Authentic Ethio African Spices image

Authentic Ethio African Spices

Restaurant Ethiopian restaurant

Tiny, unfussy restaurant offering traditional Ethiopian cuisine, including many vegetarian options. People often mention Ethiopian, service, restaurant, time, owner, great, delicious, amazing, good, friendly,


Address

1740 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85006

Website

authenticethioafrican.com

Contact

(602) 252-2286

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (524 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Monday: 11 AM to 9 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Ethiopian (27) service (22) restaurant (20) time (16) owner (15) great (14) delicious (13) amazing (12) good (11) friendly (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Paul H. 1 year ago on Google
    A very nice break from the norm. I went with a few friends that hadn't experienced Ethiopian food before. My friends gave rave reviews. They were a little light on staff, but the food was worth the wait. I would recommend going with a group and ordering a platter to share. Very delicious food. Well worth the drive and the wait time.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J L. 4 years ago on Google
    Update* 08.23.28 I finally ate here, and the food does not disappoint! Everything was delicious, by far the best Ethiopian in Phoenix! The servings are generous, flavors authentic, and the couple that owns this establishment puts much thought and love into their food. Hands down the best spot! Also, I would have added a photo, but we cleaned the entire platter - good sign, I suppose :) I bought injera here (5 in a pack) and got the chance to chat with the owner. It’s a family owned spot, he and his wife run it and it’s cozy. Unfortunately, I didn’t eat here, but I asked some ladies who were eating how the food was and they said it was amazing - it looked and smelled amazing too from where I was standing. The servings were also generous. I’ve been to four other Ethiopian places in Phoenix and the surrounding area, and this place definitely looks like it knows what it’s doing as far as cooking goes. I’m definitely going to come back and try a few dishes here. I would add that being patient is important since they’re running both front and back of house, but once you chat with the owner and see the care they have in their food it’s definitely worth going to.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fernando 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best in town! Been coming here for a couple of years, they never let me down especially w veggie options. the owner and his wife are super friendly and welcoming. also, love the remodel!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chachi R. 10 months ago on Google
    This was delicious! It was my first time trying Ethiopian food so we got the 2 meat and veggie plate (for two) along with the vegetarian option for two. We wanted to try many different ones and she recommended it. I was floored! The flavors were all so unique and inviting. The location itself is small but beautifully decorated. You cannot go wrong trying this place out!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 katrina m. 7 months ago on Google
    I've had my eye on this restaurant for some time, and I decided to use my birthday as an excuse to make the drive and try it out with my husband. This gem did not disappoint! The food is definitely worth the small wait. The customer service was amazingly friendly, and the overall vibe was super relaxing. I will definitely be back for more!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gamers Rise U. 4 years ago on Google
    Very nice food at a good price
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 lee g. 2 years ago on Google
    A little short staffed on a busy day like a Sunday afternoon but be patient with them. It is worth the wait. The food comes out aromatic, fresh, and healthy. One of the best Ethiopian places around…I have tried several and this one gets repeat visits over many of the other ones in Phoenix.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ben H. 10 months ago on Google
    First time trying this place and I know it will not be my last. We had 3 people and ordered the Meat Sampler Combo and Vegetarian Combo w/4 sides to choose from. There was plenty of food to eat with some leftovers. The staff was quite nice and checked in on us throughout the experience. Nice ambience and decor.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Zee 2 years ago on Google
    Delightfully delish. Food came out hot and tasty, took the waiters' suggestion, and got the platter. There are only 4 stars because we waited about 30 minutes to get our food. Of course, everyone is short-staffed these days. I think it was worth the wait.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anna K. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the most unassuming place ever from the outside! Once you go in you’re transported to Ethiopia through the thoughtful decor. They have these beautifully hand carved chairs in the middle, quite a few booths and some high top tables. I had a Sambusa Yemser (lentils) for an app and the Meser Wot and Yesuf Fit Fit. The food was amazing and super affordable. It’s served on a traditional Injera (Ethiopian spongy pancake). You use the Injera to dip into the dishes and eat the traditional way without utensils. The staff was incredibly attentive and were super friendly. I’ll definitely be back! PRO TIP- huge parking lot and entrance via the back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Danni C. 3 years ago on Google
    I am obsessed. All of the food was flavored so nicely, I couldn't stop smiling while I was eating it. Very good prices, filling, and they have a good amount of vegan options!! The employees are super sweet as well
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jesse B. 4 years ago on Google
    I recently stumbled across this place about a month ago when I saw its 4.9 rating and I've been here a couple times since. My only question would be, which person seriously gave this place 4 stars? Everything about this place is simply sublime: it's all made fresh from scratch (for this reason be a little patient - sometimes it may take about a half hour or so to come out) and the flavors are as good as you will find anywhere in the area period, not just for Ethiopian. Many of you will drive by this place on a busy road without giving it any thought because of its relatively unappealing exterior on a busy, somewhat shady road. However, us foodies know that this is EXACTLY where the true gems are hidden. Do yourself a favor and stop in, this is some of the best food you will have in quite some time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jamal Y. 4 years ago on Google
    Don’t let the location fool you and parking can be a headache, there is parking lot behind the building. First this restaurant will serve fresh, deliciously prepared authentic Ethiopian food and leave you satisfied. This is an important note because the food is not prepared a night before but right when ordered. Expect some time as food is prepared. The service is amazing, the owner is friendly, inviting and willing to answer questions and accommodate your special request. He enjoys talking with customers and sharing his passion for his culture and cuisine. The food is top quality, I’ve never come here once and tasted a drop in quality in the food served, this place has consistent quality food that always taste fresh and never disappoints. I come here easily 3 times a week and I’m happy to spend money here, the price of the meals are very cheap considering the quality and specialization of cuisine. This place does absolutely 0 marketing or promotions, their prices are really competitive and food delicious a really amazing treat for Phoenix.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan f. 2 years ago on Google
    This was better than I could have hoped for! It was my partners first time having Ethiopian cuisine. From the excellent service provided by our server and bartender( Isis )to the owner-made scrumptious food and in-house made baklava, the experience and ambiance made this a perfect evening! It was a fairly busy night, Valentine's, but Isis made sure to take care of everyone! Thank you for an amazing establishment; we'll be back very soon!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Logan K. 3 years ago on Google
    Cancels delivery orders for no reason. Not kind on the phone and they get annoyed when asking about dietary restrictions. All around the best place to avoid. There are many other great African food in the valley & they will treat you with respect.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chandra F. 7 months ago on Google
    This was our first time experiencing Ethiopian food. So happy we took the leap and tried it. Food - 10/10! DELICIOUS!! There was not one thing that we did not enjoy. Everything was so flavorful and paired perfectly with the tangy injera bread. Fun and culturally fitting for the restaurant. Atmosphere - 9/10. There is nothing fancy about this restaurant. It is decorated with appropriate decor as you might expect. Service - 5/10. Our first trip in had less than stellar service. The server was young and didn't seem to know the menu well and had challenges answering questions about items. It took long periods of time to get things and we were not checked on at all during our meal. We had to ask for our check and then I had to go up to the bar to ask for my credit card back. Dining experience was a lengthy one due to the lack of attention while there. I did go back and there was a different pair of servers there that were much more attentive and helpful. Would not let the inconsistencies in service deter from this place. Still would HIGHLY recommend!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nancy B. 4 years ago on Google
    What a find! During a Google search for vegetarian fare this fine neighborhood restaurant popped up. We enjoy Ethiopian food and were delighted that this restaurant was a mere 2.5 miles from our hotel. The vegetarian platter was scrumptious! We feasted on delicious carrots, potatoes, lentils, yellow split peas, and green beans plus a lovely salad served with plenty of injera. The food was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Diners surrounding us were also expressing their appreciation for the excellent food in this unassuming little restaurant. The friendly service and outstanding fare made dinner an A++ experience!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew 6 months ago on Google
    We love Ethiopian food. Anywhere in the world we travel we seek it out. Ethio really hit the spot. Nice vibe, massive portions and friendly staff. We ordered a veggie 4 entree platter and a 2 meat + 2 veggie platter. Everything was tasty with good deep flavor and a bit of spice. The berbere and turmeric sauces were fresh and vibrant.

  • 5/5 Vaibhav K. 3 months ago on Google New
    Good food, great service and a nice atmosphere, definitely recommend ordering the coffee!

  • 5/5 Jose Luis S. 4 years ago on Google
    Hidden gem. Try it now.

  • 5/5 bharath c. 4 years ago on Google
    Super delicious

  • 5/5 Ashley T. 4 years ago on Google
    Very clean restaurant with delicious food! Every family has their own taste to Ethiopian cuisine & this family has mastered it. I absolutely love all of the employees here. They are very kind & respectful. They are truly gracious that people chose to eat at their restaurant. It’s a hidden gem & a must try! Thank you Ethio Afro Spices :)

  • 5/5 Hannah Daniel W. 4 months ago on Google
    Great place to eat. Beautiful environment with interesting art. Service was fantastic. Clearly family run. Food was also exceptional and so reasonably priced (I’m from the east coast and the same meal would be at least double). Definitely go!

  • 5/5 anisa g. 4 years ago on Google
    Best Ethiopian food! Sweetest owner, super helpful and friendly. Healthy, vegetarian and gluten free options. Probably my favorite restaurant in Phoenix.

  • 4/5 Ak A. 3 months ago on Google New
    You enter the restaurant, and you can feel the vibe! Love how nicely they have done the interiors to bring out the culture. The food was top-notch. If there were more staff, the service would have been a little faster. I went on Christmas eve, so don't know if it was because of that. Overall, great! I would highly recommend this place to anyone who would want to try authentic Ethiopian cuisine.

  • 5/5 Baroness K. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing food.. Amazing service. Yummmm

  • 5/5 Kouka W. 5 months ago on Google
    My sister and I came here on our way back from the Grand Canyon, the food was spectacular and fantastic value! Beautiful interiors. Definitely stop by if you can! The staff are lovely as well!

  • 5/5 Thomas P. 1 year ago on Google
    My first time trying this style of African cuisine. It is delightful and different. I had several things to try and none of them disappointed. It was much nicer and thematic inside than I had imagined. Overall I would most certainly recommend trying this place out. The service and food was fantastic. I will be back. What a fun experience.

  • 4/5 RGK K. 1 year ago on Google
    Really loved this place. It was our first time there. They also have gluten free injera. We went right when they opened But they were out of the chicken curry dishes which we were disappointed about:( as my family doesn’t eat beef and that’s the Only meat option they had in terms of the gravy dishes. They did have chicken tibs. The food was amazing. Would definitely go back there. The decor is one of the prettiest I have ever seen at any Ethiopian restaurant. I wish they had told us when we called in the morning to check on GF injera about running out of their chicken dishes the day before. Also the food took about 45 minutes to come. It’s a 25 minute drive from our place, but we would definitely go again but will call before hand to check on the dishes they do have. 🙏

  • 3/5 Shannon H. 9 months ago on Google
    The food is excellent. I've eaten here many times over the years, ever since I first saw them on Check, Please. The owner is a wonderful person, very kind, helpful and personable. However, the other staff are not polite. The last two times I've gone, we were not even greeted for well over 20 minutes despite there being no one else in the restaurant. After giving our drink orders, another 20 minutes went by before we got our drinks and our food order was taken, it took another 20 min to receive our food. Many times the waitress walked past us, looked at us, and never came over to us until we waved her over. She didn't seem slightly interested in helping us. We were almost going to walk out, but my mom specifically wanted this for her Mother's Day lunch and I was so annoyed at how we were treated. I waited to write this review because it makes me sad to write it. For the owner, I do not know the waitress' name, but we went the day before Mothers Day, so whoever was scheduled that day was the one who helped us. We do want to return at some point so I hope this is addressed. We did not feel welcome!

  • 5/5 Chanelle “Nelle” D. 1 year ago on Google
    The food was amazing! Service was fantastic! My server helped me pick out the choices of food and she did not disappoint. I will for sure be going back!

  • 5/5 Prophet C. 9 months ago on Google
    I don't usually try things on a whim but today I'm glad I did. The food was delicious, the owner was very welcoming, the prices were great and the overall vibe in the restaurant was very comfortable. I recommend.

  • 5/5 Jasmine B. 8 months ago on Google
    So bomb. It all the flavor keys I was looking for. Brought me back to my childhood. Loved it! Andu was a perfect host and made my drink taste amazing as well. All around great service.

  • 5/5 Y. H. 1 year ago on Google
    Enjoyed the atmosphere, food was reasonably priced. The recommendation of the food choice was excellent. The fruit drink that they make in 3 different flavors was the best, not too sweet and it is from real fruit. Will visit again.

  • 5/5 Carter S. 4 years ago on Google
    Best food in the neighborhood, friendly service, super charming restaurant. I can not recommend this place enough, try their spicy chicken stew.

  • 5/5 Jacqueline R. 11 months ago on Google
    Came here for the first time for Mother's Day. We called ahead to make sure they had gluten free injera. The food is delicious. So much flavor! It's cooked to order so don't expect to get your food in 15 minutes, but I promise it's worth the wait! The decor is beautiful and the service is great. They are allergy conscious. Best part was finding out the carrot cake was both gluten free and vegan!

  • 5/5 tesfaye m. 3 years ago on Google
    # 1 in all aspects love this place

  • 5/5 elchappell c. 3 years ago on Google
    Great staff, Good service

  • 5/5 Eyerusalem A. 3 years ago on Google
    I often order out from them and hands down they have best Ethiopian food in PHX and great customer service.

  • 5/5 Yoni M. 3 years ago on Google
    There food is so so good I give them full 5* compare to other Ethiopian restaurant

  • 5/5 William H. 4 years ago on Google
    Little family restaurant with genuine African flavors. The ambient is simple, owner is very attentive, and if you're for a quick, inexpensive, lunch this is the shortest trip to Africa you will ever take. I have to say I wish the neighborhood was better for evenings but for lunch it is great. This place is so tasty. I love all the vegan items on the menu. Plus it's fun to take friends here. Oh and it's reasonably priced. If I could go here all the time I would but it's far from my apartment.

  • 5/5 evelyn v. 4 years ago on Google
    I've never had ethiopian food before and i feel bad for my past self! Amazing food! Great spices and portions. The homemade cottage cheese is bomb! The lentil stuffed pastries were so delicious i almost stole my partners. They have to go options, delivery, and drive up! I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a new food experience!

  • 5/5 Ivan R. 5 years ago on Google
    Little family restaurant with genuine African flavors. The ambient is simple, owner is very attentive, and if you're for a quick, inexpensive, lunch this is the shortest trip to Africa you will ever take. I have to say I wish the neighborhood was better for evenings but for lunch it is great.

  • 5/5 Mel A. 4 years ago on Google
    Visiting dear friends from Houston, TX and we were all craving Ethiopian. There were several choices in the area, but the past reviews was worth a visit. This place was cozy and has lots of pickup orders during our stay. The food was phenomenal and a pleasant surprise. My wife had the meat/veggie sampler plate and the beef tips and chicken with the side orders were so flavorful. Our friends had the veggie sample dish and they live in the area and frequent other Ethiopian restaurants. They mentioned this was far better than others they have gone to. Sure, service was slower than expected, but owner was kind and friendly. The food was worth the wait... Highly recommended and exceeded our expectations!

  • 5/5 Elise S. 6 years ago on Google
    My family loves Ethiopian food, so we were excited to try this little place. My mom and I ordered the meat and veggie sampler to split, and we finished the entire thing in 20 minutes. Flavorful and delicious, and very reasonably priced. (And they have gluten-free options so everyone can get in on the goodness!) 10/10 recommendation.

  • 5/5 Hannah 3 years ago on Google
    The food was delicious and the service was wonderful. They have a lot of great vegetarian options. We can’t wait to come back and try more dishes!

  • 5/5 Yirgalem T. 3 years ago on Google
    It's sooooo good! Please don't ever change the recipe to the injera 🌾💞🌾 Luwam Berhane

  • 5/5 Negatu M. 3 years ago on Google
    Authentic. Delicious.

  • 5/5 Dave R. 3 years ago on Google
    This is great Ethiopian food. Especially if you're vegetarian, you won't be disappointed!

  • 5/5 briana e. 3 years ago on Google
    Great deliciously balanced food & customer service

  • 5/5 Amber P. 3 years ago on Google
    FLAVORFUL, SAVORY, DELICIOUS veggie and meat dishes. This has been one of my favorite finds in Phoenix. If your body and gluten don't get along, call ahead and ask if they have/can make the injera gluten free! When I order a veggie platter entree, I eat REAL WELL for 2-3 meals (I LOVE THAT for dishes I order out for)

  • 5/5 tdljld 4 years ago on Google
    I love this place! The food is great and the owner is so nice. He will tell you if you are ordering too much food, explain the menu and is helpful.

  • 5/5 Rage G. 3 years ago on Google
    Very good food

  • 5/5 El U. 3 years ago on Google
    Incredibly good selection and flavors! We live and Flagstaff but make it a point to stop in every time we are in the valley. The owner is suuuuuuuper kind, patient and eager to explain any dish on the menu for your possible enjoyment. Do yourself a favor even in this crazy pandemic world we are living in and order a meal to-go!

  • 5/5 aboubak c. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food 😋 👌

  • 5/5 Opal G. 3 years ago on Google
    Never disappointed. Food with a gracious smile.

  • 5/5 Samantha W. 3 years ago on Google
    Authentic food! Will go back, let me tell your I'm not from Ethiopia, but this food speaks the language of my heart... Just delicious!

  • 5/5 NightyAddictionX 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely food great job Andu! Ate here last week love the ethiopian food.🙂

  • 5/5 Tiffiny G. 3 years ago on Google
    The food is great, love it!!!!! Go try it!!

  • 2/5 Whitney C. 4 years ago on Google
    Can't say I enjoyed any part of my meal there. Maybe I ordered the wrong thing but I felt the food was not for me and the flavors were off.

  • 5/5 Samantha S. 4 years ago on Google
    Ethiopian food is hands down my favorite food ever. The owner is always friendly (I’m so sorry I don’t know your name), it’s a small “mom and pop”. The food is so amazing, I was finally brave enough to try kitfo- it was also amazing. The owner does a lot himself, including being the only server I’ve seen the several times I’ve been there - as such, service can be on the slow side. I’ve had an ordered item go forgotten once, but by the time we were done eating I was too full anyway; serving sizes are huge for the low price. I’ve gone once and they were out of 1-2 things, no big deal, again - small “mom and pop”. In my opinion, the food is worth it. Just read some of the other reviews, and dayum, I guess some Google interment strangers fancy themselves legit influential critics and deduct stars for a restaurant being BYOB (seriously, if you’re going to get Ethiopian food - mango juice. Always.) and for staff not knowing what items they would be interested in beforehand (Ethiopian servers are unqualified if not mind readers, I guess) that the restaurant has run out of. I have personally been criticized and complained about to higher ups for not being an omnipotent mind reader myself - not cool, people.

  • 5/5 Marcelino Q. 4 years ago on Google
    Good food and good vibes.

  • 5/5 Bisrat B. 4 years ago on Google
    Delicious food and amazing service! This is the place I eat when I plan to dine out of my place!

  • 5/5 Ben B. 4 years ago on Google
    One of the best Ethiopian restaurants in Phoenix and I only wish that they would open in Flagstaff because it would be busy all the time... In fact I would like to have them up here in Flagstaff so badly that I would help fund them!

  • 5/5 Martha G. 4 years ago on Google
    Delicious and REAL Ethiopian food 😋😋😋 and Great customer service

  • 5/5 Scott E. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent food and friendly service. My new hangout before a flight


Call (602) 252-2286 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Plenty of parking
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Halal food
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as Black-owned

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