When you get a craving for unusual food, you may limit yourself to Georgetown’s Bangkok Bistro or sushi at Chopsticks. Limiting yourself to the culinary selection of Georgetown is simply a bad choice when there is so much deliciousness to be found beyond the cobblestone streets. The Washington area has the largest Ethiopian population in America, and the city has some of the nation’s best Ethiopian restaurants. We have one in Georgetown, but for the best food and experience, you need to take the Metro bus to U., the site of “Little Ethiopia.”
In the midst of a row of colored storefronts with signs in Amharic stands the Madjet Restaurant and Bar (1102 U St. N.W.). The large neon sign does not reflect the simple décor inside.
What does Ethiopian food taste like? Middle Eastern meets Indian in a delicious marriage of spices, vegetables and meats. The dishes are divided into lamb, beef and vegetarian categories. Carnivores can enjoy the bite-sized beef tibs in a pepper and herb paste sauce. For the vegetarians, the veggie sampler is a great way to sample more than half a dozen different sides.
Looking for utensils? You brought them with you. You eat with your hands and the spongy injera bread that comes with every dish. Best of all, the bread expands in your stomach so you stay full for a long time. The dishes are all inexpensive, around the ten dollar range, and are easily shared.
The restaurant is small and very popular, but the wait is never very long. Once you order, the food is quick to arrive and the atmosphere is very laid back. Just make sure to wash your hands before you eat. You don’t want the germs you picked up in the bus spoiling your Titanic Tibs.
