Minneapolis is home to a thriving Ethiopian food scene, with many restaurants that offer authentic Ethiopian dishes. If you’re looking for a taste of East Africa, you’re in luck!
Here are some of the best Ethiopian restaurants in Minneapolis, along with some highlights from their menus.
A taste of Ethiopia: Dishes and flavors
No exploration of Ethiopian restaurants would be complete without a look at the cuisine itself.
The cornerstone: Injera
Injera, a spongy, fermented flatbread with a slightly sour flavor, is the foundation of almost every Ethiopian meal. Not only is it delicious, but it also serves as your plate and eating utensil: simply tear off a piece of injera and use it to scoop up the savory stews and dishes served alongside.
Popular Ethiopian dishes
Ethiopian cuisine is known for its rich, complex flavors and slow-cooked stews. Some popular dishes include Doro Wat, a spicy chicken stew; Beef Tibs, tender cubes of beef; and Misir Wat, a fragrant lentil stew. Many restaurants also offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as Gomen, seasoned collard greens, and Tegabino Shiro, a spicy ground pea stew.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try Kitfo, a marinated beef tartare seasoned with mitmita and other spices. Some restaurants even offer Chuko, a traditional Oromo dish made with roasted barley.
Featured Ethiopian restaurants in Minneapolis
Minneapolis offers a vibrant Ethiopian culinary scene. Here are a few restaurants to get you started:
Katar River Ethiopian Restaurant
Katar River is known for its authentic Ethiopian dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients and traditional spices. The restaurant has meat and vegetarian options, and it also offers catering services.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 6 p.m., you can experience the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at Katar River.
Other notable restaurants
Many Ethiopian restaurants in the Twin Cities serve family-style platters that let you sample a variety of dishes. Bolé Ethiopian Cuisine is known for its berbere-spiced beef tibs and vegan options. At Selam, you can try samosas and lamb awaze tibs.
If you’re looking for something different, Chef Amy Abebe Tsegaye’s Erta Ale offers weekend buffets, Dilla is open late, and Lulu Ethiovegan has an exclusively vegan menu.
Dining experience and atmosphere
Ethiopian restaurants tend to provide a communal dining experience, which can be fun and memorable. You’ll often find traditional decor and music playing. If you’re looking for warm hospitality, many people recommend Meseret’s Restaurant. Dukem offers a more relaxed bar and lounge setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous food in Minneapolis?
While Minneapolis boasts a diverse culinary scene, the “Juicy Lucy” is arguably its most famous food. This burger features cheese melted inside the patty, creating a molten cheese explosion with every bite. It’s a Minneapolis original and a must-try for any visitor. Aside from that, you can find diverse cuisine from around the world, including a vibrant Ethiopian food scene.
How many Ethiopian restaurants are there in the US?
Estimates vary, but there are thought to be several hundred Ethiopian restaurants scattered across the United States. Cities with large Ethiopian diaspora communities, like Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and yes, even Minneapolis, tend to have the highest concentrations.
What is the most popular Ethiopian food?
Injera is absolutely the most popular and fundamental part of Ethiopian cuisine. This spongy, slightly sour flatbread is made from teff flour and serves as both the plate and the utensil. Beyond injera, dishes like doro wat (chicken stew) and various vegetarian stews are widely enjoyed.
Who owns Bole Ethiopian restaurant?
Bole Ethiopian Restaurant is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Chef Almaz and Abiye Yimam. They bring decades of experience in the kitchen to their award-winning establishment.
Key Takeaways
If you’re looking for a vibrant, authentic Ethiopian dining experience, Minneapolis has plenty to offer. Whether you prefer traditional stews or plant-based options, there’s an Ethiopian dish to satisfy every palate.
Next time you’re in the Twin Cities, be sure to explore the rich flavors and cultural traditions of Ethiopian cuisine. And if you have the time, consider participating in an Ethiopian coffee ceremony for a truly immersive cultural experience.