A Very Good Ethiopian in Harlem

Orin212 from 10026 | Posted on 2/12/08

First, the restaurant is absolutely clean, spotless. It is brand new and has that feel which is a huge selling point. Second the atmosphere, low lit, candles, quiet music in the background, is very romantic. We went on a Saturday evening and it was not crowded since most people in the neighborhood haven't yet clued in to this fine Harlem establishment. We had the vegetarian combination which came with four different entrees. We selected Atakilt Wett (fresh carrots, potatoes, cabbage and onions, sautéed with garlic, ginger and tomatoes in a mild sauce), Kik Aletcha (split peas cooked and flavored with green peppers, onions and mild spices), Shiro Wett (chickpeas, lentils and peas roasted, powdered and cooked in a berbere sauce with a multitude of spices), and Buticha (pureed chickpeas seasoned with red onions, garlic, jalapeno pepper, olive oil, lemon juice and fresh herbs). The food was delicious. It looked simple as it sat there on the platter but love and care went into the preparation. The result was flavorful without being overpowering, with the right degree of spice that even the pale American tastebud wouldn't be too taxed.