Lula's Ethiopian and Eritrean Cuisine — Restaurant in Oxford

I initially wrote a positive review of Lulu’s, as my first experiences there were satisfactory. However, a disappointing encounter a few months ago has completely changed my perspective on this establishment.

I attempted to place an order over the phone, but it took me over half an hour to get through as my calls were repeatedly disconnected. When I finally managed to speak to someone and requested to place a pick-up order, the staff member curtly responded, "You have to order online," and immediately hung up. As I was going on my way to the restaurant, I decided to place my order in person. Yet, to my disbelief, I was again told, “You have to order online,” despite standing right at the till. This response felt unnecessarily dismissive, especially since I was already in the restaurant and prepared to pay on the spot.

When I tried to comply and went onto their website, I discovered that the only option available for the dish my mother wanted was an extra-large portion. She preferred a regular portion, as the extra-large would have been too much for her to eat, based on our previous dine-in experience. I raised this concern directly with the owner, who was standing at the till. I politely asked if we could order a regular portion, given that it is served when dining in. Instead of offering a solution or even a hint of understanding, she outright refused. When I asked why, she vaguely stated that their takeaway containers were better suited for large portions. I then requested, respectfully, if they could make an exception just this once, but she continued to bluntly refuse, with no apology or willingness to accommodate.

The entire interaction lacked any sincerity or effort to provide even basic customer service. As someone with years of experience in the food industry, I know that how a restaurant handles customer interactions—from answering the phone to resolving small concerns—speaks volumes about its values and professionalism. Sadly, Lulu’s demonstrated a complete disregard for creating a positive customer experience.

Beyond the poor service, they are overpriced for the portion sizes provided, and don’t come with enough injera. At most other Ethiopian restaurants in the UK, customers are generously provided with a full tray or bag of injera to complement their meals.

Lastly, their dine-in environment is far from inviting. The tables and chairs are sticky and uncomfortable, which does little to justify their already premium pricing.

It’s disappointing to see a restaurant with potential fall so short on basic hospitality and customer care. I hope they take this feedback as an opportunity to reassess their approach to service, as they have a long way to go in meeting the expectations of...

What a lovely surprise this was! Came here with a friend on a whim as a last minute choice for somewhere to eat. I was able to secure our table as soon as they opened at 6pm on a Thursday and they let me wait at the table for my friend to arrive. It seemed like a lot of tables were booked so next time I'll definitely book to avoid dissappointment.

Upon entering I was immediately taken a back by the quite calm atmosphere with the incence and chill music playing in the background.

When my friend arrived the waitress took our order which was a carafe of the dry 'Tej' honey wine, she was kind enough to let us taste both the sweet and dry wines to see which one we liked before choosing. Food wise we opted for the vegetarian platter with a side of the spicy lamb.

As we were the first ones in the food came quick and wow were we impressed. It was all presented on a large plate with all the vegetarian dishes topped on what's known as 'Injera' the menu providing a great explanation of what it was. I really liked the variety of colours, aromas and flavours this had, from the two different lentil dishes to the deep red beetroot. They were all delicious! The lamb was also incredible, soft and tender cooked in a spicy sauce mopped up with the injera. Just beware that it isn't 'pretty' it's hearty! And requires your hands to scoop it all up which is part of the experience eating this food. If you don't like that then don't bother and grow a pair!

The honey Tej wine paired perfectly with the food and went down quick!

For my first time eating Ethiopian / Eritrean cuisine, it couldn't have been a better experience. I will certaintly be visiting again and looking our for more such places as it was honestly some of the best food I've eaten out in a while. Would...

An unexpected but very much needed gem in Oxford, Lula’s is but a wholesome and (once again) needed hug in the academic trenches and rife of Oxford colleges. The ambience is cool, casual, and chill, I mean anywhere that Oxford Poetry holds in high regard is proof.

The food: flavourful and divine — the spicy chicken is just the right amount of kick and ‘mambo’ to awaken your tongue (for the spice-hesitant, teach it of the beauty of spice) in even the dreariest of days! The perfect portion sizes with the juiciest and tenderest (like one’s first true love) chicken will leave one wondering what heaven fostered such poultry breasts! The shiro - smoky and full of the “oh yeah… that’s nice,” especially when cradled with their “canvas and vehicle of flavour” injera.

The service: you’re part of the family. Lula herself came up to each table to share her gratitude and check in—talk about the second-coming of Mother Teresa. The rest of the team heartily welcomed all and truly engaged, they truly did care. To say that it is reminiscent of going to Auntie’s for the fleeting moments of wholesomeness and connection in our world is putting it lightly.

Put simply, Lula’s is comfort and easy, chill vibes defined and the home away from home—the Auntie you always needed—and the place I’ll frequent and bring guests, friends, and...