E is for .............ETHIOPIA

The western suburbs of Melbourne is home to many diverse cuisines so it was only natural that our   alphabet eating adventure was going to lead us into its heart- Footscray which was home to

SHEBELLE BAR and RESTAURANT.

The menu gave lots of options, rich in lamb, fish and chicken dishes and manyvegetarian options. We opted for:                                                      1. Chicken Harrisa chicken with  harrisa sauce cooked different herbs

       2. Lamb-tibsLamb meat marinated with different Ethiopian spices, cooked with olive oil                                                                                                      3. GomenSpinach cooked with herbs, garlic and olive oil
Now this was accompanied by Injera  a yeast-risen flatbread with a unique, slightly spongy texture. Mr X wasn't a big fan of the Injera, likening it to 'wettex' however Ms X said its weight-less-ness gave her the feeling it was calorie-free?? (Too late now to find out!)

With African music creating the mood, the owner's small daughter entertaining and men at the bar meeting for a drink after work on a Friday night, there was much contributing to the ambiance. Even the chef coming out to say 'hello' was a personable touch. Without an understanding of the size of the dishes, assistance with the menu was also appreciated with the waitress crossing off a dish telling us it was too much!The food was plentiful and flavoursome full of fresh herbs but be warned- you will need a doggy-bag.

SCORES:

Ambiance:            Mr X      7              Ms X   7

Accessibility:         Mr X     7              Ms X   9

Service:                Mr X      5             Ms X    8

 Food:                  Mr X      8             Ms X    7

Value:                   Mr X     8              Ms X   8

TOTAL:  74