I developed a love of Ethiopian food during a high school trip to DC years ago. Move forward to present day, I have been to every Ethiopian/Eritrean restaurant in the Charlotte area (seriously, no joke). This place is hands down the best in the area. Terry, the owner is very pleasant and helpful to those who are unfamiliar with the cuisine. Her recommendations are always on point - follow her suggestions and you won't be disappointed. When Terry is not there, things do seem less organized. She mostly runs the restaurant by herself and I assume she hasn't trained other staff members properly for front-of-house duties. If you go, you absolutely must end the meal with the traditional roasted green bean coffee. The coffee service/brewing process is almost as good as the coffee itself. Watching her make it over a flame in the traditional ceramic jars is mesmerizing. If interested, read more about the coffee ceremony and the time of sharing, friendship, and community it is meant to foster (http://www.saveur.com/ethiopian-coffee-ceremony-bunna-cafe). Having spoken to many Ethiopian and Eritrean Charlotte residents, they all say this restaurant is their favorite. I could sit at the bar all day sipping coffee, eating sambusas, and watching the regulars play some form of pool in a separate room or talking with them and hearing their fascinating stories. I actually recommend sitting at the bar, which makes it easier to interact with Terry, the employees, and other patrons, plus it's the best location for people watching. She also sells the green coffee beans and injera. Don't let the decor, which is a bit dated and disorganized, and awkward location deter you from trying this gem of a restaurant. When I lived in Charlotte, I dined here at least once a week (sometimes daily) and was never disappointed.