Review Little Addis - Johannesburg

Delicious food! We got the veggie and meat mix half portion and it was so amazing we cleaned our whole plate. The Ethiopian spiced tea was also tasty. We definitely recommend!

Charming spot, with simple and deliciously tasty food. Relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, and excellent service. Safe and sufficient parking with car guards.

Lovely little restaurant serving Ethiopian food. Haven't had much exposure to it so it was exciting to try something different. I had beef tibs and it was delicious. It says peri peri but to my palate its more like a sour taste but they provide a chilli powder ok the side that allows you to then adjust how much you want. The bread is incredibly filling and you need to get your hands stuck in.

Such great food Ethiopian cuisine. Flavourful. Would certainly recommend.

In case you're seeing the location at 44 Stanley, they're not there and have been located across the street next to the Virgin gym since 2019. I'm disappointed in myself that I didn't visit sooner. Whether you're a meat eater or vegetarian or even vegan, you'll be very satisfied here. The spice profile is so similar to Indian food but without all the added sugar (often but not always and usually to balance the spice level) or pandering to the local tastes (and perceived ignorance of global cuisine) by adding Chinese or Thai items to the menu. And it's very very welcome.

This is one of my favourite spots. They have a delicious affordable platter of a variety of vegan dishes with generous portions. The owner is very friendly and the staff are lovely. I highly recommend Little Addis!

Neat inside and very friendly staff. The food was okay. For people who dont like mild and hot spicy Ethiopian food it is ideal. But if you are looking for actual spicy Ethiopian taste you can forgo it. The first time i had white injera too but it wasnt bad

Very authentic. The host was pleasant and the chef came out and greeted us. The food was beyond amazing, all the flavors blended so well and you enjoy every bite. We also had their Ethiopian coffee and tea which was also amazing, would recommend everything on the menu. The photos attached are the beef tibs and the chicken Daro wet.

The food was finger licking good! Thank you Kassa and Yvette, For the warm welcome, amazing food and lovely chat.we had the fasting meal (which is basically a vegan platter)

Lovey experience at this small modern Ethiopian place. It may be the best we’ve ever had here or in the US. The spice was perfect. Not too hot and super flavorful. Service was stunningly efficient and the waitress was so kind— my kids raves about the dipping spice that came with our tibs and kifto and she gave us a small to go container with enough for several meals. My daughter already has big plans for trying her own chicken dish! The teff injera was sour and delicious. All the veggies were fabulous especially that greens and cabbage. The only dish I found unusual was the beet salad. Never had that before at an Ethiopian place. The chicken doro wat was outstanding. Best I’ve ever tasted. Lamb tibs were tender and no gristle or fat. Also loved the tomato salad. Just the right amount of jalapeño!

Actually it's a little cafe in Maboneng Precinct serving Ethiopian delicacies. I just wanted to try out the Ethiopian food, hence ventured into the place. I tried Mahberawi platter, which has mix of lamb, chicken drum sticks and vegetables (potato, spinach, beetroot and pumpkin). It's served on injera, a fermented and little spongy sourdough. Injera is close cousin of 'Appam' a staple in South India. The food had little Indian touch but was bland as per my taste. One platter is sufficient for two. For me it was a tick in the box.

We missioned in the rain to get to this cool spot in Maboneng. It was actually very quiet for a Friday night. I don't know if it was cos of the rain or it's always just like that. Anyway, the service was top notch. Our waitress was great, she was on a roll. The food was also good, it was nice trying something out of the usual. I'd recommend this place👌

Ethiopian food never disappoints. African, fresh, healthy and mouth watering. Little Addis Cafe atmosphere is it. The attention to detail definitely goes unnoticed. From the clay mud wall colours to the waitresses pouring you water to wash your hands; it's a valuable experience *

Some of the best food I have ever tasted. Caters well for vegans and vegetarians. Traditional and homely atmosphere with welcoming and friendly staff.

This place is fantastic! <br/><br/>If you're a coffee lover, there's a whole station set up outside the café where a woman brews fresh coffee to order. Coffee is such a huge part of Ethiopian culture, and is usually served with a snack. Here, you get a basket of popcorn when you order.<br/><br/>As for the food! LAWD. <br/><br/>D E L I C I O U S<br/><br/>We ordered the "Mahberawi", which comes with chicken, beef, lamb, lentils, cabbage, spinach, potatoes, pumpkin and beetroot, on a massive injera. All for just R90. A steal, really.<br/><br/>My sister doesn't even like vegetables that much but she got involved in this meal. The flavours were strong, but gave you a sense of cosiness. It really was one of the best meals I've had. The servings are also huge. We barely got halfway through ours, so if you're not a large eater, a full portion could, easily, fill three people.<br/><br/>Can't wait to go back here!

Authentic beautiful cuisine I was born in Addis Abeba Ethiopia and Little Addis brings me home and warms my heart. Not just good food but a social experience. Try the chicken doro wet and the shiro or a mixed platter showcasing all the typical Ethiopian delights. wash it all down with Tej 'Ethiopian gold water' an Ethiopian honey based home brewed mead. One of the best times to visit is Sunday lunch eat and immerse yourself in Maboneng's eclectic culture.

I'm usually not a fan of traditional African food especially as I'm quite picky with what I eat, but having something at Little Addis Cafe is actually quite an experience. They have variety, the service is not too great, but the different tastes you can get on one plate is worth the visit.

It's a little cozy place in Joburg, really the food got a very nice flavor and the portions are very generous if you are searching & love to try authentic African plates it's your destination maybe as a presentation might not be appealing but definitely got the attributes of deliciousness.

Interesting and different. I had the Mahberawi platter. Nicely spiced and flavored chicken and beef - interesting mix of vegetable dishes. Eating the hot food on a cold bread layer takes a bit of getting used to - but overall a good meal.

Very nice little restaurant in the heart of Maboneng. Food was great, spicy but not too hot. We had the beef and veggie plate for 2, nice challenge to eat with your hands.

Excellent service, amazing food and great atmosphere. We ordered the Vegan half platter (each) and it was a lot of food. One should eat with the Injera (rice bread) but if you want, don't be shy about asking for a knife and fork.

The most incredible let vegan platter of some of the most tasty Ethiopian food in Jozi. Love being catered for as a vegan in the most unexpected places. Small and quaint little restaurant, nothing fancy, just traditionally good food and we'll priced!

Refreshing experience! Little Addis is a little gem. Ethiopia has come to Jozi. Enjoyed the food tremendously and very affordable prices! Highly recommend it.

Cute little sidewalk Ethiopian restaurant on the main road of the Maboneng Precinct. The service is super slow, but the food makes up for it. Delicious and full of flavour. You eat with your hands and it's a whole awesome experience.

Small cafe. Service is OK and so is the food. Had the meat and veg mix for two. Some of dishes were nicer than others. I like that everything is done in an authentic way ; they bring water for you to wash your hands with as you use your hands for eating. Was my first time having Ethiopian cuisine and it is not my favourite , so I do think my enjoyment of the food has impacted the score given. My boyfriend loved the food so if you like Ethiopian food give it a go.

Reminds me of home :) Proper cooked meal with many exciting flavors from the organic spices. LOVE IT!<br/>My favorite has to be the meat platter but combined with the veg platter its amazing.

This is one of our regular eating spots in Johannesburg. If you want some fabulous spiced favours, this is definitely a place to try out considering how affordable it is. My partner & I have only ever tried two of their dishes. We must have been there over 50 times, call us safe, but that's what we crave. <br/><br/>Yes the waiters can be a bit annoyed or annoying sometimes & the decor could do with a splash of more Ethiopian culture, but all in all, we hardly have any issues. (gives this the -1)<br/><br/>Compared to a couple of other Ethiopian restaurants we've tried, this is definitely our fav so far!

This is a great cultural experience at an affordable price. If you want to try out some authentic Ethiopian food then don't look any further. The food comes in a big size so it's nice to share. Be prepared to eat with your hands which the service accommodates for too by letting you wash your hands in warm lemon water. Lovely little spot in town.

Little Addis has been getting some good reviews as one of the new spots in the Maboneng precinct offering a taste of Ethiopia.<br/>We tried it out before going to the PopArt theatre to see a show and can honestly say I fail to see the hype.<br/>We had what was potentially the most impersonal and lackluster waitress the world has ever seen and was either on a double shift from hell or has just found the wrong profession- clearly not one for portraying the welcoming Ethiopian spirit I have come to know.<br/>The place is tiny so can't get extremely busy but it felt like we were in a 300-seater, trying to get service and checkup on our drinks order which eventually arrived after the food arrived at table.<br/>They were out of the lamb dish I was hoping to try and the opted for a spicy and tangy beef dish which wasn't impressive looking but tasted ok. We also had the mixed platter to share which says for two but only had one measly chicken drumstick as the chicken portion. The rest of the dish had good variety of different 'mushes'. Spinach, lentil and a smattering of other mounds of varying descriptions but lacked any form of decent flavour or consistency. There was a small amount of lamb and another of beef and that lone tiny chicken leg.<br/>All dishes served with the traditional bread which is a light, soft white almost airy kind of bread which you tear and mop up the sides and little piles of food with ad you don't get cutlery.<br/>While the platter looked impressive- it lacked any major depth of flavour and was once again, just ok.<br/>There is no restaurant toilet so you have to get a key to use the building communal toilet for which we asked three times and never received, so we just went to bathroom and waited till someone finished and did it that way as waitron no.1 was being ineffective.<br/>The food all seemed a bit pre-made and heated up which I'm sure is the vibe due to the size of kitchen and is easier for this style of eating.<br/>No checkups on the meal or much service from that point on and we grabbed the bill and headed for the hills.<br/>People do like the spot, but not for me and have had better Ethiopian in Jozi.<br/><br/>

Sick vibe, unique food. <br/>Authentic Ethiopian experience in the heart of Jozzi. <br/>The coffee is powerful, it's super strong and tasty. <br/>Cool place to discover

Delicious flavours on offer at this Ethiopian restaurant. Be willing to use your hands (so share the platters with someone suitable!). Well priced and relaxed, casual dining slowing on to the pavement. Will return!

A great little spot. Small menu with big portions. We had the half veggie platter and the half meat and veggie platter. Full of flavour with great variety on each dish, traditionally served. Very very well priced! The traditional Ethiopian coffee was a treat too. Friendly staff, good service. A great experience overall.

I love this place. What a little gem. I go there often for lunch. The food is amazing. The food is quite addictive actually. The coffee is strong and has a rich flavour. The staff and owner, always friendly and helpful.

So disappointing... Having had awesome experiences at Addis in Dar and Addis in Cape, I've been wanting to get out to Maboneng for sometime. Little Addis was nothing like the other two restaurants. The food was mediocre, over-cooked and loveless. It was the least popular spot along the strip. Please don't judge Ethiopian food by this poor Little cousin.

Very humble little place, kind people. The food is interesting, not too spicy just tasty. Real cultural experience, as standard they eat with their hands but if that is too much cutlery can be supplied.

I have the privilege of working in Maboneng and I fell in love with the authenticity of "Little Addis" they serve delicious traditional Ethiopian cuisine .. The place is rather affordable and is suited to the adventurous eater.. Try the chicken and vegetables on injera, totally delectable.. Then proceed to the coffee ritual on request thereafter.. All this one the pavement whilst you people watch.

I've not been to their restaurant, but if the market on main is any indication of their food I need to get there asap. We had the Jeerah bread with all the fillings and it was delicious. If you're looking for something different and exciting, do yourself a favour.

The reviews for Little Addis are quite mixed. But we still took a chance. And overall, it was good enough!We ordered the meat and veg platter which feeds two people for only R80! I mean really? Some of the meats were a bit salty for my liking. Try the spiced tea. That was a treat as well. The décor is basic, the place is not the most well kept. But I wasn't expecting five star anything. C'mon... give it a go!

This place is very quaint! A tiny restaurant with about 4 tables. The service is a bit slow but the food is really interesting and although I don't know anything about Ethiopian food, it seemed very authentic. Every dish comes with traditional Ethiopian bread, which is like a large white pancake! It is made from mostly rice flour and is used to pick up the rest of your food. If you are looking for fine dining this is not the place for you but if you want a fun, relaxed evening eating interesting food, Little Addis Cafe is awesome! You can also bring your own alcohol!

Not impressed. Food was mediocre and took forever to arrive, service was terrible and the decor looks abit neglected. Definitely won't be seeing me there again.

Visited Little Addis a month back, so this review is in retrospect! <br/><br/>Tucked in the heart of Mabaneng Precinct, little Addis is just that, a sample of Addis. Food served from a small kitchen and the restaurant seats a max of 20ppl so it's tiny and not glamorous at all! but if it's Ethiopian food you're after, this is the place to have it! INjera bread folded like fresh white linen towels on silver trays filled with mixed meat and delicious vegetarian side dishes. Every mouthful is a moment of pleasure! Light on the pocket and pleasing to the tummy, you leave the place feeling nourished and well looked after. It's a bring your own booze joint, so don't forget your wine/ choice of poison. <br/><br/>I'm an Ethiopian food enthusiast at heart and I was not disappointed ---> food wise!<br/><br/>Now I will however note: the old chairs could be replaced and the plastic table layovers make the place feel dingy and cold. A few candles and better decor could really do a world for the place. But that's just me. <br/><br/>With that said, the food makes up for the decor mishap. And I would happily sit on those chairs for that delicious food!<br/><br/>Best,<br/>Third Culture Kid 😉

We didn't even get to the food. No one greeted us...so eventually we approached the wait staff and she said the table we wanted outside was not hers and walked away. We then seated ourselves. Finally a waitress came to the table and just looked at us....didn't say a word. We didn't know what to order and she kept talking to a minimal. It was so unpleasant we left.

My collegues took us to this famous restaurant. I was not sure of this Ethiopian restaurant for my vegetarian options at first but when I saw my veggie option, I was amazed. It reminded me of what we get in India called Thali (full meal). It resembled with Thali and various options one get along with it. It was delicious. Also it's in Maboneng precinct which is worth exploring.

this is one of my favourite restaurants in the city!! great, tasty menu, excellent coffee, and unpretentious, relaxed atmosphere; chef and owner super friendly and happy to share the secrets of traditional Ethiopian cuisine; friendly and attentive staff; plus affordable! very much to be enjoyed...

This is an ethiopian restaurant in the ever popular Maboneng precinct. It however fails miserably. I am a huge fan of ethiopian cuisine, and this really wasn't great. The food is mediocre, service lack lustre and decor second rate. In summer the flies are very unpleasant. Not the kind of place you want to be caught in.

Located in the Maboneng Precinct. The food was really not desirable at all. And it was summer with many many flies around the table which disallowed me from enjoying my meal. Ambience was a little too noisy and we couldn't hear one another.

Awesome flavours and great vibe! Had a tasty meal - eat with your hands, which is fun. No license so we bought wine from next door. Friendly and fun atmosphere.

Little Addis is the best place in town. The best Ethiopian food , the owner is absolutely friendly and warm .. Ive never seen someone with such a smile .

Hidden gem in the heart of Joburg! Cosy atmosphere & delicious food at a ridiculously reasonable price. <br/>The kind of restaurant you need to visit!

I give Little Addis a 5 because they are a perfect example of keeping it simple and getting it right. <br/><br/>They serve the typical ethiopian dish, so dont go for a variety of choice. Enjoy it for what it is. You cant buy alcohol but you can certainly bring it. <br/><br/>Staff are VERY friendly. The restaurant space is small, but somewhat cozy. <br/><br/>I am a little irritated with Little Addis for entering the precinct when James (just on maverick corner) had been in the area for almost 20 years as the only ethipian place. <br/><br/>They must have worked it out. But I just love James too!

Best Ethiopian restaurant in Joburg hands down! <br/>The owner is warm and friendly and his love comes out in the food. <br/>My favourite is the veg platter! It wins every time. You can find them every Sunday at the Market on Main (thus no Ethiopian dinner on Sundays). Make sure you have some of that delicious Ethiopian coffee. Oh it's so good! Yes!

Was excited to try some Ethiopian food . Was disappointed in the limited menu and some things that I wanted ordered not being available. Great set up and waiters were average .

A wonderful little restaurant in the heart of the maboneng precinct which serves authentic Ethiopian food. If you are in the CBD and like something different give this a try

Great hidden place, the vegan food is amazing with 6 or 7 different tastes on the plate. A simple venue but great food. I will be back for those week day lunches.

A humble, unpretentious, and authentic experience with truly unique flavours. Definitely something worth trying if you're even slightly open-minded.<br/><br/>Besides from the incredible value for money (easily less than R100 per person excluding alcohol, which is BYO), the overwhelming feeling you get is one of genuine authenticity. The manager books tables on his cell phone, the staff are always willing to go the extra distance, and I can tell you that the food is exactly what you'll find in Addis itself.<br/><br/>Little Addis can only seat around 50 people at most, so be sure to call in advance and secure a spot. <br/><br/>Bring some vino, bring some friends, and experience flavours that you'll struggle find anywhere else in Joburg.

Found in the Maboneng precinct - an island of activity which escapes the deep exhalation of the working day's cars and people from the CBD - Addis Cafe is an unpretentious and sparse traditional Ethiopian eatery. <br/><br/>Diners best be aware that Little Addis has no liquor licence, though it is possible to bring one's own drinks on premise. With a bit of nudging our enterprising waiter managed to deliver two rounds of cold beers to our table.<br/><br/>All the dishes are served with injera, and the menu consists of vegan and meat dishes (with options to share). My companion chose meat and looked rather forlorn when my meal - the vegan half-portion - arrived. While his plate contained only beef stew and Ethiopian cheese, mine was scattered with all manner of traditional sambals - lentils, potatoes, lightly pickled cabbage, beetroot, and more. <br/><br/>The meal would have been rounded off with Ethiopian coffee but our waiter informed us that they were without water. Ignoring the difficulties this likely presented for food preparation, this was a bit of a let down, especially as the amount of water needed to brew coffee is small.<br/><br/>All in all, tasty food for an evening's dining in the CBD and one particularly rewarding for vegetarians/vegans.

The platter is amazingly delicious and extremely fresh. Especially love all the lentil dishes and beet root. 100%authentic, unpretentious and completely addictive! Coffee is great too.

Enjoyed the simple authentic meal. Service was good and on the whole the dining experience was very pleasant. The only slight downside is that they don't serve dessert

Loved! Loved! Loved!<br/>This little gem in the heart of the Maboneny precinct is just delightful. It's incredibly popular as the stream of people in and out doesn't stop. I had the Mahberawi (Meat and Veg Combo) to get a taste of everything and it was so good! No cutlery so be prepared to eat with your hands - everyone else is so you get over it quite quickly. You are served Injera with your meals and this makes the eating process a lot easier. Possible not the best option for a first date ;) The Spicy Ethiopian tea was really good. BUT The traditional coffee was just the best. if you can get the chance to watch them prepare it - DO IT!!!

I am an Ethiopian food fanatic and have eaten it all over the world. <br/>The food is tasty and authentic. <br/>Place is small , clean. <br/>No effort is put into decor but that's ok. Owner is grumpy and unfriendly. <br/>Servers are good.

I was a bit apprehensive of Ethiopian food going to this place. What was memorable was how tasty the food was, the balance of spices was well executed, although the was a hint of chili in the food, it was pleasant not overpowering. We had the mixed wot platter, and there was plenty to share, three platters was enough for 14people!<br/><br/>Will definitely be returning

I was really impressed with the quality and value of the food. Even the half portion is more than enough for one and so tasty. No bar, but can buy beer next door and bring in for your meal. <br/>Can't wait to go back!

Little Addis has become one of our favorites, their food is great, healthy and low in carbs. Its the perfect meal for us when we want a quick dinner or lunch. The variations of the food always makes sure that every bit can be a bit of this or that. And of course nothing can beat their prices, R70 for a meal to feed myself and the hubby. Kaza we love your food, keep it up and we will see you soon:)

I love Little Addis! I used to live in an apartment above for a year and half, during which I used to eat here 3 times a week on average. The reasons are simple: the food is great, it's super affordable (R35 for a half portion of veg - more than enough to sort you out, trust me), and the vibe is well chilled. Kassa, the guy who owns, cooks and does pretty much everything, is probably the best human I've ever met.<br/><br/>If you're looking for something different and super tasty in the city, this is the place.<br/><br/>Pro tip: order a platter. I cannot emphasize this enough.

Great little gem. Awesome down to earth place with hearty food. I'd go there everyday if I could.

Good honest affordable ethiopian soul food made by Kassa himself under the watchful eye of King Sellasie.

I have a friend who swears by Little Addis but I don't get it. This Ethiopian eatery (and that is what it is - no frills, small but clean with a couple of tables) is situated in the trendy Main Street Life precinct and it offers cheap authentic food. <br/><br/>Food is served on a huge plastic plate with a pancake type wrap and you get taster size portions of the wide array on offering. I believe the chicken and lamb is delicious but I find nothing exciting about the vegetable options. They feel like simply side dishes, and no main star attraction. The lentils are tasty, and there's other spinach and cabbage dishes but I can't explain what or how they're cooked. You're supposed to muck in and use your hands with the pancake thing (don't know what it's called) and mop up all the food.<br/><br/>If you're a coffee connoisseur , try the coffee - it's the proper put hair on your chest kind of coffee, if you're into that kind of thing.

Tried out Little Addis while touring the city with my Honors class a few years back, at their Ethiopian quarters on Jeppe Street in the CBD. Their store now in Maboneng is much cleaner and easier to get to. If you looking for an adventure meal give them a visit. <br/>The coffee ceremony is something to experience with the little cups of strong Ethiopian blend along with popcorn. The ceremony is a traditional ritual done to welcome guest to the home. The food is an authentic cuisine of the country, try the Injera, a sour spongy flatbread served with various different stews called wot or wat. I tried the different vegetarian stews which consisted of red lentil stew, spicy butternut, potatoes and cabbage salad. The meal is eaten by hand, tearing the bread and soaking in different stews. <br/><br/>Love the way the meal was served on huge platters which two pepel could share. We sat around a grass woven table true to the Ethiopian culture. <br/>