Cafe Selam’s Reviews
Web Publications
Seattle Met (Seattle’s 100 Best Restaurants 2021, 2022, & 2023)
“Abebu Wondem’s homestyle menu of doro and vegetable wat and meaty tibs distinguishes Cafe Selam, even in a neighborhood peppered with great Ethiopian food.”
The Infatuation (21 Classic Restaurants in Seattle)
“Even in a Central District scene crowded with Ethiopian spots, this low-key staple stands out…”
The Stranger (Where to Eat the Morning After Valentine’s Day)
“You might brush hands as you reach for warm, crusty loaves of French bread to sop up this comforting dish (Foul), the flavors of which linger on your lips like the memory of a kiss.”
Seattle Refined (5 Best Savory Breakfasts in Seattle)
“Foul dishes show up in various guises throughout the Middle East and parts of Africa, but the version at this Central District Ethiopian restaurant arrives with crusty bread that crackles crumbs into the beans as you mop them up and pairs nicely with a side of Selam’s exceedingly friendly service.”
Seattle Met (Seattle’s Best Ethiopian and Eritrean Restaurants)
“Seattle has but a handful of dishes as continually, universally beloved as Cafe Selam’s foul.”
The Infatuation (Go to Cafe Selam for Great Injera and Community)
“Tearing and sharing that tangy bread here on a leisurely afternoon is something every Seattleite should do at least once, particularly when it’s warm enough to sit on the patio.“
The Stranger (50 Places in Seattle That You’re Taking for Granted)
“Order the ful, a mango juice, and coffee.“
Seattle Eater (Seattle Area Restaurant Dishes That Make for Great Leftovers)
“Cafe Selam has been a standout for nearly 20 years.”
Intentionalist (Cafe Selam)
“Abebu Wondem is an immigrant whose journey led her from Ethiopia, to Sudan, to Saudi Arabia, and eventually to the U.S. A home-cook who simply enjoyed sharing meals with friends, she was persuaded to make her hobby a business, and opened Cafe Salem in 2003.”
The Stranger (Four Places to Enjoy Ful, the Most Comforting Breakfast Dish)
For years, I’ve turned to the Central District’s Cafe Selam for my ful needs. Here the ful is satiny smooth and spicy—the fava beans are lightly pureed with olive oil and red chili.
Social
Google
“The price is excellent for the quality & quantity of food served. In retrospect, one dish would have been more than enough for the two of us, so we went home with leftovers. If you enjoy Ethiopian, Cafe Selam is a wonderful option!” —Von
Yelp
“The servers were very kind and patient as we took our time deciding what to order. I really enjoyed my experience here and I will definitely be eating more Ethiopian food in the future.” —Carolyn
Trip Advisor
DELICIOUS! Great atmosphere, lovely people, fresh and comforting food!!! I want to eat it every day – the environment was so inviting ! —Talya
Happy Cow
Clearly labeled vegan/vegetarian. Multiple options. Everything tasted so fresh, comforting, and complex. —heycalj
Facebook
Best Ethiopian in Seattle! I come often from the Eastside to get my delicious Ethiopian food here. Everything is fresh. Friendly staff, casual atmosphere and food you will crave and come back for! Five stars! —Carol
Find Me Gluten Free
total gem! GF Injera is tasty and everything on the meat and veggie combos is safe. feels like the seattle of my childhood, support this business plz —no_glu_zu
Community Media
ivebentraveling
Tiktok video review by ivebeentraveling
Natalie Journeys
This plate is good for 2 people, and honestly, it is even more than two. —Natalie
