Zion Ethiopian Restaurant Review

Pro tips

• Request your Kitfo doneness preference when ordering—raw (kitfo), lightly cooked (tire siga), or fully cooked—based on your comfort level and the restaurant's sourcing standards.
• Eat injera fresh and warm; let it cool slightly if too hot, as it becomes tough when cold.
• Mix mitmita (chili spice) into the Kitfo incrementally to control heat intensity rather than combining all at once.
• Pair Kitfo with the vegetable sides and greens on the plate to balance the richness of the beef and clarified butter.

Storage & make-ahead

Kitfo is best consumed immediately after preparation. Leftover cooked versions may be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days and gently reheated; raw Kitfo should not be stored.

What is Kitfo and how is it traditionally prepared?

Kitfo is finely minced raw or lightly cooked beef mixed with mitmita (spiced chili powder) and niter kibbeh (clarified butter). It's served with injera and vegetables, reflecting Ethiopian culinary tradition.

Is Zion Ethiopian Restaurant suitable for vegetarian diners?

Yes. Zion offers a Veggie Combo featuring plant-based Ethiopian dishes served on injera, making it accessible for vegetarian and vegan guests.

What makes the dining experience at Zion Ethiopian Restaurant unique?

The intimate, quiet atmosphere combined with personalized service from the mom-and-daughter owners creates a warm, welcoming experience beyond the food quality.

Is Kitfo safe to eat raw?

Traditional Kitfo uses high-quality, freshly minced beef. Request your preference for doneness level; many restaurants offer a lightly cooked option (tire siga) for those preferring reduced food safety risk.

What is injera and why is it served with Kitfo?

Injera is a spongy, tangy fermented flatbread made from teff flour. It serves as both plate and utensil in Ethiopian dining, absorbing the flavors of dishes like Kitfo while aiding digestion of rich beef.