If you’re looking to explore global cuisine, Ethiopian food is a must try! Here in Rochester, one of the best places to start is Zemeta’s Ethiopian Restaurant, a true hidden gem.
I had the pleasure of visiting and interviewing the owner, Zemeta, and I left inspired by her passion for food and community. She opened her restaurant in 2013 and has been growing ever since. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel her warm and welcoming energy. She is truly one of the friendliest and most welcoming owners you’ll ever meet.
A lunch plate at Zemeta’s featuring chicken tibs, spicy lamb, shiro, greens, and cabbage — all served with warm, tender injera. Absolutely delicious!
✨ What Makes Zemeta’s Special?
• Every dish is made fresh daily — no frozen or processed foods, ever.
• Preparing healthy, nourishing food is most important to her.
• She sources produce from local farms and imports organic spices straight from Ethiopia for authentic flavor.
• Her biggest joy as a restaurant owner? “Serving customers and making them happy.”
• Zemeta loves sharing Ethiopian cuisine with all kinds of people, especially those trying it for the first time.
Of course, running a restaurant isn’t easy. Food prices have gone up, staffing is challenging, and the workload is huge, but her dedication never wavers.
💬 When I asked what she recommends for someone trying Ethiopian food for the first time, she smiled and said:
“All of it! They will enjoy everything.”
And honestly… I agree!
If you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine, you have to try injera. It takes time adjusting to eating with your hands, but it enhances your dining experience The teff flour she uses is also imported directly from Ethiopia, giving it that signature flavor.
🍽️ Good to Know:
• All-day all-you-can-eat buffet
• Available on Grubhub & Uber Eats
• Catering offered for events
Zemeta’s Dining Area
Rochester is lucky to have a place like Zemeta’s. A restaurant rooted in love, culture, and community. Her dedication to preparing dishes made from whole foods and not using any processed foods is admirable. If you’ve never experienced Ethiopian cuisine before, this is the perfect place to start.
Go support a local gem and treat yourself to food that is delicious, healthy and with incredible flavor. Bring a friend or family member and checkout Rochester’s small businesses!
Link to FB page: https://www.facebook.com/gzem14620/
-Julia Brenon
Leave a Reply