Experience the Taste of Ethiopia
Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine. Savory stews, vibrant spices, and the perfect family-style dining experience.
Taste Our Signature Flavors
New to Ethiopian cuisine or a longtime fan? Dive into these popular, shareable plates that define the communal dining experience at Enat.
Meat Platter
A feast of flavors! Includes Chicken, Beef and Lamb Tibs served with your choice of three vegetable sides and starch.
Goden Beef Short Ribs
Delicious and savory Beef Short Ribs seasoned and slow-cooked in a rich blend of traditional Ethiopian herbs and spices. A true house specialty.
Sambusa
Three crispy triangular treats filled with your choice of minced Beef, Chicken, or Lentils (vegan). The perfect start to any meal.
Vegan Platter
A vibrant feast: Includes Miser, Ater, Shiro, Gomen, Tikel Gomen, Fosolia, Tomato Fitfit, Beets and Potatoes. Served with fresh Injera.
Derek Tibs
Tender crispy cubes of protein sautéed over high heat with onions, jalapeños, and traditional spices for a perfectly seared, dry-cooked flavor.
Craving More?
Be sure to check out our full menus here.
Our Locations
Visit us at either of our convenient Charlotte locations, each offering a unique dining experience.
Enat on The Plaza
Join us at our flagship store on The Plaza for a complete and intimate dining experience. Enjoy our full menu (including expanded specialty options) in a relaxed, sit-down setting, ideal for date nights, family gatherings, and traditional service.
Optimist Hall
Perfect for a quick, vibrant lunch or dinner in a bustling atmosphere. Find us inside Charlotte’s popular food hall for fast-casual service, great community energy, and your favorite Ethiopian staples. A great stop while exploring the Hall!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is Injera, and how is it traditionally made?
Injera is the foundational sourdough flatbread of Ethiopian cuisine, made from naturally gluten-free teff flour. It acts as both the plate and the utensil for your meal. We offer both gluten and gluten-free injera options. [Learn more about the making of Injera here.]
2. Does Enat Ethiopian offer vegan and vegetarian menu options?
Yes, absolutely! Ethiopian cuisine is naturally rich in flavorful, plant-based dishes.
Our menu features a wide variety of vegan options like lentils, chickpeas, split peas, and other vegetables.
3. What are Tibs and Wot, and how do they differ in Ethiopian cuisine?
Both are staples, but Tibs are sautéed pieces of meat (or vegetables) seasoned with spices and served dry. Wot is a rich, slow-cooked stew (or curry) that uses a liquid base and typically features our signature Berbere spice blend. [Explore the difference between Tibs and Wot.]
4. Can I eat Ethiopian food if I have a gluten sensitivity or Celiac disease?
Yes! Injera is traditionally made from 100% teff flour, which is naturally gluten-free. While we take precautions, please inform your server about any sensitivities. [Read our commitment to gluten-free dining.]
5. What are the different Charlotte, NC, locations for Enat Ethiopian Restaurant?
We proudly serve Charlotte from two unique locations: our bustling Optimist Hall spot (perfect for quick bites) and our intimate, full-service Plaza Midwood restaurant. [See details and directions for both locations.]
6. What spices are commonly used in authentic Ethiopian food?
Our signature depth of flavor comes primarily from Berbere, a complex blend of chili peppers and spices, and Mitmita, a potent, fine chili powder. Garlic, ginger, and turmeric are also essential. [Discover the spices that define Ethiopian cuisine.]
7. Is Enat Ethiopian a family-friendly restaurant?
Absolutely! Ethiopian dining is traditionally communal and family-focused. We encourage sharing and offer a warm, welcoming environment for all ages. [Find out more about the Enat dining experience.]
Helpful Glossary
Learn the Lingo: A quick guide to the essential Amharic terms and ingredients you’ll encounter on our menu.
Ater
Mild yellow split peas prepared with onions, garlic and a touch of special spices
Awaze
Spicy chili paste
Enat
Mother
Injera
Soft, spongy, thin bread with a slightly sour taste and tiny holes throughout, used as a utensil to grab up your grub
Goden
Beef short ribs
Fosolia
String beans and carrots sautéed in vegetable oil with garlic, caramelized onions, and Enat's spices
Gomen
Chopped collard greens sautéed with onions and garlic
Miser
Red split lentil stew cooked in a spicy berbere sauce, onions and garlic
Mitmita
Chili powder made with traditional spices
Shiro
Ground chickpeas slow-cooked into a creamy stew.
Sinafitch
Ethiopian spicy mustard sauce
Tikel Gomen
Cabbage and carrots cooked with onions and garlic
