Nestled along bustling Smith Street in Chinatown, Ethiopian Love is a peaceful oasis amid the hubbub. Step inside this soothing enclave, and you are met with warm smiles and aromatic essences — both tell-tale signs of authentic Ethiopian culture and cuisine.
Owner and partner Abe Samuel shares a small background on why quality and wholesomeness are so important for Ethiopian cuisine. “The Orthodox in Ethiopia fast between Christmas and Easter, only eating vegan for that season, so it is very important for them that they both get their nutrients, as well as that they have food that will fulfill and sustain them,” he says.
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- Ethiopian Love Veggie Sampler ($13-$20)
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- Get a taste of Ethiopian culture at this Chinatown eatery.
Impeccable taste, according to Samuel, is also non-negotiable. “Ethiopians have very discerning palates, so they don’t settle for anything less than perfection,” he explains.
Samuel also describes an added bonus to the fare here at Ethiopian Love. “It’s a holistic experience, because it engages all of your senses — and it’s fun to eat, too!”
Not content to simply take his word for it, Dining Out dives into this week’s featured vegetarian dish, Ethiopian Love Veggie Sampler, featuring a daily rotation of six combination dishes of the day (ranging from $13 to $20), including the likes of Misser Wot, Azifa, Romi and more.
One bite is enough to know that Ethiopian Love’s chef, and staunch vegetarian, Fay Shewakema, is an expert in her craft. “All vegetarian dishes are vegan as well, and everything is made fresh, never frozen,” she assures.
The smiling chef also reminds us of the eatery’s Monday lunch special, Veggie Paradise, in which patrons may partake in a savory selection of quinoa ,alongside five assorted vegetarian dishes for just $13. Refreshing Ethiopian drinks, including Ethiopian Style Iced Tea, Ginger Iced Tea, Flaxseed Telba and Peanut Tea are also available to bring new flavors to your palate, and to complete your mouthwatering meal.
Ethiopian Love
1112 Smith St., Chinatown
725-7197
Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m and 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, 5-10 p.m.
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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