Injera (CLOSED)

Though a bit pricier than some of the more casual Ethiopian joints uptown, Injera’s lounge-y, intimate atmosphere, attentive, professional staff and whimsically hip décor (read: bright green leather couches, hanging African masks, zebra print wallpaper) are right in line with its increasingly chic West Village surroundings. The food, on the other hand, is primarily traditional, with finely tuned feel-good favorites like Kaye Siir (a hearty, garlicky combination of beets, carrots and potatoes) and Beg Alicha (melt-in-your-mouth lamb stew peppered with onion, garlic, ginger and a hint of turmeric) topping the list. For something a bit outside the box, try the Awaze Calamari, a sizzling portion of pan-seared calamari seasoned with onions, tomatoes, serrano peppers and fiery Ethiopian awaze sauce.