While exploring Cleveland Heights' Lee Rd with all the cute restaurants, bars, cafes, etc, I would pass by this ethiopian restaurant. I've had ethiopian in the past in la and minneapolis and i thoroughly enjoy the cuisine.
When I saw that an UYE was happening at Zoma, I immediately RSVP'ed. It was also a chance for me to make some new friends in cleveland before i leave this city next week.
I ordered:
Samusa(2pieces) 3.50 - 4 stars
yummy yummy nom nom nom it almost seems like a fusion of indian samosa and an outer crust like an eggroll
Zoma Special Tib - chicken 15.99 - 4 stars
I was expecting more of a stew but it wasn't but the dish was still tasty. see picture. it came out in a pan with a separate dish with injera and house salad (which is served first). house salad was more of a tomato salad but this was quite exquisite and one of my favorite parts of the meal.
Injera bread is made of teff flour and is gluten free. it looks like a large pancake/crepe but has a sourdough bread taste. It is oddly addicting and also fun to pick up your food with injera bread.
Couple people from our table ordered Ethiopian coffee ceremony thingie. They roasted the beans inside the restaurant where you can sit and watch. The aroma was perfect after a meal. Although I didn't have the coffee, it looked fun and interesting to try next time.
Zoma was definitely a special experience, a fun one at that especially with a group of people. I highly recommend giving this cute place a shot!
TIP:
street parking may be difficult to find. there is a 24/7 metered parking lot behind the building across the street (which may also be full depending on the time and day)