This specialty spot calls “Little Ethiopia” home, a bustling little strip filled with restaurants, coffee shops and thrift stores. The no-frills exterior and ambiguous name don’t suggest much, but once inside, discover a clean little contemporary space with whitewashed walls, artwork and—of course—stunningly good food that's meant to be enjoyed sans utensils.

These dishes are authentic and prepared with great care and attention; the menu ventures well past the region’s best-known items. Don’t miss the pan-fried freshwater trout, sumptuous chicken stew, and crumble-in-your-mouth teff cookies to close. Another delight is Hirutye’s yebegsiga alitcha, a lamb preparation featuring luscious, slightly spicy berbere and awaze paired with spongy injera.