Lula's Ethiopian and Eritrean Cuisine 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 their customers.

Great service. Very welcoming and friendly. When serving the menu, he likes to say what they gage, so the customer has a great idea what to choose. He kindly points out that the coffee is Ethiopian. So when you get the coffee, you can really appreciate the effort from the growing right up to you get a cup of coffee. Authentic Ethiopian Vegan food. When that taste bites, you savor the flavor and it lingers with appreciation. The chocolate caramel vegan cake. The chocolate is good, the caramel tones it down and makes it a really smooth blended flavor. Already planned to come back before I even left. Was drawn to it from a far and already drawn back to return. 10/10 highly satisfied with all the effort. Highly appreciated.

It's been a long awaited time to find an Ethiopia restaurant and Lulu's did not disappoint. Mixture of Ethiopian and regional food, introduced my son to this,he loved it, put some spice in your life.....good service, nice crowd and very helpful staff

You will be missing out if you don't come here. Food amazing, vibes amazing, service incredible.

Fantastic food, lovely coffee, chill vibes. Definitely recommend the vegetarian tasting plate for lunch if you're by yourself, it's a lovely mix of flavours and spice 😋

Really delicious food. I’ve been here twice now, and both times everything has been delicious. I’ve shared the vegetarian plate for two and a pot of the Eritrean spiced tea, and loved it. Both times the dishes included in the vegetarian plate were slightly different which makes me want to keep going back to see what they serve next. Will be back again and would highly recommend.

Awesome food, nice ambience and super friendly Service. I totally recommend this restaurant.

Mmmm not much food for the price. I appreciate the rent must be dear but £44 odd for a small share plate :/

We popped in here as my son was feeling quite dizzy when we got off the train. It was a bit early, but they happily served us some delicious locally made ice cream and a slice of lemon cake that kept the kids busy and a much needed coffee for me. We had to get straight back on a train, but despite it being before lunch, they sorted me out with some delicious takeaway food - the split peas were delicious! Great service, beautiful, relaxed interior and delicious food.

We had a fantastic experience here on Saturday night. The staff were exceptionally friendly and welcoming. There was live music all evening, and a lovely atmosphere. Everything was gluten-free, which as a coeliac was great. We tried a small taster of both honey wines and then ordered a glass as it was beautiful. The food was absolutely delicious, we had the lamb sharing platter for two and it was the perfect amount, and was divine. We then had gluten free carrot cake (which was delicious!) and spiced tea. Although we do not live in Oxford, I would highly recommend this place to anyone who said they were visiting. An unforgettable experience. Thank you!

Great place, great atmosphere, and a lot of great vegan options

I highly recommend Lula's, I came here for dinner when exploring the city by myself, the staff were so welcoming and the place and menu looked gorgeous. The wine and food was amazing. I had such a great experience here, it really seems like a warm hub of the community.

Me and partner went for our first experience of eating Ethiopian cuisine and all can say it was amazing food beautiful cooked with a very relaxed atmosphere.The staff were so friendly and welcoming and attentive and the staff are mainly family . The place was busy by 18:30 so that shows the quality of food and was definitely all freshly prepared .We had a sharing plate which I would recommend with delicious spicy chicken, vegetables and two types of lentil dishes. Definitely will be returning and try out some of the other dishes and the final really positive was the bill was very reasonable for so such quality food!

The food was incredible with a good range of vegetarian options. The honey wine was also lovely! The staff were fantastic - very welcoming and happy to explain anything on the menu we weren't sure about. If we were local then this would be a place we would visit on a regular basis!!

Really nice place with a cozy, friendly vibe + food slaps.

My husband and I LOVE this place ! The food is absolutely delicious and the staff are SO kind and passionate about what they’re serving. The setting and vibe you get feels like you’ve been invited into their home for dinner - it’s relaxing, warm and inviting. We can’t wait to go back ! - Thank you !

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 highly recommend.

Great service. Very clean. The food was wonderfully tasty. Nice to try something different. Authentic Ethiopian meals. A bit pricer than where we would normally eat but worth it. Vegan cakes available too. Disabled toilets and baby changing available. Indoor and outdoor seating.

Good food made with love, expertise, and traditional recipes. One of the best restaurants in Oxford and certainly the most unique.

Amazing food, exciting tastes! It's an absolute must in Oxford :) you can feel that food is fresh and made from good quality ingredients. Staff is friendly, service is fast

Really lovely meal and atmosphere at Lula’s. We shared the zigni platter for 2. £44. With an Ethiopian beer and a coffee to finish. Delightfully friendly service. Good vibes!

Delicious food (I had the spicy chicken with fosolia and injera), generous portions, quick and friendly service.

Prices in the restaurant are a couple quid more per dish than the menu on their website so it's not as good value as it may look at first. Friendly seeming place with a relaxed vibe. It was nice to try food and drink I've never had before - it's strongly flavoured and well spiced.

Authentic Ethiopian Food☀️. Highly recommended it. They won best Global restaurant in Oxfordshire, 2024.

I love this place, They're so proud of their beautiful culture. Injera in the menu is a highlight of the Eritrean cuisine, but just stop for a coffee at least when you're passing and observe their history and hand made features, language and welcoming nature.

Delicious food and welcoming staff & atmosphere

Zigni An Eritrean specialty, tender pieces of lamb cooed in a spicy berbere sauce. Zigni & Gomen with rice £16 or injera £18 First of all, the rice is completely different and much drier compared to Southeast Asia. On top of the rice is lamb, potatoes, and onions. The stewed lamb was juicy and the dryness of the rice was a perfect match. It's spicy and the potatoes are very delicious.

Amazing food. Excellent service. Can not fault it.

Exceedingly beautiful welcoming atmosphere Excellent service Friendly and professional staff Lovely and tasty well balanced food Thoroughly enjoyed Lula Ethiopian and Eritrean Restaurant All round 👏

Good food and service but i wish the staff would inform if they were out of any of the sides and not replace with their own choice after having ordered for something! Quite expensive, for the quantity of food.

Have been to Lula's multiple times now, and it is always delicious with the friendliest service. The flavours of the dishes are fantastic, and the vibe in the restaurant always makes you feel at home. Lula and her team also catered for my 30th birthday and was enjoyed by everyone. Can't wait to go back :)

I went to Lula’s for the first time a couple of nights ago and I have been talking about it ever since. The food is beautiful, cooked with love and attention. The flavours are well balanced and subtle and made me grin with delight. The beetroot and the mushroom side dishes were particularly good. The service is friendly, the atmosphere is gentle and the decor is as comforting and inspired as the dishes. Next time I am coming back with all the family.

Super delicious food from an amazing team. They squeezed 12 of us in after I had accidentally booked for the wrong night and were so kind and generous! We shared the veggie and meat platters with the Ethiopian beers and honey wine and everything was amazing. Will be first stop on any future trips to Oxford :) Thank you Lula's! Xx

Just near the station, a must visit for amazing food and chill atmosphere. Add a burst of authentic Ethiopian flavour to your day!

lovely restaurant with super delicious food, also perfect for vegetarians and vegans. Extremely friendly staff. When we are in Oxford again, we will come back!

Absolutely fantastic food and service

Luckily we missed our train, and could enjoy fabulous food at Lula‘s! Staff is one of a kind. We had a traditional meal, authentic flavouring and tremendous fun sharing a plate. We recommend Lula‘s 12/10! :) Thanks a lot!

Great atmosphere and lovely vibe but unfortunately was disappointed with the service. I was made to wait for over 45 minutes for my food and was told that they had ran out of rice because a lot of people had ordered it before me. Despite asking several times I was just told that "it's coming", only to have them tell me as I left they can substitute it with pancakes if I needed the food immediately. Unbelievable that they, as a restaurant, can't manage basic demand. Had to leave hungry so as to not be late for a meeting. Had high expectations but was let down.

Absolutely amazing food, in such a nice, laid-back restaurant. Seriously, this is the place to go for actually great food in a relaxed, fun, environment. The menu is small but brilliant, and all the staff super helpful and nice. I honestly can't say which of the stews/curries were my favourites as all were great. And the bready-wrappy thing tastes amazing by itself too! Have since been back and will return ASAP!

Great place. Delicious food. Unfortunately the chef was late turning up because of a travel problem so waited a long time for food. But fun place. Ful (sic) breakfast delicious!

Excellent food and service. Very friendly waiter introduced us to the menu and to new dishes on the menu. Great injera bread. Menu is great for vegetarians and vegans. Highly recommend!

Fantastic food and ambience. Loved everything

A must visit place for lunch/dinner if you are spending some time in Oxford

Lula’s is super delicious food, with great gluten free! They are very friendly and kind in there.

Incredible food - had the sharing platter which was divine and also been back for breakfast now, which I'm convinced is the only way I should ever start my day! That plus the spiced Eritrean tea - delicious!

SO GOOOOOOD can’t wait to come back

Such lovely authentic food, friendly people and nice vibes in the community space. Thanks Lulu and team!

Fantastic food and service. A gem in Oxford.

Brilliant atmosphere, great food; veggie and vegan options galore; and the service was quick and everything arrived hot!

A fantastic way to experience authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean food. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans and people with gluten-free diets. Lula and the whole staff are wonderfully warm and friendly.

Amazing food, lovely service, the lovliest people. I had an incredible evening here and the food was top class! fantasic option for vegan and gluten free people wanting some proper good food.

Lovely people and happy vibes. Great food. Definitely book a table, its very popular. Highly recommended a trip to Lula's

Amazing food with lovely, quick and personable service had a great time!

What a gem, in the heart of the City. Cannot wait to go back and try all of the other wonderful dishes♥️

I loved the atmosphere of this little Ethiopian Restaurant. And, the food was absolutely amazing: Like tears of joy!

Lovely place with great vegan food + WiFi!

Had breakfast, very delicious. Super friendly.

Nice food and coffee near Oxford Station. Tasty Ethiopian and Eritrean sauces and Injera bread - all Gluten Free!

Really delicious food. Exceeded my expectations. First experience of Ethiopian food and I will definitely be back. Had the spicy chicken sharing plate - highly recommend.

Very friendly staff, great food. We tried the honey wine, which was divine

A delightful find close to the railway station. Just had their delicious coffee and cake but the food smelt amazing. Such kind and welcoming hosts. I would happily return when next in Oxford.

One of the most delicious,tasty meals I ever ate. Popped in on a Saturday evening and was very happily fitted in between bookings. Grateful for this and the outstanding vegan food we ate.

We just popped in to this place as there is no place warm for a coffee in the station. We had a space T and wine and the owner was so kind to let us have a small sample of the food - which was amazing. She did not want to charge for this so gave a big tip instead. I am now planning a weekend in Oxford just to go back.

Amazing and authentic food. The spices are perfect. The guava juice was really fresh. Loved it

We popped in on the off chance that they could fit us in on a Saturday evening, and they did. Friendly and excellent service and the food was amazing. We had the vegetarian sharing platter and some Eritrean beer. A great dinner and we will be back next time we are in Oxford!

The best restaurant in Oxford and the best food money can buy.

Went there not knowing what to expect, but was delightfully surprised. We got the spicy chicken platter to share, and everything was delicious! The chicken especially was flavorful and tender.

I found this place because of the good reviews, and now writing one myself! Delicious, home cooked food with smiley staff and actually very reasonably priced. Healthy, interesting and filling. Absolutely 5 stars. Really kind staff as well.

Small plates and long wait. The platters are expensive for the quality. Go for vegetarian because the meat ones have next to no meat.

Best Ethiopian and Eritrean food I have tried and the service was excellent. Thank you!

I dream about food like this!! So much to choose from for a vegetarian!! We had platter and tried it all!! So fresh, delicious and generous! Lula and her team are delightful - attentive and welcoming, and we will be back again!! Also planning to get my lunch from their pop up in Gloucester Green - will make my Wednesdays tolerable!! Thank you xx

Had an amazing meal here on a Saturday night. Pre-booked (I recommend booking via their website as it was full and they were turning people away). It feels like such a hidden gem, so glad we discovered it and will definitely be back. The menu is really easy to navigate and honestly, every dish was full of flavour. Spicy tea was a great compliment to the food. Highly recommend!

Food & service is incredible! Had to find a place to eat before jumping on a train, and I'm so glad I came here. Worth travelling back to Oxford for. Thanks guys

Excellent home cooked style, feels like it's good for you. When I went were sold out of several dishes so I ma but I was suggested suitable alternatives by staff.

Amazing food that tasted super fresh and made with the kind of thought that you only get from homemade meals - a real treat for eating out! It was also right by Oxford station so a good stop after a long journey.

Had the warmest welcome at Lula’s. There was some live music and the atmosphere was great! The food was so warming and flavourful - really enjoyed the sharing platter! thank you

Lula's has a really welcoming atmosphere. The vegetarian platter for three was very nice and enough for each of us. Also, we really enjoyed the honey wine.

Had the vegetarian injera (£15) with shiro and habedi hamli The spicy chicken platter (£35) which came with injera, a chicken curry and four vegetable dish The food was delicious - especially the shiro! The food is mostly gluten free, with lots of vegan and vegetarian options!

Incredible food at a great price, and lots of it! As both eat in and take away the food and experience are great, definitely give it a try.

5 stars is not enough for Auntie Lulas! I love this family run spot. The service and food was impeccable. Staff are so welcoming and couldn’t have done more for me and my friend. I had the lamb dish, gomen (curried potato and carrot) and shiro (ground chickpea curry). Some of the best Ethiopian food I’ve had, probably the best in the south for sure. The injera was the highlight for me, Lula uses pure teff as it should be, no corners cut. We also had the cake and Ethiopian coffee which was enjoyed too much to take a photo lol. I will be back for sure.

Mat from Lula was absolutely friendly and fantastic in his service delivery- he spent time in sharing places to go for Oxford visits and highlights. I later left my credit card at the restaurant and he walked a few streets to find me, thank you for going the extra mile Mat! Food was tasty and environment was well designed too

I’ve always passed Lula’s Ethiopian cuisine on my way home & have always been intrigued as I have never had Ethiopian or Eritrean food before. A few days ago I walked across it and it just smelt sooo nice! So today I was hungry and decided to pay it a visit. I am so happy I did! Not only was the food absolutely delicious, it was and felt healthy too. Most restaurants are usually just full of fried foods and lots of carbs. But Lula’s restaurant was full of nutritious food which filled me up & tasted so good. I got the red lentil, fossolia and injera. It was so fun eating with my hands, back home where I’m from (Kazakhstan) we also eat our national dishes with our hands. So the experience felt so homely and the food tasted like it was made with love. I will definitely visit again!! The staff were wonderful and checked up on me during my meal. I also got the mango juice, it was also amazing too. When I left I also asked for a slice of carrot cake, which I’m eating as I am writing this review. It is so lovely as everything is in this restaurant ❤️ it was definitely worth my money, I spent just under £25 for incredible food, atmosphere and overall experience. Thank you!!! -From Bibi

I have never been to a restaurant with better service and friendlier staff. The food was delicious, they were accommodating, and Lula is an excellent chef. The restaurant manages well with large bookings as well, people in our group really liked it.

Place is so lovely, people are so lovely and kind, food is very spicy but so delicious. The kind sir who served us was so lovely and kind. Always checked on us if we need anything. Food was spicy he offered us some yogurt. I loved this place and will definitely come back again ❤️

Lovely cafe / restaurant with the most friendly staff and delicious Ethiopian food.

Amazing Ethiopian food in Oxford! We are huge Ethiopian food fans and Lula’s did not disappoint us! The warmth and graciousness of Mat and his mom, Ms.Lula combined with their delicious food - Injera and the amazing curries and lentils made our day! Totally recommend this restaurant if you are craving for some authentic Ethiopian food.

Restaurant wasn’t clean and the service was poor. Most importantly the food quality isn’t great and overpriced.

My family have been going to Lula’s since they started in Gloucester Green Market. So when we were planning our wedding, there was no question that we wanted Lula to cater the reception lunch and it was the best decision we could have made. We made the most beautiful memories over a beautifully decorated space, delicious food, and meticulous and friendly service. Not to mention Lula accommodated for all dietary needs of our guest. Also, the epitome of convenience located just down the road from the registry office and across the street from the train station. So glad that our favourite restaurant in Oxford is even more special now. Highly recommend everyone drop in an make some memories there too!

Wonderful Ethiopian/ Eritrean food in light, airy rooms. Friendly, gracious staff. Vegetarian as well as meat options.

Really excellent food, great atmosphere, charming staff. Great prices compared to most places in Oxford.

Superb restaurant, the food was magnificent and the atmosphere so warm and welcoming.

My God this place is delicious. The spicy chicken was to die for. I'm no stranger to ethiopian food and this is as good as it gets. I had to get two more boxes as takeaway all the way to Bristol because you can't get this kind of home cooked deliciousness just anywhere. Service and vibes was great too.

Absolutely delightful. Very friendly and helpful service, delicious food, gentle jazz background music not so loud that you can't hear each other as in so many places these days. Can't recommend it highly enough.

Delicious food and wonderful people.

Very tasty! Absolutely recommend

Lovely family making excelent home made food. Very good prices.

One of the most delicious Ethiopian dishes you can get abroad! And even more than that, their service is amazing! Lula (the owner) and every waiter are so friendly and have great sense of humor.

Brilliant brilliant brilliant. The food! The coffee! Honey wine! Cake! And the staff are all lovely! An excellent place, can't recommend it more highly

Delicious and authentic food, with a friendly staff and lovely ambiance. We got the vegetarian share plate, which was the perfect amount for two.

Loved the homemade yummy and healthy food. I generally don’t eat spicy foods but this also helped my throat feel better . Also owner of the restaurant was so nice. Should try their food and their hospitality 👍