DC Dining: CherCher Ethiopian

 

@CherCher Ethiopian

As we researched for our trip to Washington D.C., the fam discovered that Ethiopian food is a staple in D.C.’s restaurant scene. The culinary traditions of the refugees from the 70s and 80s were kept alive and we made it a point to have some Ethiopian food.

Recommended by Hubby’s cousin, who was a local, we went to CherCher Ethiopian Restaurant and Mart. I have to say this was the best Ethiopian meal we have had. We tried a couple of places in Downtown TO which were also good, but I have to say that CherCher is even better.

We ordered the Deluxe Vegan special where various veggies were set on Injera bread (fermented pancake-like flatbread with a slightly spongy texture). The Injera was not overwhelmingly tangy but instead was a perfect complement to the spice-loaded dishes. The veggies we had included yellow pea sauce, split lentil sauce, collard green, cabbage, chickpea flour sauce, chickpea firir (with injera), whole lentils, string beans, salad (tomato, onion and jalapeno mixed with pieces of injera) and beets.

We also got some Beef Tibs which were so tender and beautifully seasoned with onions, garlic, peppers and herbs. Absolutely delicious.

The group was torn in choosing their favourite dish. Some really liked the Lamb stew (Yebeg We’t) simmered in red pepper sauce, with ginger, garlic and spices. The others enjoyed the Fish Dullet which was chopped fresh tuna mixed wit onion, jalapeno, and hot chili powder (mitmita). I liked all of them! Beef Tibs and Lamb Stew are tied while the Fish Dullet had a slight advantage. We didn’t think we would finish it all, but we did a pretty good job!

We had no space for dessert, but some of the lucky folks in our group who could drink coffee after dinner got some. They did not have the coffee ceremony in the 14^th St location and while the coffee was superb, it could have been served warmer.

All in all, it was indeed a most wonderful Ethiopian meal and I highly recommend CherCher.

Seafood in DC: Hank’s Oyster Bar and The District Fishwife

 

Seafood Plateau @Hank's Oyster Bar

In Old Town Alexandria, we had a celebratory dinner at Hank’s Oyster Bar.

We started off with popcorn and shrimp calamari, nicely seasoned and crunchy.

Then we ordered their signature, Seafood Plateau, with oysters and middleneck clams on the half shell, chilled jumbo shrimp, seafood ceviche, mussels escabeche, and chilled Maine lobster. It came with the usual cocktail sauce with horseradish, vinegar and oyster crackers. The seafood was fresh and the large portion was indeed good for 2-4 people. Service was prompt (they did like to tidy things up quickly) and pleasant. There was a bit of a wait despite reservations. It was packed on a weeknight.

The place was vibrant and they had a good drink selection to go with the raw bar. Hank’s is a good place to celebrate!

We also headed to Union Market, as recommended by Hubby’s cousin. There were so many great options, but grandma and I kept gravitating towards seafood. So, we got some sandwiches from The District Fishwife.

Grandma got shrimp cheesesteak hoagie bun with provolone cheese, peppers and onions and a lime crema. It came with a side of super yummy, crispy fries. DD#1 got swordfish sandwich.

Shrimp cheesesteak @The District Fishwife

Swordfish sandwich @The District Fishwife

I got the Shrimp Banh Mi, which was really good. The deep fried Vietnamese spiced shrimp patty was sandwiched on a baguette with lemon mayo, cilantro, pickled daikon & carrot, and pickled jalapeño. It also came with fries which the rest of the fam really enjoyed.

Shrimp Banh Mi @The District Fishwife

The seafood was fresh and tasty. It was a wonderful, hefty lunch that truly hit the spot.