Makeda
Alexandria / Ethiopian / $$
Classical piano music tinkles away as you sip sparkling wine. You order a raw tuna dish and then finish with intensely flavored coffee. Sounds like a fine night, no?
While most Ethiopian restaurants are resolutely casual, even homey, Makeda seeks to be a cut above and hits the heights to which it aspires. It’s not fancy, but from the helpful service to the unabashedly spicy food, Makeda proves itself to be a destination in an Alexandria strip mall.
Those unfamiliar with Ethiopian food should try a combo to get acquainted, but diners who are well-versed in the cuisine will have uncommon options, including a breakfast menu and the aforementioned tuna kitfo, a raw fish dish filled with cardamom and piquant mitmita spice mix.
See This: Colorful modern art decorates the walls. For more of a distraction, sit at the fully stocked bar, where TVs play CNN.
Eat This: Tuna kitfo, veggie combo, Taste of Makeda
When to Visit: You feel like eating with your hands but still want drinks and exceptional service.
This post originally appeared in our November 2020 issue’s Best Restaurants cover story. For more food reviews, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
