During the pandemic, most restaurants switched from full service to takeout. At Authentic EthioAfrican on McDowell Road, the team did just the opposite. During the downtime, the restaurant transformed from a takeout-only spot into a sit-down destination complete with wooden furniture and decor brought directly from Ethiopia, a new cocktail list and a traditional coffee service. Individual meals are offered, but we recommend bringing some friends as sharing is the way to go. Combinations are served with an array of colorful dollops on a massive round plate and include meat and vegetarian options with tangy, rich stews. Try the spicy chicken doro wot, aromatic collard green gomen, or garlic-laden lentil meser wot. A salty and creamy homemade cheese adds a cool bite to the hot entrees, and everything is served with fluffy, slightly sour, bubbly injera, a flatbread that is at the center of Ethiopian cuisine. ($$)