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Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar is highly praised for its authentic Ethiopian cuisine, warm ambiance, and friendly staff. The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, making it suitable for diverse dietary preferences. The fresh injera and traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony are standout features. Some patrons note that while the food is delicious, it can be slightly overpriced for the portion sizes.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar in Washington DC's Northwest neighborhood, a culinary gem that brings the authentic taste of Ethiopia to the heart of the city.

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar at 2429 18th St NW offers a delightful journey into traditional Ethiopian cuisine, celebrated for rich spices and unique textures. Food lovers, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers alike savor the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to dine on flavorful dishes such as the vegan sampler platter and tender beef tibs, each bursting with authentic spices and carefully balanced flavor profiles.

A dining experience that embraces community and culture

Step inside Tsehay to find a welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements the delicious Ethiopian fare. Whether you choose to dine indoors by the front window or enjoy the pleasant outdoor seating, the ambiance is enriched by historical Ethiopian photos and the warm hospitality of the staff. Guests appreciate the relaxed vibe where eating with your hands is not only encouraged but celebrated, making every meal an immersive cultural experience.

Tsehay’s menu highlights and dining options

The menu is a treasure trove of Ethiopian classics, featuring a variety of vegetarian and meat dishes. The vegan sampler lets you taste eight different classics in one meal, perfect for adventurous palates seeking variety and depth. Meat lovers can indulge in richly spiced beef tibs or the red lamb stew, highly recommended by regulars. Tsehay also caters to dietary needs with gluten-free injera and offers a full range of drinks including cocktails, beer, and wine to complement your meal.

 available to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Frequently asked questions about Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar

What are the operating hours of Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar?

 The restaurant operates from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Monday through Wednesday, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Thursday and Friday, and 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

 Yes, Tsehay offers outdoor seating for diners who prefer to enjoy their meal al fresco.

 Yes, the restaurant provides gluten-free injera for those with dietary restrictions.

 Yes, Tsehay is pet-friendly and welcomes well-behaved pets.

 Yes, reservations are accepted and can be made through their website.

Community sentiment and dining highlights

The community embraces Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar with overwhelmingly positive sentiment. Diners frequently commend the authentic taste, attentive service, and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The vegan platter, in particular, garners praise for its generous portions and delicious variety. While some guests note the pricing as slightly higher than other options in DC, the quality of food and memorable dining experience make it a favorite destination for those seeking true Ethiopian flavors.

Experience Tsehay today and immerse yourself in a vibrant Ethiopian culinary adventure that captures the spirit of Washington DC’s cultural diversity and rich flavors.

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United States

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Northwest Washington, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar invites you to embark on a culinary journey through the rich flavors and traditions of Ethiopian cuisine. This charming eatery is not just a place to dine; it's an experience that tantalizes the senses. Imagine stepping into a warm, welcoming space adorned with colorful Ethiopian art, where the aroma of spices fills the air, and the sound of laughter and conversation creates an inviting atmosphere.

At Tsehay, every dish is a celebration of flavor. Start your meal with the **vegan sampler**, a delightful assortment featuring eight Ethiopian classics, each bursting with spices and served on a traditional injera. The textures and flavors harmonize beautifully, making it a perfect introduction to Ethiopian cuisine. For meat lovers, the **beef tibs** are a must-try. Tender cuts of beef sautéed with onions and bell peppers create a savory dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients that reflect the authenticity of Ethiopian cooking. A fun fact: the name 'Tsehay' means 'sun' in Amharic, symbolizing warmth and hospitality, which is evident in the attentive service and inviting ambiance.

Conveniently located at 2429 18th St NW, Tsehay is surrounded by the vibrant energy of Adams Morgan, a neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines. After your meal, take a stroll through the area to explore local shops, art galleries, and parks. The nearby Meridian Hill Park offers a beautiful space for relaxation and a glimpse of Washington's history.

 Tsehay is celebrated for its authentic Ethiopian cuisine, particularly the vegan sampler and beef tibs.

 The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a warm atmosphere and friendly service.

 Explore the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood, filled with shops, art galleries, and Meridian Hill Park.

Whether you're a local or visiting Washington, DC, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Ethiopian culture. Gather your friends and family, and immerse yourself in a dining experience that promises to delight your palate and warm your heart.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmdnF1RjRBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO0S42sq3t4kRuGbHqie9UKU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmdnF1RjRBRRAB

Lovely Ethiopian restaurant in the heart of Admo! I visited Tsehay with a friend for a Saturday brunch / lunch, and we absolutely loved the food. I ordered their vegan sampler for one, and my friend got their beef tibs. The sampler was delicious and featured quarter-cup servings of eight Ethiopian classics, each of which was packed with flavor and various spices. It's hard to identify a single favorite, as my favorite thing about the vegetarian options is the ability to try everything at once and let the variety of flavor profiles and textures play off of each other and the spongey, slightly sour injera. My friend's beef tibs were also delightful, which tender and incredibly flavorful cuts of beef and sauteed onions and bell peppers.

We had a bit of confusion getting into the restaurant; we arrived at 12:30 and were surprised to find the door locked and the lights dimmed, which was odd given that Yelp / Google / their front door list their Saturday opening hour as 12 PM sharp. We waited outside for a bit as we pondered what to do before finally deciding to knock on the door; a server came to greet us a few minutes later and ushered us inside, where we were seated at a lovely table by the front window. Our server was super friendly but did not explain the cause of what had happened -- I'm not sure if the hours listed online are wrong, they forgot to unlock the door, or we were simply not strong enough to open the door. Either way, once we got inside, we had a lovely experience and thoroughly enjoyed the food, although I will admit it was slightly on the pricier end as far as DC Ethiopian food goes.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMczZ2d2h3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO0S42sq3t4kRuGbHqie9UKU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMczZ2d2h3RRAB

We recently dined at Tsehay and opted to sit outside, where the ambience was quite pleasant. The food was delicious, though a bit on the pricey side. Service was good and quite fast, adding to the overall positive experience. Located in a nice area, Tsehay offers a delightful dining atmosphere. We would definitely go again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEby1iX1l3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO0S42sq3t4kRuGbHqie9UKU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEby1iX1l3EAE

Love having the option to eat with your hands and not getting judged.  The ingredients and the food here can’t be beat.  This is probably the best Ethiopian food I’ve ever had and I can see how it keeps showing up on the Michelin guides year after year.  Ambiance is perfect for a small group of friends.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIM2RDblZnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO0S42sq3t4kRuGbHqie9UKU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIM2RDblZnEAE

The food at this Ethiopian restaurant in DC is fresh and delicious, bursting with authentic flavors. However, charging $3.50 for a tablespoon of extra dipping sauce feels a bit excessive. Overall, it’s a great spot, but that pricing is a little surprising!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURueGZ5VjBnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO0S42sq3t4kRuGbHqie9UKU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURueGZ5VjBnRRAB

I think this may be the best Ethiopian restaurant in DC. And that’s saying a lot, we have some amazing Ethiopian food here. But honestly, the vegan combo platter and the red lamb stew were so delicious. The vibe in the restaurant is really cute And it made for a really fun dining experience. And the cherry on top was our amazing server Valentina. She was so sweet and really took the time to help us with the menu. She’s the one that recommended the meat that we ended up getting and it was all amazing. Highly recommend this place, the food and service is phenomenal. I’m excited to go back and try more!

Top Ethiopian Cuisine at Tsehay Restaurant, DC

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar, named after the owner's late mother, Tsehay, has been serving authentic Ethiopian cuisine in Washington, DC, since 2019. The restaurant relocated to Adams Morgan in 2023 to a larger space, allowing for an expanded menu and increased seating capacity.

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar history overview 

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Adams Morgan, Washington, DC, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar offers a rich cultural experience that honors authentic Ethiopian culinary traditions. This family-owned gem was named after the owner's mother, Tsehay, a celebrated chef from Addis Ababa, whose passion for cooking inspired the restaurant's menu and ambiance.

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar opened its doors in 2019 in the Park View neighborhood of Washington, DC, quickly becoming a beloved destination for Ethiopian cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant's dedication to serving traditional dishes like shiro, misir lentils, and yebeg wat earned it a loyal following.

In 2020, the excellence of Tsehay’s authentic flavors and warm hospitality was recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide, cementing its status as a standout restaurant within the DC dining scene.

As its popularity grew, Tsehay relocated in 2024 to a larger, more spacious venue in the lively Adams Morgan district, allowing it to welcome more guests eager to savor its authentic Ethiopian dishes in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

At its heart, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar pays homage to the owner’s mother, Tsehay, whose culinary skills in Addis Ababa laid the foundation for the restaurant’s authentic menu. Guests can delight in traditional Ethiopian staples such as shiro—a flavorful chickpea stew, misir lentils cooked with aromatic spices, and the hearty yebeg wat lamb stew.

Tsehay’s menu stands out for its vibrant spices and diverse textures that offer an immersive Ethiopian dining experience, often enjoyed communally with injera, the traditional sourdough flatbread.

 such as shiro, misir lentils, and yebeg wat that showcase traditional recipes and bold spices.

 by naming the restaurant after Tsehay, the owner’s mother and chef in Addis Ababa.

 including accolades from the Michelin Guide and Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants list.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Live Music

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar offers an authentic taste of Ethiopia in Northwest Washington, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional dishes like injera and spicy stews. The restaurant also hosts live music events, making it a cultural hub for dining and entertainment.

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant And Bar

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Cocktails

Serves Vegetarian Food

Good for Children

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar offers an authentic taste of Ethiopia in Northwest Washington, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional dishes like injera and spicy stews. The restaurant also serves expertly crafted cocktails and Ethiopian beers, making it a cultural dining experience.

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine with a variety of traditional dishes, including vegan options, served in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Sambosa With Lentils Or Beef

Beef Short Ribs

Tomato Salad

Chuck's Spicy Salad

Lamb Tibs

Beef Tibs

Kitfo

Memo Special

Ye Beg Wet (Red Lamb Stew)

Ye Bere Alicha (Yellow Beef Stew)

Dinich Be Siga (Beef & Potato Stew)

Tsehay’s Special Blend Shiro

Misir

Gomen

Tikil Gomen

Fossolia

Key Sir

Kik Alicha

Tsehay’s Vegan Combination

Ye Belay (Superior)

Fried Whole Tilapia

Mushabek

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar Menu

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant Menu Highlights

Experience a vibrant journey through authentic Ethiopian flavors at Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Washington, DC. The menu masterfully combines traditional ingredients with rich spices, delivering a perfect balance of taste and texture that appeals to vegans and meat lovers alike. Each dish is thoughtfully served with freshly made injera, a soft and slightly sour flatbread that complements the bold profiles of the cuisine.

Begin your meal with enticing starters that set the tone for the feast ahead. The Gluten-Free Injera offers a delicate, teff-based bread alternative made from water and teff flour, perfect for those seeking a wheat-free option.

For a savory treat, try the Sambosa with Beef — crispy pastry pockets filled with seasoned beef, onions, and spices that deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Dive into the heart of Ethiopian cuisine with Tsehay’s mains, each crafted with tender cuts and vibrant spices. The Vegan Combination is a delightful medley featuring shiro, misir lentils, gomen, atkilt wot, tikil gomen, beet salad, and potato salad — a feast of textures and flavors that highlights the richness of Ethiopian vegetarian cooking.

Meat enthusiasts will appreciate the Ye Belay Superior and Memo Special, both showcasing tender beef infused with spiced butter, berbere, and mitmita. For a spicier kick, the Ye Beg Wat offers succulent lamb simmered in a fragrant red chili sauce and traditional Ethiopian spices.

Lamb Tibs presents a dynamic blend of lamb, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and spices sautéed to perfection, while the Fried Whole Tilapia is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, delivering a crispy, flavorful fish experience that’s a standout on the menu.

Complement your meal with Tsehay’s selection of drinks, including craft cocktails, beers, and wines. The restaurant also serves coffee, making it an ideal spot for brunch or a relaxing evening gathering. Whether dining indoors or enjoying the outdoor seating, the ambiance enhances the rich culinary journey.

 Vegan Combination, Ye Belay Superior, Ye Beg Wat, Memo Special, Fried Whole Tilapia, Lamb Tibs

 Selection of cocktails, beers, wines, and coffee

Experience the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia at Tsehay Restaurant & Bar in Washington, DC! Indulge in authentic dishes and lively atmosphere. Visit us today!

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar in Washington, DC

Washington Municipality

Traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony featuring freshly roasted beans and hand-ground preparation.

Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony

Enjoy live Ethiopian music performances on select evenings.

Live Music Nights

Available for private events and special occasions.

Private Dining Room

Discover Authentic Ethiopian Flavors at Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant And Bar in Washington DC  

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Northwest Washington at 2429 18th Street NW, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant And Bar is a must-visit destination for foodies and cultural explorers alike. This charming establishment brings a fresh and authentic taste of Ethiopian cuisine to the nation's capital, offering an immersive dining experience with a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for friends, families, and groups.

Start your day with Tsehay’s standout Ethiopian brunch, priced reasonably at $12. The brunch features traditional dishes like shiro paired with scrambled eggs and spiced fava-bean stew. This flavorful combination offers a delightful introduction to Ethiopian spices and textures, and is especially popular among those seeking vegan and vegetarian-friendly options. Guests rave about the variety of flavor profiles brought to life by the distinctive, slightly sour injera bread that accompanies every meal.

For those craving a deeply immersive Ethiopian dining adventure, Tsehay offers a prix-fixe experience at $25. This special menu includes a variety of sambosas, and either meat or vegetable platters, all complemented by traditional honey wine. The meal culminates with a ceremonial Ethiopian coffee ritual—an intimate cultural highlight that invites diners to savor the rich aromas and flavors of freshly brewed coffee in true Ethiopian style.

Beyond the exquisite food, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant And Bar is loved for its friendly staff and cozy ambiance—perfect for casual weekend brunches or lively dinners. The option to eat with your hands adds an authentic and fun touch to the dining experience, embracing Ethiopian traditions without judgment. Whether you choose to dine indoors near a sunlit window or enjoy the pleasant outdoor seating, Tsehay caters well to groups and families, welcoming all with a warm smile.

Full bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails

 to enjoy lovely weather and neighborhood vibes.

While Tsehay offers a remarkable culinary journey, a few visitor notes can enhance your experience. Arriving slightly after the listed opening time can prevent any confusion, as some guests have encountered unexpected door closures. The pricing is a bit higher than some other Ethiopian spots in DC, but the quality and authentic atmosphere make it worthwhile. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch or group dining, to secure your spot in this intimate and popular venue.

Experience the best Ethiopian food in Washington, DC

If you're craving vibrant spices, tender meats, and healthy vegetarian platters served with warm hospitality, Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant And Bar is your go-to spot in the nation's capital. Whether indulging in their flavorful brunch, savoring the prix-fixe feast, or simply enjoying the friendly, informal vibe, Tsehay offers a memorable gateway to Ethiopian culture and cuisine that food lovers and travelers won't want to miss.

District of Columbia

Discover Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar in Northwest Washington, DC, offering traditional Ethiopian dishes, vegan options, and a warm ambiance. Book now!

Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine in Washington, DC - Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar

Enjoy flavorful Ethiopian dishes at Tsehay in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC. Experience live music, traditional coffee ceremonies, and outdoor seating. Reserve today!

Explore Ethiopian Flavors in DC - Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar

Learn about Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar, serving authentic Ethiopian cuisine in Washington, DC since 2019, with a relocated spot in Adams Morgan for expanded service.

Tsehay Ethiopian Restaurant Menu Highlights

Starters to Ignite Your Appetite

Hearty Mains Bursting with Flavor

Beverages and Accompaniments

Cana

New York Grill

Bar del Monte