Addis Ababa

New year, same me – I’m still eating awesome food in Amsterdam and telling you all about it. Started 2019 with something new – Ethiopian food. It has been on my list for a while now so I was more than excited to finally give it a try. My first experience with Ethiopian food was at Addis Ababa, a family run restaurant on Overtoom. It certainly did not disappoint.

I started the evening with what has to be one of the freshest beers I ever had, and would love to try it again on a hot, summer day: an exotic coconut beer. Oh, the best part is, you drink it out of a damn coconut! You may be able to get your own coconut if you tag yourself here.

Choosing what to eat was probably the easiest it has ever been for me, as they offer a mixed plate – Addis Ababa Special. As a dedicated foodie, trying to get a taste of all that’s out there, these kind of options speak to me.

Hayden and I got a mixed plate for 2 and received loads of food, for only 32 EUR – yes, enough for lunch next day. Keep in mind it’s very filling, kinda like Indian.

The Addis Ababa special contains minced beef, lamb, chicken drumstick, egg, vegetables, two kinds of lentils, pea flour sauce, spinach, salad and cottage cheese. The meat is slightly spicy, the sides are not. I was in love with the lentils, Hayden was all about the lamb.

Now, everything you see above sits on “injeras” – thick but airy, savory pancakes. Traditionally, you grab your food using the injeras with your right hand, and there you go – enjoy! No cutlery needed. The lovely owner will however ask you if you need a fork and knife. You get more injeras on the side, and if you finish them, don’t be afraid to ask for extra.

Gluten free injeras are also available, but make sure to let the restaurant know one day in advance. 2 EUR extra per person will be charged.

The Addis Ababa Special was full of flavors, and they all combined wonderfully. The cottage cheese, spinach and beef in one bite was one of my favorite combinations. The lamb and lentils were good together too.

Besides a tasty, cheap and filling meal, you truly get an authentic experience at Addis Ababa. The mom takes and brings the orders, the dad runs between the kitchen and the bills, the daughter does her own thing around the restaurant. It truly feels like you just walked into a local’s home and they’re thrilled to give you the full experience.

You should know that this is a perfect place for vegetarians and vegans too. Plenty of choices and the owners are happy to accommodate. A mixed veggie plate is also on the menu!

I am excited to try other Ethiopian places now and ready to compare them to what I just experienced at Addis Ababa, but for now…this place won my heart and opened a new chapter for me: African food.

Value for money: 10

Food Quality: 9

Location: 7 ( Overtoom 337 )

Service: 8

Website:https://www.addisababa.nl/en/

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