Blue Nile

I had my first ever Ethiopian food exposure here the other night - Blue Nile is consistently listed on those 'essential Houston restaurant' lists because it is a unique cuisine many cities are not fortunate enough to have. Gotta love Houston! I went with a group of 4 and we did a bit of research ahead of time, and thanks to fellow Yelpers, knew to order their house Honey Wine (I support this as well - it is a unique, almost like mead drink that you need to try!). Instead of picking a few dishes we opted for the family style platter (designed to serve 6ish people) so that we could try all of the hits and have a holistic first experience - another thing I recommend when coming here as it is a fun, social way to enjoy your meal. Lots of interesting flavors on the plate such that anyone in the party should be able to find something they enjoy. Service was friendly, although a bit sparse as the restaurant got busy. Parking - small private lot (10-12 cars worth) or ample street parking as it is located on a non-busy side street.

I read other Yelp reviews to know what to order and the people did not disappoint! Two of us ordered the #40 combination platter to share several dishes and added the lamb tibs based on reviews. I love the variety, but the tender beef cubes (yessiga wot I believe) was the standout dish to me. The staff were very friendly and attentive. We made a reservation for a Friday evening but that seemed unnecessary based on several open tables. Still doesn't hurt to call ahead, and other times might be busier. This is great for a quiet date night or small gathering.

Extremely easy to find and a parking lot nearby (although, it is a relatively small parking lot) I checked this place out on a Sunday evening and it was super quick and easy to find a table. After reading all the reviews, I asked to try their Honey Wine or Tej. It is not on the menu, so in order to get it, you have to ask for it. The honey wine was really good- not too sweet or bitter. Once that was finished, I ordered Lamb Tibs. I had greens and lentils on the side. The tibs were so good alongside the jira, but the sides left something to be desired. I wished they were a touch more flavorful and there was a larger size (greens came in a bowl, but the lentils came in a ramekin and was the size for two people which felt a little odd) Overall great experience!

When I'm craving something different and Ethiopian in particular, Blue Nile is my go-to! The food is soooo delicious and the service is fast and friendly offering an authentic dining experience. I love it! The Blue Nile special kitfo (medium well) is my go to, and the hubs loves the doro wot. The meat and veggie sambusas are yummy (I'm partial to the meat). You simply cannot go wrong. The spices, the flavors, the injera, the portions-- all perfection. I'm a fan, and I've never been more thrilled to eat with my hands!

Etsub had been so nice and friendly with us. Service is top notch. Honestly, I've never been disappointed at an Ethiopian restaurant in my life and I've tried so many in California. I don't know what it is but I do like the spices they put in their food. Food, ambience and service are excellent! Thanks, Etsub!!! You're awesome!

Blue Nile's vegetarian combo is simply awesome. It packs a bunch of authentic Ethiopian flavors, with everything from spicy lentils to super tasty collard greens. The injera bread is a standout--sour and spongy, perfect for scooping up all the delicious stews and salads. The place feels super cozy and showcases Ethiopian culture throughout the restaurant and the service is just as warm as the food. Every visit here is a treat. Definitely a five-star spot in my book!

it's never crowded but always busy. The service is always great and the food is always always amazing.

For starters, the atmosphere at this restaurant is so lovely and communal in the evening hours. It definitely sets the tone for a family style meal. We eat a fair amount of Ethiopian food in our household so when my family suggested Ethiopian during our recent visit to Houston, we were more than excited. We ordered a variety of sampler dishes and I thoroughly enjoyed the spiced chicken appetizer, as well as the vegetarian combo platter. With Ethiopian food, I tend to gravitate towards the vegetarian dishes, and can't think of a better way to pack in some veggies than a sampler of seven plus varieties. Our toddler also loves the injera bread and lentil offerings. The staff was incredibly gracious and warm with our large group of 10 folks that included for children. Looking forward to future visits at this business! If I visit again, earlier in the day, you know I'm going to get some Ethiopian coffee as well!.

I really wanted to like this place. I've been wanting to try Ethiopian food for years. This was a mediocre experience for. The food was very bland. Barely any spices. I am giving them three stars because I have never tried Ethiopian food, so I am not sure if that's what it's supposed to taste like. I have tried other African dishes and the flavor was robust, but not here. Everything was a bit pricey for the taste of the food.The service was hit and miss. One waitress was sweet and personable, the other one was quiet and standoffish. The restaurant was also a little warm. I won't be back.

Had the Ethiopian traditional family size platter with my wife and a friend. Pretty empty at the restaurant on a Tuesday night, maybe three other tables while we were there. Place smelled fantastic, as I think they were roasting some coffee. All of the offerings on our platter were delicious. I believe my wife and friend enjoyed their wine also. Leftovers enough for two for lunch. The platter serves 4 to 5 people and there were only three of us. A pistachio cake for dessert was also very tasty.According to the menu this is what was on the platter: Doro wot, Blue Nile Special Tibs, Yebeg Tibs, Yessiga Wot, Yebeg Fitfit, Zilzil Tibs, Bozena Shiro, Fillet fish, Gomen, Ayb, Salad, Atkilt Wot. Yum!Although the service was not bad, I did not find either of the servers to be particularly engaging or motivated to add to the dining experience.I thought the price was reasonable for the amount of food and the quality/taste of the food.