A unique prospect on the Leeds dining scene, Abyssinia Cafe and Restaurant is a traditional Ethiopian dining establishment which has been bringing the dishes and flavours of the East African country to the city’s residents since it first launched in 2014.
Abyssinia’s intimate dining room has an exotic and beachy feel, thanks to its timber wall and the miniature palm tree in one corner, while there are also some subtle nods to the restaurant’s heritage too, via an assortment of curious cultural trinkets dotted around the space.
The food menu at Abyssinia is proudly authentic, showcasing the signature dishes of Ethiopia. It is also an inclusive restaurant in every sense of the word - halal meat is available, while gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan diners can also be catered for. Perhaps one of the most novel features of Abyssinia is that all of its dishes are served on top of a naturally gluten free Ethiopian bread known as Injera. This flatbread is made using teff flour and is designed to be used almost like an edible plate - simply tear off the edges and use them to dip into your dishes and soak up any leftover juices.
Dishes you can try here include Key Tibes, which sees cubes of lamb meat tossed in a spicy mix of tomatoes, garlic and chilli, as well as Doro Wot: tender marinated chicken leg stewed in Ethiopian butter and spiced chilli powder. Diners following a plant-based diet can instead opt for a platter of various vegan curries and vegetables, or a spiced chickpea stew served with salad.
Fancy yourself as a bit of a coffee connoisseur? Pop into Abyssinia to enjoy its traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony for a caffeine fix with a difference. Be sure to look out for seasonal deals and special offers throughout the year too.