Ethiopian in Silver Spring

[SimonF]

What's the best Ethiopian place in Silver Spring? I live near the Silver Spring metro, but would drive. Price isn't an issue, though these places tend to be cheap. I would order something vegetarian.

[AsperGirl]

I don't care for Addis Ababa, because of the service. The women who serve there are always very passive-aggressive-rude to me, whereas at Langano they are always fantastically kind. Since I tip well and know how to order and behave, I assume there's some kind of issue with outsiders at Addis Ababa, whereas at Langano they are very hospitable to everyone.

The decor at Langano is cafeteria like and run down, while at Addis Ababa they have traditional seats and tables, but apart from the decor, at Langano they do a lot of traditional things I've come to expect with the food experience, like scorching coffee beans (coffee ceremony), etc.

On the surface, Addis Ababa seems more authentic because of all the trappings. But with their killer hospitality, real traditional things they do, and the food being a little stronger and definitely spicier, I think Langano is (under the surface) the more traditional and authentic place to eat.

I might take tourists to Addis Ababa. If I want someone to experience the signature Ethiopian hospitality, I would take them to Langano.

The owner of Langano recently sold the restaurant to his sister, so I don't know if the culture of the place will change, but the food (which I prefer) should stay the same since they been raised in the same family.

[SimonF]

I just went to Abol for lunch. Nice folks, and a good veggie lunch special. The only annoying thing was the abundant parking they brag about on the web site is not available weekday lunches. I look forwared to trying the other places.

[DanielK]

I used to go to Langano, but after a couple of disappointing meals, I tried Addis Ababa, and have gone there exclusively since. I found the food MUCH better at AA than Langano.

YMMV. They also have the coffee ceremony at Addis Ababa.

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Addis Ababa Restaurant
8233 Fenton St, Silver Spring, MD 20910

[altan]

Addis Ababa on Fenton Street in downtown. Best in Silver Spring and one of the best in Maryland.

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Addis Ababa Restaurant
8233 Fenton St, Silver Spring, MD 20910

[dinwiddie]

I agree that Addis Ababa is my favorite, but we have also enjoyed some meals at Langano. I've never been to Bete or Abol, but will try them in the future if I get the chance.

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Addis Ababa Restaurant
8233 Fenton St, Silver Spring, MD 20910

[DanielK]

I would rank them:
1. Addis Ababa
2. Abol
3. Langano (which actually might have closed recently, not sure)

Haven't made it to Bete.

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Addis Ababa Restaurant
8233 Fenton St, Silver Spring, MD 20910

[SimonF]

Thanks!