Meske, formerly known as Meskerem, offers a unique dining experience that blends Ethiopian and Afro-Latin cuisines. Located at 1000 Larkin Street in Nob Hill, San Francisco, this restaurant, named after the owner Guma Fassil's mother, has quickly become a hotspot for those seeking a vibrant and flavorful meal.
Interior of Meske Ethiopian Restaurant showcasing its stylish decor.
First Impressions
Upon entering Meske, you are immediately greeted by a stylish and artful decor. The ambiance is energetic, with high ceilings and bold artwork creating a lively soundtrack for your dining experience. The decor is simple with bricks on and behind the bar and some traditional art on the walls.
The restaurant is known for being a popular choice for date nights, offering a warm service and creative cocktails. The vibe is intimate, making it a memorable experience. Be aware that it can get loud on busy nights, which some guests love for the vibe and others find too noisy for conversation.
A Culinary Journey
Meske marries Ethiopian and Afro-Latin flavors in dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Diners can expect a mix of dishes, such as sambusas with berbere-spiced beef and the Dominican stew sancocho on the menu. The bar menu continues along that theme with cocktails also featuring Caribbean and Ethiopian ingredients and flavors.
Read also: Ethiopian Cuisine: Philadelphia Guide
Chef Nelson German has expressed his delight in noticing parallels between his native Dominican cuisine and Ethiopian food. His mother's steak encebollado stew, for example, reminds him of Ethiopian beef tibs.
Meske will marry Ethiopian and Afro-Latin flavors in dishes like a T-bone steak in a berbere-coffee rub, served with chile-glazed plantains and pigeon peas.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the standout dishes:
- Oxtail Encendido Gemelli: A flavorful and rich pasta dish that has received rave reviews.
- Pollo Guisado Sambusas: A unique twist on traditional sambusas, blending Afro-Latin and Ethiopian flavors.
- Gomen Collard Greens: A delicious and healthy side dish.
- Habichuela Misir Wat: Lentils with a touch of heat, adding depth to the meal.
- Timatim Salad: A refreshing and light salad to balance the richer dishes.
The Injera Experience
Traditional Ethiopian food is often served on a spongy crepe-like bread called Injera. In fact you eat with your hands, using the bread to take the food from the plate to your mouth. There is no fork, knife or spoon (you can ask for it as did the table next to us).
One of the highlights is the Tibs wat: very tasty and savory. Not hot at all. The meal was delicious, whether I tried the meat or vegetarian combo. Each dish had its own flavor and it was a complete discovery. The lentils were supposed to be hot, but it was just a bit.
Read also: Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine
Injera, the traditional Ethiopian bread used to eat the dishes.
Customer Reviews and Ambiance
MESKI reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating. Overall ratings and reviews Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant.
Based on verified diner reviews, MESKI offers a vibrant fusion of Afro-Latin and Ethiopian cuisines, with dishes like Oxtail Encendido Gemelli and Pollo Guisado Sambusas stealing the show. The "amazing food," "great ambiance," and "wonderful staff" create an inviting atmosphere. Despite a few service hiccups, MESKI remains "fantastic" for memorable dining experiences.
Here’s a summary of recent ratings:
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Food | 4.5 |
| Service | 4.6 |
| Ambience | 4.7 |
| Value | 4.4 |
Practical Information
- Address: 1000 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109
- Payment Options: AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
- Dress Code: Business Casual
- Executive Chef: Chef Nelson German
- Parking: Private Lot
- Additional Features: Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Wine
Reservations are recommended, especially for parties of five or fewer, who are allotted a 90-minute dining experience due to high demand and the intimate size of the restaurant. For a lively night out, go on a Friday or Saturday, the downstairs lounge and bar are buzzing then. If you prefer a calmer meal, try an early weekday dinner or an early seating; guests also love Sunday brunch for live music and a relaxed vibe.
Read also: A Taste of Ethiopia in South Carolina
