4. Restaurants

Ethiopian Restaurant

2816 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO, 80206
  • (303) 322-5939
  • Store is closed

Ethiopian Restaurant Menu

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  • Adrienne L.

    I only have two complaints about this restaurant: 1) When it gets busy, you should expect your meal to take awhile. Tonight it seemed only one man was working the room, and it took about 15 minutes for us to place our order. But when we did, it came quickly and was amazing. 2) As other people have mentioned, they don't take credit cards. We were surprised by this; they should probably post a sign.

    (4)

  • Mary D.

    I freakin' love this place. When I was in college, I would get takeout at least twice a week, and live on the leftovers. Generous portions, really delicious food. Not as complex or intricately spiced as some Ethiopian food I've had, but something you could eat every day for the rest of your life. You'd probably get fat, but you'd be happy. Eat-in service is slow--expect to wait about an hour no matter how small your order. Takeout is much faster, and you can eat with your hands on your living room floor while watching a movie, which, I'm pretty sure, is what heaven is like.

    (5)

  • Laurie W.

    Bring cash! I got the vegetarian combo from Ethiopian restaurant and it was good. Definitely not my favorite in Denver, but it will do for a fix if I can't get to my regular spots. The injera was spongy and fresh. It was a little more sour than in other places, which I didn't love, but it was ok. The two lentil stews and split peas were really good, but the cabbage and potatoes were a little on the bland side. It was all very decent, though. And the service was good and friendly. Good, solid Ethiopian food. What else can I say?

    (3)

  • Idan S.

    I'm an Ethiopian food fanatic! That being said I though the food at "Ethiopian Restaurant" was alright, but nothing too great. Even though it was alright I will definitely never return as long as Queen of Sheba is open (about 15 min away).

    (3)

  • Jay H.

    I have been to Ethiopian restaurants in three time zones, and this is far and away the best I've had. Family owned and operated, Negusi (apologies if the name is misspelled) is the front man for this operation that has consistently churned out delicious Ethiopian food for 23 years. I once asked him why he chose the name "Ethiopian Restaurant" for his Ethiopian restaurant. He gave me a look that suggested I hadn't fully thought out my question. Actually, he said, when the business first opened giving it an Ethiopian name would be one more level of confusion for potential customers. Unlike now, it was impossible to find Ethiopian food in Denver. They wanted to be as up front as possible. Ethiopian Restaurant is in limbo as Colfax gentrifies. A fairly successful Japanese restaurant (Nohana?) a few blocks away (E. Colfax and York) was driven out of business by high rent. Negusi and family regret that a lot of older businesses are feeling the squeeze right now. However, Ethiopian Restaurant sticks to a simple, well-executed formula with great economy of space. It has room to seat about forty people at a time, making it intimate and a well-concealed gem. The flood of new money and investment along the Bluebird strip includes a bunch of adventurous yuppie types who would and rightfully should swoon at this place. I'd recommend anyone who visits Ethiopian Restaurant try their Messerwot (spicy lentils) as a side dish. It's the best I've ever had, and I'm particular about spicy foods. There is a range of beef, lamb, chicken, and vegetable dishes to suit any taste. The food is served on a large, flat bread and eaten using strips torn from another piece of the same bread. Negusi recognizes me when I come in, even though I don't visit weekly or in a very high volume. The proprietors emphasize the community feel of the restaurant and make everyone feel welcome. Check out Ethiopian Restaurant. It will not disappoint. And it is a surprising hole in the wall that will impress friends and dates alike as you show them how well you know the good places in Denver, where the meals are authentic and the marketing is word of mouth. And, as mentioned, bring cash.

    (5)

  • Jonathan D.

    After going to Arada Ethiopian and walking out a few weeks ago, my wife and I were still curious to try Ethiopian cuisine. We came here on a Thursday night around 6 and the place was empty. We were a little nervous because the place was dead but we were quickly greeted by a very friendly owner. We go our food fairly quick and it was wonderful. I told the owner it was our first time and that we didnt know what to order. He brought us out 2 beef dishes that were above our expectations. I would recommend this place if you are looking for great Ethiopian food in Denver. The only reason I would not give this place 5 stars is because they are CASH ONLY.

    (4)

  • Norman L.

    If you have a bad meal, you definitely aren't eating it here. The food is always great, and the people here are wonderfully nice. The 2 problems I have is that they don't take credit cards (so I go out of my way to have cash when I come here) and if they're busy, you may need to wait since it's a small place (but it's worth the wait). They're good for both veg and non-veg eaters.

    (5)

  • Sarah O.

    Of late, I have struggled with the restaurant scene in Denver, due to an irrational craving for authenticity in food and service. I realize that these are the petty complaints of a Westerner, and that I should accept the attention lavished upon me by post-grad waiters. After all, there is nothing wrong with the centralized order of things in the contemporary restaurant service: An over-the-top welcome, the offer of a cocktail as if it's not being added to the bill, an iced tumbler of water that continues to be filled as if the customer was fitted with a camel's hump, a carefully timed 4 minutes to consult the menu, an 8 minute food delay, several ill-timed and needy interruptions asking us for reassurances about the quality of the food, and an invoice launched at the table before the dregs of the coffee are allowed to go cold. No, there's nothing essentially wrong with it all, aside from its harassing alienation. That is why a recent visit to The Ethiopian Restaurant was so satisfying. Dishevelled, informal and un-orchestrated, it was everything that I had craved but given up on in Denver. My partner and I nudged up to the Rasta-coloured building on a sunny Sunday evening, suspended between curiosity and hesitance. The windows looked blocked up and the entrance hall / dining room aesthetically displeasing. The owner greeted us with a grunt and signaled us to go on through to the next dining room. Here, out doubts coagulated. The room was a brown one-dimensional rectangle and, for some reason, full of three or four groups of tattooed twenty-something clients. Despite their hell-fire appliance, the gathered were strangely, eerily quiet and no-one had as of yet received their food, so that an air of expectation loomed over the whole mawkish scene. We took a seat and glanced at each other with raised eyebrows. We had to whisper so as not to be over heard by those sitting around us, and were planning an escape when the owner appeared at our table. "Well, what you want, eh?" he grumbled. "Ammm, do you guys have that honey wine?" my partner asked reluctantly, as it hadn't featured on the menu. He is a mead enthusiast and his idealistic notions of Ethiopia as the land of milk and honey was what had motivated our seeking out of this restaurant. "Sure," the owner said, and returned a few minutes later with glasses brimming with liquid nectar. We were reassured, both by the mead and the gruff sincerity of the owner. However, we were still put off my the main dining room's strained atmosphere and asked if we could move to the entrance dining area that overlooked the kitchen. "Why you want to go there?" demanded the owner. "Oh, you know, it seems more romantic" I piped. The owner cracked a smile and gave his consent. Romantic it was not. A flat screen television cracked away in the background, but what it lacked in linen and candle-light it made up for in the genuine antics of the manager and his family. The food was simple and delicious, generously presented on a big tray by a soft-spoken girl who discreetly delivered the food and then disappeared. We asked for more mead and it was duly presented. We were full half way through the meal but the food was too delicious to leave it behind, and I refuse to end a night out by pouring my scraps into a styrofoam box. All in all, it was a wonderful, no-nonsense dining experience: great honest food, genuine service, simple surroundings. The owner told us to be sure and come back and I felt that he meant it. And I certainly will be returning.

    (4)

  • Anne S.

    If you're used to dining in cookie-cutter restaurants and are not an adventurous eater, the Ethiopian Restaurant may not be for you. If you are looking to try something new and enjoy supporting a local business because they are passionate about what they do and who they are, then this is the place! This is authentic, home-cooked African food at it's best! I am always returning to this restaurant. It has to be one of my favorites in Denver. The food is wonderful and unique, the staff is friendly and welcoming, the price is affordable, and the atmosphere is cozy. Sometimes I have had to wait quite a while when they are busy, but the staff puts 100% into ensuring you a quality meal. It's worth it! The Ethiopian Restaurant makes me very happy!

    (5)

  • Ron B.

    Not a bad experience.

    (3)

  • Brie O.

    The generic name, dingy exterior and Colfax address of this place can make it seem unappealing. Walk inside and the decor and atmosphere do little to reassure you, but the food is really great. Some of the staff is very friendly and some of the staff (one older lady especially) is borderline hostile. However, the unpleasant staff members always seem to stay behind the counter in the front room and our actual waiter is always a nice young man. I agree with other reviewers that the meat dishes here are not very good, but for a cuisine from a country where people rarely eat meat, what would you expect? Stick to the vegetarian fare and you can't go wrong. The prices are very reasonable and the portions are more than generous. The cash-only policy is inconvenient and I would probably eat there two- to three-times more often if they accepted credit cards, but what can you do?

    (4)

  • Lindsay K.

    So the only reason I decided to try this place was because I could walk to it and I had never even seen an Ethiopian restaurant before. The outside was a little intimidating and to be honest I didn't know much about the culture or what kind of food they would serve. Let's just say that I was more than pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere once I walked through the door. Though small and a little warm because of the kitchen, was really cozy and friendly, kind of like eating at a friend's house and having their grandma make you a bunch of comfort food from scratch. This was a great place to try Ethiopian cuisine for the first time.

    (4)

  • Dustin C.

    great ethnic restaurant. the service can be slow but it's basically a guy and his wife running the whole place - she cooks, he serves, and it's worth the wait.

    (4)

  • Louisa B.

    The food here is great, but you had better go before you are hungry!! When I went with a party of 4 there was only one waiter and he was not in a real hurry to get our order. Once the food did arrive, it was great and not small portions! Not much ambiance or interior decoration. I wouldn't recommend it for a first date, but the food is solid! Make sure you bring cash!

    (3)

  • Laila S.

    It was our first place here and we had n ides what to order. The owner ended up serving us and he helped us out about what to order. The food was EXCELLENT!! Great place to come with a group of four+, so that you can get the combo plates.

    (5)

  • Scott P.

    Came here for lunch the other day with a friend of mine, and had a pleasant experience. Nothing notable, and nothing exceptional, but a solidly pleasant experience. The service was pleasant, but very slow. You WILL wait for your food here, but it'll be tasty. The dishes aren't cheap, but they're not drastically expensive either. The menu has options, but isn't extensive. I dunno... it was just... 'fine'. I've has Ethiopian food before, not very much, but enough to appreciate a good experience. I like a few more menu options, and nothing here really blew me away. I'll try it out a few more times and try some of the other places in town, and maybe I'll change my rating, but for me this was a solid three-star experience. And they don't accept credit cards. That kinda threw me off...

    (3)

  • Melissa C.

    I've been coming here for years, the last tme being probably 8 years ago. Food was as good if not better than I remembered and the server (only one for small dining room) was very friendly and expedient.

    (4)

  • Monica M.

    I stumbled into this place one night, desperate for Ethiopian food. I knew it was here, but I'd never tried it out, so I gave it a shot. It was a unique experience to say the least. We walked in around 5pm, nobody was in yet and the owner was sitting at a table watching TV. We thought the restaurant looked rather small, until he led us to the back room and discovered plenty of seating. We were served right away and had no difficulty getting our order. The food itself was rich and flavorful, as you would expect from ethiopian cuisine. They weren't stingy on the injera and we were regularly attended to by the owner himself. People trickled in and I noticed that most of the customers were greeted by first name as regulars. This is a good sign. My only complaint is that usually when I get Ethiopian food, it's punch-you-in-the-face spicy. This was a little bit weak in comparison. You should be aware that I'm reviewing the vegetarian combos. The day I went, the A/C wasn't on, so the restaurant was incredibly warm. I'm sure this is a freak occurance. This place definitely isn't fancy and they aren't trying to hide that. It seemed clean, despite the fact that the kitchen looks ancient. The bathroom was fine, as you would expect from a restaurant on Colfax. Big downside, though, is they didn't take credit cards. I didn't see a sign anywhere, but there might have been one. Because of that, I sat at the restaurant and Nick went to the ATM. I have to drop my rating by a star because of that. It drives me insane when businesses don't accept plastic. You can't beat the price, however, so go anyway. Just bring cash.

    (3)

  • Lizzie M.

    I'm happy to see that my friend Jay from DU also reviewed this awesome place! I love this Ethiopian Restaurant, which is very aptly and unassumingly named "Ethiopian Restaurant". I love the family who own this place, especially the dad. He is such a sweetheart. I don't know who is in the kitchen, but whoever they are, they have an outstanding talent. I crave this place all the time - at least several times a week.

    (5)

  • Polly P.

    I've had lots of Ethiopian food and in many cities/states, so I was really excited when a co-worker had recommended this restaurant very highly. When we walked in, the first thing I thought was that this no-frills restaurant will either be fantastic or horrible - there will not likely be a middle ground. It ended up being fantastic - my husband and I shared the vegetable combination and the less spicy beef stew (I think it was #3). The spice was actually exactly as it should be - enough there to enjoy it and no build-up or surprises. We are fans of Ethiopian beers - Ethiopian Restaurant had Bedele Special and St George's, 2 that we have never tried. Bedele Special is sweet and malty; St George is crisp and bright. Both are tasty w/ the injira. You will find the restaurant decor to be simple...like if you had a double wide in Ethiopia. Very homey - I loved it! While we were paying the bill, I made mental note of the griddle area - it looks seasoned and old BUT very well maintained and clean/food-safe. The owner is the sweetest guy with a quiet wittiness. They have been there 25 years and appear to not be suffering for the times. Very solidly good - I would recommend them highly.

    (4)

  • Israel C.

    Only Ethiopian I've ever tried - though I've had friends and family try to talk me out of it. These guys definitely earned my business again. I did not know what to expect, how to order, or what to eat. The owner guided me through the process with good humor and a friendly smile. Then the food came (and Ethiopian beers which I recommend) and it was simply awesome. Needless to say, I overate.

    (5)

  • Nick W.

    You can smell the deliciousness from the street... A husband/wife team (presumably) make the meals on a rustic stove top with ingredients I haven't seen before (being that its my first Ethiopian meal). Not the most inviting place as I felt dumb for not having cash and not knowing what to order - but next time I will be prepared.

    (3)

  • Matthew A.

    Meh. Sometimes a name says it all. You don't get much more generic Ethipoian food than this...

    (2)

  • aubrey b.

    been going here for about 15 years, probably one of my most crave-worthy spots ever. I always get extra cabbage and ingera, and I love the spicy lamb and mild chicken. the family who owns the place is wonderful. go hungry, don't be in a hurry, and please, don't be one of those picky people who doesn't like eating with you hands or exotic new things! also it is very casual, not a fancy place but fun for a friend date.

    (5)

  • Kelly D.

    Amazing. Definitely better for groups as you are served on a large platter. Our group had both meat lovers as well as vegetarians and all left full and happy. Authentic feel and the owner is both personable as well as accommodating. The service is a little slow but only because the server is also the chef with the help of his wife. They carry Ethiopian beer which complimented the food well. Overall I definitely recommend this restaurant. I will be back!

    (5)

  • Khaleelah J.

    after reading all the reviews on here, I am pretty shocked that people would be so shallow as to demote this place for aesthetic reasons. Sure, it is pretty dingy, but the food is absolutely amazing. The meat is fresh and tender, the spices in just the perfect proportions, and the injera bread perfectly chewy. It was my first experience with Ethiopian food (my boyfriend took me there for our anniversary) and I will definitely be going back. When we first came in, I was a little weary- it was very hot at the entrance, and there was only one other group inside. Given, it was near 8 PM on a Sunday, but still. The decor is a little run down, but the waiter was friendly and the menu looked inviting, so I put everything aside and threw myself into the experience. I was not disappointed. Not only was the food good and the portions hefty, but the sitting area was nice and cool and the restaurant filled up. One note: They only take cash and only one server seemed to work last night. The service wasn't too slow, as other people seem to complain about, but if you're used to going to the Cheesecake Factory or Chilis, or any other chain with a waitstaff of 20+, you may get a little perturbed.

    (5)

  • Amy K.

    I LOVE this place! Have been eating at this restaurant since the early 90's when I met the owner in college. He and his wife run the place (he waits and she cooks) and, while it can take a while to get the food, especially if busy, it is the BEST Ethiopian food ever - have tried other places in Denver, San Fran, DC-nothing comes close. She makes every dish to order and it is delicious every single time. I have eaten their food too many times to count and it is always spot on. I recommend the Doro Alitcha (scrumptious chicken stew) and Alitcha Wot (beef stew) - these are both mild dishes full of flavor. They come with cabbage and potato side, as well as yummy lentils. The sauce of the Doro Alitcha is like crack made from butter, garlic, onion and wonderful spices. It is truly one of the best things I've ever eaten. If you like spicy, definitely venture into the spicy versions of these dishes - they are too hot for me but my friends who like spice really love them. The place is not fancy, the owner is usually the server (a very nice man who is happy to guide your food and drink choices), and they take checks and cash. Don't go starving unless a beer or cocktail can hold you over. It may take a while to get your food - it will be worth it. I have taken many picky eaters to this place and everyone has been thrilled with the food. ENJOY!

    (5)

  • paul c.

    only four stars because the food takes forever - i.e. don't show up starving. BUT, if you have a little time, this is the best ethiopian restaurant close to downtown (an ethiopian friend swears by a few places in aurora that i have yet to try). the owner may try to pressure you into buying more than you can eat (i personally find him hilarious and endearing rather than pushy) but you're probably better off sharing an entree for every two people. my personal faves are the yebeg wot, doro wot, the vegetarian special and the collard greens - we usually get one of each and share with a group of six-eight. i cannot say enough about the food - it is un-fucking-believable. btw, this place is cash only so come prepared.

    (4)

  • E L.

    I love Ethiopian, and this place has great food. The only drawback is the slooooooooooooooow service. The food is definitely worth waiting for, however! The dining room doesn't have much atmosphere at all, and diners are pretty packed in.

    (4)

  • michele b.

    We haven't had Ethiopian since moving to Denver from the East Coast, so we were really looking forward to something different here. We had tix for a flick at the Denver Film Center, and this place was close by. It's a pretty spare restaurant, just the basics in tables and chairs. The kitchen is in the front, you walk by it to get to the dining area. The smells were yummy ... i could even smell everything outside, before i opened the door! We ordered 3 different Ethiopian beers to do some sampling -- Fat Tire has nothing to worry about! :) Two in our party were meat-eaters, and they ordered the spicy lamb and some sort of chicken. I'm veggie, and i got two sorts of lentils and a cabbage dish. We ordered the combo platter for the 3 of us, which for some reason caused them to want to mix everything together on a big platter. Most vegetarians are not fans of having their vegetables mixed in with meat dishes and meat sauces. The server was offended that i requested that my vegetables stay in their bowls on the platter, so that my vegetarian dishes remained vegetarian! Once we got that sorted out, we enjoyed our meals. The injera was spongy, and the spices in the lentils (and in the lamb, hubby reports) were excellent. Warning to all us plastic-holders -- this place doesn't take credit OR debit cards. So make sure you bring cash. One table emptied out as soon as they were seated once they saw the note on the menu.

    (3)

  • Robin M.

    I know I should be writing about all the wonderful spices which are definitely great at Ethiopian Restaurant but I go here for the injera. It is so wonderfully sour. The only thing I would love to see change is the slow service. I can understand why they don't want to take credit cards. I own a micro business and the processing fees are sad. I've tried two other Ethiopian restaurants in Denver and this is by far my favorite.

    (4)

  • Muriel P.

    We went on a saturday, we were 10. Big mistake. We waited 1h to be seated. Then we waited an hour for our food (and no, i am not kidding). We all got 'combinaison #1' which is two types of lentils, lamb, chicken, vegetables with beef and cabbage. It was delicious, hence the 4 stars (despite the wait). So we were 5 on each side of the table, digging happily into it, and the meal disappeared in about 20 minutes considering the level of ravenousness some of us had attained. I am not fan of the bread, but that's my own problem. Bottom line, it's excellent. Just don't go when it's an obvious long wait time (ie friday and saturday night...). They do not take credit card, just check or cash

    (4)

  • Matthew D.

    Found this place years ago when I lived in Colorado and continue to go every time I visit. Created several new ethiopian food lovers by introducing them to this restaurant. The owner is very friendly and will give you a good food/beer recommendation. The location might be a little dicey but hey most good authentic restaurants are. You'll find yourself walking around looking at the amazing pictures of Ethiopia inside! Enjoy! One minus is they only accept cash or check....

    (5)

  • Heather D.

    This is by far my favorite Ethiopian restaurant in Denver, and I have had Ethiopian on a couple of different continents. A few things to note so you know what to expect: Don't expect a super nice atmosphere, though. It does have the feel that the decor has been in place for a good 20+ years. And the service is not always super fast, as with many authentic African places, meals are not always for those on a tight schedule But, don't let that keep you away! Give it a try, while you have some time to linger. The food is absolutely amazing, as long as you don't mind eating with your hands! I suggest ordering one entree per 2 people and adding an extra side or two. Even if you're starving, it is almost always way more food than you could consume. I absolutely adore the family that runs the place. He's never forgotten me or my food preferences. He even remembers many of the guests that I have introduced to the restaurant, who now return regularly! I absolutely recommend it to anyone that is very hungry and wants a nice, slow evening. OH... and be sure to take cash or a check, as they do not accept credit cards.

    (5)

  • Lisa V.

    I used to come here regularly, but after the past 3 or 4 times where we had to wait 20 minutes to get drinks & the menu, and another 40 minutes for the food to arrive, I have not been back. The first time I ever came here was about 5 yrs ago, and I would go at least once a month, but I just can't wait anymore when there are lots of other Ethiopian restaurants on Colfax with better service. I miss it, but my stomach is happier elsewhere.

    (1)

  • Sarah M.

    If you want an interesting whole-in-the wall place to show off your vast superior taste to friends, this is your joint! I've seen the same guy there everytime, he must be the owner, and while there is a bit of a language gap, he is as friendly as they come! I recommend the Beef Tibs and Vegetarian Special... super yummy but not "scary". Every virgin to Ethiopian I bring here gets hooked!

    (4)

  • Kathy W.

    Fresh, delicious and the people could not be nicer. Really enjoyed our experience and would go back. Don't forget they don't take credit cards. Cash or check only.

    (5)

  • C E.

    yes this place is great. My favorite food in Denver so far hands down.

    (5)

  • Angie S.

    It's very good! My favorite part-- the black felt jesus paintings on the wall. totally awesome decorations. I also definitely dig the food but beware they are CASH ONLY. Try the Ethiopian beers. They have 4 different kinds so if you go with someone I like to get all 4 in 2 rounds. Fun times.

    (4)

  • Amy U.

    The food is great. I always get the combination plates when I go to Ethiopian restaurants and they don't disappoint here. I do agree that the place was pretty dead when we went on a Sunday and the waiter was nice enough but a tad too slow. They did have a full bar, which I didn't take advantage of but did try their Ethiopian coffee (which was good but took about 25 minutes to get served). Anyways, I definitely recommend this restaurant but just don't be in a hurry or expect stellar service.

    (3)

  • Singh A.

    In search of something unique? delicious? a bite on the spicy yet flavorful side? This is definitely the place to hit up if you have had the curiosity to try a bite at Ethiopian cuisine. I've heard so many tasty things about the food that I've been waiting for my chance to give it a try and thankfully today was it. On Colfax and Fillmore you'll find a tiny white building, with the windows draped, but the large signage above will reassure you the establishment is all about Ethiopian food. The inside is quite basic - an open kitchen to observe or wait for your order, deeper inside you'll be seated to a modest dining room decor'd with images of Ethiopia. While the restuarant is small, dimly lit, and quite basic, the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air confirms that you're about to be more than satisfied. Contrary to other posts, I did not find the service to be slow at all. We began with a few African beers (light lagers) and 10-15 minutes after placing our orders the food arrived. Served on Injera (unleavened teff, flatbread) was a dish called "Dorowot" - chicken in an assortment of spices with a hard boiled egg; and then "Yebeg Wot" (I think that's how it is spelt) - a lamb dish, sauteed with garlic, onions and ginger and of course spices. Sides consisted of yellow lentils and cabbage and a seperate plate with more Injera. The cuisine is all about hand action, so if you are only about forks, spoons, and knives - the standard Western equipment to eating - be ready to try a different mode to eating (and make sure you got your hands clean ;-). You begin by tearing off a piece of the Injera (for those of you that have tried Indian cuisine it's like eating with a roti or dosa) and sampling the food with it. Ethiopia, the cradle of civilization, is also home to wonderful food. Don't believe me, just give it a try and you'll see why I'll be back!

    (5)

  • Catherine B.

    We went here for dinner with friends about a month ago. I have never tried Ethiopian food in Denver before, but I went to school in DC and got completely spoiled eating the authentic Ethiopian in Adams Morgan all the time. So I went into this experience thinking it would not be as good. I was right, it's not as good, but it was still very tasty. The bread had more of a sourdough taste than I prefer, and the meats were not quite as flavorful, but I think that if you haven't had Ethiopian food in a big city before, you will like this place. It is pretty pricey ($35 per person for dinner and a beer), and they do not take credit cards.

    (4)

  • Sabrina P.

    LOVE the food. My favorite Ethiopian food in Denver. The only complaints are that they only take cash, the service is incredibly slow, and the place is usually crowded. I'm sure the second 2 issues are related. Don't arrive at this place starving, or you won't enjoy your experience. If you come expecting an extended dining experience, you won't be disappointed.

    (4)

  • y k.

    i love it. - the food is consistent and delicious. we only ever get the veggie combo (the larger one), but we end up stuffing ourselves silly and needing someone to roll us out the door. i spend days daydreaming about ethiopian restaurant. it's a little pricey (for me - around $13/person for veggie) but a wonderful once-in-a-while treat. - veggie combo consists of: yellow lentils, spicy lentils, collard greens (i never would have thought i'd like these, but they're delicious), potatoes & carrots (scrumptious), cabbage & carrots (also scrumptious - must better than it sounds), and i think i may be missing one... plus plenty of the traditional ethiopian sourdough spongey bread (injira), which is amazingly addictive. - the combos are served family style, which i think is really fun. get messy, eat with your hands, share, lick yr fingers when you're done. - it can be a pretty long wait if you go at a busy time (e.g. weekend nights), but on an off-night the wait is not too bad. - closed on mondays i think. - NO credit cards/debit cards. don't forget. they do take checks though. there's also an atm a block away (but who feels like paying the fees?). - you can also order takeout, and the portions are just as generous. plenty for leftovers. - there's usually no music on, and the main dining room is quite small, so i always seem to accidentally overhear the most bizarre and somewhat fascinating conversations here. - did i mention it's DELICIOUS? - mmmm injira... - yum i want some now.

    (5)

  • Andrew E.

    I went to high school literally across the street from this place for 4 years and never knew it existed. It's buried in the Greektown section of Colfax with travel posters, funky Ethiopian music and service that just seems slow because you can't wait to get your food. Spicy dishes are perfectly balanced with lentils and injera bread. I personally recommend the lamb, but best to go with a few friends and order a variety of entrees.

    (5)

  • Cheryl M.

    One of our favorite restaurants. It's a bit of a dive and don't go there if you are in a hurry. It's just a guy and his wife and she cooks everything on this little stove w/ these ancient pots and pans .. but it is GREAT! so just sit back, order a Red Stripe, and enjoy. We always get the Special Tibs and Spicy Lamb.

    (5)

  • Kirs P.

    the service is the slowest in the entire world, but even that cannot stop me from giving this place five stars. Best. Ethiopian. Ever. Seriously. Yes, it does look a little sketch, both inside and out, but the food is from heaven.

    (5)

  • Tina F.

    Great food, but can be slow on busy nights. The food is generally served family style, that is it's laid out on injera bread so that everyone can share the meal. You eat the food by tearing off a piece of bread and scooping up the food with it. I love the vegetarian option, although I'm not vegetarian.

    (4)

  • Alexander P.

    For someone who has never tried ethopian food, this resturaunt can be a bit unnerving. You enter and the "waiting room" to find that you are basically sitting in the kitchen. There is a table, white wall, white floors, and a strange atmosphere. The wait can be long. Very long. You might be thinking you should send your date to get some take out, because god only knows what is on the other side of the wall separating you from the dining room. And then the wait is over, and you are led into a room that is jam packed with people, loving every bite of the food they (presumably) waited just as long for. The dining room is obviously where the owners decided to focus their decorating budget, so it is a relieving site after the Long Wait. Unfortunatley, with the place being so popular and crowded, this means a long wait for food. And once again, just as you are flipping coins with your date to see who smuggles in the Popeyes, food appears. This is an unfortunate time to discover that you do not like Ethiopian food. The bread is very sour, but it's supposed to be that way. And judging from the satisfied look on the other diner's faces, the food here is very good.

    (3)

  • heather t.

    The food is a great experience. Very fun to eat and delicious too! There are usually only two people working and one is the owner. He's a really nice guy that will teach you how to eat the food, so don't be hesitant.

    (4)

  • Channon H.

    Quite below average for Denver Ethiopian. Keep driving further east on Colfax, and you'll do better. Haven't decided which of the four or five on the east side of Colorado is the best...

    (2)

  • Tamara H.

    A friend dragged me here against my will and now I am the one doing the dragging...it is delicious!!! The outside looks a little scary (it is just a little cement cube painter red, yellow and green) and then the waiting area is a little odd (but you get so watch a little Ethipian lady preparing each dish) and then you get into the dining room where there are posters and interesting table. The injera at this place is better than all the others! It has a taste a bit like sourdough (most are bland or kind of sweet) and the foods are delicious. While the menu looks confusing, there are really only a few things on the menu in varying stages of spicyness: potatoes and cabbage in butter (melts in your mouth!), red lentils, yellow lentils, green lentils, lamb, beef and chicken. The best way to do it is to go with at least one other person and each order something different, but make sure that yur dining partner doesn't have cooties as there are no utensils--you eat by tearing off pieces of bread and scooping up the food. While this looks a little creepy from the outside, it puts all other ethiopian restaurants to shame and is definitely worth a trip from anywhere in the metro area.

    (5)

  • Tara P.

    I LOVE this restaurant. The food is amazing - great flavors, good spice level - and when I take leftovers home, I always find myself wishing I had more to eat the next day. I love the experience of going with friends and sharing a massive platter of food (and a couple Ethiopian beers). Go there now!

    (5)

  • Annie S.

    Yes, it looks divey and kindof like a weed shop or perhaps a front for shady dealings from the outside. It's not, I swear. The entrance is a little narrow, walking by the counter and kitchen. The dining room is casual but clean and inviting. The food is 5-stars phenomenal. I was bummed that the non-vegan combination plates were for three or more, as there were just two of us but the menchet-abesh (mild beef dish) and yebeg wot (spicy lamb dish) were both delicious. The injera was perfectly sour and complimented everything. I LOVED the cabbage, lentils and potatoes. I could've eaten a lot more cabbage, but that's kinda my thing. They are cash only, so I don't come here as often as I'd like because I rarely have cash on me and don't want to pay the fees or endure the awkwardness associated with walking into the greek place next door to use their atm and bail. You guys gotta Square up ( squareup.com )**!! It allows you to accept credit cards on any smartphone, computer, tablet, etc. **I'm not affiliated in any way with Square - I just want to be able to come here more often. Our server was so sweet and helpful. Thank you! And yes, they have Ethiopian beer.

    (4)

  • Greg H.

    Great Ethiopian food! Ridiculously pathetic service!

    (4)

  • Rachel R.

    Ethiopian Restaurant is one of those places that I desperately want to give 5 stars to, because when it's good, it's so good. But then... sometimes it's just not as good. The food is consistently 5 stars for me. I've only ever ordered the vegetarian platter, but after 10+ times of coming here, it's still always perfect, always consistent. The one star down is because it's a cash-only place, which irks me. I know, I know, way to be a millenial, but sheesh. Also the last two times I've gone, which were both this month, something has just been off about the whole service thing. It was SO busy last time that it took almost an hour from sitting down to get food. I know it's just the couple working there, but perhaps not seating every person that comes in? Anyway, ask the fell for an Ethiopian beer. When he asks you which one, say "the good one" and he'll make sure you're taken care of.

    (4)

  • Kelsey B.

    This is the place to be. The food was wonderful and the couple who prepares it is lovely, married for over 50 years and just solid, real people. Expect a wait... It is literally two people doing everything... But worth it if you have time and good company. Ask for drink recommendations, they're favorite Ethiopian beer is delicious.

    (5)

  • Rich H.

    Good, solid Ethiopian food, happily not greasy. Not spectacular, but I haven't experienced spectacular in Denver. (Washington DC has superior Ethiopian restaurants, owing to the large Ethiopian community there.) Strong points: They have 100% teff injera, unusual in Denver. Also they readily supply mitmita and awaze on request (spicy condiments). Weak points: friendly but slow and unprofessional service. Limited selection of wines, all terrible.

    (3)

  • Emily M.

    I've been to a few Ethiopian places in Denver and this one ranks at the top of the list. You may walk through the kitchen and bar area but the side room is full of tables and happy diners. The man and wife that run this place do the cooking themselves and are happy to serve you. That being said, the service is slow.... It is an Ethiopian restaurant though, and that seems pretty standard. We got the veggie combo and doro wot. The spicey lentils were the table's favorite, followed by the corn and cabbage. They provided more than enough injera to scoop up the flavorful and complex sauces. The water wasn't refilled and we had to ask for the check (by the way, no credit or debit cards accepted - bring cash). Overall, solid Ethiopian food. Will be back!

    (4)

  • Cesquaq R.

    I cannot say enough good things about Ethiopian Resturant! Yes it's cash or checks, no plastic. So what? Get some cash, no biggie! Yes there will be a wait. The food is cooked to order, what do you expect? It's cooked in a most excellent fashion! My only complaint would be all the reviewers who think the yellow dish is corn or lentils. Sorry folks, its split peas. And they're delicious. Little known fact: you will not see a Nobel Sysco truck outside this place. The man shops for the restaurant himself at Natural Foods or Sprouts! The quality is insane, the love and attention is unheard of in this age of industrialized food. He works hard to serve the best food possible so get cash and a stick of string cheese and enjoy an awesome dinner.

    (5)

  • Christopher B.

    From the outside, you have to wonder whether you want to come in. Once you come in, you're in the middle of the kitchen with two small tables. The guy told us to wait a second and we soon realized we wouldn't have our own personal dinner as he lead us to the unassuming other room, which was packed with patrons! Everyone was drinking local (Ethiopian) beer and each had an appetizing looking dish on their table. We ended up going with the combination plate, which I just can't remember what it included. Everything on it was really good so I guess ultimately it didn't matter, does it? And I loved how some were spicy and others just spiced really well. I'm not an expert on this cuisine but, to my taste, it was pretty fantastic. And surprisingly the ambiance of this place works out well if you're in the mood for a more low key dinner setting.

    (4)

  • Madelyne S.

    There were 7 tables seated when the two of us arrived here. we were told to pick our own table--and then told to move, a nice gesture as we gained a little more privacy at a nook in the corner. We were immediately given waters and menus. Two waiters were supporting all eight of the tables. We didn't see our waiter ever again so, tummies rumbling, we left after 15 minutes. I was really disappointed because I hear the food is very delicious here but yes, based on this experience I won't be going back.

    (1)

  • Steph G.

    It's hard to decide if this deserves 3 or 4 stars! I'm not an Ethiopian cuisine expert by any means, and in fact I'm just the opposite. The service was good. Upon entering it's quite stuffy and warm (because the entrance is actually where all the cooking takes place). We walked up to the counter and a little lady actually handed me our table's menus and directed me to the next room...kind of odd, but we went with it. The waiter (probably the owner of the restaurant) was quite charming and nice. He was ready to answer questions for us as well. The food was decent, but I'm comparing to one other experience at another restaurant. It just wasn't as flavorful as I had hoped it to be. I cannot for the life of me remember the names of the items we ordered, but I do know there was one beef and one chicken entrée. The beef dish (I remember it was #1 on the menu) was my fave of the evening and gave me a good flavor punch and spice. The cabbage and potatoes are super comforting and buttery. Chicken was tender but not as flavorful as I would have hoped. All in all it was a good experience and I can there's a lovely, welcoming charm to this restaurant that is sure to bring many back here. A helpful tip: bring cash! We sat down and found out we all didn't have any while reading the menu, but luckily the guys went out to find an ATM so we could stay and dine.

    (4)

  • Sohail F.

    I had dinner here with a friend while I was visiting Denver and loved the food and experience here!

    (4)

  • Nickerbacher N.

    It is one guy who does everything. He has been cooking for his whole life and his food is top notch. He has an amazing skill, where he can just look at you and know exactly what kind of beer you will like. He was right, I love the St. George beer! Food was sooooo good. But its one guy doing all the cooking and waiter-ing, so its a long wait, but soooo well worth it! Also its CASH ONLY!!!

    (5)

  • Savy P.

    Can't miss the colorful building on Colfax! Very tasty food and friendly staff. Best place to go for sharing snacks with friends. It's a fun traditional experience to eat with your hands, scooping up lentils with their delicious pancake-like bread. Love the art on the walls too!

    (4)

  • Cassandra C.

    Delicious food run by a wonderful old man. He and his wife cook everything to order and are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their food. It's an easy place to accidentally drive, or even walk, by on Colfax, but look out for it and stop in.

    (5)

  • Jeanne B.

    I used to be a resident services manager to many east African residents. They used to cook for me and when I went to the Ethiopian restaurant, I was in 7th heaven and the owners are just wonderful people. I love you guys and plan on coming back soon - I just live too far away to get there often

    (5)

  • Steve O.

    A night not soon to be forgotten, a few friends and myself had one of the best dining experiences I've had in, well, years. Ethiopian Amber beer is remarkable. Injera bread (a word I just learned from the extremely friendly owner) and its deliciously spongy texture feels as if it's expanding in my stomach as I write this review (the day after)... yet I still want more. Eating with my hands in a PUBLIC setting is something I haven't done (without being yelled at by my mom) since I was a wee chap, and I loved every moment of it. Best of all was the calm and friendly atmosphere conducive to absurd hypothetical conversations with friends about what type of American restaurant we would open if we moved to a foreign country. The whole experience lasted 2 hours and I never once felt rushed; a rarity in our society. I eat and run all too often and it was incredibly rejuvenating to sit, eat, listen, and share stories with friends. Great food, great atmosphere, great beer, phenomenal experience.

    (5)

  • Jenn M.

    I love this restaurant! I am addicted to the vegetable combination plate. I usually take a friend or my boyfriend that typically order the spicy lamb dish. I am never disappointed with the food. We even tried the Ethiopian beer recently which was also very good.

    (5)

  • Lori G.

    The Ethiopian Restaurant is our favorite Ethiopian restaurant. I have eaten here several times since our first visit in December and am in love with this place and their amazing food. Our waits have not been long at all, even on busy nights. Thanks to this place, I need a 12-step program for my addiction to their food. HEAVEN!

    (5)

  • Sally P.

    I'm probably Ethiopian Restaurant's most loyal customer: I live half a block away and drag my friends here all the time. In fact, Negussie and I are on a first name basis! Bring cash and come hungry! I always get the vegetarian plate. For $10, it's a filling dinner, and a hefty leftover box for tomorrow's lunch. But really, everything on the menu is delicious, and eating with your hands is such a treat. 100% authentic, 200% deliciously-amazing-ahhhhh-i-want-to-go-just-­thinking-about-it.

    (5)

  • Veronica C.

    I've been to four Ethiopian Denver restaurants and have one favorite. Now I have two. My favorite thing is chicken wot sauce. Wonderful. This place rules with their side of cabbage. Strange thing to rave about, but really - wow. The injera bread is super spongy/chewy, not my preference but it differentiates them and I can see from other reviews that some love it. Great vibe - the gentleman and his wife are jovial and I enjoyed the entire experience. I'll be back!

    (4)

  • Courtney P.

    Loved this place! Everyone has been complaining about slow service, but we received our meal (two vegetarian combo plates) about 25 minutes after ordering. Considering it is just one lady cooking everything, I thought this was completely reasonable, and the food was delicious! I will definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Marie K.

    I have been coming here for 14 years now and I keep coming back for more; it is my favorite restaurant in all of Denver. I absolutely love it. I sometimes forget that other people are not used to the experience and lose track of perspective out of familiarity. Yes, you do have to wait a while. The service is slower than average, if you can't deal, for Chrissakes go to McDonalds. This place is more than just food. It's an experience. You can smell it from half a block away...the rich and heavenly spices beckon you and then envelope you entirely as you open the door. It's family owned and has been here since the early 1980's. I always get happy whenever I drive by the little brightly painted building. The inside is modest but clean and the hot little restaurant shares its space with the tiny kitchen with an old stove covered in pots steeped from decades of savory cooking. There are beautiful and interesting artifacts from Ethiopia covering the walls and recently they have updated (much to my chagrin) the 30 year old Ethiopian jazz tape that played on loop constantly, starting over again every hour or so. I knew every note by heart! The owners are very hard working and I doubt they've taken a day off in 30 years. Seems like they're always there and it's always open. I am not usually a fan of beer, but have you ever tried Ethiopian beer? It's fantastic! Light, crisp, citrusy and very refreshing. And the food?? Is. To. Die. For. I always close my eyes whenever I eat it and enjoy the perfect spice and amazing flavor. Although I am not a vegetarian, I highly recommend the Vegetarian Combo: Peas, lentils, buttery cabbage, potatoes, carrots, greens. The food is colorful and beautiful and each bowl painstakingly poured out onto the fluffy injera one by one. Doro Wot is excellent too and yatikilt sega Alicha. From start to finish, an intoxicating feast that will leave your tongue and lips tingling with spicy deliciousness. There are other decent Ethiopian restaurants in Denver, but this one is the best. I have been there far more times than I could count through the years, but I have grown up with them and have shared all of my milestones there. To me it's like coming home, no matter what is happening in my life. This food is made with love. And likely heroin. I don't even care.

    (5)

  • Monica A.

    As a San Diegan, it pains me to admit that this little gem kicks most SD Ethiopian's butt! (Except for the sambusas) We ordered several dishes: sambusas, meat sampler, veggie sampler, and a beef dish (I think zilzil alecha). Everything was very flavorful. While the name could use a tad of creativity, this place has cute decorations with lively colors, pretty good service and excellent food.

    (5)

  • Lauren W.

    I love love love this place! I plan on taking my 5-year-old here so he can try it. Been going here when I can for a few years and I know he'll love the flavors and eating with his hands

    (5)

  • Rhonda K.

    Wonderful food,atmosphere and service! Reasonable prices and large servings. This adventure on my short trip was well worth it!

    (5)

  • Megan E.

    After finding out on a Sunday night that my plans for going to QoS would not work for Monday night, I called these lovely folks and they were able to accommodate our party of 8. We arrived bit by bit and the meal did take quite awhile, but it was a great time with good food and a friendly server (ie, owner). There was a bit of upsell attempted but you can watch for that and it's all handled easily (just keep track of your orders). We weren't able to get the "famous" honey wine, but they do have an excellent beer available (Bedele Beer - $5 a bottle). I had tea (with a second round of hot water no extra charge) and water was available as well. Plenty of injera available for all of us and they could accommodate for eating issues (vegetarian and spicy). I really recommend checking them out, just call in advance if you have more than 4 people! Finally, BRING CASH!

    (4)

  • Daniela B.

    We had been planning in trying this place after multiple visits to the Ethiopian restaurant in Santa Fe and various ones in NY. The place is laid back and husband and wife operation is a bit slow but endearing, very friendly. The food was very tasty, we had spicy lamb, chicken and the spicy lentils, we had enough food for 4 people so we brought half our meal home. The lamb and lentils were wonderful with plenty of flavor. Great place for dinner before a movie at Denver film cntr

    (4)

  • Erin S.

    BRING CASH!!! Now with that out of the way we can get on to the fun stuff. I came here a couple of weeks ago with my cousin. He had never had Ethiopian food before and I haven't had it in a really long time. We walked in and there was no one in the restaurant besides the owner/waiter and cook. Although it did start to fill up when we were closer to leaving. When you 1st walk in you feel like you are about to get knocked out by the humidity of the kitchen. They do have a larger dining area in the back with more tables and more space. We settled on spicier beef dish and a milder chicken dish. Everything had really good flavor and the meat was really tender. The beef dish came with slices of fresh jalapenos to give a little bit of an extra kick which was awesome. The chicken was bone in and was kind of hard to grab since there is no silverware, but we managed. It was steaming hot too which also made pulling it off the bone a little painful. There was plenty of inerja which I think is some of the best stuff around. They also had 2 different beers and which we got and they were both really good. I had a great time that night and will have to put this place on my list if I am in the area again and am hungry for something different.

    (4)

  • TV M.

    This place was the bomb. As long as you aren't in a hurry, and you don't mind a sort of "hole in the wall" type of establishment, then this place will knock your sox off. Four of us shared the #1 and it was more food than we could finish. This was my first time eating Ethiopian, and the man who runs the place took great care in describing the various choices at hand and he did not disappoint in what was delivered. Very cute older couple run the place, wife does the cooking, husband takes care of the front of the house. What an awesome experience.

    (5)

  • Randy D.

    You are going to love this restaurant. First, you step into a gaudy painted building, just like the ones you see in Africa. You walk through a narrow hall where you will see the wife cooking like mad with lots of big bubbling pots, the chipped tile floor is old but clean. Everything is old and clean in fact. The TV is up on a pile of phone books and then there is a big friendly Ethiopian man, the owner and waiter with a bright welcoming smile. You walk into the dining room. The dining room is simple and spartan. Nothing special but it feels authentic. Nothing fake or constructed here, all of it is real. No phony paintings or silly window coverings, just utilitarian stuff. It only gets better. When the food comes, you'll love it. Order anything, it's all great and made right there in the kitchen. I doubt they have a can opener. The man who owns it, his wife and daughter care about you. Service can be a little slow but the reward is worth waiting for. If you want to be transported from Denver to another place, this is where you do it. Oh, and don't bring your American Express..... or your Visa or your credit card. Cash or check only. Enjoy!

    (5)

  • Gloria F.

    We visit Denver several times a year. This is our second time at this spot. Good is great.

    (4)

  • Robert M.

    I have been going to this place for over 20 years now and it has remained consistently good that entire time, and better than other Ethiopian places along Colfax. I've been a vegetarian most of that time, so I can't really speak to the quality of the meat these days, but I remember it being great over 15 years ago. I usually go with at least one other person so I can order two veggie combo III's, which has the full compliment of vegetarian options, all very tasty. Once major caveat: the service can be SLOW. Go with an appetite, because you will have more food than you can possibly want, but just keep in mind it might take you an hour to get your food!

    (5)

  • Andie S.

    This restaurant is fantastic for Ethiopian food. Every year, I take a group of my students here for lunch and the experience is always awesome. The owners are so nice and accommodating, and the food is always fantastic. Conversely, I've come here several times for dinner with friends, with the same results. Other reviewers are correct that service is definitely not hurried, they are cash only, and the menu can be a bit confusing. But if you are interested in seeking traditional Ethiopian food - this is the place to go. Bring your laid back attitude and enjoy.

    (5)

  • Suzanne M.

    Sometimes I suspect I've tried every Ethiopian restaurant in town, and I always end up back at this place. It's the lamb. Bring cash (!!) and remember: good things come to those who wait. This place isn't exactly overstaffed.

    (5)

  • Sumay J.

    Food was really good. Owner was very nice. A bit slow, but what do you expect when you want authentic food cooked just for you. It was worth it.

    (4)

  • Julio T.

    I think a lot of people who give this place a negative review just aren't getting it and/or are not cognizant of how this place/cuisine works. Ethiopian food is ALWAYS traditionally served the way this restaurant does: Communally on a large plate using injera bread to eat. If you ever ate at an Ethiopian restaurant that served differently, I assure you it was because they were accommodating western customs. This restaurant in particular is a small, family-run place with only two people working here at all times. After the server takes your order, the single cook is making everything herself. So yeah, it's going to take a long time. Most Ethiopian restaurants are like this so you should simply expect to wait awhile for you food or eat at Taco Bell, whatever you prefer. To me, this is one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in town and has very affordable prices. My friend and I had the vegetarian special and collard greens, which basically amounted to a ton of food that we couldn't even finish for just $12 a person. The red lentils were very spicy, just the way I like them. The cabbage was soft and sour in that wonderful cabbagy way. The collard greens has a nice jalepeño kick to compliment the smokiness of the greens. Everything was cooked perfectly and presented very neatly on the injera. And the service was actually really good. We called ahead twice to ask about the hours and whether they took credit cards (Until 10PM and they don't). We asked for more injera, he gave it us (without charge). We asked for napkins twice, he gave it to us some both times. Water was always filled. The server often went into the kitchen for awhile, but when one of us went into the room to ask him something, he attentively fulfilled our requests. Some people are accustomed to having a server be really active and attentive at the table all the time, but I personally don't mind asking the server myself for things and I don't think that he minded helping us. I thought he was actually a high-quality server, regardless of the type of restaurant. Simply a great all-around Ethiopian restaurant for anyone with an open mind and an empty stomach.

    (5)

  • Amy F.

    WOW! First time here and enjoyed it very much! Very small, smells wonderful when you walk in, the stove to the left has many pots and pans bubbling on it and you can feel the heat from the kitchen as you walk pass into the dinning area. They have decent wine and beer selections- under $5 The spicy lentils were my favorite, the lamb was delish! The presentation was done well for us. the bread is like spongey crepes- and so good! We tried a little bit of everything and defy will go here again! The server and cook were both very friendly! and it is correct- They Only Take Cash-

    (4)

  • Roberto D.

    Delightful food, all super tasty and great presentation. This little hole in the wall is a true gem. The price is a tad on the high side but the food was well worth it. I have eaten there several times and loved it every time. One minor thing to be aware of: bring cash, they don't accept credit or checks.

    (5)

  • Daniel L.

    Twelve of us came here for dinner after spending the day in downtown and had a pleasant experience. This hole in the wall starts with an open kitchen with a walkway that leads to a small dining room next door, where our table was spread across the middle surrounded by antiquated décor, moderate lighting, and a mix of cultural artifacts and paintings faded in the background. We considered getting all three combination dinners that were available on the menu, but were told that our meal would arrive sooner if we could triple order the same thing for everyone to share. At the owner's recommendation, our Combination I ($14.95 per person) came with Yebeg Wot, Doro Wot, Meser Wot, Yater Alicha, Yatiklit Wot and Cabbage. The overrepresentation of stews led me to walk over to the kitchen to add the Special Tibs ($13.95), which the owner initially said they were out of, but later appeared from the kitchen along with our combo meal with servings of injera for everyone. The common threads across each item were highlighted by tender meat and a mix of good textures, but flavors were generally held in check, especially with items that could be spicier. The pieces of beef and lamb were shortchanged into small cubes than served in large juicy strips, but the chicken stew impressed with its tender flavors to complement two delicious hard boiled eggs. There were some redundancy in the mix of spicy butter and berbere sauce as seasoning, but the depth of spiciness were somewhat bland, much more symbolic and inspiring for the taste bud. The same could be said about the mix of lentil stews, where the pureed textures were easy to grab with a finger full of injera. The garlicky cabbage had a good bite and was one of the few highlights that several individuals were raving about. The role of berbere sauce, awaze, and other spices could be more salient; and the injera was not too sour which can be a positive attribute depending on one's preference. I was less enthused about the meat when compared to the likes of Awash and Café Eritrea D' afrique, but enjoyed the chicken stew enough to prefer it over the one previously experienced at Nyala. Portions were skimpy on the meat but plentiful in all other dimensions. Their menu is quite limited so interested diners should be aware that you won't find seafood or fitfit at this restaurant. Additionally, I had mixed feelings about the service as there was some noticeable pauses and show of hesitation on the part of the server followed by persuasive arguments for reasons to keep our meal simple. I think this is in part due to their capacity as a two-people operation which might draw some concerns for large groups that may be considering a visit. Otherwise, the server was friendly and down to earth. Solid but not exceptional, I would be interested in trying other Ethiopian restaurants in the area before deciding whether to return.

    (3)

  • Lauren E.

    Yuuummy! I love love love this place. I seriously eat here once a week. I just crave it. My husband eats the doro wat and its always nice and spicy. I love the vegetarian special. Those spicy lentils are to die for. The injera is always great. You can't tell from the sidewalk view but this place is often packed. You walk straight into the kitchen where the owners are cooking up the feast with love from scratch. Can't beat homemade. The wait can take a while if this is the case but worth it. Also, they are cash or check only. I've been eating here for 2 years now. I thought it was about time to share.

    (5)

  • Sam G.

    There was a stint in 2009 where I ate at this place at least 3 times a week. The most flavorful delicious Ethiopian veggie combo plate I've ever had anywhere (Boulder, Toronto, Detroit area, New Orleans... ) I really miss it. A few notes: - I've only had the veggie combo plate so I can't speak for the meats. The spicy lentils are particularly good and the injera is out of this world. So are the collard greens which have some sort of spicy pepper (jalepeno?) mixed in. - the service is... odd. The man who normally serves is not exactly efficient and not exactly friendly. But he gets the job done and I have no complaints. The food takes a while to come out, but when it does come out, it is fresh, hot, and amazing. - don't forget this place is CASH ONLY - the veggie combo for 1 actually feeds 2 people - therefore you can end up getting a full meal for about 6 bucks a piece. Every newbie I see eat here ends up over-ordering by leaps and bounds. Don't let the waiter convince you to spend more money unless you eat like a beast. - I wish they had some more fresh/salad-like dishes to complement their hot, savory, heavier dishes (they have one on the menu but almost never have it 'in stock') - to the person who complained about all the orders being put on one plate: This is how Ethiopian is served! If you want your dishes separate, ask for it! - The interior is nice and cozy and they often play some great Ethiopian music in the background - smells so good - small and intimate

    (5)

  • Bayley S.

    Amazing, authentic, delicious food! Come hungry!

    (5)

  • Gray H.

    Food: good Prices: good Service: Slow, very slow, incredibly slow. Sorry, but the food was good, although did not think the lamb was very good despite what some other reviewers have said. Nice people, no doubt, but no clue on service.

    (3)

  • Elizabeth V.

    This place was a pleasant surprise! I have been to a lot of Ethiopian restaurants and love Ethiopian food. They make home made injera which was very nice (although a bit too thick in places). The potatos and cabbage were amazing as were the collard greens which i usually hate. They had a ton of flavor and spice.

    (4)

  • Leah Y.

    This is a cozy atmosphere. The food is good and the service was friendly. They were helpful to suggest menu items and Ethiopian beer. The only downside I could find was hot it was inside the restaurant. I had to peel off my sweater and wear a camisole in there and it was still too hot (in February!!).

    (4)

  • Meredith G.

    Aside from attending Feast on the Fax a few summers ago and trying Ethiopian food that night, tonight was my first full meal of it. While the food was good and the one man running the show did a good job even as the restaurant filled up I don't think Ethiopian food is my thing. The flavors and servings didn't leave me satisfied. If you're looking for a yummy meal and like Ethiopian give this place a try. I bet you'll appreciate it more than I did.

    (3)

  • Morgan N.

    Pack your bags, you're going to Ethiopia. And by that I mean, you're going to sit and starve while you hope someone will feed you. The kitchen, the waiters, foreign aid workers...anyone--my kingdom for a loaf of bread. Thing is, this place has simply amazing food. And absolutely no service. No sense of time. No awareness that a world with utensils and clocks is perversely moving forward outside its walls. For all that, it's worth it. I came in with some friends and we got a table, although the place was packed. We did get menus, but that was all. Getting water, ordering drinks, etc...all of that took a cool half an hour. When we waved for a waiter, he said he would be right back and then disappeared for another ten minutes. This happened a few times. When we ordered drinks, mine never came. No one knew what happened to it. It was of no importance at all. My glass of wine eventually came, I think right around the 45 min mark. When they did bring drinks, they were in no hurry to take our orders. We had to frantically seize a waiter and this still took another "be right back" in 10 minutes episode. Finally, vaguely weak with hunger, we managed to tackle someone and stab at the menu until we had a simple order placed. One group combo dish and one extra. We got it after about another 40 min. The thing is, as soon as it came, it was so good that we were instantly happy again. All grousing forgotten, we were tearing into the bread and swiping up the food. Even our friend who is **not a big eater** killed a stunning portion and finally defeated, kept picking away at little bits because it tasted so good. It was a marathon experience. We came, we sieged (for weeks it felt like...), we conquered. Just don't come hungry. In fact, bring a Tolstoy novel, a camelbak, and a towel. Then, it would be the perfect meal.

    (3)

  • Bethany W.

    So so good! The service is excellent and the food is delicious. When we went, they were out of the honey wine, and the menu was confusing at first, but when the food came I forgot all about that. Would absolutely visit again!

    (4)

  • Vanya L.

    This is my favorite Ethiopian restaurant in Denver. I recently went to a different one (I'm not naming any names but it's on Santa Fe) and while the service was excellent, the food was not nearly as good as Ethiopian Restaurant. I always get the vegetarian combo dinner. It is a feast. I do eat meat but when I have ordered the meat dishes in the past I haven't liked them as much as the vegetarian dishes. The meser wot is my favorite (spicy red lentils) and the greens are to die for. My 10 month old LOVES the chick peas and the potatoes and cabbage. The combo is a feast. I've never come close to finishing my food there- though I've tried. The service is usually good (sometimes a little slow when they are packed) and the staff are incredibly nice. I think it's the owner who is very friendly and always makes you feel very welcome. On the down side it can get very hot in there and for some reason they don't have high chairs!? I bring a strap on booster seat but they need to get some high chairs- especially since much of their food is ideal baby food. I love this little restaurant. Delish!

    (5)

  • Cherie C.

    One of the best Ethiopian meals I've ever had. Don't be afraid. This places looks like it might be closed, and when you enter you won't see any patrons. But keep walking to the dining room and you won't be alone. Service was friendly, and the wait was not as long as expected. My experience has taught me that Ethiopian meals take a while. That is due in part to the prep required and also to culture. Don't go for Ethiopian if you want a quick meal; go if you want a relaxed evening of delicious food. The injera tastes like they use a good amount of teff (not standard in the States, I'm told--often due to cost). It's got a great sour tang to it. They cook it a bit longer, so one side gets a little crispy, which is different from other places I've eaten. The doro wot (chicken legs, hardboiled egg, and a spicy Berbere sauce) was excellent. We ordered that with a vegetarian special. The bf was especially fond of the cabbage and potatoes. I enjoyed the alicha, a flavorful stew of lentils. Our food was gone within minutes because it was so delicious. If I could only eat one cuisine for the rest of my life, it would be Ethiopian food. And this place makes some of the best. Since we were only two, we couldn't get the combo dishes or the traditional Ethiopian coffee. Both serve at least four people. We made a note to find some friends to come back with us. (If love coffee and you haven't had it in the traditional Ethiopian style, you really should. It sounds expensive at $15, but it is well worth it.)

    (4)

  • Prudence D.

    This is my favorite of the four Denver Ethiopian restaurants I've patronized around this area. I love the spicy red lentils, the yellow lentils, the cabbage and potatoes, and the beef with spicy red sauce. (When I go back I will learn the actual Ethiopian dish names and will update my review.) Like the other Yelpers state, the service is friendly but sloooow. Don't come here if you are in a hurry, but if you've got an hour or so and are up for a delicious and divey Ethiopian experience, make a stop.

    (4)

  • Anne R.

    best ethiopian food in denver. don't go super hungry, because you'll have to wait a while before you eat. some big ad agencies said about some beer and ketchup once, "good things come to those who wait," and it certainly applies to the food here. the service is slow. but let's talk about this service. it's an old man. the old woman does all of the cooking and the old man does all of the serving. he shuffles around the dining room and offers the drink selection in terms of "dark beer" and "light beer," yes those are your two choices. the beers themselves have changed over the years, but the selection style has not. i usually go dark. currently (oct 2011) that means an ethiopian stout. and now the food. it's soooo good. the yellow lentils are possibly the best lentils i have ever eaten in my life (and that's a lot of lentils). the potatoes and cabbage are hit or miss for texture, but are always delicious. the vegetarian combo is a sure fire win every time. ooh pardon me as i get a little drooly over here just thinking about it... in other words, this is a two-person team of ethiopian culinary magic. be patient and you will be rewarded. oh final note: the last i checked, it's cash-only.

    (4)

  • Josie P.

    I just have to say how much I love the spicy lamb and the cabbage. I stand by my original review from 3 years ago (!) -- service, atmosphere, ambience are all still great. I continue to be surprised at how empty this place often is.

    (4)

  • Ryan P.

    We tried this place for the first time last night, after our regular Ethiopian restaurant must have changed owners and went downhill. The food here is very good however, I am vegetarian so I cannot speak for the meat dishes. A meal for two and two glasses of wine for $40 to boot, plus extremely tasty....very, very nice! Warm cozy atmosphere. I just wish samboosa was on the appetizer menu. Service is slow, which is something us Americans are not used to, but hey it's just an older man, his wife and one extra person for help, so give them a break! I was surprised to hear from the owner that he has been in business since '84! He must be the godfather or godmother (who ever makes the food) of Ethiopian food in D-town!!! There are plenty of customers enjoying their food so this tells me they are consistently good.

    (4)

  • Manu M.

    Just for that awesome gravy i could go here again. Ethiopian restaurant. What a name. Can you be anymore specific? This is a hole-in-the-wall concern on the colfax. The parking was a little confusing for a first-timer, but many wont find it difficult to find that you can just parallel park near the restaurant on colfax. Main dish here is different kinds of 'Wot' which is a kind of spicy gravy. IT really reminds me of different kinds of "roast" which we make in the south-indian state of kerala. chicken roast, duck roast etc.( just thinking of them makes my mouth water.) this is a lesser spicy version. They have wot with different meats, i tried chicken and it was very tasty. They give you a big plate on which the ethiopian "bread" injera (not really a bread, but to set the context.). Pardon me going for an Indian comparison., but injera bread strongly struck me as a mix of dosa, chapati and appam. I guess we all have some common ancestors who were cooks. Some of the ways of this hotel is different from the routine hotel you encounter, so some people are understandably pissed. But i had read the tips from fellow yelpers so i wasn't fazed. The dishes are served in the traditional way.A big plate with huge injera bread spread on it, then they serve the wot and other side dishes on top of it (cabbage and collard greens) .This restaurant doesn't accept cards, only cash. This also miffed some folks it seems, do your research people! The wait staff is not particularly friendly, but this is just the way it is in countries like this. To wash it all down, i had an Ethiopian beer, which nicely complimented and accented the tastes.

    (4)

  • Stephanie A.

    I Really love this place. All the food was delicious!! And I'm obsessed with the injera bread. I like that you eat with your hands, although my fiance, would prefer a fork next time. only downfall is they do not accept cards.

    (4)

  • Lindsay W.

    This restaurant serves some of the best Ethiopian food that I have had! The waiter, sadly I do not know his name, gives excellent service and I always enjoy my experience! However, their prices are a little high, but I am sure to make rent that probably has to be the case. Way better atmosphere than you'd expect, very quiet for being on Colfax, and great food and service! Definitely try it out!

    (4)

  • Gena L.

    My friend Julio have been plotting going to an Ethiopian joint for a few weeks, and I ended up picking this one as we could walk to it. I had read a few reviews ahead of time, so I had a pretty good feeling about it. When we did arrive, it's in a rather run-down storefront and the interior is a little manky (which usually means good food, it's a fact). We ordered the vegetarian special with a side of collard greens, and sure enough, everything was delicious. They had very nice and kind of sour injera bread, the lentils were very tasty, especially the red ones... nice and spicy. The cabbage was my favorite, very flavorful and not soggy. You do need to bring cash or a check book, as they do not take cards- a small inconvenience really. I am very anxious to go back and try a few other things!

    (4)

  • Michelle H.

    I have been to this restaurant MANY times. It has always been delicious. I've never been disappointed. Many of the reviews complain about the time it takes to get food but I don't think I have ever waited more than 10 minutes. I will always love this restaurant. Negussie, his wife and kids have always been great to me.

    (5)

  • Sara G.

    I have had Ethiopian food in NYC, DC, and Tampa... and have never had anything nearly as good as this place. You walk in and see the woman cooking right there in front of you, and the owner is an absolute peach. He was taking orders and seating people, so it was a little slow, but the food more than made up for it. Best injera I've ever had. It was perfectly spongy and sour. The berbere sauce was also incredible. The meat was perfectly tender, the lentils delightfully spicy, and the sides wonderfully complimenting. I can't wait to move here and become a regular!

    (5)

  • Kathleen A.

    I have always been curious as to what Ethiopian food entailed. I had no idea coming in what to expect. I've wandered by this place many times on Colfax and always wanted to try it, and came in with a few other curious friends to finally try it out this past weekend. We walked in and the owner greeted us. He was watching tv in a small room with a few tables. I was relieved when he lead us to the back which had much more room. He explained the entire menu to us, and we ordered a combo that we could all share. What can I say..it defied my expectations! We decided on the Combo #2, which had lamb, chicken and assorted veggies. I have to admit, I was a little afraid because I didn't know what to expect. The chicken and lamb had this flavor that I have never experienced before. Same goes for the veggies. The best part-you eat with your hands! It's ok to be sloppy! The meal comes with this bread type substance that you dip into your food to pick up and eat with. The bread filled me up though so then I was just eating with my fingers. All in all it was an amazing experience. Go with a small group of people and try a combo plate. You won't be sorry and it will be a meal you will never forget!

    (4)

  • Clare L.

    My favorite Ethiopian Restaurant in Denver :) Actually the first one in Denver I've been to and haven't bothered trying any other Ethiopian in that city cause I know I like it so much. I always go with some of my best friends from college and we order a massive amount of food and eat until we are uncomfortable. If you're considering an Ethiopian Restaurant to go to in Denver... go to the Ethiopian Restaurant!

    (5)

  • Arwen L.

    When I think of Denver, one of the places that is first on my list is this place. It's a little dive on Colfax that you would probably zoom right past. You'd be making a mistake. This was my first experience with Ethiopian. You can imagine my virginal surprise when I discovered that the silverware had not been forgotten. It was simply non-existent. My dining companion was highly amused when I suggested we needed to alert the server about the oversight! My first taste of Ethiopian was Yegeb Wot. That's a spicy lamb stew. The food here is always good. I have eaten there many times and never once gotten bad food. The service is a whole 'nother ball o' wax. If you are uptight and expecting "johnny on the spot" service, go elsewhere. This is slow. I have actually gotten up and gotten my own water refills, oh the horror. But I don't go to this place for the service. I go for the amazing food and the incredibly nice owner. He is the type who will stop by to say hello when he has time. And if you go often enough, he will remember you. I crave that in a restaurant. It's nice to be recognized. I am taking one star off for service only because most Yelpers think service is important. I normally do but this place makes up for it with the food. And check out the stove right as you come in. That's where all the magic happens. You might get lucky and get a smile from the cook as well. But do go eat here if you want dependable, tasty food that won't break your pocket book.

    (4)

  • Elizabeth T.

    OK, so the outside of this place looks a little sketchy, but after reading enough good reviews we went one night. I'm so glad I did!!! Friendly atmosphere, good Ethiopian beers. The food is great, wonderfully seasoned with generous portions. I'd recommend this place to anyone. If you're living in Denver you have to try it at least once. This restaurant is CASH ONLY! : ) Wish I'd known that ahead of time!

    (5)

  • Lauren B.

    I love Ethiopian food and this place did not dissappoint! It's a very casual place with authentic decorations of the culture all over the wall. The people who work there/own the place(?) is very friendly. The spices and flavors are amazing! Quick tip though- I liked the beer better than the wine. The wine was slightly spiced- and although it was not bad, it just wasn't what I was expecting!

    (5)

  • C W.

    Number 7 and 11 every time. Best when the older women is cooking 5 stars but 4 when the sons are cooking. The older gentleman serving has a great personality and always remembers me. Always happy with this place. Recommend add an egg to your order. Cash only.

    (4)

  • Heather C.

    My favorite Ethiopian restaurnat was the Red Sea, but no one is answering the phone, so I'm beginning to think it's closed. So I decided to try the Ethiopian Restaurant. It just wasn't as good as the Red Sea sadly. The spices were a little bland, the the lentils were just lentils.....it wasn't bad, but not amazing either. The service was very friendly, and the atmosphere was exactly what I expected. I will continue my quest to find a new Ethiopian restaurant.

    (2)

  • Mark S.

    Things You MUST know about the Ethiopian Restaruant: 1. Decor reeks of a dirty place that needs a makeover. 2. We were only ones in the restaruant on a Wednesday night. 3. Brown fake wood topped tables with fold up metal chairs that are squeezed into a tight place and not much light type of place. 4. Menu is very simple with about 6 entrees. Can substiute whatever meat you want in it. Price is is 10- 15 bucks 5. Service was very slow for being the only ones in the restaurants. Server was kind, but I got the feeling who did not want to work. 6. Mens bathroom has no light and i think i pissed on myself a little. No joke...... 7. GREAT FOOD. Whatever you get here is spiced perfectly and extremely yummy. 8. This is rare as I am docking a whole two stars even though the restraunt had exceptional food. The decor sucks, as does the service, and they take cash only. 9. Do not go when your busy as you will never get out. 10. I love the food, but will not be going back.

    (3)

  • Vic H.

    Visiting Denver and came here based on Yelp reviews. In my opinion this place has been way over rated at 4 stars. It is at best 3. Pros: - The server/owner was nice - The chickpeas were tasty Cons: - The tibs (beef) was not tender, or delicious - The selection is tiny: 2 sauces, 3 kinds of meet, vegetarian dishes that are just large portions of the sides, and an Ethiopian salad - Only Cabbage and Potato, and Chickpeas as sides. Where are the lentils, carrots, etc. - Overpriced, $13.95 for tibs (fills a small bowl, certainly not huge), $12.95 for spicy lamb, in a run down building, with super cheap decorations. - Cash only Perhaps the area is truly starved for ethnic food, and thus what is ok food, in a run-down building (beside it is a dirt fence lot) at moderate mainstream prices ($12+ per person), passes for 4 stars in Denver. Bottom line: It's not bad, but it's NOT 4 stars!

    (2)

  • max t.

    The menu is kind of short, but that really doesn't matter, because everything on it is great. I can't remember the names of the dishes, but the lentils were fantastic. Also, the Ethiopian beer was pretty good. Why it's four instead of five is that the meat could have been a little more tender, but it was tasty nonetheless. I should also point out that they don't take plastic here, although I can hardly complain. The owner was very friendly and we chatted for a bit while my mother had to run out to an ATM.

    (4)

  • Kyle H.

    4 stars for the food, 1 for everything else. The service redefines slow... with three groups there on a weeknight, it took more than two hours to get our food. The place was extremely hot and uncomfortable. The lighting was poor. The decor was hideous. The food, on the other hand, was quite good. Just the smell alone was excellent. A small menu with limited vegetarian options, but everything was very tasty. My gf and I had two orders of the vegetarian meal which was served Ethopian style on a large platter covered in injera bread with no utensils. Overall everything was quite good. If one doesn't mind RIDICULOUSLY long wait times, then this place isn't terrible. Beware: no credit cards. Who doesn't take credit cards these days? Seriously... I won't be going back. There are other Ethiopian options with food that is just as good but in a much better atmosphere and much faster. For example, Arada on Santa Fe... go there.

    (2)

  • K L.

    I have been coming here since I moved to Denver in 1991. I have never been disappointed with the food. The service can be deadly slow on busy nights which stinks, but I love the family who runs this place so I can never get mad. I agree with other Yelpers that it needs a makeover, I often fanaticize about what I could do on the cheap to make it look cool...Those 2 things aside, it's the best Ethiopian food in town. We get the Vegetarian Como even if there is a mixed crowd of meat eaters; the veggie is always a hit. Wash it down with a ice cold beer!

    (4)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :4:30 pm - 9:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : No
    Good For : Dinner
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Divey
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
    Outdoor Seating : No
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : Yes
    Caters : No

Ethiopian Restaurant

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