London is home to a vast range of international cuisines, but few offer the cultural richness and communal spirit of Yemeni and Ethiopian food.
Tucked away in Shepherd’s Bush, Red Sea Restaurant brings both traditions to life, offering authentic dishes made with heart, history, and spice.
Combining bold East African flavours with Middle Eastern warmth, Red Sea is more than a place to eat — it’s a cultural experience that honours the traditions of both Yemen and Ethiopia.
From slow-cooked lamb and saffron rice to richly spiced stews and soft, tangy injera bread, the restaurant offers a culinary journey through two distinct yet complementary regions.
The Essence of Ethiopian Cuisine
Ethiopian food is about togetherness. Meals are often served on large platters with a base of injera, a sour, spongy flatbread made from teff flour.
This unique bread isn’t just a side dish — it’s your utensil, your plate, and a fundamental part of every bite. Diners tear off pieces to scoop up various stews and vegetables, creating a shared experience rooted in hospitality.
One of the most beloved dishes is Doro Wat — a deep red chicken stew simmered with onions, garlic, berbere spice, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s spicy, comforting, and perfect when paired with injera.
Red Sea also offers vegetarian options like Misir Wat, a lentil stew rich in flavour but mild in heat, and Shiro, a creamy chickpea-based dish with warming spices.
What sets Ethiopian cuisine apart is its depth — each dish is carefully layered with flavour, from the base of slow-cooked onions to the traditional spice blends like berbere and mitmita.
Red Sea keeps these dishes traditional, allowing guests to enjoy them as they would in Addis Ababa.
Yemeni Food: Simple, Hearty, and Aromatic
Yemeni cuisine is all about bold aromatics, generous spices, and hearty portions. At Red Sea, one of the standout dishes is Mandi — tender lamb or chicken served over fragrant saffron rice.
Traditionally cooked in a tandoor-like underground oven, the meat is fall-apart soft, while the rice is subtly spiced and smoky.
Another favourite is Haneeth, slow-roasted lamb served on a bed of seasoned rice. The meat is marinated and cooked until tender, bringing out natural juices and a caramelised flavour.
Then there’s Saltah, Yemen’s national dish — a bubbling hot stew with meat or vegetables, served with a frothy fenugreek topping and a side of bread. It’s warming, tangy, and full of character.
Diners at Red Sea will also find Zurbian, a special-occasion rice dish infused with cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Rich in history and rooted in community, these dishes represent the generous hospitality of Yemeni homes.
A Shared Love for Spices and Stew
Though geographically separated, Ethiopia and Yemen share a deep respect for bold flavours, slow cooking, and shared meals.
At Red Sea Restaurant, the two culinary traditions sit side-by-side on the menu — not fused, but celebrated for their differences. One dish may sing with berbere, another with cumin and clove, but each one is steeped in history and flavour.
Meals here are meant to be enjoyed slowly and together. Platters are large and designed for sharing, whether it’s a group of friends tucking into a mix of wats (stews) and injera or a family sharing lamb Mandi on a weekend evening.
The Red Sea Dining Experience
Walking into Red Sea, guests are welcomed by the aroma of freshly cooked spices and the warm, homely atmosphere. The space is unpretentious and comfortable — a true reflection of the food served.
Diners often describe it as one of London’s hidden gems, and for good reason.
Service is friendly and knowledgeable, especially helpful for those new to Yemeni or Ethiopian cuisine. The team is happy to explain how to eat with injera, what spices to expect, or recommend dishes based on your preferences — whether you’re vegan, spice-sensitive, or ready for something rich and bold.
Beyond the food, what truly makes Red Sea stand out is its authenticity. The chefs use traditional techniques and recipes passed down through generations, and they make no compromises when it comes to quality or flavour.
Why You Should Visit
If you’re looking for something beyond the usual takeaway or pub fare, Red Sea offers a genuine culinary journey. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or curious first-timer, the experience is unforgettable.
It’s also a fantastic choice for vegetarians and vegans, with many plant-based stews available. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the location—close to Shepherd’s Bush station—makes it easily accessible.
Final Thoughts
Red Sea Restaurant brings the richness of Yemeni and Ethiopian cuisine to the heart of London. With a focus on tradition, authenticity, and generous hospitality, it’s the perfect place to discover two of the world’s most flavourful culinary cultures.
Whether you’re sharing a steaming plate of Mandi or dipping injera into spicy Doro Wat, you’re in for something memorable.