“ **vegetarian review** OMG this was the best Ethiopian food I had in a while! The restaurant is unassuming and open till late. I visited close to closing time and ordered sambusa and vegetarian platter - number 11. The sambusa - close to India samosa - was delicious - it was filled with lentils and was super crispy. The vegetarian platter - oh boy - so reasonably priced at $12 contained one injera with 2 lentil dishes, 1 cabbage dish, 1 salad and 1 green collards. Everything was delicious and we finished the food in minutes. I highly recommend the place! ”

“ Food was excellent. Got the shared combination dinner for two, an order of spicy Beef Tibs split between 3 people. Lots of food. Leftovers were awesome. Laid back vibe, but the waitresses got us out quickly when we asked for the check so we could catch our showtime. Definitely recommend. ”

“ I stumbled upon this place after checking out several vegan late night options within metro DC and this was one of the few places that was open. I had not had Ethiopian food in a while, so I was excited. I'm glad I went because I was not disappointed because the food was great and tasted fresh, Great size portions for the price and the Injera was amazing. I ordered the vegetarian combination with fried fish. The fish to me was fried just right, it was very well seasoned. I believe one of the veggie dishes was a smashed eggplant and it was definitely one of my favorite parts of the entire meal aside from the fish and the lentils. I ordered my food to go, but inside of the establishment it was clean and the restaurant gave off nice vibes, I would definitely come back for a date night, and or just for Ethiopian food with friends/family because the service was prompt as well. Definitely give them a try if you're in the area, I can't wait to go back and try the Doro Wat and Kitfo ”

“ delicious food + really kind staff. I had a fantastic vegetarian platter to split with a friend and had a great time. this restaurant is clearly a community favorite - many people were hanging out here just watching TV or spending time with friends. I loved how casual and friendly the place felt. ”

“ Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant in Washington, D.C. is a hidden gem that transports diners on a delectable journey through the rich and captivating flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting ambiance immerses you in the cultural tapestry of Ethiopia. The traditional décor, complete with woven baskets and vibrant textiles, sets the stage for an authentic dining experience that's as much about the food as it is about the atmosphere. The menu at Lalibela offers a tantalizing array of Ethiopian dishes, each prepared with care and precision. The communal dining style, where dishes are served on injera, a spongy Ethiopian flatbread, invites diners to engage in a truly communal and interactive meal. The selection of vegetarian and meat-based options ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Ethiopian cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore new tastes. Lalibela's standout feature is their dedication to maintaining the authenticity of their flavors. From the aromatic berbere spices that infuse the dishes with depth to the tender slow-cooked meats that practically melt in your mouth, every bite is a revelation of Ethiopian culinary traditions. The attentive and knowledgeable staff add to the experience, guiding diners through the menu and making recommendations to suit individual preferences. For those seeking an escape from the ordinary and a chance to savor the vibrant tastes of Ethiopia, Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant emerges as an unforgettable destination in the heart of Washington, D.C. ”

“ OVERALL: one of my favorite Ethiopian restaurants in DC! FOOD: We ordered the Doro Wot and for 4 people that was a lot. It was so good and had the right balance of vegetarian sides and meat sides. Would highly recommend pairing with an Ethiopian beer, which they sell there too. VENUE: pretty big venue with ample spaced out seating. There is also a bar. I love seeing locals and Ethiopian families there - that's how you know the food is good! ”

“ If you know anything about the "DC food scene", you know there's no short in options for good Ethiopian food. In my opinion, the differentiators are service and freshness (of both food and flavor). The service and atmosphere were both just okay. The differentiator here for me was the fried croaker which was seasoned through and freshly cooked with a strong "fish taste" which is what I was expecting. Of the vegetable combo, the red lentils and greens stick out the most - the lentils for their spice and the greens for their freshness (they still had a slight crunch). I'd go back for the fish and lentils alone. ”

“ Food: Portions were big and everything was fresh, authentic and served hot. Also, the presentation was quite colorful and everything looked so appetizing (and of course ended up being so tasty). I had the beef tibs which were excellent, although the stew sauce was probably more spicy than most average people can handle. (4.5/5) Ambiance: Nothing special or fancy about the ambiance, except it's got a "neighborhood hangout" vibe that replicates decent, reputable restaurants in smaller international towns. Was pretty bustling the two times I've been. (4/5) Service: I had wonderful service both times -- food arrived very quickly and staff was very attentive. (5/5) This is one of my favorite African restaurants not only in D.C., but in the entire U.S. (and I grew up in L.A. which has quite a few solid Nigerian & Ethiopian spots among others in the diaspora). When I was in D.C. craving African food, I had two different local friends recommend this spot and it did NOT disappoint. The storefront doesn't look too eye-catching from the outside, but the food and experience inside was first class. ”