Welcome to Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant
Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant, located in San Jose, CA, is a vibrant homage to Ethiopian cuisine, proudly owned by a Black woman. The passion for authentic flavors shines through in every dish, from the crispy Sambussa appetizers to the hearty Ye Doro Wot, a spicy chicken stew that warms the soul. With a diverse menu featuring numerous vegan and vegetarian options, Zeni caters to all palates. The inviting atmosphere, complete with outdoor seating and private dining, creates an inclusive space for families and groups alike. Experience Zeni’s delightful offerings, where cultural heritage and culinary innovation meet, making every meal a vibrant celebration.
Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings
Yum yum yum. Our daughters best friend who is Ethiopian had been our house guest for a week and we promised to go out for Ethiopian food so here we are. We ordered the vegetarian combo plate with chicken, lamb and beef side orders. Injera was delicious and so was everything on the platter. Will definitely go back.
There are very few ethiopian restaurants in bay area and this place is the only one that stands out. They have a whole vegetarian friendly menu options. The food was flavorful, perfectly spiced. Went with family for very late lunch and there was no line, got the table and service was fast.
Edit Guess who came back again??? lol we love this place ...
What beautiful ambience. Whats covered by a curtains is a beautiful cultural artifact. I love the furniture and all the seating. Feels very serene to be inside and seems great for gatherings as well. Definitely would love to come back. The vegetarian combo was really good and feels really healthy too!
Whenever I crave Ethiopian food, I head to Zeni. Their Vegetarian Combination is an awesome choice. I love their Yedoro Kitfo as well. Prior to Covid, they had live Ethiopian music on Friday nights. That is no longer the case. However, the overall ambience still deserves a 5 star rating. I highly recommend Zeni.
One of the best Ethiopian restaurant in the south bay and our only go to place. We love their veg combo and chicken kitfo! Zenis is always busy and they dont accept reservations but usually wait time is less than 15 min. ...
Was an amazing experience. Never expected this place in the middle of the city. I was taken there by someone who is from Ethiopia and according to them this is as close to the real thing one can get around here. But its designed and setup ...
Went here for lunch. The people here are welcoming and the restaurant has a cozy vibe to it. The server helped decide what to order. ...
Location
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1320 Saratoga Ave San Jose, CA 95129 United States Hotline: (408) 615-8282
Welcome to Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant, a vibrant haven for Ethiopian cuisine nestled in the heart of San Jose, California. As a proud black-owned and women-owned establishment, Zeni captivates diners with an authentic Ethiopian experience that goes beyond just food — it’s about bringing people together. With a casual ambiance and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for families, groups of friends, or even a romantic dinner.
Located at 1320 Saratoga Ave, Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant offers a myriad of utilities designed to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer takeout or want to dine in, they cater to everyone's needs with options for delivery, reservations, and even catering. Plus, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible and equipped with gender-neutral restrooms, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.
- Dog-friendly outdoor seating is available, allowing you to enjoy your meal in the company of your furry friends.
- With happy hour specials and a full bar, you're sure to find the perfect drink to accompany your meal.
- The free Wi-Fi and on-site parking further enhance the convenience, making it easy to stop by whenever you're in the mood for some delicious Ethiopian dishes.
Now, let’s delve into the menu, which is a delightful exploration of flavors and textures. The standout dish, Ye Doro Wot, features chicken drumsticks simmered in a fiery Berbere sauce, alongside hard-boiled eggs and housemade cheese. The tender meat, infused with spices, is an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
If you're leaning toward vegetarian options, don’t miss the Ye Misir Wot — a savory purée of red lentils, or the colorful and aromatic Atkilt Wot, a medley of boiled cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. Each bite represents a deeply warm experience that speaks to the heart of Ethiopian tradition.
Zeni also provides combinations that give you a taste of everything. The Vegetarian Combo is a feast for the senses, pairing lentils with collard greens and more. For meat lovers, the Meat Combination offers juicy lamb and succulent chicken, making it an ideal choice to satisfy those cravings.
Not only does Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant serve amazing food, but they do so with a strong sense of community and care. With a focus on inclusivity and sustainability, plus facilities for every kind of diner, you can savor your meal knowing you’re supporting a cherished local gem. The delightful fusion of culture and cuisine at Zeni is sure to leave a lasting impression — one dish at a time.
Stop by or call (408) 615-8282 to experience the best that Ethiopian food has to offer. Whether it's a family gathering or a casual evening out, Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant awaits to serve you a plate full of magic and tradition!
