Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine delights Orlando diners with authentic East African flavors, featuring spongy injera, boldly spiced stews, and combination platters that showcase both meat and vegan options. Located at 5494 Central Florida Pkwy in the International Drive area near SeaWorld, this spot offers ample parking, takeout, and a welcoming incense-scented interior with turquoise seating. Recognized in the Michelin Guide for good cooking, it ranks highly on Yelp and Tripadvisor for its friendly service and vibrant dishes like kitfo and tibs.
Signature Dishes
Combination platters dominate the menu, with the Selam Meat and Veggie Special ($35.99) blending nine items like doro wot (chicken stew), beef key wot, kitfo (rare minced beef with spiced butter), and veggies such as gomen (collard greens) and atkilt wot (mixed vegetables). Vegan highlights include the Selam Veggie Special ($35.99) with nine options like misir wot (spicy lentils), shiro (pureed peas), mushroom dulet, and timatim fitfit (tomato-injera salad). Popular appetizers feature lentil samosas ($4.00) and ye shekla tibs ($24.95), beef cubes sizzling on hot clay with onions and rosemary, often praised for perfect spice balance.
Dining Experience
Diners eat communal-style without utensils, tearing injera to scoop stews, creating a hands-on, shareable meal ideal for groups. The vibe mixes bold African decor with alfresco seating; expect Ethiopian coffee ceremonies ($10 for four cups) and beers like St. George ($6.00). Open daily except Tuesdays from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it accommodates vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal diets with reservations recommended.
Customer Reviews
Reviews rave about fresh, flavorful food: “Dark injera and yellow cabbage signal quality,” with veggie combos and awaze tibs earning top marks. One Tripadvisor user called it “full saturated color” compared to other Ethiopian spots, while Yelp highlights samosas and kitfo as must-tries. Service shines, with staff guiding first-timers; it’s a local cornerstone drawing East African crowds.
FAQ
What are the hours?
Open 11:00 AM–10:00 PM Sunday, Monday, Wednesday–Saturday; closed Tuesdays.
Is parking available?
Yes, ample free parking at the ideal location.
Vegetarian/vegan options?
Extensive, including nine-dish veggie specials and misir wot.
Does it offer takeout/delivery?
Yes, via the website, DoorDash, and Uber Eats.
Halal?
Yes, many dishes qualify as halal.
People Also Ask
Best dish for beginners?
Veggie or meat combination platters let you sample multiple flavors safely.
Spicy or mild options?
Both—alicha wot is mild turmeric-based; key wot or awaze tibs bring heat.
Family-friendly?
Yes, with kids’ options like nuggets, spacious seating, and shareable platters.
Worth the price?
Plates $15–$36 feed 2–4; reviewers say portions and quality justify it.
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