Dive into a communal feast at this vibrant spot, where you'll savor flavorful Ethiopian stews—both vegan and meaty—served with warm, homemade injera.
"Named for the traditional Ethiopian bread basket that doubles as a table, Messob arguably created modern Little Ethiopia when the original owner, Rahel Woldmedhin, opened it in 1985. Today, Messob remains a staple of the neighborhood and a classic date spot where couples engage in gushra — hand-feeding your partner in a loving gesture. For those looking to try a range of entrees, the super Messob exclusive offers nine samples of entrees including the split lentil yemisir wot and the sautéed beef zelzel tibs." - Oren Peleg, Eater Staff
"Open for takeout and delivery. Ethiopian food might be the perfect meal for a solo Valentine’s date - there’s no cutlery to clean, the food is rich and full of flavor, and if the injera’s any good, it’ll be porous enough to soak up any tears related to your recent breakup. The classic spot in Little Ethiopia is offering their full menu for both takeout and delivery, and while you can get any dish a la carte, we recommend the “Super Messob Exclusive.” It’s a massive plate filled with nine dishes from all sections of the menu, ranging from collards to spicy lamb stew. And at $33, it’s an incredible value. Just like you. Call us?" - kat hong
"Eating at this family-run Ethiopian restaurant has always felt like a meal at home. And now, their entire menu is available to-go. This includes everything from sambusas (triangle-shaped pastries stuffed with lentils and herbs) to steamed collard greens, but if you’re serious about your fiber intake, get the Vegetarian’s Delight. It’s a massive combo of all the plant-based items on the menu, and exactly what you want after another long day of staring out the window. Available for takeout and delivery." - kat hong
"This family-run operation in Little Ethiopia is low-key and casual (so anyone who refuses to wear a dress shirt won’t feel out of place), but still is nice enough to appease that one seemingly unappeasable family member. While everybody can order a la carte, the best way to enjoy a meal here is to get the “Super Messob Exclusive.” What sounds like a fiery TV tell-all is actually a massive plate of ten or so different dishes from across the menu, all hanging out on a huge layer of injera. You’ll get spicy lamb stew, fresh and crunchy tomato fit-fit, and collard greens that will touch the inside of your soul." - kat hong
"Ideally, you’d be able to host a big dinner with all your friends at home, passing around excellent-tasting potluck dishes everyone made themselves. Problem is, your best home seating option is a card table and you are all terrible at cooking. Head to Messob instead. This Ethiopian spot on Fairfax has round tables that are big enough that you all won’t be elbowing each other, and their family-style combo platters come out to under $20 a person." - brant cox
