Collegiate Times

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Two friends split the multi-person dish with chicken, lentils and mixed vegetables. The portions seemed reasonable for the most part, a notable exception being the injera for the single-person dish. I quickly finished off my serving and had to eat some of my friends’ dishes to finish the meal.

The lamb was tender but not exceedingly memorable on its own merits. Within the hearty wat, however, it made for a delectable dish, though I found my friends’ chicken to be spicier and more satisfying.

The highlight of the meal was the lentils. The spicy variety was finished by the time we had arrived, but I was surprised at just how much bite the “mild” dish contained. The tropical iced tea I purchased with the meal came in handy and was equally tasty.

On my subsequent visit, I arrived at noon to a freshly stocked counter. The staff, courteous in all of my experiences, recognized me and suggested the best dishes available that day. I left with spicy beef with potatoes and the spicy lentils, my favorite combination of Ethiopian plates.

I wasn’t disappointed. The beef and potatoes were the highlight of my two visits to Excellent Table, spicy but also overflowing with the different flavors of the traditional spices. There was a significant “kick” that put me through two drinks quickly but didn’t hide the inspired taste.

The lentils lived up to their label, but I found them lacking in flavor compared to their milder counterparts. This isn’t to say they were bad; I enjoyed them a great deal as a complement to the beef. In this case, however, the zest overwhelmed the legume’s savory taste.

The prices at Excellent Table are reasonable for Ethiopian food but could be considered expensive on a college budget.

A single dish with injera runs for about $9. My favorite meal, the meat and lentils, costs $11. Yes, a little more than a sub or tacos, but in my opinion it’s a small price to pay for expanding your culinary horizons.  

With a convenient location near campus, helpful staff and delicious authentic Ethiopian cuisine, Excellent Table is one of Blacksburg’s foreign dining jewels. Students looking to try something new are encouraged to go with a friend and share an excellent meal bursting with traditional African flavors.

Just remember to wash your hands first.

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A version of this article appeared in the Sep 8 issue of the Collegiate Times.