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must go · #6 in oakland

Desta

Ethiopian Restaurant, Vegan Menu

Worth ordering: #1 Injera in Oaklandnamed in 9 reviews

Enjoy the naturally gluten-free injera made 100% from teff flour.

Vegetarian

$$

Top tips

  • Try the veggie combo plate and the green lentil dish for flavorful Ethiopian classics.
  • Expect vegan-friendly service staff knowledgeable about vegan options.
All 4 tipsShow fewer
  • Visit on weekends for a popular vegan-friendly brunch featuring a breakfast sandwich with vegan cheese.
  • Plan ahead for takeout as extra injera to go is not available.

Must-try

  • Worth ordering: Vegetarian combonamed in 16 reviews

  • Worth ordering: Veggie combonamed in 5 reviews

People also mention breakfast sandwich, gomen and sambussa.

All 7 dishes people mentionShow fewer

Also coffee, combo platter, cookie and double veggie combo.

Good for

The vibe: families The vibe: work & study

Praised for friendly service, cozy atmosphere and generous portions.

All 4 things people praiseShow fewer

Also praised for good value.

Good to know

  • Gluten-free options
  • Outdoor seating
  • Brunch, lunch, coffee, takeout

About

Desta is a vegetarian Ethiopian restaurant renowned for its authentic veggie combos and naturally gluten-free teff injera—highlighted by generous portions and a cozy, family-run atmosphere. The place features breakfast items including a breakfast sandwich with vegan cheese, and its outdoor seating complements the intimate urban setting. Reviews consistently praise the flavor-packed lentils and friendly service, with reasonable prices and a quiet cafe vibe.

Visit

Open the map

303 Oakland Ave Ste a, Oakland, CA 94611

Opening hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
10:00–17:00
Thursday
10:00–17:00
Friday
10:00–17:00
Saturday
10:00–17:00
Sunday
10:00–17:00

the food

5.0 out of 5. Spinach Rating

From recent reviews, out of 5.

  • Outstanding food
  • Great service
  • Great atmosphere
Google Maps
5.0 250 reviews Read on Google Maps
HappyCow
4.8 9 reviews Read on HappyCow
How we rank

eating vegan

Outstanding for vegans

vegan options
Many · 5–10 dishes
menu
Separate vegan menu
staff
Knowledgeable
protein
lentils, split peas, kale + 4 more
What the grades mean

nearby

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