Betje – Authentic Ethiopian flavours in the heart of Berlin
Having lived for many years in Ethiopia and enjoyed Ethiopian cuisine across Europe and the United States, I can confidently say that Betje is one of the most authentic Ethiopian restaurants outside Ethiopia itself. With more than 25 years of history in Berlin, it is a true culinary landmark, bringing the spirit of Addis Ababa straight to the heart of Germany.
The menu is outstanding. The Doro Wat – Ethiopia’s iconic spicy chicken stew with boiled egg – is rich and full of flavour. The tibs, whether lamb or beef, are tender, perfectly spiced and deeply satisfying. The kitfo (minced beef, served raw or lightly cooked as lebleb) is exceptional and prepared true to tradition. Vegetarians and vegans are equally spoilt for choice: the Misir Wot (red lentils in berbere sauce) and the mild Kik Alicha (yellow split peas) are delicious, authentic and perfectly paired with fresh, spongy injera.
To accompany the food, Betje offers traditional tej (Ethiopian honey wine), as well as Ethiopian and Eritrean beers. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a highlight not to be missed – aromatic, freshly roasted coffee served in the most authentic way, creating a memorable cultural experience.
The atmosphere is welcoming and vibrant, decorated with Ethiopian art and crafts, while the service is warm, friendly and attentive.
Betje is far more than a restaurant – it is a cultural journey and an unmissable experience for anyone in Berlin who loves...
Read moreThe food here is very good but not perfect. I was a bit spoiled by all of the amazing Ethiopian food I ate when I lived in Washington D.C., so I am a bit picky now. If it weren't for this, I would probably give this place an "Excellent" food review.
Four of us split 15 (vegetarian combination platter for one person), 21 (kotfe -- Ethiopian beer tartar), and 23 (meat-based combination platter for two people). It was more than enough food. We could have just gotten the 1 (a smaller serving of kotfe) instead of the 21.
At 8 p.m., a woman started roasting coffee beans(!). The coffee was then made with (I believe) cardamom. It was a lovely ceremony. At one point, the woman walked around the restaurant with the pan, spreading the aroma to each table before she ground the beans. The brewed coffee was then distributed to all of the customers. It was quite nice, but because it tasted very different from "normal" coffee, some of the people in the group didn't like it.
They ended the meal with a choice of alcohol. We took the tej (honey wine). It was not as good as the housemade tej at Abissinia Restaurant in Berlin.
A previous reviewer complained about how long it took to get the food. It also took awhile for us, but otherwise the service was friendly and attentive. Also, I ate a ton of raw beef tonight and am...
Read moreCame to this place as a fellow Ethiopian who was traveling by and wanted to grab some Ethiopian food and found it on good maps with a highly rating not really sure how they have that as well🤔.
I first sat down outside on their garden and ordered the Fisik beyanetu for one person. Food tasted like water, no seasoning at all, injera was also a bit moldy as well and really not on the minimum standard.
I then followed up with a couple of beer and coffee while enjoying the beautiful view from their garden and few moments later I was then chased out as they bluntly stated they needed the chairs and table and they gave me a bill to pay and leave or I was forced to sit in side. I then left without finishing my drinks which I ordered while being really disappointed at the level of service they gave me.
I am disappointed on the level of service and food quality they have, I will never come to this place and I do not...
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