Add some spice to your life at Harambe Ethiopian Restaurant

So what’s good here?

Anything stew-like that has lingered slowly in exotic spices. Even a dish as simple as lentils is a treat to the senses. There is a slight spice – or heavy spice, depending on the dish. Regarding the preferred heat level, ask the server about specific items.

The menu appeals to vegans and meateaters alike. Shirowat is a dish made with chickpeas, olive oil, onions, and spices, served with a salad. A veggie combo includes specially prepared collards, lentils, cabbage, potatoes and carrots – to name a few items.

Tibs, a favorite lunch special and dinner item, is beef ribeye cooked with onion, rosemary, jalapenos, and tomatoes. There is also keywot, a spicy beef stew, or alichawot, a curry beef stew.

There are chicken dishes, including wings and a chicken wrap. Many dishes are served with rice.

And then there is the injera, the signature light, spongy, thin bread served as large as a dinner plate that is intended to be pulled off and used to pick up and eat other items. Baklava is offered for dessert.

How did Harambe get its start?

Harambe opened two years ago to provide a truly authentic Ethiopian culinary experience to Columbia. Recipes come directly from the country; many are family recipes.

Patrons express having found such an authentic experience in larger cities such as New York, Boston or Washington and are glad to now have this kind of international options in Columbia.

What does the place look like?

In a standalone building tucked to the right of the Food Lion shopping center, Harambe conveys distinct Ethiopian culture on the walls and windows of its interior.

There are colorful textiles and baskets, photographs, posters and even news clips representative of the African country.

An Ethiopian flag flies near the bar. A centerpiece is an elaborate, detailed visual narrative of King Solomon.

Harambe’s seating capacity is 99 – provided in booths, at tables, and at an extensive bar.

Who eats here?

Students, professors, visitors to the city, and those looking for a culinary adventure.