Hungry? Wanna Tana?

Long overdue, my first foray into Ethiopian food had the fortune of being Tana Ethiopian Restaurant in Anaheim. I've been desiring to try Ethiopian food since I saw it featured on Bizarre Foods many years ago. With my lunchtime game face on, it was the opportune time to check off another ethnic cuisine off my list.

Tana special kitfo- Lean, minced prime beef, seasoned with spiced butter & mitmita (chili powder). Served either rare or raw, I chose the authentic raw version. The beef tasted fresh, sweet & buttery good. It had a mellow burn, forcing a few droplets of perspiration from my head but not enough to dull the tastebuds. The accompanying ayibe (cottage cheese) was assertively tart, to where it overpowers the kitfo when liberally overapplied. The injera bread was akin to a sour, spongy crepe. It was surprisingly not as filling as I thought it would be. Granted, I didn't eat the extra injera in the basket, but I wasn't overstuffed upon finishing the rest of my food. Authentic injera is gluten-free, but I've heard some Ethiopian places add wheat or barley. Ask to make sure, in case. The main flavor profile of the entire meal was brightness, provided by both the injera & the ayibe. Overall, the highlight was the sugary sweet kitfo. Of course I recommend it raw.

Vegetarian? No worries! Tana has several vegetarian dishes, highlighted by their Vegetarian Special plate. Beer, wine & coffee drinks are available. Ethiopian coffee is served for parties of 3+, and requires some time to make. Not on the menu, hard liquor is displayed behind the counter for those for looking something stronger with their meal.

Service was good, however don't come to Tana in a hurry, as I waited around 30 minutes for my food. Only 2 parties ahead of me, my order of kitfo shouldn't take very long, considering the meat is rare & the injera cooks in minutes. While waiting, I took the opportunity to see the cooks pour the injera batter & swirl it around the circular pan. Seating for around 15-20 people, there is a flatscreen TV that was playing Ethiopian instrumental music for our listening pleasure.

Parking is in a private lot, west of Magnolia Street.

Tana Ethiopian Restaurant is a quaint, charming little eatery serving up authentic cuisine of the region. I enjoyed my Tana special kitfo. The rare spiced beef was delicious & expertly prepared. I'm looking forward to my next visit, where I think I'll partake of zil zil tibs & Ethiopian coffee, unless I think being awake all night may not be such a good idea.

Highly recommend! NOMNOMNOMNOMNOMNOMNOMNOMNOMNOM