After a rough start to my morning a few weeks ago (nothing like finding out you need a new radiator while getting a simple oil change), I decided to treat myself to a yummy lunch, and my friend Ziggy recommended newly opened Blue Nile Ethiopian Kitchen, located at 1788 Madison Avenue. My go-to foodie for when I don’t want the same ol same ol meal (he’s who introduced me to the wonders of Vietnamese food a few years ago), I trusted him and headed straight there with no questions asked.

I lucked up when I arrived because it was a weekday after the lunch rush, so it was quiet (only 1 other patron) and I was able to get a seat anywhere I wanted. I sat by the window to people watch and relax, and after reviewing the menu (it’s been year’s since I’ve had Ethiopian food), I settled on the lamb tips (Spicy), carrots + potatoes, and a beet salad.

Served with injera (a spongy, sour-dough flavored bread that’s traditionally served with Ethiopian dishes; in lieu of utensils, you can use this to pick up your food), the lamb tips were everything that I didn’t even realize I wanted. I love spicy foods, and the hearty sauce that the tips were cooked in with onions and peppers were balanced nicely with the simplicity of the carrots + peas. The beet salad was fresh w/a touch of sweetness, so all of the flavors complimented each other. Initially, it didn’t seem like a lot of food, but don’t let the injera fool you- it expands in your tummy, so space out how much of it you eat!

I was going to skip dessert, but by then it had started to lightly rain and I wasn’t quite ready to leave, so I tried their in-house made tiramisu and OH. MY. GOD. Liiiiike, get into this freshness:

Yes, it tastes as good, if not better than it looks!

It was so light and creamy! I had it with coffee (cream only, no need for sugar), and it was absolutely delicious. I was a very happy woman when I was done with my meal. With everything I had (which could be split between two people), the entire meal was less than $25. Not bad!

Located right down from Overton Square, the restaurant’s layout feels a little more intimate, so if you venture into midtown for lunch or dinner but don’t want to get mixed in with that crowd, just drive on down a few blocks and swing by here. You won’t be disappointed.

Beautiful mural by artist Gina Sposto.

Blue Nile Ethiopian Kitchen
1788 Madison Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
901.474.7214
(call for hours, closed on Sundays)

blue nile ethiopian kitchen Good Eats local restaurants