Nyala adds Ethiopian traditions to tasty, affordable meals -- by Andrea Dingman
The Daily Bruin
''... Nyala Ethiopian Cuisine, located on Fairfax Avenue, serves traditional Ethiopian cuisine in a relaxed yet festive atmosphere.
With upbeat, authentic-sounding music and bright red walls, stepping into Nyala is unlike any other type of restaurant. The experience recreates the traditional Ethiopian meal not just by serving authentic Ethiopian food but also by incorporating the dinner customs of Ethiopia. The menu caters to the novice diner, including explanations of all the traditions and etiquette of Ethiopian cuisine. Rather than having to figure out the practice of scooping up the various stews with the tangy crepe "utensil," the menu explains the proper method.
Additionally, the menu explains the cultural significance of communal eating in Ethiopia: "People who eat from the same plate will never betray one another." With this type of context, first-time Ethiopian cuisine-eaters will be more comfortable trying out the tradition and dipping their crepes into the communal stews..." >>more
The earthen, brown walls of Nyala Ethiopian Cuisine convey a warmness found in African landscapes. The woven baskets and tall grass top off the authentic decor without being kitschy.
The entrees are served atop traditional Ethiopian bread called injera, which is also used as your utensil. All the food is eaten by hand, so forget your Aunt Lois' Thanksgiving "Don't use your fingers!" beratings. Tear off a piece of the spongy, tangy bread and soak up the flavor. The entrees are usually a curry consistency so it's easy to scoop up the food and experience an exotic mix of spices likely to form sweat beads on your forehead. For non-meat eaters, Nyala offers an extensive vegetarian menu.
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LA Times
by Roger J. Grody
''...
Part of Fairfax Avenue's remarkable Ethiopian restaurant row, Nyala -- named after a sleek gazelle-like mammal -- represents one of the best bargains on the street. Gracious servers in this comfortable atmosphere are happy to assist the uninitiated with their selections. Rust-colored walls are enhanced with African art, red booths accommodate tables dressed in ivory cloths and a bar sits in the rear. Large dried floral arrangements and traditional Ethiopian basket-weave tables are added for accent, while tautly spread ovals of fabric hang from the ceiling in one corner near the bar"... Review from ..."
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Note from the owner: Elizabeth Goshu