Pan Africa serves fancy versions of food we’re accustomed to eating with our hands. Indeed, it can feel strange eating lentils and injera with utensils sitting next to you, but Pan Africa isn’t the place to try if you want a hidden gem to brag about.

Since it’s the Pike Place Market crowd they’re feeding, prices are a tad higher than they are at other restaurants serving similar dishes. But Pan Africa is a really great way to sample Ethiopian food (which dominates the menu), plus some of the continent’s other greatest hits, along with some good South African wines. The menu explains each of the dishes well.

Sambusas, lamb and groundnut stews, all manner of meat and veg in piri piri sauce, and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options make up the core of the menu. Mango-pineapple curry is one standout. Brunch items are bit more global, but even frittatas and other standard brunch items tend to have some African influences like injera stuffing and berbere-chicken sausage.

During the day, the colorful space is a sight for SAD eyes—this is a go-to spot for Seattleites who need a little culinary comfort midwinter. At night, candles and a blue-lit bar add a bit of casual sophistication to the Market scene.