At Café Lalibela, we believe that dining should be more than just a meal—it should be an experience that nourishes both the body and soul. That’s why, on the last Sunday of every month, we host a special Vegan Buffet that offers a rich array of plant-based Ethiopian dishes, paired with the enchanting experience of an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony. From 12 pm to 3 pm, our restaurant transforms into a hub of flavor, culture, and community, offering guests a unique opportunity to indulge in the best of Ethiopian vegan cuisine while immersing themselves in a cherished cultural tradition.
A Vegan Buffet Like No Other
Ethiopian cuisine is naturally rich in vegan options, with dishes that are as flavorful as they are nutritious. Our monthly Vegan Buffetis a celebration of this culinary diversity, offering an extensive selection of our most beloved vegan dishes—along with new, exclusive dishes that are not available on our regular menu. This special event is perfect for long-time vegans, those exploring plant-based options, and anyone who loves good food.
Here’s what you can expect at our Vegan Buffet:
- Misir Wat: A medium-spicy stew made from red split lentils, cooked with onions, berbere spice, and a blend of herbs. Misir Wat is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for scooping up with injera.
- Fosolia: Lightly spiced green beans and carrots, cooked with tomatoes and onions. Fosolia offers a fresh and crisp contrast to the richer stews on the menu.
- Gomen: Chopped collard greens cooked with garlic, ginger, and onions. This nutrient-dense dish is both wholesome and delicious, adding a burst of earthy flavor to your plate.
- Tikil Gomen: A comforting mix of cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, lightly spiced with turmeric. Tikil Gomen is a satisfying choice for those seeking a hearty, yet simple, vegan dish.
- Shiro Wat: A rich, spiced stew made from chickpea flour, seasoned with garlic and ginger. Shiro Wat’s creamy texture and bold flavors make it a crowd favorite.
- Yekik Alicha: Mildly spiced yellow split peas cooked with onions, turmeric, and herbs. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy subtle, yet flavorful, meals.
- Azifah: A refreshing cold dish made from whole brown lentils, blended with onions, jalapeños, fresh lemon, and spices. Azifah’s tangy and vibrant flavor is a delightful addition to any meal.
- Difo Dabo: A traditional Ethiopian bread that is soft, fluffy, and mildly sweet, typically enjoyed during special occasions. Difo Dabo is a delightful accompaniment to our Vegan Buffet, offering a taste of authentic Ethiopian baking.
- Exclusive Vegan Dishes: On Vegan Buffet days, we also introduce new and exclusive vegan dishes that are not available on our regular menu. These special creations offer even more variety and allow our guests to explore fresh, innovative flavors that showcase the versatility of Ethiopian cuisine.
All these dishes are served with our signature injera, which comes in two forms: a traditional version made from a mix of teff, barley, and wheat, and a gluten-free version made from 100% teff.
An Authentic Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony
As you enjoy the buffet, you’ll also have the chance to witness and participate in an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a cultural experience that perfectly complements the meal. The coffee ceremony begins with the roasting of green coffee beans right before your eyes. You’ll be able to see the transformation of the beans as they turn from green to a rich brown, filling the air with the aromatic scent of fresh coffee.
Once roasted, the beans are ground by hand and brewed in a traditional clay pot known as a jebena. The coffee is served black, allowing you to savor its full, rich flavor. As part of the ceremony, you’ll also enjoy the soothing scent of frankincense, which is burned alongside the coffee brewing process, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection.
Best of all, the coffee ceremony is complimentary with the Vegan Buffet, offering you a unique opportunity to experience a vital part of Ethiopian culture.
A Monthly Tradition Worth Celebrating
Our Vegan Buffet and Ethiopian coffee ceremony have become a beloved monthly tradition at Café Lalibela. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a time to gather with friends and family, enjoy wholesome and delicious food, and connect with Ethiopian culture in a meaningful way. Whether you’re a regular at Café Lalibela or visiting for the first time, our monthly Vegan Buffet offers an experience that’s truly special.
Conclusion: Join Us for a Memorable Vegan Feast
Café Lalibela’s monthly Vegan Buffet is a celebration of the rich flavors and traditions of Ethiopian cuisine. From the diverse array of vegan dishes to the immersive experience of the Ethiopian coffee ceremony, this event offers something for everyone. We invite you to join us on the last Sunday of each month, from 12 pm to 3 pm, for a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Come for the food, stay for the culture, and leave with memories that will last until the next month’s buffet. We look forward to welcoming you to Café Lalibela for this unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Recent Comments