Habesha Cravings — Restaurant in Edmonton

Habesha Cravings – Oliver Square’s Authentic Ethiopian & Eritrean Restaurant and Coffee Bar (Ward O-Day’min):

A True Gem in the Heart of Edmonton – A Culinary and Cultural Experience Like No Other!

Habesha Cravings in Oliver Square is more than just a restaurant – it’s a soulful journey into the heart of Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine and culture. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warmth, hospitality, and the rich aromas of traditional spices that make your mouth water in anticipation.

The injera is perfectly tangy and spongy – the kind that only comes from authentic teff and generations of practice. The doro wat, shiro, and tibs are beautifully seasoned, tender, and deeply flavorful, served generously and with obvious care. For those new to East African cuisine, the staff are always happy to guide you through the menu and offer suggestions – their passion is contagious.

The traditional coffee ceremony is an experience not to be missed. Freshly roasted beans, the earthy scent of frankincense, and the slow, mindful pouring of strong Ethiopian coffee—it’s both grounding and energizing. You don’t just drink coffee here; you feel it.

What sets Habesha Cravings apart is the blend of authenticity, community, and heart. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, enjoying a communal dinner with friends, or savoring coffee on your own, you’re always made to feel like family. The space itself is beautifully designed, modern but rooted in tradition, and there’s a sense that every detail—from the décor to the playlist—has been chosen with love.

This is hands-down one of Edmonton’s best hidden gems, and a proud reflection of the diversity and richness found in Ward O-Day’min. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of East African food or curious to try something new, Habesha Cravings is an...

Service was very warm and friendly, the space itself is quite inviting and the patio is facing a street that isn't overwhelming with traffic so you can enjoy your meal and conversation. This was admittedly the first time I brought the family to try Ethiopian food and I advised the serve staff as such. She was kind enough to offer suggestions and the chef also recommended a different dish from what we initially chose as they thought it might be too adventurous for us the first time around (now that I know the family is ok with it we'll try it next time around!). Definitely very homey and family feel to both the place and the service provided.

The sambusas were amazing. Had a bit of heat which we liked! We also tried the lamb and the kitfo, cooked medium rare. To the person who gave this place one star for serving them raw meat, the menu clearly states this dish is beef tartare. As well the staff told us it could be served rare, medium rare or medium well. So I would discount that review entirely. Overall the food was quite delicious and I look forward to coming back and trying more. I'm especially interested and excited about their vegetarian options.

Note: they appear to also have an enclosed space inside facing the patio. I spotted what appeared to be wired tables I assume for chargers for laptops and phones. If correct this place might be very nice to work/study at for those looking for alternative work spots! Especially in the colder months! They also have a space upstairs the opens during busy hours and is also available for...

DISGUSTING-

It’s a Monday and we still had to wait over 35 mins for our food, and when it finally came it was COLD! The veggies were literally cold and taste so bitter if you’re gonna make us wait that long at least bring hot food. The eggs that came with the doro wet still had big chunks of egg shells on it. And don’t get me started on the raw tibs it tasted unwashed smelled like it’s been sitting out for a while and was just microwaved and served to us. If u do not know the taste of real authentic habesha food and don’t mind raw unwashed meet and eggshells this is the perfect place for you and bad customer service for the cherry on top. Other than the food we were the only ppl in the restaurant given warm water after having to ask for it and waiting more than 30 minutes and having to eat at an uncleaned table with dishes from the previous customers. This place would definitely not pass a health inspection just by walking in. This is not coming from a regular person this is coming from an actual habesha that grew up eating this food and in my 20 years of living I have not been more sick to my stomach from eating simple injera. It’s the opposite of it’s name, I would never crave this ever and if I do please kill cause I have gone mad and I’m trying to commite suicide through the consumption...