

37

"I’d run, not walk, to Fatou Ouattara’s Akadi for her fried chicken wings—served with three sauces—where the suya-dry-rubbed wings get the press but the garlicky lemon-parsley-cilantro version may be even better (you’ll be wishing for wet wipes). Other standout items include lentil samosas, a versatile peanut stew (with chicken, fish, mushrooms, or tempeh), and jollof with your choice of brochettes served with fried plantains and a Northwest kale slaw. Nearly half the menu is inventive vegan fare, and Ouattara keeps things fresh by making regular research trips to the Ivory Coast and other African countries to evolve the menu." - Hannah Wallace