Keren Cafe & Restaurant

Have been here twice now, service was super warm and welcoming, and the portions are huge, especially for the affordable prices. Excellent drip coffee too. Not to mention how flavor packed every dish has been. Support your local businesses! I highly recommend

Keren is an unassuming place but an absolute hidden gem in DC. Their food was absolutely incredible. It was so flavorful and also affordable. They have lots of options, including a vegetarian platter. It is a great place to pop in and have lunch. The food does take a little bit of time it but it so worth it. It’s not a place that you should eat if you’re looking for a lightning fast bite to eat.

From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with warmth and the comforting aroma of traditional spices. The food is absolutely outstanding—fresh, flavorful, and made with care. The injera is perfectly soft and tangy, pairing beautifully with the rich stews. The zigni, tsebhi, and vegetarian platters are all packed with deep, balanced flavors that remind you of home. Portions are generous and meant to be shared, which makes the experience feel communal and special—just like Eritrean culture. The staff is kind, patient, and happy to explain dishes if you’re new to the cuisine. Whether you grew up eating Eritrean food or you’re trying it for the first time, Keren Restaurant delivers an authentic, satisfying, and unforgettable experience. Highly recommend for families, dates, or anyone looking for real East African flavors done right. 🇪🇷🔥

Finally tried this popular Eritrean restaurant! Came by for early breakfast at 8:30a and there was a whole restaurant pretty much to myself. Loved it. Sibling owners Teka and LemLem are wonderful people and very friendly. For this visit, I got the Breakfast Combo, which came with the Ful regular + Egg Frittata and Kitcha, which is proudly homemade. It was delicious! The texture of the Kitcha (unleavened flatbread) was delightful, and the dish had just enough spice to suggest a peppery heat in every bite. I'd love to get it again...but even hotter! I also got a cappuccino, which was served in a lovely little glass and was very satisfying. Next time, I'd love to try their Beef Tibs! They are located in a great spot, right on the corner of U St x 18th St NW, with a great view of Adams Morgan as people and cars walk by. Prices are very reasonable and the service is friendly and welcoming. I'm glad this little restaurant, which has been around since 1987(!), is back up and running after closures from a fire. Good people, good food, great vibe. Excited to come back for lunch/dinner! (NOTE: I did go early in the morning on a weekday, so it was pretty much empty at the time, save for me, Teka, and the chef in the back. It's a great time to dine in, but if later in the day/night is when you're looking to go, be aware that it'll be busy and parking will be trickier.) Overall, Keren gets 5/5 stars from me! 🌟

Didn’t know I’d fall in love so early in the year. It’s only the second day but here we are. The service was swift and thorough. We got spiced Ethiopian Tea and the #4 with beef. I do not know for the life of me why this isn’t #1. Everything was delicious and I will be coming back several times over the next few months. With me being observant I recognized several people walking by and patrons beside us with the same sentiments “we back!” The place was pretty intimate but not noisy. Love it here.