With the largest Ethiopian community outside of Ethiopia itself, DC is the place to try authentic food from this East African country. Friendly to both vegetarians and carnivores, Dukem is one of the most established Ethiopian restaurants in DC and is centrally located in the hip and diverse U Street neighborhood.
Delectably spiced, food is served on traditional sponge flat bread and is eaten with the fingers. The specialty dish, and the one recommended for newbies to Ethiopian cuisine, is the "Messob," which is a sampler platter consisting of an assortment of meat and vegetables.
Dishes are affordable and typically are priced $10-$12, and an added bonus is the authentic atmosphere, furniture, and decor.