Image: Plated up.
Last Updated: September 2024
Overview:
Chef Elias Taddesse opened a Covid-era phenom Mélange, where he mixed Ethiopian flavors with traditional burger and fries. Unfortunately, opening in 2020 was not ideal and the spot closed after just a little while. For his encore he switched from burgers (though he brought burgers back too!) to fried chicken and sides. He moved from Mt. Vernon to a storefront in Shaw where he is only doing take-out/delivery.
The results are no less impressive with the second effort. The chicken reflects the attention he dedicated to developing the recipe. As described by DCist (RIP), “The chicken is marinated with the spices and buttermilk and then double fried with a batter that includes three different starches – potato, tapioca, and corn. The end result is tendersoft, juicy meat inside a thin, crackling skin with a fiery red appearance (for the berbere and mitmita versions).”
For mains, they also offer a yogurt marinated chicken, a fried chicken breast sandwich, and a vegetarian mushroom sandwich. The sides also continue the soul food mixed with Ethiopian theme. Doro wat flavored mac & cheese (with crumbled injera), berbere fries, and turmeric-tinted cole slaw are among the options.
Be warned, they can run out of things. Best to order early to be safe. Taddesse says he still hopes to open a fancy spot (he comes from a fine-dining background). In the meantime, we are happy enjoy Doro Soul Food’s casual take-out choices.
Summary:
Cuisine: New or Old American
Neighborhood: Shaw
Address: 1819 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Website: https://www.dorosoulfood.com/
Reservations: Take-out/Delivery
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: Tom’s Six Favorite Places to Eat in March 2023.
Washingtonian: Preview
DonRockwell.com – no thread for new place, but here is the one for Mélange.
Big Schlim: Went back for the wings and lots of STAMP.