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| - This was my first experience with Ethiopian food. I went with my boyfriend, who had tried the cuisine once before in a different city, and my roommate, who was another first timer.
The restaurant itself is unassuming, but beautiful inside, with a colorful lit bar and tangerine colored walls. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. Like quite a few other reviewers, we were the only non-Ethiopians there. From the moment we walked through the front door, the aroma of meat and spices tantalized our noses.
We started our meal with a round of yemisir sambusa - flaky fried pastries stuffed with spiced lentils. One is enough per person. They're quite large. The combination of delicate, crispy pastry and toothsome lentils was delightful. They came with small cups of spicy sauce for dipping, as well.
The three of us each ordered an entree, with the intention of sharing, so we could try as many new things as possible. I ordered the Yedoro Wot, which is a chicken drumstick and a whole hard-boiled egg stewed in a rich, spicy sauce. The chicken was incredibly tender. The egg really soaked up the flavor of the sauce, and was a surprisingly good compliment to the chicken.
My boyfriend ordered the Awaze lamb tibs. They were so flavorful and juicy, stewed with onions and hot pepper paste; they may have been everyone's favorite dish.
My roommate got the Special Kitfo: seasoned raw beef mixed with cheese and spinach. It was FANTASTIC. I'm a fan of tartare to begin with, and this has to be one of the best presentations I've ever had. If you have any courage in you at all to try raw meat, this would be your best chance. Go for it. You won't be sorry.
When the waitress brought the dishes to our table, she set down a giant platter in the center, covered with several pieces of fresh spongy flatbread. She poured all the dishes directly onto the flatbread, as a communal serving dish. There are, of course, no utensils. Instead, the diner tears off pieces of bread, uses the bread to pick up the meat, and eats it together. It's a wonderful, sensual way to dine. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys ethnic food.
Also worth noting: the food is rather spicy, but you can order it mild if you prefer.
The service was also pretty good, if laid back. Our waitress was happy to answer our questions about the cuisine and the menu.
We all left stuffed. You can't find a more satisfying meal in this city for under ten bucks a person. Amazing. This place is a gem.
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