Eritrea may not be on many people’s radar when it comes to food, but the country has a delicious and unique culinary scene that shouldn’t be missed. Eritrean food reflects a mix of influences from neighboring countries like Ethiopia and Sudan, as well as former Italian colonizers. If you’re a traveler looking for bold flavors, hearty portions, and exciting experiences, Eritrea won’t disappoint.
Traditional Dishes You Should Try
Zigni
Zigni is one of the cornerstone dishes of Eritrean cuisine. Think of it as a rich and spicy meat stew, often made with beef or lamb. The flavor comes from berbere, a blend of spices that includes chili powder, garlic, and fenugreek. It’s typically served with injera, the spongy flatbread you’ll see in almost every meal in Eritrea.
For an authentic experience, try a plate of Zigni at City Park Restaurant or Kokob Restaurant in Asmara. These spots do a great job of making sure the spice level is just right if you aren’t used to spicy food.
Injera
Injera is a staple not just in Eritrea, but also in Ethiopia. This sourdough flatbread is slightly spongy and usually made from teff, barley, or sorghum flour. In Eritrea, meals often consist of injera topped with different stews, vegetables, and meats like Zigni or tsebhi.
You can find fresh and traditional injera at Blue Bird Restaurant in Asmara, where it’s served with a variety of side dishes like lentils, spinach, and spicy meats. It’s a filling meal, perfect after a day of exploring.
Tsebhi Derho
This is Eritrea’s take on a chicken stew, simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and the iconic berbere spice blend. The depth of flavor is incredible, and you’ll often find it as part of a communal dish, served over injera so it can soak up all the rich juices.
Head to Albergo Italia Restaurant for some of the most well-seasoned Tsebhi Derho in the city. Don’t miss pairing it with some traditional Eritrean honey wine, known as mies.
Shahan Ful
If you want to try Eritrean street food, start with Shahan Ful. This is an incredibly popular breakfast dish made from mashed fava beans mixed with spices, onions, tomatoes, and sometimes eggs. It’s served with bread or sometimes over injera, and is one of the more affordable yet filling dishes you can find.
Get it fresh off the grill at Tivoli Café where locals often gather in the morning to enjoy this hearty dish with a side of tea or coffee.
Fit-Fit (also known as Fir-Fir)
This dish is all about giving new life to stale injera. It’s torn into pieces and stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and yes, more berbere powder. It’s a spicy, flavorful delight that’s super popular for breakfast or light lunches.
If you’re around Asmara, you’ll find some of the best Fit-Fit at Spaghetti & Pizza House. Don’t let the name fool you—they’re known for both Italian and traditional Eritrean dishes alike!
Street Foods to Sample
Ta’amiya (Falafel)
You might already know falafel, but Eritrean-style falafel, known as ta’amiya, is something you have to try. It’s made from ground chickpeas, seasoned with garlic, cumin, and coriander, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It’s sold on many street corners and typically served in small sandwiches with salad and spicy chutney.
For one of the freshest falafels in Asmara, stop by a stall outside Medebar Market, where locals often head to refuel as they shop.
Sambusa
Sambusa, similar to samosas in India, is a popular snack in Eritrea. These triangular pastries are filled with a spicy meat or lentil mixture and deep-fried until golden and crispy. You can’t walk the streets of Asmara or Keren without running into a vendor selling these little pockets of goodness.
Look for family-run stalls near the Asmara Market or in the street food markets of Keren. They’re crispy on the outside, piping hot inside, and ridiculously affordable.
Roasted Corn
If you’re looking for something simple but tasty, try roasted corn from street vendors. It’s a no-frills snack, just freshly roasted corn on the cob, seasoned with salt and sometimes a bit of chili powder.
Roasted corn is especially popular near Harnet Avenue. Grab one while you’re strolling along the streets, enjoying the city vibes.
Chopped Eggs with Berbere
Eggs play a role in many street dishes, and one favorite is chopped boiled eggs tossed with berbere and a few local herbs. It’s simple, spicy, and a great energy boost when you’re on the go.
Find these egg dishes near Bahti Meskerem Square, where the street food vendors offer them in little takeaway boxes.
Top Restaurants in Eritrea
The Spaghetti Tradition
You might be surprised to find great pasta in Eritrea, but the country’s Italian colonial history left its mark on the local cuisine. Spaghetti with tomato sauce, or spaghetti al burro (butter sauce), is widely available and popular. It comes Eritrean-style too: often with a spicy twist!
For a great Italian meal with an Eritrean twist, head to Spaghetti & Pizza House in Asmara or Alba Bistro. Both places combine Italian flavors with local spices, making a unique dining experience.
Ghibabo
If you’re after some barbecue, check out Ghibabo. This local favorite is known for its tender, grilled meats cooked right in front of you. The highlight here is zigni, chicken, and lamb brochettes served with fresh, warm injera.
Locals love coming here in the evening, and it’s one of the best spots for an authentic dinner in Asmara. Make sure to try the house-made spicy sauce!
Mama Ghebrel Restaurant
If you’re keen to dig into home-cooked Eritrean food, Mama Ghebrel is a place you can’t miss. This small, family-run restaurant serves traditional Eritrean dishes like zigini, fit-fit, and shiro (a chickpea stew). Portions are generous, and the food is seasoned to perfection.
It’s located on a side street near the Cathedral of Asmara. You’ll feel like you’ve been invited to a home-cooked meal.
Sweet Asmara Treats
After all the savory goodness, don’t forget to indulge in some sweet treats. Eritrea has a range of desserts influenced by both its African roots and Italian past.
For some of the best gelato in Asmara, head to Bar Royal on Harnet Avenue. It’s a great place to relax with a scoop of homemade gelato after exploring the city. Try the coffee or pistachio flavors!
Where to Enjoy Coffee or Tea
Traditional Eritrean Coffee Ceremony
Eritrea, like Ethiopia, takes coffee seriously. A traditional coffee ceremony is an essential experience, where beans are freshly roasted and brewed right in front of you. If you see people gathered around with small cups and incense burning, that’s your cue!
Enjoy one of these ceremonies at Bacio Café or Café Roma in Asmara. Both places serve a strong brew, perfect if you’re a coffee lover.
Chai with a Twist
If you lean more towards tea, don’t miss the spicy chai. It’s black tea brewed with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Served piping hot, it’s a fragrant experience you can’t pass up.
You can find vendors serving chai near Liberty Avenue, or check out Tirana Tea House for a stronger brew.
Final Thoughts
Food is one of the easiest ways to connect with a new place, and when you’re in Eritrea, you’re bound to eat well. From spicy stews to savory injera wraps to surprise street snacks, this country’s food will leave you full and happy. Whether you’re sitting down for a hearty meal or grabbing a quick bite on the street, you’re in for a real adventure. So, get out there and start exploring Eritrea—one bite at a time!
Leave a reply