Barwaqo Somali restaurant — Restaurant in Grand Island

Ok, sorry about the photo. My daughter and I had already begun eating when I realized I hadn't taken a photo of the food. This was one of two offerings when we went on Labor Day, 2022. The other was "spaghetti."

This food was wonderful! Get out of your comfort zone and try Somali food! It is definitely a nice change of pace. The meat was flavorful and tender. The rice was fragrant and quite tasty, and the three sauces on the rice were very different from one another and quite appealing. It made for a meal with nice variety. My daughter and I highly recommend eating here, or at least getting it to go.

There was no bread this day, unfortunately. But it would have added a nice bit of authenticity to the meal.

We got the food to go, but they do have tables inside. The restaurant is in an old dance club and has not been modified much to suit the Somali restaurant. Do not go thinking you will be sitting in anything fancy if you decide to eat there.

The lady who took our order and brought us our food was very nice and polite. She explained what their offerings were, took our order and then kept busy wiping tables and serving others while our food was prepared.

Our food arrived at our table hot and beautiful and was $10. I'm not sure if they accept debit or credit, so bring cash. Well worth...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at this amazing restaurant multiple times, and I can confidently say that it deserves a glowing 5-star review! The food served here is nothing short of phenomenal. The combination of perfectly cooked rice and succulent meat is an absolute must-try for anyone visiting. Additionally, their Somali traditional breakfast is a delightful and satisfying experience that I highly recommend.

One aspect that sets this restaurant apart is its exceptional staff. The team members are not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and their craft. During my visits, I had the pleasure of being served by a kind lady who went above and beyond to ensure my meal was enjoyable. Her warm and attentive service made the dining experience all the more memorable.

Overall, I cannot praise this restaurant enough. The quality of the food, combined with the welcoming atmosphere created by the friendly and capable staff, truly sets it apart from others. I will undoubtedly be returning to savor their delectable dishes and enjoy the outstanding service once again. If you're looking for an exceptional dining experience, I wholeheartedly recommend...

Bad food, bad atmosphere, worse service. I've travelled the world and eaten at countless Somali restaurants from Somalia itself to Europe to North America. This restaurant is one of the worst. I went with my mom who had never eaten at a Somali restaurant before and unfortunately, she will probably not eat at another. One reviewer said "don't expect a waitress constantly checking up on you or refilling your drink." Well, when we visited they didn't even have drinks to refill. On top of all of this, it is shocking that the Grand Island department of health even allows this restaurant to stay in business! Atmosphere was also horrible. Restaurant is in a unused night club. It was winter and there was no heating. Might as well have been sitting outside. It's attached to the Grand Island Islamic Center, yet the atmosphere is far from Islamic. In short, don't waste your time and money. ...