Eritrea isn’t just known for its history and stunning landscapes; the food here is a must-try adventure. From spicy stews to savory breads, the mix of traditional African flavors with Italian and Middle Eastern influences will satisfy any foodie. Not sure what to order? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Zigni: The Eritrean Staple
Zigni is the heart and soul of Eritrean cuisine. It’s a spicy beef stew, cooked slowly with berbere—a blend of spices that adds an incredible kick. Served over injera (a sour, spongy bread), this dish is meant to be shared. Tear off pieces of injera and use it to scoop up the hearty stew. You’ll find it in almost every local restaurant, often topped with boiled eggs or vegetables.
Where to Try Zigni
Head to Asmara, the capital, for some of the best Zigni. Top spots include Aba Shawl and Casa Degli Italiani. The latter, as the name suggests, offers a blend of traditional Eritrean and Italian dishes, making it easy to try both local and European flavors in one place.
Injera: The Ultimate Sidekick
Injera isn’t just bread; it’s an essential part of the Eritrean meal. This tangy, spongy flatbread is used to scoop up everything—from stews like Zigni to vegetables. Made from teff, a gluten-free grain, injera also soaks up the rich sauces, making every bite flavorful.
How to Eat Injera
There’s no need for forks here. Tear off a piece with your right hand, and then use it to pick up your food. Locals say the best bites include a bit of everything: meat, vegetables, and sauce.
Tsebhi: More Than Just Stew
Tsebhi is another kind of stew distinct from Zigni. While Zigni is beef-based, Tsebhi can be made with chicken, lamb, or even fish. It’s slightly milder than Zigni, often cooked with garlic and ground coriander. You’ll also notice less berbere in this dish, although some places still use it for extra heat.
Best Places to Eat Tsebhi
While you can find Tsebhi all around Eritrea, Gorebet Bar in Asmara is well-regarded for its version. Another good spot is Adulis Traditional Restaurant, where you can enjoy Tsebhi in an authentic, cozy setting.
Aseeda: A Comforting Staple
If you want to try something hearty, look out for Aseeda. It’s a dough-like dish made from sorghum or wheat, sometimes served with a spicy sauce. It’s smooth and soft—almost like mashed potatoes—but with a thicker texture. You’ll find this served commonly during holidays or family gatherings in Eritrea.
Where to Find Aseeda
Start your search in local markets and smaller eateries. You can often find Aseeda as a side dish, though locals will have it as a complete meal. Wander through markets in cities like Keren or Massawa to grab an authentic version.
Shiro: Vegetarian Goodness
If you’re vegetarian (or just wanting something without meat), Shiro is a must-try. It’s a thick stew made from ground chickpeas or lentils and seasoned with garlic, onions, and berbere. The texture is creamy, and when paired with injera, it’s incredibly satisfying. You’ll find it in almost every local restaurant.
Best Shiro Spots
Asmara’s Sabur Restaurant is known for its Shiro. For a more traditional atmosphere, head to Nda Mariam Restaurant, where the menu focuses on vegetarian and vegan options including several Shiro variations.
Fitfit: A Breakfast Favorite
Fitfit is a traditional Eritrean breakfast made using shredded injera mixed with seasoned butter, berbere, and warm spices. The result is a savory, tangy, and slightly spicy meal that’s perfect for starting your day.
Where to Have Fitfit
Hamassien Hotel is known for serving up a tasty Fitfit dish early in the morning. You can also find it at local food stalls near Asmara Railway Station.
Seafood in Massawa
Eritrea has a stunning coastline, which means great seafood options—especially in Massawa. If you’re near the Red Sea, you’ll get some of the freshest grilled fish, prawns, and lobsters. The simplicity of fish grilled with olive oil, lemon, and garlic really lets the freshness shine.
Best Seafood Spots
In Massawa, try Red Sea Restaurant for its seafood specialties. For a local and casual vibe, head to Almaz Restaurant, known for its grilled fish and large portions.
Kitcha Fitfit: A Traditional Breakfast Option
Kitcha Fitfit is similar to Fitfit but made using a flatbread called kitcha instead of injera. This bread is mixed into a spicy stew, making it the perfect comfort food. If you love a hearty breakfast, give Kitcha Fitfit a try.
Best Option for Kitcha Fitfit
The Old Town area of Asmara has several small cafés that serve Kitcha Fitfit in the mornings. One popular spot is Tigray Café, known for its generous portions and authentic spices.
Street Food: Quick and Tasty
Not all meals need to be a sit-down affair. Eritrean street food is cheap, quick, and delicious. Try foul: a fava bean dish served with bread. It’s common to see locals grabbing foul on the go for breakfast.
Another street treat you’ll come across is Samak: grilled fish skewers sold on the side of the road. Pair it with some fresh bread and a lemonade, and you’ve got yourself a tasty and affordable meal.
Where to Find the Best Street Food
Asmara’s Medebar Market is where you’ll find a lot of street vendors selling everything from snacks to full meals. If you’re in Keren, check out the Keren Livestock Market for fresh, rustic meals and snacks.
Coffee Ceremony: An Essential Experience
It would be a crime to leave Eritrea without participating in a local coffee ceremony. Known as jebena, coffee here isn’t just a drink—it’s an event. The beans are roasted in front of you, then brewed in a special pot. The result is a rich, strong coffee best enjoyed with friends. Don’t be surprised if it lasts over an hour, as coffee is meant to be shared slowly and deliberately.
Where to Join a Coffee Ceremony
Many cafes in Asmara, like Sweet Asmara Café and Capitol Café, offer coffee ceremonies for first-timers. You can also find this in smaller towns like Mendefera, especially at family-owned cafés.
Local Drinks: Beyond Coffee
Eritreans love their coffee, but there are other local drinks worth trying. Don’t miss out on suwa: a traditional beer made from fermented barley. It’s milder than regular beer but has a slightly sour and sweet taste. Plus, it’s perfect for a hot day in the city.
Another option is mes, a honey wine that’s similar to mead. It’s a great drink to have alongside a meal, especially in the evenings when temperatures cool down.
Where to Sip on Suwa and Mes
You’ll find suwa served at local bars all over Eritrea, but for a nice atmosphere, hit up Enda Shibo Bar or Patio Bar in Asmara. These watering holes are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Final Tips on Dining in Eritrea
When dining in Eritrea, meals are often an experience, especially because communal eating is still the norm. Almost everything is shared, and meals last a while. Take your time enjoying the food, talk it up with the locals, and never be afraid to try something new—even if you can’t pronounce it!
Travels and meals go hand in hand here. Eritrean food comes from the heart and will leave you satisfied every single time.
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