Massawa Restaurant - (212) 663-0505

The service was great, the waitress was very friendly. I was there with a friend, and we both agreed the portions are simply too modest. I was so hungry, I requested rice but they don't have on-hand and need to prepare it. It's a very light dinner, we ordered two sets of Sambrusa's to compensate for the modest portions. I am not greedy, nor expect huge platters but felt it was too modest. The food however was delicious, the ambience is nice and cozy, and the Sambrusa's are amazing. Basically they are roughly 3" triangular flat pastries, fried golden brown, filled with a mixture of veggies. They reminded me of Indian Samosa's sans the spices and peas, but actually flat not pyramid shaped like them. We enjoyed the food, however encourage patrons to be prepared for a modest dinner. I don't know what happened, but we ended up spending $25 each and left hungry.

I have tried them all, and I think this is the best. I have never had a bad meal, and everytime I bring someone new they love it. Try the veggie combo, and if you don't like collard greens, ask for cabbage as a substitute. I have ordered other combos and they have all been terrific. I wish this place was located downtown! It is true, however, that they could give larger portions.

My group eats here when we're in the Columbia area -- we've tried every place that looks decent and this one ended up being our favorite so far. The flavors are delicate and really appealing. The decor is nothing really special, but there's enough space to feel like you can move around, and there's a good friendly vibe. At least to us, the portions are big -- we get full and get to take some home.