Queen of Sheba. 4195 North Tamiami Trail, 941-346-6734.

Sarasota’s lack of authentic African cuisine has been the source of much consternation from our urban foodies. Enter the Queen of Sheba, an offshoot of Tampa’s popular Ethiopian restaurant. Seble, the chef-owner, serves traditional fare deftly seasoned with spices she procures directly from her homeland. We recommend The Queen’s Platter, a hearty sampler served family-style with spongy Injera bread, which is used in Ethiopia in place of utensils. Injera can be used to scoop up mouthfuls of tender and flavorful Berebere chicken, stewed beef and collard greens, sweet carrots and earthy beets. The Queen’s Platter can be vegan, gluten-free or spicy depending on your preference. Not since Yummy House has word-of-happy-mouths enticed so many to the North Trail in search of culinary adventure. Seble’s not-so-secret ingredient is love and devotees wait patiently at the kitchen door to hug the chef. 

Queen of Sheba. 4195 North Tamiami Trail, 941-346-6734.