Massawa Restaurant has been a neighbourhood favourite in New Westminster for over 20 years, known for its authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine served in a warm, lively dining room. If you’re after bold spices, injera that’s soft and tangy, and generous shared platters, this is the place locals recommend again and again. The restaurant fills a cosy 1,200-square-foot space on Columbia Street, with communal tables that invite conversation and family-style service that makes every visit feel like a home meal.

Their menu centres on traditional stews and grilled dishes, with clear favourites such as zigni (spicy beef stew), shiro (chickpea purée), and doro wat (slow-cooked chicken). Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful, including fresh tibs with seasonal vegetables and a daily lentil special. Meals are intended for sharing, so expect large injera platters, sampler combos for two or four, and weekend brunch specials featuring spiced eggs and house-made berbere. They also offer catering for office lunches and events, with party trays that serve 10 to 30 guests.

What sets Massawa apart is how they make food: recipes passed down through generations, injera prepared on a traditional mitad griddle, and spice blends toasted and ground in-house. The front-of-house team are longtime neighbourhood faces who guide newcomers through menu traditions and portion sizes. Service is unfussy and friendly, and the kitchen adapts spice levels on request, which is appreciated by families and first-time diners.

Massawa is woven into New Westminster’s food scene, supporting community events, supplying local festivals, and hosting cultural nights several times a year. People choose Massawa for reliable authenticity, hearty portions, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels personal rather than polished. For reservations or takeout call 604-553-9503 or visit https://www.massawarestaurant.com/.