by Kysha Harris @SCHOPgirl
Should you find yourself in the Sugar Hill area of Harlem hungry, tired and in need of a respite from the noise and bustle of the streets, head immediately to   (763 St. Nicholas Avenue between 148th & 149th Streets). There, at their door, take your last laden breath and exhale into a little slice of tranquility and a big bite of some authentic Ethiopian food with a Mediterranean twist.
Tsion (pronounced: see-on) owners, and long time Harlem residents, couple Beejhy and Padmore, have created a place to not only feed the body with healthy food and drink but to feed the spirit with local art, music, yoga and more. The spacious remodeled brownstone ground floor features a bar, lounge area, plenty of seating and a small outdoor area that promises to be just what you need through the summer.
We sampled the Ethiopian veggie combo with shiro, atakilt alicha, gomen and lentil served on top of, and with, the famous spongy sour injera bread. We also tried tibs, a beef dish with spices. Now we could explain each of these flavorful dishes at length but why not just go and taste it for yourself?! We promise the attentive staff will answer all of your questions and take good care of you.
Thankfully Beejhy wouldn’t let us leave without having malawach. Normally this crisp Middle Eastern pancake is served as a savory dish with hard-boiled egg and tomato dip. However the sweet version emerged adorned with honey and coconut. We did not refuse!
Thank you Tsion and welcome to the neighborhood. Please save us a seat!
Tsion Cafe
763 Saint Nicholas Ave
212 234 2070
