for my family and I. We never tried Ethiopian cuisine until dining here. Firstly, the staff is super hospitable. They remembered us by kindly mentioning it was great to see us again and also asked how the food was. I really appreciated the welcoming vibe and friendly service!! Secondly, all of the food tried was outstanding!! It is prepared and served with a lot of attention to detail. Good portion sizes and the food itself is very filling. My favorites were the red lentil and the roasted chickpea dishes. Lastly but not least, the ambiance is cozy, inviting, and serene. The interior decor of the restaurant as well the spacious patio are very nice. Awesomely flavorful and satisfying experience!

Heather Marie
Heather Marie

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING FOOD! The atmosphere, the staff, the FOOD is all fantastic. Vegan or not, come here. You will not regret it.

Helen Kimu
Helen Kimu

Really good quality Ethiopian food!!Injera was very soft and fresh. My daughter and I had the 4 items for 2 people. Super delicious and not too salty or oily, yet flavorful and done just perfectly. I’d come back here again next time I visit SLO.

Rachel Gasparini
Rachel Gasparini

Exceptional Ethiopian restaurant! This is a vegan’s paradise. I loved the split pea, lentil and chickpea dishes. The potatoes, cabbage and injera were also amazing. The fresh ginger beer is a must order. I’m a huge fan of the atmosphere and Ethiopian decor too. Wonderful people!

Location

Welcome to Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine, an extraordinary culinary gem nestled in the heart of San Luis Obispo, California. Located at 778 Higuera St, this restaurant invites you to embark on a vibrant journey through the rich flavors of Ethiopian culture. With a focus on plant-based and gluten-free dining, Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine is not just a meal; it’s an experience crafted with authenticity and care.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a warm and welcoming ambiance. The decor blends traditional Ethiopian elements with modern touches, creating a cozy yet stylish environment. Whether you choose to dine indoors or bask in the sun on their spacious outdoor patio, every meal here feels like a celebration. The infectious energy, complemented by lively music, enhances the experience, making it perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

One of the standout features of Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine is its commitment to vegan and gluten-free offerings. Customers rave about the colorful and diverse platter options, ideal for sharing. Each dish presents an array of unique textures and flavors, ensuring that every bite is a delightful surprise. Popular favorites include the spicy misir wot (red lentils), goman (sautéed kale with onions), and various lentil dishes that are not only delicious but also nourishing.

The delightful Injera, a traditional Ethiopian flatbread made from teff, complements each dish beautifully, showcasing its light and springy texture. Many patrons, including Emily and Betsy, express their enjoyment of the generous portion sizes, which provide satisfaction without the heaviness often associated with dining out. The family-style serving encourages a communal spirit, inviting diners to share and savor together—a core aspect of Ethiopian dining culture.

Moreover, the attention to detail in presentation elevates your meal. Each plate arrives as a work of art, enticing you to dig in. The friendly and attentive staff enhance your dining experience, making sure you feel right at home. As Daniel notes, this hospitality makes every visit a treat worth looking forward to.

The enchanting flavors of the Ethiopian tea, infused with cardamom, ginger, clove, and cinnamon, add the perfect finishing touch. It’s a must-try at the restaurant, often lauded by customers who appreciate the thoughtful touches that make each visit special.

In an age of fast food and quick meals, Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine stands out as a beacon of quality, flavor, and genuine hospitality. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ethiopian cuisine or a first-timer, you will leave feeling nourished, satisfied, and eager to return. As Naimisha beautifully expressed, it’s not just about the food—it's about the whole experience that leaves a lasting impression. So head over, share a meal, and discover why Ebony Ethiopian Cuisine is a true treasure in San Luis Obispo!