It's hard to have bad experiences at Ethiopian restaurants. The food is usually shared, the fluffy starch reminiscent of sourdough - S tier bread, plenty of veggie options, beans (lentils) that don't offend anyone, meat is usually a comforting stew, and it smells like chromakopia. Also yes this place is very good, it's not the best injera I've ever had but once it's mixed with anything it's fantastic. I don't love the sweet honey wine - but nice to try read more

I came here for dinner with my partner this week, and left well fed and satisfied. We LOVED our meal (we ordered a combination platter to share, with some veggie items, chicken, and red meat. To drink we had the spiced tea, and tea akri, both of which were delicious, and just what we needed on a cold and rainy night.) ---- Some things to note: 1). this venue is quite casual and student friendly. We felt a little overdressed for the more bohemian atmosphere, but that's not a bad thing! It had a great vibe. 2). I suspect that this would be a great venue to take a big group out for dinner seated in the patio area. 3). The large size and square shape of our table made leaning in to eat from the round platter a little tricky. 4). I thought, as noted in previous reviews, that the bread got a little soggy compared with when I've had it served to me in other restaurants. That said, *we scarfed everything down so fast and with such glee that we hardly noticed!!!* One of my new favorite places to eat. read more

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Shewhat stood out to me while perusing this year's Bay Area's Top Restaurants list. I saw 5/5 stars on yelp and I love Ethiopian food, so I knew that I had to try this spot. Our group drove a solid hour just to get here. And Shewhat did not disappoint. I'd have gladly driven even further because this is the definition of a 5-star spot. The service, the flavors, the experience, all of it. Incredible. Family style is the way to go here. We ordered the meat combo, the veggie combo, the shrimp tibsy, and the lamb tibsy. I won't even tell you what you need to order here. Why? Because everything is phenomenal. So If something looks good to you on the menu here, then just order it. I guarantee you that it'll be delicious. I've never been to Eritrea, but this meal made me feel like we got an "under the hood" peak into Eritrean culture. The bold spices, tender meats, melty vegetables, and refreshingly fermented injera made me forget that I was still in the U.S.. The owners here are incredibly kind and hospitable. They were shocked that we finished everything that we ordered. Truthfully, we could have eaten even more because the food was so bomb. Will I make the trek to Oakland again just to eat at Shewhat? Absolutely. 5/5 stars. No doubt about that! read more

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Had a meal here this past Friday and have been thinking about it since! We stopped by after a long hike at Mt Diablo, so we were starving and this meal was so warm, comforting, and satisfying. We ordered the lamb tibsy and lamb alicha. Their lamb is expertly prepared! No gaminess at all but had a robust lamb flavor. Not fall apart tender but still a welcomed texture. Everything else from the injera to the sides were also incredibly tasty, probably the best Ethiopian I've ever had. I absolutely loved how casual the service was! From what I could tell it was a two person team, one person cooking in the back and one person in the front. Our server was friendly and quick and overall just very relaxed, made us feel right at home. Only qualm I will say is patio seating gets a bit chilly and not much outdoor heating read more

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We were visiting the Berkeley campus on a Friday evening, but had just enough time to grab dinner at Shewat first. Surprisingly, it was dead quiet around 6 PM, but we had some great food (and watched a lot of takeout orders going out.) I've never tried Eritrean food but this seemed very similar to Ethiopian food that I've had before. We tried the Shewat Special, with Chicken and Spinach, Beef, Lentils, Veggies, and a lot of injera. It was more than enough food for 2 people, we took at least 1-2 meals of food home, and they were super nice and gave us extra injera to take home. The food was fantastic - flavorful and healthy, with strong tastes and a little spice. Be warned (in case you've never tried Ethiopian/Eritrean food) that the injera bread is soft and fluffy but fermented to rise, so it has a little sour tang to it which my kids do not like that much. And you will likely be eating a lot of it, as it is used as the base (literally - it's under all the food) for all the meals, plus the tool you will use (you'll eat with your fingers) to mop up the delicious veggies, meat and lentils. The leftovers I ate at home with a knife and fork, and I don't know if maybe you asked they might bring you utensils at the restaurant. But otherwise eating there is a messy but delicious exercise, so get lots of napkins. Enjoy! read more

Shewhat - Shewat Sampler - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

Decided to give Shewhat a try after seeing the raving reviews. We went on a weekday for dinner. It wasn't crowded. The backyard had plenty of tables. It was cozy and well-lit. The service was friendly and fast. We ordered the veggie combo. It was delicious and well-flavored. We were able to finish it between the two of us without feeling stuffed. The honey wine was refreshing but a bit too sweet. The Ethiopian beer was from a local brewery, not actually imported. read more

Shewhat - Veggie combi - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

Love the vibe and ambience of the place. Feels very cute and intimate. The food was so flavorful and the injera was perfect! Loved everything!! read more

Shewhat - Vegan sampler with beef tibsy - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

This was an amazing Ethiopian spot with the best nighttime outdoor ambiance, nice and efficient staff, and flavorful food. We added fish tibsy and okra into the meat and veggie combo, and it was perfect amount of food for 6 very full people! The injera was a bit too sour for me, but it paired really well with the stews. The lentils were my favorite veggie stews, and all the meats really shocked me because of how flavorful it all was. The beef, fish, and chicken and spinach were all super yummy and well spiced, and I loved all of them equally. The family style sharing and ambiance of fairy lights adds such a comforting atmosphere perfect for any chill but explorative dinner. You also don't have to worry about parking! There was a small but empty lot in front of their restaurant. On our way out, we almost hit the owner, but he was so nice that he smiled and waved. Love this place and the people! read more

Shewhat - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

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This was my first time trying Ethiopian food and I was super impressed by the style of food and all the FLAVOR! This place gets busy so make sure to make a reservation! This experience if best enjoyed family style so you can try more of the dishes. We had a group of 4 and ordered the veggie + meat sampler along with the Beef Tibsy and okra, and mushroom Tibsy. It is served with Injera, essential to enjoy the whole spread of tasty food. I also had the ginger tea which paired perfectly with the food. I think the standouts for me was the beef tipsy and the mushrooms! Staff was super friendly and welcoming and made excellent recommendations. The place had a very homey feel to it and it shows in the quality of the food and service. I can't wait to come back! read more

Shewhat - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

The service was lovely, welcoming and attentive. The food was delicious and beautiful to look at. The ambience is very comfortable and relaxed. read more

Our favorite Ethiopian joint. The owner/cook/hostess is a gem. So warm and inviting. She literally gave my wife her jacket to wear when she was cold. On top of being great people who create great vibes, the food is fantastic. Very flavorful. We usually such to the veggie and meat platters, which are both equally great. read more

Quite possibly the best Ethiopian food I've had in California. Service is excellent. Ambience is comfortable. Try the mushroom dish.

Great food, atmosphere, and community. All around a great experience and the women who run Shewhat make it even better!

Delicious yemisir wat. Great Mushroom tibsy. Vegan section is big. The tej goes great with the meal on a warm evening. Portions are huge. Expect to need someone to roll you away. The food here is so good you can't stop. read more

Amazing food, great vibes. Get the chef's special and a tea and you're set. Dkfbeis f

My favorite thing at this place was their house wine. Nothing I have tasted cones even close, wish I could buy this. House tea- also very good, looks like it was all spices, no tea leaves. The abby veggie combo was decent, really like the shiro, other veggies were okay. The engira was a bit too sour for me. read more

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Had a major craving for Ethiopian food. Came here because Brundo was not open on Sunday (even though Google said it was). Business owners need to check and correct these things. Must have been meant to be because the food was ***excellent***. Each component of the dish was thoughtfully and tastefully seasoned, able stand alone as their own dish on their own dish. When combined, it's a symphony. The injera is 100% teff and fermented for three weeks which makes it robustly flavorful and acidic serving as a solid base to compliment each element topping the inners. The okra and the collards have a depth of flavor not usually found in other Ethiopian restaurants. Lentil elements are vibrant and everything is finger licking good. Especially since you're SUPPOSED to eat with your fingers. Staff is very nice. When the owner who is also the chef found out we were from out of town he came out to visit, reminisce and inquire about old haunts he used to enjoy. They also have a store that sells Ethiopian and Eritrean ingredients that is a block away but not open on Sunday. We'll definitely be back and will ask for the "surprise me" dish that is not on the menu and allows him to be creative. Should you choose to take this encouraged suggestion: Tell him "the adult pickles and ice cream" patron sent you. read more

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Very inviting vibe!! Felt so comfortable and homey. The service was awesome as well. The woman that works there was very kind and considerate. The food was so good omg. I swear I almost reached enlightenment. Went there for my birthday and was not disappointed. read more

Armando did an amazing job -- extremely quick service & very kind man. Do not go anywhere else- convenient location & plenty of parking.

Shewhat Special is a must try!! Everything tasted delicious. Was also very excited to try an Ethiopian beer, Bedele! Service was attentive and had great recommendations. We sat outside during dinner service on a comfortable night, but space heaters are available if it's chilly. read more

Shewhat - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

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Eritrean food! Alex was very friendly and explained key differences between Ethiopian food and Eritrean. One of the key differences is Eritrean food is significantly lighter and uses less butter. Their bread is gluten free. The lamb dish was mild, but well seasoned for a perfect blend of light, gamey and earthy. Will definitely return. read more

Shewhat - Lamb allichia - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

Absolutely wonderful meal and experience, enjoyed to it's entirety! Thank you very much! read more

Shewhat - Sample Platter - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

We loved our meal here. We had the meat and veggie combo and it was absolutely delicious. Can't wait to come back! read more

Shewhat - Meat and veggie combo - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

This place is delish! Got the neat and veggie combo and it came with a delicious assortment of dishes. The injera is tasty and soaks up all the flavors! It came with beef stew and chicken with spinach. We also had red and yellow lentils and cabbage. I loved the collard greens too. Service was great and good was amazing quality. I'd go back! read more

Shewhat - Meat and veggie combo - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

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Went for the first time this week, and it was wonderful. Comfortable, friendly, unpretentious, super tasty food, generous portions. I look forward to going back. read more

We love Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine and have been looking for a replacement from our fave place in SF that closed a few years ago. The food was delicious and fresh and the service was awesome. We will be back! read more

Shewhat - Chicken Tibsy and Spinach and Merhaba Plate - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

It was first time trying Eritrean cuisine and I made the best decision picking this place! I sat at their cute patio, started with sambusas which was very crispy outside and soft inside. Alex was very welcoming, he treated me tea with my sambusa. Then I ordered beef tibsy & okra, so good!! Very tender and right amount of spice. This will be my new spot. read more

Shewhat - Sambusa, Beef Tibsy and Okra - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

The food is really good, restaurant was easy to find and easy to get a table for 6 o'clock, but it filled up around 6:30. The service was atrocious. I can't even list everything that was wrong. There were so many problems. Even at the end, the waitress thanked us for being patient, thinking that if she thanked us putting up with her poor performance, we were going to tip her better? Either way if you can put up with poor Service, then you can have a great meal. read more

For a small restaurant it was an amazing experience. The whole place was clean, the dishes filled with fresh ingredients, and the service was friendly, relaxed and yet attentive. Highly recommend - beef and mushrooms - yellow lentils - lamb - chicken tibs Don't forget to eat the Injera under the dishes! It's so very flavorful.! read more

Shewhat - We ordered five dishes (for mom and dad and 2 teenage boys). It was so good we ate every last bit! - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

We came here with friends from out of town. It was close to our home and thought why not. The entrance was a little challenging to decipher because of the structure of the building. It's as if you are entering into someone's back porch. Once we got seated we were brought menus and water. We ordered the typical family style platters with lamb, beef, with lentils, and collard greens. Everything was absolutely delicious and we'd definitely return. read more

I want to start by saying the best places to eat are always the "hole in the wall" restaurants. This was a cute little spot that you might miss if you're not paying attention. My husband and I love Ethiopian/Eritrean food and hands down this is by far the best place that we have been to from Sacramento to the Bay Area. They are able to customize your order for the spice level from not spicy to spicy and that's a big deal for me. I love to enjoy my food but can't eat food that is too spicy. Abby was great and the food came out perfectly. We ordered the veggie combo, beef and mushroom tibsy and beef crispy tibsy. The food was so flavorful and tasty that we ordered some to go. The service was amazing!! I plan to let my friends and family know about this excellent restaurant and will definitely be making a trip back soon. read more

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The best Ethiopian food I have ever had!! My friend and I shamelessly ate the entire Shewhat platter to ourselves. No doubt I will be returning with my friends and family. The servers are so kind to explain ingredients in the food since I was concerned about allergies, but was pleasantly surprised that I was able to eat everything! The food came quickly too. We enjoyed sitting in their nice space outside. read more

Shewhat - Shewhat sampler - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

i've only had ethiopian/eritrean food a couple times in my life but i can HANDS DOWN say that this has been my hands down favorite spot for it so far not only was the service stellar with some of the sweetest waiters, but the food was packed with so much flavor and texture that i was sold! we sat in their outdoor seating area which was so cozy and welcoming, and it almost felt like i was eating a family friend's housethis is definitely the kind of meal that brings people together. -- -- -- pictured: " shewhat special + added okra kelwa ($36.95+ ) // first off, the portions were HUGE, making it the perfect combo to share with friends! with a combination of flavorful vegetables, lentils, and meats, I had such a variety of food! my favorites were the beef tibs, yellow lentils, and yellow cabbage! it also came with a generous side of injera, which was a sour, fluffy bread that paired well with all the toppings. " sambusa appetizer ($9.95) // SO GOODfilled with brown lentils seasoned with eritrean spices, the hot pockets were so divine. -- -- -- definitely recommend checking them out for a delicious and welcoming meal! read more

Shewhat - a plate of food on a table - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

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BEST ETHIOPIAN FOOD EVER! The owner is so sweet and puts so much love in her cooking. Recommend a veggie AND a meat platter. read more

Shewhat - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

Delicious. Ate the veggie platter for two. Just the right amount. Even the lettuce was dressed well. read more

Shewhat - Abby's Veggie Combo - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

Excellent food, service, and ambiance. The food is ridiculously flavorful, I couldn't stop complimenting it. The service was great and the patio is a mix of romantic, chill, and cozy. All in all a great place and I look forward to another visit. read more

Shewhat - Shewhat Special - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

The service and food here is phenomenal. I made reservations for the evening and upon walking in it was very busy. There was no one in front to greet us. It seemed that the entire staff was busy getting orders out. I was acknowledged by servers walking around from afar telling me that someone will be with me shortly. A party of 4 then walked in after us and were seated immediately. When I asked the server why, he said that they were waiting for a 2 person table to be available. I then told him that we had reservations and have been waiting for 15 min. He said to wait one moment while he went to go tell who I believe was the manager. Once the situation was made aware, the manager came out and apologized and had us seated right away. Although frustrated in the beginning, the manager really made up for it by just acknowledging the issue and correcting it. Really went a long way for me. The food was amazing! We ordered the Shewhat Special which I would highly recommend if you're not sure what to order but want to taste a little bit of everything. The red lentils were soooooo friggin good with a nice amount of spice. The beef ziggni was also so buttery and tender with lots of complex spices. The sambusas had so much flavor, were nice and crispy and were served with a sweet chili sauce. Thank you for such a wonderful meal, Shewhat! read more

Easily the best Ethiopian food I've ever had. Literally writing this review mid meal while at the restaurant. Can't even wait to get home to give this place five stars. read more

Shewhat - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California

A step (or two) above the rest! I have eaten at every, yes, EVERY African, Eritrean, Ethiopian spots there are within 40 miles of where I live and Shewat is on top! And in my opinion it's not even close. Flavor! Salt! Black owned. Woman owned. Her daughter was doing homework at one of the tables when I walked in. Real family spot with smiles and such warmth that feels like you're at their home. A few tables inside and a really nice patio with lights and heat lamps too. By a happy accident I got to try more food than I had planned and it has me pumped to return! Crispy lamb tibs, gomen (greens), yellow & red lentils (kik alicha & misir wot), okra, atakilt (cabbage), shiro, even the salata (salad) was seasoned! Excellent! Overall - 9.6/10 - the only thing I would change is that for to-go they should consider putting the injera separate, wrap it some foil or plastic and put it outside of the container to keep the steam from making it soggy. I love supporting woman owned businesses but especially when they make you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. I drove about an hour to come pick up a bite from them and I am so glad I did! I've now posted about them on a number of my other platforms and can't wait until I can come back with enough time to dine in , grab some content and put that up on my tik tok. Everyone needs to know about this place! read more

Wow wow wow. This place is awesome. Amazing inside/outside patio. We had the Shewhat sampler and had our minds completely blown. My favorite was the greens, my partners favorite was the Sambusas and the beef. I don't think you can miss with this place. The owner was sweet and accommodating! Will be coming back read more

Shewhat - Shewhat Sampler, Sambusa, and Ethiopian/Eritrian beer! - Ethiopian Near Me - Oakland, California