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New Eritrea Restaurant & Bar
Master Critic Review
New Eritrea Restaurant & Bar
7.6
Long-running Inner Sunset spot for Eritrean specialties, including sautéed shrimp and fish stews served with injera. Comforting flavors, generous portions, and a laid-back room suit casual seafood-leaning dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp kilwa, Fish tibsi (assa kulwa), Veggie sampler with injera
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Eritrean seafood preparations paired with spongy injera and warm hospitality.
Who should go: Adventurous eaters craving East African flavors
When to visit: Evenings after 7pm for a relaxed pace
What to order: Shrimp kilwa; fish tibsi; veggie platter
Insider tip: Ask for extra injera to soak up sauces.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Irving and 9th; can be limited after 6:30pm but easier on side streets north of Judah.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans and sweaters fit the relaxed neighborhood setting.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy, though the room hums gently during dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes without a reservation; walk-ins usually accommodated with a short wait.
Weekday lunch: No wait; typically quiet mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong selection of lentil, spinach, and vegetable stews served with injera.
Vegan options: Yes—several traditional dishes are vegan-friendly by default, including shiro and greens.
Gluten-free options: Partially—injera contains teff and wheat; gluten-free diners should inquire about alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if your date enjoys global flavors—warm lighting and shared platters create a relaxed, intimate feel without pretense.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes; they accept walk-ins and turnover is steady, though groups should call ahead on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle mild spice; staff are welcoming and portions are easy to share, but there’s no dedicated children’s menu.
Best For
Better for: Authentic East African seafood preparations and communal injera dining not found elsewhere in the neighborhood.
Skip if: You’re seeking a fast or Western-style seafood experience—this is a slower, family-run spot best enjoyed when unhurried.