Nil Bleu (Le) Restaurant — Restaurant in Montreal

Made an online reservation for 6pm on valentines day, and asked in my reservation whether it was a fixed menu or not. Didn’t hear back, and sure enough, it was fixed. When booking, I noticed there were private rooms, great idea, and I may have sprung for it, but I couldn’t find anything on pricing, so I didn’t.

We arrived exactly on time and were asked if we want the upstairs chocolate fountain and live music experience for $60 a head, or the downstairs just food for $50. Live music can be hit or miss and without seeing the setup we decided on just food. We were shuffled into a side entryway with 3 other couples. We proceeded to wait for 45 minutes without being given any information on how long the wait would be.

Finally, we were brought downstairs by the host who muttered something about changing if we didn’t like. It was only when we saw our table that we understood what he meant - it sat at the end of the room, a half-circle booth that looked out at the rest of the bar, included the mirrored wall opposing us. We had the opportunity to not just be viewed by those with their backs to the wall, but also by their dates via the mirror. Unfortunately, it was hard to view each other, having to decide between sitting beside one another, or sitting 5 feet away from one another at the ends of the booth. A cheetah print pillow in the booth had to be shuffled around as we got in and out, and added something vaguely red light district to the vibe.

There were 10 tables in the basement, 2 servers, 1 expo, 1-2 bussers, and a floor manager(?) who we only saw at the end with the POS. Far overstaffed, they wandered around looking for things to do, so I kept the top 5th of my water drunk to give them a task. A spark of joy in an otherwise confoundingly bad experience.

We sat for 20 minutes trying to figure out the fixed menu, it was poorly explained, and for some reason my date and I both got the same one of two appetizer options, despite asking for one of each. Confusing. The only positive wait staff experience was with a 20something expo guy. Friendly, good vibes, and gave descriptions of the food as he brought it out. Our first drink (a cocktail that came with the menu, and the only cocktail we had the option to order) and first food (again, from a fixed menu with two options) came an hour and 15 minutes after our initial arrival. The food was great, really tasty, and the only thing that shouldn’t be scrapped. At 1h45 we got our main course.

We noticed that other customers were being presented table-side with desert options, but none of them took it. They then sat for up to 20 minutes waiting for their cheque, which is when we got to see Mr POS in action. Apart from coming out twice to expo food or wine (both times he messed up the table and made a comment about the numbers being … something?), we hadn’t seen him yet in the night. As guests began finishing up, we realized that none of the servers were allowed to use the POS machine, only him. This gave very micro-manager vibes.

Seeing that Mr. POS’s timeliness would be an obstacle to our departure, we asked for the cheque while still eating. When he came out, he asked “how was everything”, and before I got done with “… well the food was good, but-“ he said, “Great come back again soon”, and handed over the POS. I Didn’t tip for the first time in my life, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he wondered why, because it felt like everyone was oblivious to how much of a wreck the night was.

When we got upstairs, the host asked how things were. I said the food was good but that I would have paid 10$ a head more to be seated earlier had I known. He went into 5 minutes of excuses, then said I hope we see you soon. We looked at him dumbfounded he’d think we’d come back.

With a fixed menu and reservation, the purpose is to avoid the wait. The only explanation is poor management and apathy from a staff who’s clearly not been given license to improve things. Stagger bookings, give your staff POS access, change the seating layout, and the experience may have been...

A Regal Taste of East Africa in the Heart of Montreal

Tucked away in the lively heart of Montreal, Nile Bleu offers a transportive dining experience that blends the deep culinary traditions of East Africa with a modern, upscale twist. From the moment you enter, it’s clear that this is not just a meal, it’s a journey.

The décor is a striking blend of sophistication and cultural homage. Zebra-patterned chairs, plush seating, and warm red and amber lighting create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and theatrical. Giraffe sculptures and Afrocentric art add character without veering into kitsch. The space is thoughtfully designed equal parts lounge and fine dining ideal for couples, small groups, or celebratory.

Cocktails at Nile Bleu are as visually impressive as they are flavorful. The Golden Day, a citrus-forward, floral cocktail, is balanced and refreshing, while the Mango drink delivers a tropical sweetness that pairs well with spicier dishes. Garnishes like hibiscus petals and heart-topped skewers show the kitchen’s attention to detail. At around $15 per drink, they lean pricey, but match the restaurant's elevated tone.

The appetizer board is a chef’s canvas injera rolls, vibrant beet salad, sautéed mushrooms and eggplants, and a fresh salsa, all plated around a carved vegetable flower. The dish is as much about artistry as it is about flavor, with textures and spices carefully layered. The injera is perfectly tangy, and every element tastes distinct yet harmonious.

The shared injera platter is the soul of the Nile Bleu experience. Served on a massive round tray, the dish features a variety of traditional stews: spiced lentils, lamb and beef tibs, chicken with hard-boiled egg in berbere sauce, curried vegetables, and more. Each bite is complex and deeply satisfying, with well-developed spice profiles and slow-cooked tenderness. The injera, used to scoop up the dishes, adds the essential sour note that binds the meal together. At $65 for two, the portion is generous, the variety impressive, and the flavor unforgettable.

Desserts at Nile Bleu offer a refined close to the meal. The raspberry mousse is glossy and smooth, with just the right amount of tartness to cut through the richness. The pecan chocolate cake is dense, nutty, and indulgent without being overwhelming. Each dessert is plated with precision and care, served on zebra-print china that feels playfully luxurious.

Staff are attentive, warm, and knowledgeable about the menu. Courses are well-paced, and the atmosphere remains relaxed even as the restaurant fills. The experience feels curated but never stiff.

Nile Bleu stands out as one of Montreal’s more unique fine dining spots, offering not just a meal but a beautifully choreographed cultural experience. The food is soulful and elevated, the setting is stylish and immersive, and the attention to detail from plating to service is clear throughout. Whether you’re new to East African cuisine or a lifelong fan, Nile Bleu is a...

From the moment we stepped inside Le Nil Bleu, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and genuine hospitality. Located in the heart of Montreal, this gem of an Ethiopian restaurant exceeded all expectations and left a lasting impression on our entire family. The service was, without a doubt, off the charts. We were greeted with such genuine enthusiasm and attentiveness that we immediately felt welcomed and valued. Our server was knowledgeable, patient in explaining the menu, and incredibly attentive throughout our meal, anticipating our needs before we even had to ask. This level of service is a true testament to the dedication of the staff. Beyond the exceptional service, the spotless cleanliness of Le Nil Bleu was truly remarkable. The entire restaurant, from the dining area to the immaculate bathrooms, was pristine. This attention to detail speaks volumes about the care and pride the owners take in their establishment. And then there was the food… simply authentic and beyond all expectations. Each dish was a vibrant explosion of flavors, clearly prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The injera was perfectly spongy, the stews were rich and aromatic, and every bite was a delight. It was a true taste of Ethiopia, and we savored every moment. Even the coffee, a cornerstone of Ethiopian culture, was exceptional – a rich and aromatic end to a perfect meal. Le Nil Bleu manages to be both quaint and upscale simultaneously. The ambiance is charming and inviting, with thoughtful touches that elevate the dining experience. From the tasteful décor to the subtle details in presentation, it's clear that every aspect of this restaurant has been carefully considered to create a memorable occasion. If you're looking for an authentic Ethiopian culinary experience in Montreal, look no further than Le Nil Bleu. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience. We left feeling completely satisfied, impressed, and already planning our return. Highly, highly...