Sooooo, there's a lot on my mind. The economy is in terrible condition. We're being labeled as racists, we're still mired in multiple wars, I really want the Heat to suck this year but am afraid they won't, I think I'm gaining weight, losing my hair, and I am certain that my right foot is bigger than my left.\n\nBut you know the worst thing about my life right now?\n\nNo meat. If only I was talking about the musical group, but alas. My father passed away last week so to respect Buddhist beliefs, no meat for 49 days. So what is a bacon guzzling, sausage stuffing ( shame on you for having a dirty mind!), carnivorous soul going to do?\n\nEat at Lalibela Cafe of course! \n\nWalking in, I was a little wary of the $50 authentic Ethiopian attire in a basket as you walk in. Better not be a tourist trap, I am thinking. Continuing to look around, it felt a little cluttered but not too much so, with some interesting art and more clothing on the walls to peruse. I was running a little behind on time as I had originally intended to go to Byblos which was closed for renovations until August 20th, so I cut short my examination of the decor to order. \n\nI ordered the Vegetarian Sampler (7.99), which is your choice of 3 out of 5 dishes to go along with the injera or rice. I also had the Yekemem Shai (2.50) black tea with cinnamon, cardamom & cloves cold, which was a refreshing drink. \n\nThe Masir Wat, red split lentils simmered in hot sauce and herbs, was delicious and made me not miss meat so much, with a texture reminiscent of ground beef and a spicy flavor that was subtle but satisfying. Tikil gomen, lightly spiced cabbage, carrots and potatoes was also a winner, with an almost buttery finish. Gomen, chopped collard greens cooked with garlic and onions was the only component that was merely okay, with the flavors being a little too mild for my taste, but by no means bad. The injera itself was a quiet partner in the backdrop of all these flavors, slightly sour and spongy.\n\nWhile no one checked in on my meal, no one had to, as I was quite pleased and didn't need a refill. The initial service was fast and efficient as well, even with only 2 on the waitstaff and about 15 people coming in right around when I did.\n\nSo you know what? Our economy is going to recover. I might be a little racist but who isn't? Wars are just disagreements taken too far, Lebron will remain crownless, I'm just big-boned, there's always Rogaine or a toupee, and I can always get custom shoes where the right is bigger than the left, and I have Lalibela Cafe to thank for putting me in this frame of mind.\n\nThanks for a great lunch, and I'll be back often, meat or no meat!
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