We recently made our first post pandemic visit to Bete-Lukas, and everything was refreshingly similar to the way it always has been. The gentleman who attends to the tables is still a delight to chat with, and the food remains a neighborhood highlight. Spice levels continue to be just right - hot enough to be flavorful, mild enough to avoid being painful.
The restaurant continues to be very low key from outside - if you aren't specifically heading there, it would be easy to miss. Go up the stairs on the south side of the building and you'll find the door - it's not visible from the sidewalk. Inside, they appear to have made some updates to the lighting - it remains subdued and contributes to a calm, relaxing environment for enjoying your meal.
this was my first time having ethiopian food and it was a delightful experience! the waiter was a character and kept us highly entertained. good vibes all around
This place is such a hidden gem in Portland! The service you receive is incredibly personal and refreshingly entertaining and the food does not disappoint! I wish service could be this good everywhere! We've had Ethiopian cuisine several times in the past and this place is right at the top! Our server was absolutely the best we've ever had and completely turned the evening into a core memory outing! We loved every minute of our time here and can't wait to come back and bring friends!
Food was so so so so so good. Amazing service, the waiter was so fun. Perfect place for those new or familiar with Ethiopian food to really taste the distinct flavors in a dish. Clearly a lot of talented chefs and lots of love in the food.
We tried to get in a few e weeks back but it was so busy they turned away people. We tried again last night after making reservations ( do this) and we both enjoyed the experience. The server was fun, and interesting. The food was yummy! Great experience all round! Definitely going back!
My first experience trying African cuisine. We ate “family” style. Small restaurant and it was very busy the 3 hours they are open. Would be back again! The host had a particular humor we didn’t all get lol
Very peaceful elegant setting, wonderful African music, well prepared delicious dishes. A true delight! Try the beef & vegetable combinations and share!
Bete-Lukas is a special place for me; it was one of the first meal I had in Portland and it makes me so happy to know they are still here. They offer delicious comfort food that I can comfortably order whatever I want without Celiac's restricting my options, given to you by a man who has led this restaurant honestly and with a warm heart over the years. I have never experienced a flavor quite like the one they achieve with their Asa Goulash (the fish!) I highly recommend this place, as well as the food here. Walk in the door, and you'll see what I mean. Thank you for a memorable experience every time.
We loved Bete-Lukas! Excellent food - we got the veggie salad and vegetarian combo, and both were very, very good. The staff was sweet and funny. Great atmosphere!
This place can be easy to miss, on top of a tattoo shop, but try not to! The food is fresh and tasty (even the salad was crisp and well seasoned, and y’all know that’s often a filler and afterthought). The service is friendly and worth the occasional wait.
Make a reservation
Order online
Find the best restaurant in Portland
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes