www.shebanyc.com

Proprietor/Chef: Philipos Mengistu

Category: Ethiopian

Neighborhood: Hell’s Kitchen
650 10^th Ave, New York, NY 10036
(212) –397-0610

Mood: Something exotic, new and exciting.  This is not your average every day meal.

Tastes Like: you will either love it or hate it.  I personally love it.  I’m not so much into Indian food, but this is kind of like a hybrid between Indian and N. African food.  The spices, the meat, the vegetables, the curry like substance…but the flavors are unique in its own.  It holds a territorial spot in my heart.  And no matter how many angles I try to capture the true essence of this type of ethnic food, let’s face it, it’s not exactly the prettiest to look at.  My first experiences with Ethiopian food was back in DC, where the strip of U St. had Ethiopian restaurants after another.  While, Queen of Sheba was good, it didn’t compare to DC.  (Quite surprisingly I know)  The injera bread takes getting use to.  It’s squishy, with a tint of citrus, tart, I couldn’t quite put my finger to it.  I liked it though and I thought the veggie and meat combo platter we ordered was an abundance of food (if not way excessive, thanks to the extra injera).

Must Haves: Honey beer is a must try.  Light & sweet on the palate.  Their lamb is wonderful as is the veggie platter.  If you can’t decide, go combo style.  You won’t regret it.

Stay Away: There was a pale, yellow-ish beef looking thing, which looked precisely like it tasted.  Pretty bland with starchy potatoes, that reminded me of old stew just rotting away.

Ambiance: It was “interesting”.

Service: The wait was rather lengthy, considering a few empty tables were just sitting there.  The food took a bit of time too and you can just tell the whole atmosphere was lax.  Maybe just a little too lax.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Caveat: The spices here can be temperamental. I think it’s great, but others may disagree.