Gojo Ethiopian Restaurant — Restaurant in San Jose

I have made over a dozen trips to Gojo in the last couple of years. Gojo is an Ethiopian/Eritrian restaurant in San Jose.For those unfamiliar to Ethiopian cuisine, here is my take on it. There is a big focus on vegetables and lentils, much like Indian food. There is also a lot of impetus on a shared plate. More on the cuisine here and some notes on their communal eating here.

The menu at Gojo is pretty wide and there are enough options for vegetarians to last multiple visits. In my first visit, I tried the timatim fitfit which is a spicy mix of injera, tomatoes and some spices. The second time, I tried their veggie combo which is the best item in the menu to sample all their veggie dishes in one shot.

The veggie combo is delivered on top of a big injera, which is a soft flour flatbread much like a dosa but very different in taste. More injera is provided on the side and on request. I also ordered a ethiopian spice tea which is done in a unique way. Warm water steeped with spices is given and a tea bag is provided. The spices have a distinct flavor by themselves and combined with the tea, offers a very interesting taste. The veggie combo has a bunch of vegetarian dishes that is very strong on the veggies and lentils. The full spectrum of dishes in the veggie combo should make any healthy eater, very happy.

Some of the dishes found in the veggie combo are Yemisser Wot – a spicy red lentil dish, Gomen Wot- a collard green dish that is less on spice and high on the greens, Ater Kik- a dhal like dish with split yellow peas, Atakilt Wot- a sabzi with potatoes, carrots and beans and some fresh salad. Each of them offers a different experience and Gojo does them all very well.

We were a party of 9 and the owner was nice enough to give us all a baklava on the house. The baklava, not a Ethiopian specialty by any means was pretty good for the price (less than half of what Chelokababi or Kabul charges). Overall, we were a...

Wow-Gojo Ethiopian Delivers-the best!!..

I had/needed Vegan (and gluten free) food and was recommended the Combo Injeera and picked, cooked, and pickled lil’ dishes assortment.

The server Moumoud (pardon, close?!!) was a pleasant experience himself in providing the choices and being a beacon of gentle, prompt, attentive, and kindly, jovial service. I felt like I was being served by family-in his mentioning of his cherished veggie dishes for me-that were… simply AMAZING..and were light, sweet, slightly spicy, and cooling as well.

And…the injeeera here-may be the best injeera in NorCal-serious. Lightest, and most firm-absolutely teff-and delicious w/all the assortment!

You can also tell of the humble pride of Ethiopia here-in the decor, both western and Ethiopian. I imagine they have both lots of Ethiopians and westerners in groups on a solid dining evening!

I didn’t try the meat dishes-they looked delectable-aside of my preference-in that they were very special dishes-go to this place w/a few friends or family who is daring or likes Ethiopian-it’s an awesome group experience in a place like this-in sharing!! You’ll love the variety of your friend’s, neighbor’s, or mom in law!

If you are in San Jose or on your way to/from Santa Cruz-definitely stop by for a small bite or a solid meal!

What an early dinner/afternoon delight!

And if you see Moumoud-you’ll know-because he has a glowing smile for his food! Ask him about a...

It is with a heavy heart that I learned of the change of ownership for this wonderful place after 29 years of epic management and exceptional service. This establishment has been an integral part of the Bay Area community and has provided countless unforgettable experiences to its patrons.

I am grateful for the amazing experiences that I have had at this restaurant and feel blessed to have been a part of their journey. The owners have been the most amazing people, and their authenticity has made the restaurant a staple in the community.

Although it is sad to see them go, I am excited for the next chapter of their lives and wish them all the best on their journey. I know that their legacy will continue to live on, and the Bay Area community will miss their talent and dedication.

I would like to personally thank the owners for their exceptional service and authentic Ethiopian cuisine. They have truly made a lasting impact on the community and have created unforgettable memories for their patrons.

Thank you for 29 years of excellence and for sharing your passion with us. I wish you all the best in your...