First Ethiopian experience

It was my first trip to Washington, DC in several years. Having just come back from living in the Philippines for nearly 10 years, it’s easy to say my last visit to our nation’s capital was over a decade ago. I do, however, recall my previous two visits were for weddings; this would be my first time as a tourist since I was a kid.

This was also my first trip anywhere since returning to the US in November.

There was already an excitement after touching down at Reagan National Airport—it’s always fun visiting a different place (even if you’ve been there before). There’s something about the arrival that makes that walk to baggage claim an exhilarating one.

Before leaving for Washington, my friends and I discussed the idea of trying Ethiopian food while we were there—we were all very enthusiastic.

Chercher Ethiopian Restaurant & Mart, located along 9th Street NW, near the corner of O Street NW, came recommended. Featured as a Michelin Guide recommendation in 2021 and named by Washingtonian Magazine on their “100 Very Best Restaurants” list in 2018, we were looking forward to having our first Ethiopian experience.

Walking up 9^th Street to the restaurant, you have to take the short flight of stairs up to the restaurant.

We were seated right up front, by the window, and once I spotted Ethiopian beer on the menu, had to give it a try.

Habesha, coined as “the authentic, golden beer,” is a light and tasty brew. According to their website, “Habesha stands for gratitude and the celebration of togetherness.” It goes on to say, “It defines the shared pride and culture of all Ethiopians.”

Now, the drinks were the easy part.

When it came to food, it was a bit of a challenge for a first-timer. However, we had the most amazing server who suggested a few items and offered to have our dinner served family style, which turned out to be one of the greatest sampler platters ever.

The large platter first arrived with a colorful array of vegetarian dishes including split peas, collard greens, chickpeas, beets, and other items. In the center was a spicy chicken dish; and all of it was placed on top of a large injera, a spongy flatbread used as a vehicle for all the food (some of us thought they were napkins).

Once that was placed on the table, they then added some of the most delicious grilled beef to the platter.

The smells were intoxicating, the colors were so vibrant, and everything was incredible.

Every bite, depending on what you picked up, had a unique taste; which gave the meal so much depth.

Also, even though they served two plates of injera, we did have to order more!

Chercher provided an amazing introduction to Ethiopian cuisine and I look forward to trying it again.