Madison NEEDS a stellar Ethiopian restaurant, or simply more great African restaurants at all. Buraka's new location on Willy Street is beautiful and sets the scene for success. The interior has beautiful, light, shiny woods and a well stocked bar. The back patio has seating, large and small; minor shady areas. Despite this really awesome setting, Buraka needs to work on consistency and going back to its roots.
My first visit, portions were large, flavors robust, dorowat spicy enough to make my nose run a little, staff knowledgeable and appeared invested. My visits thereafter changed somewhat. Portion are about half, I can easily finish them yet prices remain the same. Spice and flavors are less; tomato more noticeable. I'd like to think they aren't using Ragu as it has been noted but I'll have to check that out next time. Staff have definitely declined; I struggle with needing to ask 3x for the same 1 beer. Buraka is no Alem Ethiopian Village in Milwaukee (drooling...) but Madison will really be in luck if Buraka returns to its former quality.