Tried this place for special occasion, and they did not disappoint! The injera seemed a little mild when we visited, and the veg sampler was not as spicy as we expected, but everything was still satisfyingly wholesome and hearty and they were not stingy at all with the injera.
Read moreWe were warmly welcomed by the owner and seated in a lovely room decorated with Ethiopian artwork, and the national flag. We ordered the Addis Ababa platter, which could feed five easily - and costs less than $30. Red lentils, yellow lentils, chard, beef stew, lamb stew and chicken doro wat. Unbelievably delicious!! We were silent, it was that good. The injera bread was soft and delicious, and when our host saw we we getting low, immediately brought more. (There is a tradition to use small pieces of bread to wrap stew, in place of forks. It is especially polite to wrap a choice morsel and feed it to someone - so, you know: Good date spot!) We had the Ethiopian coffee service for $15: It's freshly made best-quality Ethiopian coffee poured into small cups tableside. It's more coffee/espresso than two adults can drink....this is a better choice for a group. There is a buffet offered for lunch and dinner, there is African beer and traditional Ethiopian honey wine, and it's a very family-friendly atmosphere. There's a large parking lot in front of the restaurant, and it's in a safe neighborhood. The Gold Standard for me? Five other Ethiopian expats were eating there. There's a store attached to the restaurant which sells spices, incense, and textiles from the homeland. We will be...
Read moreThis beautiful restaurant has no faults, even upon close inspection. The owners and staff are incredibly friendly, kind, helpful, and accommodating, and the atmosphere is a lovely mix between a relaxing (yet upbeat), modern ambiance and a traditional experience where one feels transported into the heart of the horn of Africa itself. Addis Ababa Restaurant is the perfect place for curious diners who wish to expand their culinary horizons by indulging in recipes and techniques that are completely authentic, having been invented and passed down in the families and communities of the owners and workers who grew up in Ethiopia themselves. Addis Ababa is also perfect for those with diet restrictions: there are a plethora of Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten Free options due to the nature of Ethiopian cuisine, and no diner must sacrifice authenticity or style to accommodate their palate.
With decorations, music, recipes, and staff from Traditional Ethiopia, with the modern feel of a familiar coffee bar and alcohol selection, and with the homey touches of a child-friendly, event-ready atmosphere and lounge areas, Addis Ababa Ethiopian Restaurant has only just begun to take the Rochester culinary...
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