Lalibela keeps things simple in the best possible way. The small, family-run Ethiopian spot in Watertown Square leans into homey generosity rather than fussy presentation, serving hearty platters on spongy injera instead of white-tablecloth fare. The two-level restaurant, which officially opened in August, tucks a cozy, incense-scented dining room downstairs and an event space upstairs. Regulars talk up the long-simmered doro wot, the nearly raw kitfo and a towering vegetarian combo that sprawls across tangy injera.
According to The Boston Globe, owners Haile Mekonnen and Emebet Arku moved from Ethiopia to Cambridge 19 years ago, then spent years scouting spots in Arlington, Brookline and Cambridge before landing on this Watertown storefront. The Globe reports that the space officially opened in August, that service leans generous if unhurried and that there is a full bar, complete with homemade t'ej, a traditional Ethiopian honey wine.
What to order
The vegetarian combination platter is the crowd favorite, and it is not shy on variety: beets, collard greens, yellow peas, cabbage, green beans and carrots, all spread over injera. Merchant listings put it at around $23.99. Doro wot and kitfo are other big draws, with menus showing those dishes in the mid-$20s. For current prices and online ordering, check the restaurant's menu on major delivery platforms like DoorDash.
Who runs the place
Lalibela is very much a hands-on operation. Husband-and-wife team Haile Mekonnen and Emebet Arku run the restaurant, with Arku spending most of her time at the stove and Mekonnen working the floor. "We wanted a better life and the American dream," Mekonnen told The Boston Globe. Their tag-team approach and homestyle recipes underpin the restaurant's relaxed, unpretentious vibe.
Practical info
Lalibela is located at 5 Spring St. in Watertown, and its listed phone number is 617-655-2741. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout and delivery, with hours, menus and contact details appearing on local directory and delivery sites. For a quick snapshot of the location and contact information, see the business listing on MapQuest.
Why Watertown should care
Watertown Square has seen plenty of redevelopment and chain arrivals, but Lalibela brings something different to the mix: unfussy, shareable Ethiopian dishes and notably warm service. Early customers on delivery and directory platforms point to big portions and friendly hospitality, suggesting the restaurant has already found a neighborhood following. Sample menus and ratings are posted on platforms like Uber Eats.
