Sigh, what an amazing experience. coming was my first time at an Ethiopian restaurant in…read moreCalifornia. How come it felt like I was at one of my friends houses, eating their mother's home-cooked meal?
It was a day my wife and I were coming back from our bI-monthly beach trip, and we had a deep hunger for some injera, the stock at home was running low and after all this driving and a full morning at the beach neither of us was going to cook. On our exit back to the inland empire, one name piqued my interest. Emma Habesha.
There wasn't much to discus, we soared there with haste in our hearts. the parking situation seems small, give the place a quick scan while you figure out your landing, they share their parking woth a few other businesses, but if you had to walk down the street, I could think of worse ways to get your digestion going before you drive home. luckily someone was leaving when we got there, and we were able to park in front.
On the walk in, there were two woman watching a program in a small and cozy space. The elder woman met my eyes, sizing us up, she knew our stomachs were empty. It was the the eponymous Emma, and she was prepared. without a beat, she told us to find a place to sit, that there was ample space outside. And yes there was. We followed our way out the back, and the expected patio opened up into seemingly an outdoor community center lounge. There are mirrors on the walls, would seem to be a bar station, and ample seating with plenty of space, screens outside. It was beautiful. We found a table that had low coffee table seating. perfect for us to leisure into.
Emma had gone to start lunch preparations, her son, respectful and kind young man appeared to take our order and serve our drinks. But she was like an auntie you come to dinner too. After service on Sunday, he was like a young nephew you haven't seen since they were young, all grown up and impressive. Their service was wonderful, second only to the food.
Ordering with empty stomachs, wanting to eat the whole menu, we got combo platter without much discussion. I was expecting a lot, but I know she could feel my quiet hunger. There was plenty of food for the two of us, and the ample honey wine between us. The Dereq Tibbs were standout, and if that wasn't enough red meat the Alicha stew was perfectly spicy and succulent, my first time trying Ethiopian style collards were amazing, even the doro wot was to die for (not a huge fan of chicken) and the other vegetable dishes disappeared as quickly as the meat. Our meal was brief, and we were quite satisfied.
I can't go to another Ethiopian restaurant, next time we're in town, its a mandatory stop.