Hooyo's Spot — Restaurant in Bolton

I never usually come to Bolton, no specific reasons why, i just don’t, but, as someone who does their research into the establishments they eat beforehand, i came across here.

I’m all about trying new and often obscure cuisines, even as something as “Somalian”. Most people would scoff at the thought of eating such a thing. But i would beg to differ.

I’ve been twice now, and the first time i came, i was so eager to come back for more it was that good.

First things first is the establishment itself. It’s clean, not so much seating downstairs, but there is some additional seating upstairs if you are eating in. It’s most certainly lit up with bright lighting that’s for sure, although that’s not a criticism.

As for the service, the chap for the first occasion was great and very helpful. He was the one that notified me about the upstairs seating. The second time round, the woman who served me was also good, as well. Overall, service was spot on 👍. (No pun intended)

Now for the food…goodness me. It. Was. Good! I ordered the quarter chicken rice platter (i think it’s called), that comes with a side salad and 2 sauces for £6.50! That’s what i call value for money.

When i got back and opened the HUUUUUUUGE box, i was amazed at the massive portion size you get, which i’m not complaining about, not one bit. And my giddy goodness the smell that wafted by. It’s like something i’ve never smelt before.

Finally after much anticipation, i got straight into it. And my goodness, words fail me to say how amazing this truly was. The chicken with the grilled, charred texture on the outside and the soft and tender flesh that just melts off the bone, the fragrant and lightly spiced rice, the sweet potato fries i assume it is adds a nice texture, as well. The accompaniments it comes with, such as the side salad adds a fresh crunch, too. The sauces, in addition, adds both a spicy and smooth texture, giving the dish a good consistency.

Overall, I have to say, this is quite possibly one of the best dishes i have ever had. I know it looks rather unassuming and some may say downright bland, but trust me on this. It packed flavour, it packed spice, it packed everything you could ever want or need. It was beyond words, quite honestly so. What these people are doing here is remarkable. Serving the local community affordable and absolutely superb food. Giving an alternative cuisine to what most people are used to eating, as well? I commend them on that. I can’t stress this enough, but if you’re are ever in the area, i would highly encourage you to come and visit Hooyo’s Spot. They are doing something really special here and I wouldn’t want anyone to miss out. Above marks on...

Context: An Australia solo traveller just finished a lovely vacation in the Lake District. He made his way with a rental car for an evening flight to Stockholm at Manchester International Airport. On his way, he decided to drop by the small town of Bolton for a meal.

The Important Bit: Can I just say a shoutout and big love to Hooyo's Spot business owners and managers Arale, Ziko, and Yoonis. It was the people who made this place special. Equally excellent was their amazing food.

I was a stranger who happened to drop by Bolton looking for a delicious home cooked meal. I never tried Ethiopian food, but I can proudly say that it was utterly delicious. To accentuate the experience, the warmth and friendliness of the boys made me feel at home.

Go for the Lamb Platter, the tenderness of the meat, the flavoured rice filled with delightful exotic spices and flavours, complimented with a handful of freshly prepared pickled veg was divine. The brown and green sauce adds extra dimension to the dish. Superb.

I stayed a little longer (despite the fact that I wanted to be at the airport earlier than usual for my flights) so that I can learn more about the boys - they are well educated and confident in what they do. But best of all, they are extremely hospitable. I was offered a banana to eat with the rice because it was a local thing to do. On top of that, I was offered their milk tea both delicious and on the house.

Arale, Ziko, and Yoonis, I'm confident that your restaurant and business with the locals will thrive and wish you all the very best. And when you get to that level of success, go out there and travel the world. Perhaps I will meet you somewhere at some point, be it in Australia or another part of the world.

Thank you, and God bless.

Kind...

Went here on Saturday night. Totally by chance. Was walking with my cousin to fresto and clocked this as we were walking past. Decided to pop in just to have a look at the menu and because of the way the gentleman at till welcomed us my cousin and I both said we have to eat here now.

The gentleman asked if we had ever eaten Somali cuisine to which we replied no, so he recommended their lamb and rice and the chick/beef mix suqaar with chips.

The lamb and rice - the meat was so succulent and tender just fell straight off the bone. The rice was sweet with a beautiful taste and complimented the slightly spiced lamb! A 9/10 for me. I'm not a rice guy 🤣

The chicken/beef suqaar with chips - the chicken and beef was just super juicy. The flavour made my taste buds do a funky dance. Was sublime. The sauces on top just complemented the dish perfectly. A 10/10 for this one. Funnily enough we were going to fresto for their sizzler but after having the suqaar I don't think I will be getting the sizzler from fresto in the future.

Finally the food was that good I called my Mrs who is away in the USA telling her that when she is back I am taking her there.

To the gentleman at the till and the young man cooking/prepping. Keep smiling, stay blessed and stay hungry, your energy is top drawer and I pray you have all the success in your business. See you both soon...