Ghion Ethiopian Restaurant — Restaurant in Atlanta

Had an exquisite experience at Ghion Cultural Hall yesterday after intending to try Enat, which was closed at the time. The entrance was misleading, and I ended up walking through their front room, which is like a sports bar a bit on the shabby side, but I was led to the dining area which was absolutely magical. The wall paintings and decor were so charming and delightful, including a large wall mural of traditional musical instruments, classic basket tables, and numerous cultural art pieces on all of the walls. I don't much care for the modern, hip, or fancy atmospheres of some of the other Atlanta Ethiopian restaurants, so I loved Ghion's more creative, colorful, and joyful approach. I have had my share of Ethiopian food, since it is my favorite food, and I used to work at a very good restaurant in North Carolina, and from my experience, Ghion Cultural Hall does an exceptional job with bringing flavors together masterfully and soulfully. I ordered the sambussa, kitfo with collard greens and cheese, and an order of dulet to take home, both prepared raw or lightly cooked. All were excellent and prices were reasonable. I felt so nourished by the experience, including enjoying the Ethiopian music videos playing on the large flatscreen television opposite the bar area. My waitress was pleasant and served the spiced coffee in the clay carafe with frankincense incense. An older gentleman who seated me, who I believe may have been the owner, was also very hospitable, telling me that it was my "home." I wish I had met the chef because I could sense the careful attention that went into the preparation of the food. Highly recommended. I'll definitely be back. 10% off on Mondays...

Do not be afraid to try this restaurant if you are not Ethiopian! They serve wonderful and authentic Ethiopian food with lots of vegan options. It's the only place I know of in the country that has vegan tibs, and they are REALLY satisfying. (The other good Ethiopian place in Atlanta is Piassa, which has slower service but is cheaper.)

Once you have gone here, you will think Desta is the watered-down, gentrified, white-people-version of Ethiopian food.

It is somewhat pricey, but portions are large, and you can sometimes find a coupon online. If you've never had Ethiopian food, do a quick Google search so you don't have culture shock. It's delicious and traditionally served spread out on one large plate with injera (spongy bread) to share.

If you are confused about the menu or have never had Ethiopian food, ask questions and be patient. It will make sense once you start eating.

The owners and staff are very friendly. Just be sure to order clearly, since I have had issues once or twice with them misunderstanding my order. You may want to call in advance to make sure they have the vegan tibs in stock if you plan to order them.

They also offer delivery through UberEats, which is pretty expensive, but can do a treat job of satisfying a craving if you really want it. It's a great place if you know what to expect and are comfortable venturing into the world of...

My first time Ethiopian but unfortunately on my own. Ethiopian is a food that has to be shared and enjoyed with company. At this point a great thank you to Nitsun, the waitress who showed so much patience with this silly ignorant European and even showed me how one traditionally eats a Ye-beg-Alicha (please excuse my spelling). so if it was for the service, I’d give a six, the lamb was for my taste prepared solid and I guess authentic. But maybe I would have needed more guidance with the menus. A four for the food.

What pulls it down is the location itself. It starts having Ethiopian beer on the menus, but not any to serve. In addition for me the music was way too loud, especially as the sound is very strange to our ears. It distracts from the food. Nether the less the atmosphere, the ambiance. I know it costs mo ey to open even sich a place in such an area. But I am missing completely a concept, an idea - well, let’s say the heart. I hate to eat at places I don’t like to stay. That would result in one star.

But Nitsun gave the place a soul and me some nice memories and I can recommend the food. If you wanna go and try something new: Go to Ghion. But do as a group and make sure Nitsun is there to help you with all the cultural land mines one faces with...