Awash - (206) 723-1971

I read the reviews of the dissatisfied customers and I can read between the lines. The typical customer, wants it all, their way with no regard to a different culture... I've never eaten at an Ethiopian restaurant with "American style" service. The perky, overly attentive gnat that hovers to the point of annoying. Also, I've travelled the world to places where you'll get your beer for desert and the appetizer to go. It is what is what it is. Make sure you leave time to enjoy the dining experience and bring good company. Ethiopian dining is about communal eating, sharing conversation and eating good food. I noticed, too, the negative reviews are on EVERY site imaginable. OK, we get it. You didn't feel loved. Open your mind, try again and pay attention to your surroundings. They call us "ugly Americans" because so few of us know how to enter an unfamiliar place and adapt to the difference. I'm certain that if you change this part of yourself, you'll find much better experiences in your dining adventures.

The food is average. The service is very poor. It was the worst dining experience I have ever had. I met a group of friends and I arrived after they were seated. I had to ask the waitress for water and napkins. 10 minutes later, napkins showd up. I had to ask for water again. 15 minutes later the water showed up. I placed an order for some food somewhere in there. After waiting for an hour for the food, I canceled the order and left to dine at a different restaurant. I did get to nibble on some stuff my friends ordered so I did get to taste some stuff. Based on what I tasted, I didn't miss much by leaving early.

I crave AWASH regularly. Recommended to me by a trusted Ethiopian friend,at this restaurant, you may wait some for service -- but the food is SO worth it. You can help the server out by visiting the bar there and kindly letting them know you are there before you sit down at a table. Go there knowing this, then share the delicious veggie platter (lentils of all kinds, perfectly cooked and seasoned veggies like cabbage, potato, and carrots) with a friend for ten bucks. What a deal! Instead of wine, wash it down with a hot spice tea sweetened with a bit of sugar.