Best Ethiopian Restaurants in DC | Capitol Hill Hotel

Traditional Ethiopian Food, Several types of stew and meat served on Injera

Washington, DC is home to the largest community of Ethiopians outside of Africa, making it a hotbed for the nation’s delectable food. Here are five of our favorite Ethiopian restaurants in DC:

Addis Ethiopian Restaurant

This new hotspot in the DC restaurant scene brings classic eats to a modern environment with vibrant lights and slick, white tablecloth decor. One of its appeals is a wide variety of tasty vegetarian dishes like an onion, lentil and jalapeno field sambussa (like a samosa) and QeySir, a beets and potato hodgepodge.

Addis Ethiopian Restaurant: 707 H St NE, (202)758-2273

Dukem Restaurant

Formerly a take-out only restaurant-grocery hybrid, Dukem earned its reputation over the last 18 years in the most honest way possible—people just love its food. One of our favorites here is the minchet abesh, braised ground beef milled in ginger and garlic sauce. Early morning guests should try foul (don’t judge by English definition), a medley of crushed fava beans, onions and jalapenos served with French bread.

Dukem Restaurant: 1114-1118 U St NW, 410-385-0318

Ethiopic

This H Street spot’s Ethiopian-inspired decor makes it a pleasant date spot, with art adorning the walls and tall paper lanterns lighting the room. Open since 2010, it’s gained a steady following of loyal patrons. They rave over the lamb tibs, leg of lamb cubes marinated and then sauteed with spices and vegetables. The azifa lentil salad here, makes for a great starter too.

Ethiopic: 401 H St NE, 202-675-2066

Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant

On top of having the best name of any restaurant in Washington, DC, Queen of Sheba stands out with its casual atmosphere and long menu. Adventurous eaters should try the spicy Queen’s Gored Gored, beef chunks sauteed with onions, garlic, spiced butter and jalapenos. Meaker diners will find the lentil sambusas equally irresistible.

Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant: 1503 9th St NW, (202) 232 7272/

Sidamo Coffee and Tea

We couldn’t recommend Ethiopian spots in DC without guiding our readers to some bold, flavorful coffee. Enjoy freshly ground Ethiopian beans at Sidamo in the form of espresso, cafe au lait or a caramel latte, among other options. Those not on the caffeine kick have teas and fresh smoothies to choose from as well.

Sidamo Coffee and Tea: 417 H St NE, (301) 483-3683