Blue Nile Ethiopian Kitchen

Blue Nile Ethiopian Kitchen Restaurant Review:

Blue Nile owner-chef Ermyias Shiberou expanded his popular kebab food truck, Stick Em, into a brick-and-mortar establishment, where he serves traditional wats (stews) with the classic, spongy injera bread that acts as both nourishment and utensil. An Ethiopian-style mural, with a large lion head in its center, was painted on one wall by Memphis artist Gina Sposto. Woven baskets are used as centerpieces on every table. Shiberou's traditional fare includes his locally famous kebabs --- chicken, steak, shrimp and tofu. Among authentic dishes you'll find firfir (chopped injera bread soaked in chicken, lamb or a vegetarian stew) or tibs (cubed meat sautéed with herbs and spices). There are even Ethiopian-inspired sandwiches on the menu. The lentil sandwich is the chef’s vegan take on a chicken salad sandwich, and the kifto sandwich is stuffed with Ethiopian-spiced beef. For dessert, try the tiramisu, enhanced by a cup of hot Ethiopian coffee. Blue Nile is awaiting its alcohol permit, but the beer permit has been obtained, so patrons may choose from among imported and domestic brews to go with the fare.