Ethiopian food is both distinctive and delicious, befitting a remarkable country with a cultural heritage that stands out from the rest of Africa. In 2008 Mulu Habtesilssie, opened Alem Ethiopian Village in downtown Milwaukee. Now 11 years later, Habtesilssie can say she is still living her dream of having her own restaurant serving Authentic Ethiopian cuisine, from fall off the bone chicken to a vegan buffet to special brand of coffee. She takes no shortcuts with her food. It is all made from scratch with a rich blend of curated spices. Each meal is like a window into Ethiopian culture and cuisine.
The seating is at conventional tables, chairs are grouped around one or more mesobs – colorful woven tables. Servers bring the food on a large platter that rests on top of the mesob. The platter is akin to a round, deep-dish pizza pan, the base of which is lined with injera, a wafer-thin pancake made from teff flour, and is the traditional Ethiopian style of eating with your hands. Conventional utensils are available.
Knowledge is essential at Alem, and Mulu’s staff is so helpful in explaining the dishes. The meals are an extension of herself. She is sharing her childhood, culture, and memories with each customer. In fact, she doesn't think of them as customers either.
The meals are an extension of herself. She is sharing her childhood, culture, and memories with each customer. In fact, she doesn't think of them as customers either.