Lemat

4.4 (278 reviews)

ModerateEthiopian, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Closed • 5:00 pm - 9:30 PM

Updated 3 months ago

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Lemat - Injera was delicious, texture was great, soaked up all of the flavors. - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

Lemat - Ambiance-Lemat Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

Lemat - Yummy breakfast - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Lemat - Ethiopian delights await - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

Lemat Popular Dishes

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LEMAT ATMOSPHERE

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Moderate noise

Casual

Good for kids

Good for groups

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Ayshia L.

I came here with my little family and it was so yummy! We had the beef samosas and it was good AF. My kids even ate it. Then we did the veggie combo and added lamb and chicken. My kids ate up all the lamb. I found the chicken to be more tasty but everything was so good! Must try. The service wasn't the best. The guy was on the phone and wasn't really playing attention. The place is huge and two big tvs.

Matty E.

If you're looking to branch into your first try at Ethiopian food, Lemat is the place -- excellent ingredients and helpful staff make this a great place to go for East African cuisine in Berkeley. Cocktail list is extensive and lots of options for vegetarian and meat-based preferences. Our group of four opted for the veggie and meat samplers and we weren't able to finish all the food -- plenty to go around for all. Nothing was too spicy or intensely flavored, though be prepared to eat with your hands (in the traditional Ethiopian style). The waitress was friendly and helped us choose the best samplers for a first time visit. The ambiance of the restaurant was nice, though when we arrived it was quite smoky -- as though something in the back had badly burned. It took awhile to clear the smoke and smell from the dining area, but otherwise it was a great visit.

The service was good. The waitress was nice and funny, but the food was gross. I'm sorry, but it was very bland and flavorless. This was definitely not authentic Ethiopian food. There was no sour flavor to the injera at all. The cabbage dish had no flavor, and overall all of the food lacked spice and depth. We love Ethiopian food, and we left feeling sad and disappointed. We didn't take our leftovers and only ate what we could stomach. The fish was also extremely fishy. Overall, it was a bad experience. I felt nauseous like I needed to throw up after sadly. My sister has the same feeling and experience that I did. We will not come back here.

Nora P.

It hurts to write this because I honestly love Ethiopian food and was really excited to try a new place. The restaurant has ample seating, table service, a bar, an area with beautiful wood chairs and low table settings, clean and well lit. Lots of pretty baskets on the walls. Light music playing. A friend and I stopped in before a concert. I have tried Ethiopian food at many restaurants and often so I was really looking forward to it. I ordered the Beyaynuto, We requested a meat sampler, Espresso based cocktail and another cocktail, I forgot the name but it was based on one of the more popular seasonings. The espresso based cocktail was amazing, really worth ordering, mine was reminiscent of a savory and sweet margarita. The meal itself though was a little small in portion and sole of the dishes tasty very similar to each other. I know Ethiopian cuisine because I truly is a favorite. Yes a lot flavors tend to be similar but not identical, particularly the meat dishes. They have a beautiful bar, drinks came out quickly but service overall was slow and they rarely checked in. In fact we had to find a person quite a few times. Price point is similar the other Ethiopian cuisine even with the portions being smaller. With the service and flavor lacking I give it a 3. Hoping to revist one day and hopefully give if a better score.

Ray F.

Was in town recently for an industry event and looking for a good meal to share with my team and friends after a busy week. My group walked in shortly after they opened, and we were greeted by the kind host. Once seated we were asked to move, twice? It seemed odd but we accommodated our hosts requests each time. The interior is wood toned with beautiful artworks on the walls and there are several seating areas that were reserved the night of our visit. Food 4.5 stars Service 2 stars More to the point our server was so unorganized and so slow it became painful to endure, simple requests like hot water for my tea took 20 minutes to get after my tea bag arrived? My friends flax seed juice took half an hour to make it to the table, after three requests for it after ordering? We all ordered drinks almost immmediately and had to ask for them multiple times? When our food did arrive, 2 of our table were sent out then none others coming out at all, literally fifteen minutes between entrees on our table, my one friend was done with his meal before my other friend even got hers? It was obvious our server had no clue what she was doing when it came to serving the table? We were all relaxed and took it with stride until the bill came. That is when I got irritated at the whole situation, realizing she thought her efforts warranted a 20% gratutity without saying a word. Our inept server added a 20% gratutuity without saying anything when presenting the bill ( this was a $50 plus add on) which I did not see, and I'm a generous tipper so I tipped her $50 bucks without looking closely at the bill(a $100+ tip!) taking the bill to almost $400 dollars. Fortunately my tablemates said something and looked at the bill and realized she had already tipped herself? But I has already signed and released it back to her by then. Needless too say now I returned to speak to the owner directly, told him of the poor to terrible service and had my tip refunded, since she took it upon herself to add one? I am so done with assumed tipping culture in businesses. This was a new all time low cheap shot by a server and it really affected the end experience and as such this review reflects the terrible customer service and actual serving of anything in a timely and or professional manner. 2.5 Stars - rounded up to be fair to the kitchen staff but it does not warrant the terrible customer experience my table received. Might come back but then again might not... 00937

angela f.

Quickly became a new favorite. The platters are as delicious as they are colorful. The drinks transported me to vacation. The mixologist was so friendly & accomodating. Can't wait to visit again!

Dominic V.

This review is more about their service and less about their food quality. Being in downtown Berkeley, parking is a little rough. We got lucky that someone was leaving and ended up with princess parking. We had a reservation for a table of four and there was only 2 other tables inside on a Wednesday night. We started off with decaf coffee and a rum punch. It took about 20 minutes to get our drinks and they gave us chamomile tea instead. Very opposite from what we originally ordered. However, we took it as a sign to not have coffee and since tea was cheaper, didn't say much about it. The rum punch was very sweet with no hint of alcohol. If my friend hadn't seen the bartender pour rum in it, I would have been convinced there was none. We finally got a chance to order appetizers and our meal: Samosas (usually comes in 3s but they were nice enough to give us 4 since there were 4 of us), veggie platter, meat combo and beef tibs. The food took an hour to come out but once they finally did, I will say it was DELICIOUS, but I had to question whether it was or if I was just hungry at this point because the food was like warm at best. It only seemed like not much time had passed because I was with great company. So we had the patience to give them benefit of the doubt, maybe they're super short staffed? Maybe it's just one person working in the back like it seemed like there was only one person working in the front? I will say there are other places that give bigger portions and cost a little less, but the food really was amazing despite it being like warm and taking and hour to come out. If you have the time to spare, stop by and give it a try yourself.

anne p.

Great food. Great service. Great portions with the meats, less so with the legumes, but I don't know why. Highly recommend. No gluten reactions. Please come here and enjoy

I came here with my boyfriend yesterday, the service was great and as someone who has never had Ethiopian food, the server recommended the Beef Tibs which was amazing! My boyfriend got the Meat Combo and everything was delicious! I also really enjoyed the ambiance of the restaurant, very nice decor and design. Will definitely come back!

Sylvia K.

It has a nice big open setting. Service was good. The spicy beef tibs (ye siga wat) was excellent and the lentils were delicious. I liked the light dressing on the salad that was included. It was a generous portion with different complex flavors, and the injera was nice texture and flavor. The food was delicious and price reasonable.

Ed U.

I need to get over to this Ethiopian restaurant sometime because I get the impression it's quite atmospheric. The term 'lemat' refers to the type of handwoven basket they use as a table base in Ethiopia, and I heard that's part of the restaurant decor. Alas, I had their food delivered since that was the most convenient option at the time. Their full menu looked authentic and quite robust, and I ended up ordering the $16.95 Veggie Combo Beyaynetu (photo: https://bit.ly/3wfGmpq). The dish combined three of their vegetarian specialties - Misir Kik (lentils cooked in their house sauce) delicious; Gomen (warmed collard greens mixed with onion, garlic and cardamom); and Alcha Kik (cracked peas cooked with onion and turmeric). A house salad completed the mix-n-match fixings, and and they were quite generous with the injera. Not only did it line the tray but there were four rolls of it for liberal scooping (photo: https://bit.ly/3XEx3em). Really hearty stuff considering the lack of meat. FOOD - 4 stars...hearty and flavorful veggie specialties and a whole lotta injera AMBIANCE - n/a...hopefully I'll find out on a visit SERVICE - 3.5 stars...well packed and no spillage TOTAL - 4 stars...healthy Ethiopian food is always a treat RELATED - Hungry for Ethiopian food? Here's a collection of places I've tried and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2JBDHib

Kevin W.

I definitely was not expecting Lemat to have such an elevated setting. They appeared to have a nice bar area, set up for live music, and very well thought-of and cared-for table settings. Finding the place, however; was a frustrating experience, at no fault of the restaurant. It's locked right after the convergence of MLK Jr. Way and Adeline Street into Adeline, between Fairview Street, but you would need to turn right into the parking area to find it. With the one-ways and my unfamiliarity with Berkeley, I might have broken several traffic rules in order to get here (and get away from here). I ended up ordering the Veggie Combo (Beyaynetu). There were four different type of vegetarian dishes, including two off the combination - beet spears and a hummus. Not sure if hummus is correct, but this was what another Ethiopian chef had described it as. It was delicious and complimented each other well, but a little more bland than I was used to. The injera was a combination of teff flour and wheat flour, based on the taste, texture, and color, and did not have as sour of a taste that I was expected. Ultimately, it was a good experience and I was happy that I tried it.

Vegetarian Combo - No salad but the two additional sides were tasty

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Carl K.

Elite 23

148

203

8 years ago

it there is one thing that stands out about Lemat, it's the feeling of elegant relaxation we get while we dine there. Ethiopians, I'm learning, are a dignified, graceful, spiritual and hardworking people. It shows as you enter Lemat. The ceiling is at least 16' and the walls and floor are covered with polished wood. It looks spacious, clean, sophisticated and inviting. I've never been to Africa, but i imagine Lemat is channeling the best of it. The music is Ethiopian: rhythmic, cyclical and trance-inducing. There is enough noise from music and other people to provide a pleasant background buzz. But we never had to raise our voices to be heard. Ethiopian beer is something we haven't seen elsewhere. It was refreshing and had a distinctly clean finish. We always sit at the knee-high table on leather seats - like a boss. Ethiopians use a flexible thin bread to pick up their food with their hands instead of spoon and fork. Having the table lower makes this tactile connection to your food even easier. The food that we ordered was a healthy array of vegetable dishes all served on a single platter. The presentation is appetizing. None of the "dishes" were too sweet or greasy. Each had its own subtle nourishing taste. We indulged ourselves with baklava for desert. The people who serve you are friendly, relaxed and efficient. Everything arrived at our table such that we only had to think about our conversation. The owner made a cameo to make sure we felt welcome. After all this pleasure, you will be pleasantly surprised by the bill. Lemat is great place for date night! read more

Lemat - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Bas S.

10 years ago

The best authentic Ethiopian restaurant in the Bay Area. Decorated with Ethiopian motif. The ambience and the service were great.These was the best cooking next to grand mom read more

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Pascal P.

220

8 years ago

Awesome place. I look forward to coming back here in the future. The meal was great. The location and ambience is awesome. The tej could be better though. read more

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Katelyn K.

136

10 years ago

We walked in and waited at the host stand, but no one came over. It was busy, but there were three employees behind the bar that didn't look particularly occupied. Eventually we walked over to the bar and asked if they had a table for two. We were directed to sit at a nearby empty table. They delivered menus and took our order relatively quickly, but then the food took a full 45 minutes to come out. After dropping off the food, our waitress never came back to the table to ask if we wanted anything else (we did) or to top off water. The food was cold when it came out, but otherwise good. Not any better than the other two ethiopian restaurants within a mile of this place. The decor is quite beautiful, but given the service we'll probably just hit abesha next time. read more

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Yilma B.

10 years ago

We had a wonderful dinner at Lemat. The food was excellent and wait till you taste the Teg - Ethiopian honey wine. The place is wonderfully designed and the furniture is definitely a new experience to sit down for dinner. The roundness of the basket table where the food is placed and the vibrant colored reeds that make the table and when you add the low chair made to fit it makes a rich environment in every sense. The food was freshly made and the taste is something I have to go back for. We had a wonderful Dining experience.Check it out. read more

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Kim R.

8 years ago

Lemat is a hidden treasure in the city of Berkeley. Not only is it beautifully decorated but the food is AMAZING and the staff members are extremely pleasant. My family & I have already scheduled our next visit! read more

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Amanda H.

10 years ago

Fantastic dinner here last night. Inviting space, honey wine, coffee roasted onsite-- lots of nice touches. We had the vegetarian combo and beef tibs and not a morsel was left. Chatted with the charming owner and let him know we'd be back. read more

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Nicholas Z.

127

193

7 years ago

This place has its own slightly distinct variation on one of my favorite classic cuisines of the human species. What I liked most about this place was the wonderful feeling that's sitting in the dining room gave me end this feeling mostly came from the wonderful people who run this restaurant. read more

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Kate B.

10 years ago

Delicious! Two of us split the veg combo and meat combo. Everything was well seasoned, juicy meat, fresh/ tasty veggies, and authentic injera (slightly sour which is right on). Service was great. It is a clean and open space with tasteful decor. Prices were reasonable and included beer and wine. I first had Ethiopian cuisine in the Little Ethiopia neighborhood of Los Angeles many years ago. Lemat was on par with the best of those places. Will definitely be back to this wonderful addition to the Adeline Corridor. read more

Lemat - Yum! - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

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James K.

8 years ago

I have been eating Ethiopian in Berkeley and Oakland since the 80s. Lemat is as good as any of them. Great service, large portions, and deliciously fresh and spicy. The two of us shared family style a veggie combo and a meat combo. To make this even a better deal, entertained by a jazz trio. Can not wait to return. read more

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D K.

7 years ago

Love this place! Great for everyone; meat eaters/veggies/vegans/gluten free... the samosas are the best!

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Y L.

101

10 years ago

I was excited to try this new Ethiopian restaurant in Berkeley. We had the veggie combo and mushroom tibs. Tasty, and portion was good. Another solid place for Ethiopian food, but with so many other great Ethiopian restaurants already in Berkeley/Oakland, the food didn't really stand out. Restaurant itself was spacious and had a homey feel. read more

Lemat - Veggie combo and mushroom tibs. - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Brian A.

5 years ago

We are so happy that Lemat thrives in the midst of difficulty. Their incredibly delicious food is a comfort and a constant sense of wonder at how the chef(s) get that incredible consistency of everything we have ever had. Favorite: the veggie combo, the shiro! if you've never had shiro, order this from Lemat. The mushroom tibs are amazing. I love Lemat the best of the best always! read more

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Geena H.

178

8 years ago

Excellent, warm customer service. Feel very welcome coming in here. On top of that, all of the staff is very educated on the ingredients in their food and understands food allergies (and can clearly tell you what their food does or does not contain). Their food in and of itself is exceptional, full of flavor and has good-sized portions. And the ambiance -- very clean and nice inside with beautiful decorations. Will keep coming back again and again! read more

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Nathan W.

10 years ago

A new Ethiopian restaurant in Berkeley, this former karate dojo has been transformed into Ethiopia by Lemat restaurant. The Lemat team imported all the interior fittings from Ethiopia, which should tell you something about the approach to food. We've enjoyed the Lemat hospitality twice now, and found that the combination platter portions are plenty for two. The food quality id very good, where sometimes you may find Ethiopian to be very heavy, at Lemat I found it to be just a bit lighter than the competition. The restaurant is new, and it is helpful to be proactive with the servers, I found that when I told them expectations upfront, they appreciated the direction. They are all very sweet, just finding their service rhythm. The restrooms are spotless, and there is a nice patio in the back that could be good for parties during the Summer, For good value, quality Ethiopian food, with warm hospitality - Lemat! read more

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D R.

8 years ago

I was Just let down had really high hopes for the place too .The food was bland and the service was basically non-existent despite the restaurant being empty ? Idk a couple positives the decor , cleanliness, good injera?and so was the honey wine. Unfortunately that's just not enough to make me go back. read more

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Yeyefini E.

7 years ago

I found my new Ethiopian Food spot in Berkeley The food was great, hot and the atmosphere very inviting. I got the vegetable platter. OMG it was phenomenal. There is also a jazz band on Friday nights. Can't wait to bring some friends read more

Lemat - The food was delicious, hot, and oh so good. You know I am an Ethiopian connoisseur - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

Lemat - Veggie platter - Ethiopian Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Mar R.

8 years ago

The food is great, staff very friendly and awesome. Restaurant is beautiful and delivery experiences better than most. Thanks Lemat for being a great local experience read more

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Shanna D.

189

8 years ago

Id say that I know my way around some veggie Ethiopian dishes and Lemat is one of my favorite spots right now! But good food isnt what gets me on yelp to write a review- I gotta say that the service at Lemat is really awesome. I like the staff and the overall spacious feel of the restaurant. Also, gotta say that the honey wine was the best I have had in the bay so far too! read more

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Trevor C.

10 years ago

This place is absolutely fantastic! It's very transporting with the lamps, authentic furniture, and honey wine. I don't normally like sweet wines, but their homemade honey wine tastes like this refreshing pear, mixed with honey nectar. Food is delicious with rich buttery flavors and well spiced. The Injera has a deep sour dough, with a hint of goat cheese funk to it. The owner is very personable, and makes an effort to talk to you and share his passion for all the details that make an authentic experience. Highly recommend anyone go and support this new place! We need more like it and glad to have it in the neighborhood. read more

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Tras B.

8 years ago

Amazing ambience, great decor, love this place for their traditional table and chair. Mouth watering veggie combo and lentil sambhusa. read more

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Jonathan T.

8 years ago

This is now my favorite Ethiopian hands down. Food was delicious!! Flavors are much richer than Colucci, which had been my previous go to. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable. I split a meat combo and a veggie combo. Both were great, but I preferred the meat. Restaurant is well decorated and clean. Ambience is very pleasant, but the food is the star! read more

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Mel T.

8 years ago

Excellent authentic Ethiopian food. All their injera was gluten free which was fantastic. The interior is lovely and has traditional style seating. We got our food as takeout due to lots of kids, but plan to go back and hear music some night. Will return. Great range on menu. read more

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Indy R.

7 years ago

I was able to try many of the dishes and I was very impressed with every single thing. The lentil samosas should not be missed! They are perfect and the sauce is marvelous. I wasn't expecting such greatness, but now that you know - expect greatness! Because this place is not going to disappoint read more

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Daniel A.

9 years ago

I have eaten here several times over the past few month ,a must go for Ethiopian food lovers ,very clean,Authentic ,delicious Dishes and a very friendly staff highly recommend this place. !!!!!! read more

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Jamie B.

118

9 years ago

A friend referred me to this place knowing I love Ethiopian food. When I first walked in the door I immediately felt like it was going to be a great meal. Beautiful decor and great vibes set the mood for a delicious dinner with my girlfriend. We enjoyed the lentil samosas and vegetarian combo, which was completely vegan!!!! Huge plus since we're both vegan. The portions were very generous and no matter how much I wanted to keep eating, we still had a to go box. Highly recommend this place for delicious Ethiopian food in the East Bay. read more

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Elizabeth G.

9 years ago

lemat is one of the very best ethiopian places i have ever been to, and the neighborhood is full of amazing choices. they nail both veggie and meat options, which seems like a rarity. i would gladly eat anything on the menu, although their buticha is simply on another level. if someone offered to replace my inferior human blood with lemat's buticha, i would probably turn them down but not before making a large pros and cons list. the staff doesn't seem to feel compelled to do the common american performance of being delighted to serve you, and i have so much respect and admiration for that. it's actually very embarrassing that my sorry white butt doesn't want to eat the red lentils, and i appreciate someone who will sit with me in that shame and still let me replace them with buticha or atakilt wat. i love you, lemat!! please let me order like, a full entree-sized serving of the buticha. i understand why you charge $6.50 for a little scoop of it, it's totally fair, but i would love the opportunity to order a full party platter of it when the need arises. read more

Business owner information

Gezahegn M.

Thank You!!!!

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Karen A.

8 years ago

The Atakilt (cabbage and carrots) is heavenly and is my favorite of any of the six Berkeley/Oakland restaurants I've tried. Thumbs up in general for the vegetarian sampler-- not too greasy, not too salty, lovely flavors, and includes mitten shiro (Ethiopian "hummus"). Lovely atmosphere/ decorations, and popular with Ethiopians. Solid choice. read more

Business owner information

Gezahegn M.

Thank you!

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Carol J.

132

8 years ago

I have never had a more memorable ethnic meal! The atmosphere and service were great and the food was superb! This is the best Ethiopian place I've been to (and I've tried a few here in the city!) Definitely worth the drive to Berkeley! read more

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Conni M.

124

8 years ago

We catered from here for a party of 35 people and everyone loved the food. Everything was super tasty and delicious and many people had second or third helpings. Several guest asked for the restaurant's name and location. The owner/manager and the chef, his wife were super pleasant and wonderful to work with. Food was prepared and ready at the agreed to pick up time and they provided us with an extra dish we did not know we were getting. We won't be having as large a party for a while, but we will definitely be back to eat at the restaurant! read more

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Kayte R.

8 years ago

Wonderful. Atmosphere is wonderful for a family dinner where great food and good conversation abound. The veggie combo is delicious and the teff injera is perfect. read more

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Emma R.

7 years ago

The food was amazing, authentic and super flavorful. We loved the whole cultural experience that the owner Gezu gave us beyond the food....very hospitable, warm and homely......even the fabulous Ethiopian coffee was served the traditional way with incense read more

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Jan Z.

Elite 19

133

345

9 years ago

Really delicious food - the flavorful and tender lamb, oh my soul, and the veggie combo, amazing. The injera here has a good nutty taste to it, I think, and it was superb. Really awesome decor and ambiance - I loved the woven baskets hanging from the ceiling. And the service was friendly. Easy to find parking on the side streets around the area. read more

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Karen H.

Elite 17

406

9 years ago

I tried this place for the first time with some friends. There are so many Ethiopian restaurants to choose from, this happened to be new and in my neighborhood. I still prefer Cafe Colucci or Cafe Romanat. In comparison, I prefer the smaller, cozier dining area and larger portions you can find at the other places. I agree with another reviewer that the injera was not sour enough and a bit cold. The waitress was nice. read more

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Heather B.

8 years ago

Got the veggie plate. Loved the gf injera. Nice, tasty array of different dishes, but wished the food was a bit spicier. Good service, but the price was a bit high for the portion size. read more

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Muriel V.

10 years ago

This place is amazing!! I had the lentil sambusa, beef tibs with the vegetarian sampler served with delicious injera. I also tried the STRONG traditional coffee, so delicious!! I HIGHLY recommend the beef tibs!! They were amazingly seasoned with the perfect amount of spice! MMMmmm!! The service was excellent and fast and they were even willing to charge my phone behind the counter. The traditional vibe is beautiful and the space is open, clean and aesthetically pleasing. read more

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Sari W.

8 years ago

SO delicious! Love this place for take out. Haven't dined in but the takeout was amazing!

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Ganesh R.

8 years ago

Good Ethiopian, all their anjira's are gluten free. It tastes amazing would definitely repeat read more

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Terry T.

187

8 years ago

This is the best Ethiopian experience outside of ethiopia. The ambiance service and experience is exceptional. Try out the coffee ceremony too. read more

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Pierre T.

7 years ago

Lemat's food is succulent (wonderful kitfo), the staff is extremely friendly, the decor is beautiful AND the Friday band is basically three virtuoso jazz players riffing for hours. We are talking Carl Lockett, Calvin Keys and Lloyd Gregory, Jazz legends. The most wonderful dining experience in Berkeley. read more

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Page 5 of 7

3212 Adeline St
Berkeley, CA 94703
South Berkeley
Directions
(510) 430-2717
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://www.lemateats.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Lemat open?

Lemat opens at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Lemat close?

Lemat closes at 9:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Lemat is closed on Sunday.

Mon-Sat 5:00 PM - 9:30 PMSun Closed

Payment methods

Does Lemat take credit cards?

Yes, Lemat takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Lemat have catering options?

Yes, Lemat does have catering options.

Does Lemat have a drive thru?

No, Lemat does not have a drive thru.

Does Lemat have a happy hour?

Yes, Lemat has a happy hour.

Does Lemat serve alcohol?

Yes, Lemat serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Lemat have TVs?

Yes, Lemat has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Lemat have bike parking?

Yes, Lemat has bike parking.

Does Lemat have outdoor seating?

Yes, Lemat has outdoor seating options.

Does Lemat have parking?

Yes, Lemat has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Lemat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Lemat is wheelchair accessible.

Does Lemat have free WiFi?

Yes, Lemat has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Lemat Ethiopian Restaurant is widely regarded as one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in the Bay Area, known for authentic Ethiopian food prepared with care, depth, and tradition. Celebrated for its best vegetarian and gluten-free options, Lemat pairs bold flavors with the best service and a warm, inviting setting. With a space that’s great for large groups, a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere offering the best ambiance, and a thoughtfully curated bar often praised for the best cocktails, Lemat has earned its reputation through years of consistency and community trust.

History

Established in 2016.

Embark on a journey through time at our family restaurant, a haven for health-conscious diners. Rooted in a legacy of family values, LEMAT was born from a deep desire to provide nourishment that speaks to both body and soul. Drawing inspiration from the richness of our heritage, we've meticulously curated a menu with family recipes and championing locally sourced ingredients, honoring the bond between land and table. LEMAT stands as a testament to the essence of celebration. From life's precious milestones to professional achievements, our welcoming space has witnessed countless joyous occasions. It's a place where families come together to relish unforgettable moments and colleagues gather to forge stronger connections. As you dine, you're invited to immerse yourself in the captivating history of Ethiopia, the cradle of mankind. Join us in a celebration of life, health, and the enduring bonds that tie us all. Your journey through time and taste awaits at LEMT

Meet the Business Owner: Gezahegn a.k.a GZ M.

Lemat Ethiopian Restaurant is a wellness-focused dining destination in Berkeley, California, offering authentic Ethiopian cuisine rooted in tradition, nourishment, and community. Known for its teff-based injera, a naturally gluten-free, iron-rich ancient grain, Lemat features vibrant vegan, vegetarian, and meat dishes thoughtfully prepared to balance flavor, nutrition, and cultural integrity. Lemat was founded by GZ, a globally respected Quality & Compliance expert with over 30 years of leadership in biotech and pharmaceutical regulation and the founder of GZ 21st Century GXP Auditing Services. Guided by his belief that food is medicine, GZ brings scientific rigor together with cultural heritage to shape a dining experience that goes beyond a meal. Through this blend of science and tradition, Lemat offers more than food—it brings healing, culture, and community to the table.

Lemat Reviews in Other Languages

Japanese
1 Review

Ask the Community - Lemat

Is Lemat definitely closed on Sundays?

Open for breakfast and brunch between 9:00 AM _ 12:00 PM . Also open for big private events on Sundays. Minimum of 50 people and advance request needed.

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Is there usually a wait on Saturday during lunch?

We offer breakfast/brunch and dinner

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Was interested in this restaurant on a walking around Piedmont Avenue and liked the sign that…read moreshared some of its vegetarian menu. We tried the faux beef and broccoli and general Tsaos faux chicken as well as the pineapple faux ham fried rice. The food was delicious. The service was helpful and quick. The space was welcoming. It had plenty of seating and it was decorated with a lot of creativity and care. Check it out and try some amazing vegetarian and vegan food!

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Mshm0ney _.

2 years ago

If you're craving an authentic Ethiopian experience, look no further than Lemat Restaurant. From the moment you step in, the vibes are incredibly welcoming, transporting you to the heart of Ethiopia.The menu boasts a delightful array of authentic dishes, each bursting with flavor and prepared with care. But what truly sets this place apart is the exceptional hospitality. The staff goes above and beyond to make you feel at home, ensuring that every visit is a memorable one. So, if you're in the mood for a truly enriching dining experience, Lemat Restaurant is the place to be! read more

Nuhamin T.

Elite 24

2 years ago

This Ethiopian food spot is decent overall. While it's not my go-to choice when I'm craving Ethiopian cuisine, it still offers a satisfying meal. The inconsistency in food quality is the main drawback for me--I prefer not to take the gamble. However, the pricing is fair for the current era. On the upside, the ambiance is exceptional; it's hands down the best-looking Ethiopian restaurant I've come across. It truly transports you to Ethiopia with its authentic atmosphere. read more

Roger S.

4 years ago

Lovely room, really pleasant friendly informative service - our waitress even showed us a video on her phone how injera is made, and explained that most teff (grain) comes from near Dallas. All this and really, really first-rate food. Loved it! We were there the same night as Daron C. (actually saw him and his wife as shown in their photo) so Lemat must have been on a roll - probably as usual, to judge by the reviews Thanks for a lovely meal and evening. read more

Gabriel A.

8 years ago

This place really grew on me. I'm used to eating at Ensarro and Cafe Colucci and Lemat flavors are unique, so at first I was maybe not as excited because I was holding it to different expectations. However Upon returning a few times I've really come to prefer Lemat over Cafe Colucci and would say that I would definitely come here anytime. read more

Fesseha A.

10 years ago

Lemat Ethiopian in Berkeley Gorgeous and authentic decor Elegant set up Vegetarian combo to die for Kitfo amazing.We tried almost the whole Menu since they opened and every item is perfect And we have had our own Ethiopian restaurants in SF and Ahadu in Oakland. The owners are also very professional. read more

Estifanos G.

10 years ago

My rating is according to what I know being born and raised where everything you see inside is imported from! The food is so great! Very delicious! I love this place! Every thing you is so traditional and different! Perfect palace of all the Ethiopia restaurants in the Bay Area! Keep it up!! read more

Ocean J.

6 years ago

I want to help this restaurant because I know how tough times are right now. But I have been there many times and the food is just amazing. And the owner even talked to us and he is really nice! We will support you now and will be back once you open! read more