Gather Around: Zoma Ethiopian Restaurant is All About Sharing

We get it. Unleashing your inner Anthony Bourdain and exploring unfamiliar culinary territory can be scary. Zeleke Belete, owner of Zoma Ethiopian Restaurant in Cleveland Heights, understands that too. In Cleveland, unlike other big cities, the vegetarian-heavy cuisine with its unique flavors, bold colors and communal approach is a rarity. “We don’t have any drive-thrus in Ethiopia,” says Belete, who grew up in the capital of Addis Ababa. “That’s why we eat together. That’s the fun part of it.” For the uninitiated, he recommends the Zoma special combo ($32.99) featuring beef tibs, mild and spicy beef stews, spicy chicken stew, house-made cottage cheese and a choice of items such as greens, lentils, chickpeas, fresh cabbage or split peas. Served on a large platter, it’s meant to be eaten with injera, a spongy gluten-free flatbread. “If you don’t like something, we need to bring another dish,” he says. “You have to investigate first.” 2240 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-465-3239, zomacleveland.com