Ben Abeba

Perched on a cliffside, Ben Abeba is a renowned restaurant celebrated for its stunning panoramic views and breathtaking sunsets. The architecture is as unique and captivating as the food, offering a memorable dining experience. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Lalibela, combining exceptional cuisine with an unparalleled setting.

Website

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Phone

+251333360215

Things to Know

Welcome to Ben Abeba, an architectural marvel offering a spectacular cliffside dining experience with unforgettable Ethiopian sunsets.

Opening Hours

Monday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Tuesday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Friday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Saturday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Sunday

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

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Dining Experience at Ben Abeba

When exploring restaurants in Lalibela, Ethiopia, Ben Abeba comes highly recommended for those seeking both ambience and quality food. The menu highlights traditional Ethiopian dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the best of Lalibela, Ethiopia eats. Whether you're craving spicy wats, injera, or local coffee, this restaurant delivers a memorable culinary experience. For travelers mindful of budget, Ben Abeba offers a balance of authentic flavors without steep prices, making it a good option as a cheap restaurant alternative in Lalibela, Ethiopia. While it might not be the absolute cheapest, the value it provides—thanks to its unique location and quality food—is impressive for those wishing to indulge without overspending.

Breathtaking Location

One of the reasons why many frequent travelers and food lovers make a point of visiting Ben Abeba is its location. Perched with a breathtaking view of the mountains, it allows guests to soak in the serene beauty of Lalibela while enjoying their meals. This convenient setting means visitors can combine their dining experience with sightseeing, making it perfect for those coordinating a trip with limited time. It is a notable spot for anyone seeking a mix of cultural immersion and fantastic food in Lalibela.

Perfect for Travelers

For travelers planning to fly to Lalibela, Ethiopia, and looking for cheap flights combined with great food, Ben Abeba represents a destination dining experience worth adding to their itinerary. Cheap restaurants in Lalibela, Ethiopia do exist, but very few offer the combination of atmosphere, traditional Ethiopian food, and scenic views quite like Ben Abeba. This makes it popular among both locals and tourists keen on experiencing the essence of Ethiopian cuisine in Lalibela.

Exploring Lalibela's Culinary Scene

Those interested in the broader culinary scene will find that food in Lalibela, Ethiopia, is diverse and rich, with Ben Abeba serving as a wonderful introduction to the local gastronomy. By visiting this restaurant, travelers get insight into traditional cooking styles, flavors, and hospitality. It pairs well with a visit to neighboring eateries, allowing for a well-rounded exploration of restaurants in Lalibela, Ethiopia.

Trip Planning Tips

When it comes to planning a trip to Lalibela, having a reliable Lalibela, Ethiopia travel agent or utilizing the right tools can enhance the experience. Using an AI travel agent or a trip planner app that factors in preferences for restaurants, accommodations, and flights can make organizing the journey more seamless and tailored. Such technology can help identify cheap flights to Lalibela, Ethiopia, and suggest dining spots like Ben Abeba that provide authentic experiences without stretching the budget. Frequent travelers and those enthusiastic about Ethiopian culture will appreciate how AI travel integrates budget-friendly dining.

Conclusion

Ben Abeba offers a unique dining experience that combines delicious traditional food, breathtaking views, and cultural immersion. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lalibela, Ethiopia, and looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure. With its balance of affordability and quality, it stands out as a remarkable dining destination that enhances any trip to this historic region.

Payment Options

Credit Card
Contactless Payment

Reviews

4.3

Excellent

231 reviews

The food was exquisite, the service was Immaculate and the timing of our meal was everything. We arrived before sunset and were able to see the most breathtaking sunset I've ever seen.

Location

22VP+7Q5, Lalibela, Ethiopia

Cuisine Type

Ben Abeba offers a unique fusion of authentic Ethiopian cuisine and international dishes. The menu features traditional favorites alongside Western-inspired plates. Signature items include crepes and shepherd's pie. The restaurant is known for its diverse culinary offerings.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian

Signature Dish

Crepes with Banana and Honey

A delicious sweet treat featuring warm crepes filled with fresh banana and drizzled with honey, highly praised by guests.

Vibe/Setting

The vibe is truly spectacular, defined by its unique, futuristic architecture perched on the edge of a cliff. The open-air design provides uninterrupted, breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The atmosphere is both romantic and awe-inspiring, especially during sunset, making it an unforgettable setting for a meal.

Dress Code

The dress code is casual and comfortable, though it's advisable to bring a jacket or warm layer as the cliffside location can get quite chilly, especially in the evening. The restaurant often provides blankets for guests dining outdoors. There are no formal dress requirements, allowing visitors to focus on comfort while enjoying the views.

Noise Level

The noise level is generally moderate but can vary. It tends to be livelier during peak lunch hours when tour groups arrive, coinciding with the closure of the nearby churches. Evenings are often more tranquil, allowing guests to enjoy the serene ambiance and the sounds of nature from the cliffside location.

Kid Friendly

The restaurant is suitable for families, though the unique, multi-level architecture and cliffside setting require supervision of children. The diverse menu offers options that can appeal to younger palates. The experience is more about the stunning views and unique architecture than specific child-centric amenities.

Pet Friendly

There is no specific information provided regarding a pet-friendly policy. Given the restaurant's unique open-air, cliffside design and its focus on dining, it is advisable to contact the restaurant directly to inquire about bringing pets before your visit.

Events or Live Music

While not explicitly mentioned for regular scheduled events, the owner is known to be very hospitable and has been known to invite guests to join a campfire after dinner. This creates an impromptu, social gathering, offering a unique and memorable experience beyond the standard dining service.

Alcohol License and Bar Info

Ben Abeba holds a full alcohol license, offering a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails to complement your meal. Guests can enjoy a refreshing local beer, a glass of wine, or a crafted cocktail while taking in the magnificent sunset views from the terrace.

Events or Live Music

Policies

The restaurant is committed to food safety, using boiled water to wash all vegetables. They accept reservations, which are advisable due to the restaurant's popularity. The general policy is focused on providing a safe and enjoyable dining experience amidst its unique and spectacular setting.

Transportation and Accessibility

Located on the outskirts of Lalibela, access via the main road can be challenging as it is often under construction. Arranging local transport, such as a taxi, is highly recommended for getting to and from the restaurant. The venue has a wheelchair-accessible restroom, improving accessibility for guests with mobility needs.

Wait Times

Wait times can be significant, especially during peak lunch hours (around 12-2 PM) due to the influx of tour groups. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for securing a prime table on the balcony to ensure the best experience and to avoid potential delays in service during busy periods.

Sustainability Initiatives

While specific sustainability initiatives are not detailed, the restaurant demonstrates a commitment to health and safety through its practice of using boiled water to wash vegetables. Its open-air design also takes advantage of natural ventilation, reducing the reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems.

Nearby Attractions