Lalibela (Tufnell Park)

• Located just up from Tufnell Park tube Lalibela is one of the handful of Ethiopian restaurants in the capital
• The cuisine is marked by the use of lime in the food
• These are akin to curries but are distinctively different in flavour
• The whole experience is quite interactive and very compatible for group eating
• Eating off a low round table with the huge flat injera crepe in the middle
• The injera itself is fluffy and porous
• Perhaps because we were in Tufnell Park on the first miserable Wednesday of January
• Lalibela (Tufnell Park) was almost completely empty when we walked in
• There are two floors and we sat downstairs but I imagine the top floor is as exciting as the bottom I mean there's an African art gallery section at the back of the room so you'd hope so
• A traditional East African flat bread that you use to scoop up your food with your fingers
• Good for those who struggle with general eating decorum
• We started with two portions of grilled injera which is hard and crispy compared to the usual spongy stuff you have with mains
• One was coated with spices with a surprisingly delicious side of spiced cottage cheese
• The other infused with black coriander accompanied by a creamy aubergine dip
• The dip had a really pleasant smokey aftertaste but lacked any kind of exciting kick or strong flavours as you first tasted it which was disappointing
• Perhaps because there was too much cream
• Our main we had a Beyeynatu sharing platter and a side of Okra which was perfect for two to share
• The main included a large injera to share topped with two types of lamb wot (one spicy stew
• The stews were absolutely delicious with really tender meat
• My favourite was the spicy lamb wot and luckily this was the one closest to me
• The spinach was nothing special but the Okra on the side was amazing
• I'd say a sharing platter and a side is the perfect amount for 2 to share
• The concept of eating it with your hands and the help of the injera
• The place is adorned with original pieces that give a nice touch to the establishment
• The main hall is on the second floor
• I've been lucky to be there with few friends so have had the option to order many different dishes and share
• Both meats and vegetables are fingers liking
• Very tasty Ethiopian food with amazing decor
• We also had some Spiced Ethiopian tea which was quite nice and soothing on a cold night

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