Get a taste of: Ethiopia
Little Ethiopia in D.C. has the largest number of Ethiopians outside of Ethiopia, and its main drag is down 9th Street and U. Spend your stay exploring the area’s more than two dozen shops and restaurants, but make sure to save some room for a meal at Chercher on 9th. It’s known for its kitfo, finely chopped sirloin (traditionally served raw, but can be cooked to your preference) seasoned with herbed butter sauce and mitmita spices and served with cheese; and its tibs made with beef, tilapia, or salmon. Don’t forget to order a glass of tej — an Ethiopian sweet honey wine that’s similar to mead — to go with it. After you’ve stopped into a few shops, head to Habesha Market & Carryout for some spices and injera (a sour fermented flatbread) to level up your pantry, as well as some of the best Ethiopian food in town for the journey back home. Stop by for breakfast and pick up some ful, smashed and spiced broad beans with tomatoes, jalapenos, and olive oil, or their deluxe veggie combo for lunch that’s filled to the brim with lentils, collard greens, and yemetad shiro stew.
Stay at: The St. Regis, Washington D.C. where world leaders, royalty, and Hollywood icons stay during their trips to the White House — which is just steps away. It’s filled with unparalleled luxury, and if you book with your Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Card from Chase, you can earn a free night award on every card anniversary (valued up to 35,000 points).