Ghion Ethiopian Restaurant — Restaurant in Washington

We went to a show at the 9:30 Club and it had its good points. It was a long drive for us from where we live now and some parts of the evening could have been better. The little Ethiopian joint across the street, however, was amazing. In retrospect, Ghion was the best part of our evening. We stopped in for a bite before the show and I was hoping it would be ok. I had really talked up Ethiopian restaurant food and service. My wife had yet to experience it but the other places I had eaten were good and I was hoping for a repeat. Ghion made me look good. First of all, I defy you to get more stuffed for less money and on food that is that delicious anywhere in the city! We tried SO hard not to eat until we were uncomfortable and neither of us were completely successful. It was Just. So. Yummy! The beef we ordered was (I never use this word) succulent. It was perfectly seasoned and, among the flavors, the cardamom in particular gave the dish a surprising note of sweetness that really rounded it out into something memorable. And, the myriad vegetable dishes that covered our injera-laid table were so flavorful that, had we not ordered meat, I doubt we would have missed it despite being pretty typical American meat eaters. To top it all off, the staff were some of the nicest people I’ve ever encountered in DC. (And, I was born in DC 43 years ago.) I’m not exaggerating or making this up. They held our leftovers AND MY COAT until after the show and hugged us (my hand to G_d, they hugged us) when we came back. No, seriously! In DC! I said, “No, thanks,” to holding our food at first, but it visibly pained our server to throw out what we all know is the best part of the meal (the injera that’s soaked up all that goodness sitting on it) and I finally agreed. She gave us a huge smile and told us how to turn it into the best breakfast ever. I won’t go into why I couldn’t take my coat into the show but they held that, too. We don’t look like anyone famous and we certainly don’t look like high rollers and I don’t think I’ve ever had better service in a restaurant, even ones where I’m a frequent customer. ...I’m not even sure what better service would look like. That is a good experience! Visit Ghion. If the show across the street isn’t great, Ghion stays open late and they even have a little...

If only I could submit negative stars. THE CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS DISAPPOINTING! Woke up throughout the night with food poisoning. ALL items on the vegetarian platter were served lukewarm or just cold and lacking taste but we tried to eat it at first. As the owner explained something about the temperature, sun and food being prepared in the morning. I think it’s more embarrassing when folks of another race food comes out steaming hot which shows the importance of their business. I had to re-explain this to them as they did not apologize. I also asked for a Takeaway container to see what they would do. Took only one item from the platter and the wife which is the owner told me to “why aren’t you packing up the other items, just use the microwave for the other items when you get home”. Also when the husband came to ask if he can pack up all the food I told him it was okay because it was cold when served he literally slammed the plates together to take it back. They should’ve brought out fresh food in the first place. I grew up eating Ethiopian food so I know what and how the food is supposed to be. HOT!! but it’s OK. Interesting she offered us to come back so she can give us a free meal after we were charged for the cold meal but they never addressed the immediate situation. I’m more disappointed that I didn’t read the few bad reviews as we would have never went. DO NOT WASTE YOUR...

This place is amazing. Everyone needs to eat here right now.

I ordered beef jerky and spicy lentils, and instructed the man behind the counter to pick his choice of Ethiopian beers. He brought back St. George, which was delicious. The entire time, his demeanor was incredibly friendly and welcoming.

My meal did not disappoint. Portion size was generous, and included a side of injera. The food was served hot, and the quality was fantastic. I ordered a second beer.

The atmosphere was bright and welcoming, with exposed brick, checkered table cloths, and vibrant colors on the wall. The warmly lit bar area created a friendly and inclusive vibe.

Several times, the man checked on me to ensure I was enjoying my meal. I was enjoying myself and let him know it. He insisted I write this review, and the rest is history. Halfway through writing this review, he brought me another beer, and now I’m done writing this review. And that’s how my night has been...