It’s important to be transparent with our readers — so I will lead off this review by stating that “Best Ethiopian” was not on our list of categories when we began the judging process for this Best Restaurants issue. But, our judges made a united call to add this to the list — recognizing the unique cuisine that is growing in popularity in this city. Langano Skies, a mainstay in the city that was named to our Best Family-Style Dining list back in 2020, finishes on top of this new category. Either order in or (safely) share with friends or family on-site; flavourful stews of vegetables and meat (try the curried lamb) are soaked up by the spongy injera flatbread you use to bring the food to your mouth. This is a restaurant we’ve recognized before, and it’s really become an old standard, considering the number of new Ethiopian restaurants we’ve seen open their doors over the past few years. – Steven Sandor
9920 82 AVE. NW, 780-432-3334, LanganoSkies.com
If you don’t know, Edmonton’s Ethiopian food scene is not just growing, it’s well established — and awash in flavour. It’s largely beef based, with a variety of Tibs dishes — stir fry stews with plenty of spice, if you want it. The Special Kitfo is especially spicy, paired with specially cooked cottage cheese that mixes well. There are lamb, chicken and vegetarian dishes as well, but make sure you get the lightly fried, doughy Sambusa as an appetizer. – Cory Schachtel
12952 118 AVE. NW, 780-540-2233, Awash-Ethiopian.com
Part of what makes Mesob Habesha Fusion a top contender for Best Ethiopian Food is the welcoming atmosphere. As someone who had never tried Ethiopian food before, I wasn’t sure what to order, but the staff were friendly and explained each dish. I went with the Sica Tibs sandwich, which includes beef cubes, onions, garlic, jalapeños, tomato, mild sauce and rosemary on fresh bread. Each ingredient tasted fresh and the beef cubes were tender. The sauce has a little kick to it, but a spicier version is also available. – Katrina Turchin
10546 109 ST. NW, 780-250-0999, Meso Habesha’s Facebook page
This article appears in the March 2022 issue of Edify
