This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
For adventurous diners who want to experience the flavorful foods of Africa there are three new eateries in Salt Lake City to try.
The newest is Blue Nile Ethiopian Cuisine, located at 755 S. State, in the former location of Ever Green House. Its grand opening is Saturday, May 5.
Red Sea Cafe, which specializes in the foods of Ethiopia and nearby Eritrea — a coastal nation along the Red Sea — opened about a month ago at 815 E. 2100 South, in Sugar House.
And finally there is Mahider Ethiopian Restaurant, at 1465 S. State.
In Ethiopia, meals are eaten with your hands — although the Utah restaurants will provide utensils if you ask.
But eating sans a fork isn't difficult thanks to injera — a spongy, crepe-like bread with a tangy bite. Tear it into pieces and use it to scoop up the stewed vegetable and meat options (wat) or sauteed meats (tibs).
There also will be plenty of vegetarian options with lentils, potatoes, chick peas and sauteed greens.