The Twin Cities are home to one of the largest East African immigrant communities in the U.S., and Ethiopian dining here leans heavily into communal, injera-based platters meant for sharing. Several spots double as cultural gathering places, complete with live music and dancing.
Communal Platters & Live Music
Rather than individual plates, the classic Ethiopian meal here is a shared platter of stews scooped up with spongy injera bread — and at some Minneapolis spots, dinner comes with a full bar of Ethiopian beers and a dance floor to match.
Top Ethiopian Spots
Dilla's
Riverside neighborhood, Minneapolis • Traditional & specialty
Open seven days a week with an extensive menu of classic Ethiopian dishes and friendly service.
The Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant
Minneapolis • Cultural hub
Claims to be the city's first Ethiopian restaurant; features Eritrean dishes, a full bar with Ethiopian beers, live music, and a dance floor.
Bolé Ethiopian Cuisine
Como, St. Paul • Refined Ethiopian
Named after the Addis Ababa neighborhood the owners grew up in, recognized for exquisite, well-executed platters.
Selam Restaurant
St. Paul • Sambusas & platters
Open 15+ years, best known for its sambusas alongside traditional shared platters.
Demera
Minneapolis • Longtime favorite
A consistently top-ranked pick for classic Ethiopian dining in the city.
🏆 Our Picks
Best Overall: Demera - a longtime top-ranked favorite
Best for a Night Out: The Red Sea - live music, dancing, and Eritrean dishes
Best Refined: Bolé Ethiopian Cuisine - exquisite, well-executed platters
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Spin for Minneapolis EthiopianFrequently Asked Questions
What are the best Ethiopian restaurants in Minneapolis?
Some standout Ethiopian spots in Minneapolis featured in this guide include Dilla's, The Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant and Bolé Ethiopian Cuisine.
How do I find Ethiopian restaurants near me in Minneapolis?
Use ChooseMy.Food's free restaurant picker — set your location to Minneapolis, filter by Ethiopian, and spin the wheel for an instant pick from a top-rated nearby restaurant.
When's the best time to visit Ethiopian restaurants in Minneapolis?
Weekday evenings and early lunch hours typically mean shorter waits at popular spots. For weekend visits, consider going early or booking a reservation where available.