Queen Makeda: "try Ethiopian while in DC" Washington D.C. Restaurant Tip by richiecdisc

DC is noted as home to a large Ethiopian population so it comes as no surprise that there are quite a few restaurants serving up that country's intriguing cuisine. I've been eating these foods for a long time though must say it's not all that often that I get it despite a fondness for it. I did some research on the web and fond Queen Makeda. This family run affair is right in the heart of an Ethiopian neighborhood sounded to be noted for its fine food as well as very reasonable prices.

It was a red brick building with the same interior. We opted to eat in the upstairs dining area which probably attributed somewhat to the rather slow service. That said, it was a nice place to hang out and not unpleasant despite their lack of any decent beers to drink.

Favorite Dish: The national dish is Doro Wat which is a spicy chicken stew. Inerja is the spongy sourish tangy pancake-like bread that all dishes are served on. It acts as both a plate and starch. It is also your utensil as you pick up everything with your hands in the bread. We got the beef tibs as we were not in the mood for something very spicy that night and were a bit disappointed in the toughness of the meat. We also go the Kitfo, a beef tartar that is quite rich. Both portions were quite large but came with only token vegetables. If we were to dine there again, we would order a vegetarian plate as the meat dishes are easily big enough to share. As it was, it was hard to finish and we were both a little queasy from all the raw beef which obviously had its fair share of fat in the mix. I lost my receipt but I believe meals were in the $12 price range.

Address: 1917 9th St
Comparison: about average
Directions: In the Ethiopian area of north central DC, easily reached by Metrorail.
Price: US$11-20
Rating: 3
Theme: Other