Addis Ababa

When a writer's description of gushing and overt hospitality is "This feels like someone's home!" I wince. And I groan. Sure, maybe it's like the *first time* you go to someone's house, and they're trying to impress you. But Addis Ababa brings the sensation of trips to a best friend's house, where all pretense of a pristine and orderly family is dropped, and I am but one of many people, objects, and tasks that command attention. It is incredibly casual. A few minutes after you arrive, someone will ask how you are doing, and more importantly if you have any familiarity with this cuisine. You probably don't, but if you order what I ordered you'll be excited to try more. The Sambusas, or a stuffed and fried pastry served with a chutney of sorts, absolutely cannot be skipped. Crispy on the outside with soft layers on the inside, I can best describe their texture and flavor as a cross between India's samosa and Arizona's chimichunga. You like both of those things, right? The lentil variety are a solid starter that will tempt you to order a dozen as a full meal. And as amazing as those are, the beef filling is even better! I had the Shekla Tips for my entree. It was served in a hollowed out bowl (I do not know the formal name for this) with coals underneath the surface, keeping the beef simmering in onions, peppers, and fat from start to finish. On the side was a bowl of dry spices, and plentiful injera, a flat bread with the texture of sponge cake and the taste of a sharp sourdough that acts as a staple of this cuisine. You scoop up your food with this bread. You are not even given or offered utensils. You will enjoy every last bite. You will feel a bit messy, with the warmth of peppers radiating through your hands and face. I'd like to believe the sense of messiness only enhances one's immersion in a new dining experience, so there will be no complaints. Come hungry, curious, and patient. Addis Ababa will award you. PS--there's a hookah lounge as well!

What a joke, leta start with the he fact that the person that just answered the phone was rude as* hail and she wasn't helpful at all. If you can't do your only job maybe you shouldn't use Postmates, why do postales have to deal with your crap when you were the one that did not have the items of your menu, even worse after substituting the items you for some reason don't have in stock you then proceed to tell me that is my fault. What in the actual f is wrong with your restaurant. Is not my job to call you first to then order from Postmates just because you can't run your business... Btw besides not getting what we order the food that we got looked inedible. The food looks like crap

Makes me feel like I'm visiting another country when I came inside, which I absolutely love. The lady who cooked our food was extremely accommodating and made us a special meat and veggie combo plate with all of the goodies (we can never pick just one or even two plates to share, we gotta have it all!)The combo was amazing, just what I wanted and needed! We also got the lentil sambosas which were perfectly soft and crispy at the same time and had the best freshest herb sauce to go along with it.Great spot!

They do take long to prepare the food but the wait is worth it. Ask for utensils if you need it but to have the whole experience eat with your hands! Take the injera and bathe it in the food and enjoy!The sambusas are stuffed with plenty of meat and the sauce that comes with it makes it even better... beware it's spicy! Definitely a neighborhood spot to try (often) and enjoy!

Really loved this place. Was first time having Ethiopian so I can't speak to the authenticity but I loved the flavors. The lady working behind the counter was extremely nice and made us feel very welcome

great place to be food is wonderful! Staff an owner are great people! if you want good food, hookah, I recommend this place 100%!

This restaurant has been a complete blessing to my life. My whole family has fell in love with the food, atmosphere, awesome customer service. The staff are very attentive and friendly. The owner is a very honorable man. We hosted a surprise party and he helped me in ways I will forever be thankful for. This is a restaurant my loved ones and I plan to continue to attend. My boyfriend is a very picky man about his food but he was very satisfied with everything provided especially the lamb and goat meat. Thanks Addis adaba!!!!! We love you!

my first time having ethiopian food and i loved it! the service was good and the music/ambiance was great.

Great service and food. The owner is so nice and has great hospitality. Always a great vibe.

Nuria is my favorite Ethiopian chef! I love their food. Authentic and delicious. One of my favorites!