I have passed Bahel many times going to and from the VA on Clairmont. I have considered stopping many times. Today I did and I am happy I did so. I have never had Ethiopian food before and was anxious to try it. It was, in a word, superb. My server greeted me and brought me some water. I explained to her that I had never had Ethiopian food before. She took the time to explain all the different menu items. I chose the Lamb Tibs (chunks of lamb sauteed with onions and peppers) with awaze sauce ( a spicy tomato and red pepper sauce). It was served on a piece of injera, which is a thin, spongey piece of fermented bread that has a slightly sour aftertaste. She offered me a rice option, but I chose the injera for the authentic way. I also ordered the misir wat (spicy red lentils) as my side. As I waited for my food, I could hear them in the kitchen preparing my food and happily chatting away, in what I assume was probably Oromo. I could also smell my food cooking which always adds to the anticipation. When my food arrived it was hot, fresh and served on a colorful plate. She also brought a ceramic boat containing several rolls of injera. She offered me silverware or explained that she would teach me how eat it in the traditional way. I opted for traditional, so she returned to the kitchen and brought back her own small plate of food. She tore off a piece of the injera, pinched some food, picked it up as she rolled it and ate it. I found it was very easy to do, as the injera stays together, even with sauce on it. My food was spicy, flavorful and it had the right amount of heat. The feeling of the restaurant took me back to some of the street vendors (which is often where you find the best, most authentic food, in my experience) I have eaten at in Mexico and Europe, of course, in a restaurant environment. The Lamb Tibs in awaze were reminiscent of Indian curries like, chetinaad, as far as preparation, but the flavor was totally different. There was a very elegant blend of spices in it that was unlike any other food I have had before. The portion was quite large, so I was able to have some left to take home. After I had eaten, I ordered their coffee. She ground fresh beans, brewed me a small pot of coffee and then served it on a tray with a little sugar bowl, a cup and saucer and a piece of burning incense. I have to say, this wasn't just a meal, it was an experience. While I was eating and having coffee, the stress and noise of the world fell away for a little while. I was priveleged to taste some new foods and learn a small bit about a vibrant culture. I had a fantastic time in this quiet little restaurant. It made me think of the way that food has always been a common experience we share...a very human experience. I'm glad I was able to share that today with the staff at Bahel. I really enjoyed it. Thank you very much.
This was our first time eating here and it was amazing!!! The staff was so friendly and very helpful with explaining what to order. The food was so flavorful and spice level was perfect. I would definitely eat here again!!
I’m in LOVE ? BAHEL is the winner among the cluster of Ethiopian restaurants in the Clairmont area! Just because it’s an Ethiopian restaurant doesn’t mea me you’re getting the Proper SPICE and everything NICE! Pictured here is the Lentil Sambusa and the Veggie combo. MY son ordered beef tibs which I didn’t try but he said they’re good! The tenderness of the Gomen and the crunch of the green salad coupled with good spongy tangy injera is just EVERYTHING!! You will not need to go to another Ethiopian spot after experiencing Bahel
Super delicious and flavorful. The staff was radiant, warm, and highly attentive. We sat outside and ordered the vegetarian combination and it was bomb dot com: perfectly seasoned with the tiniest kick and enough for two people. The honey wine was served in the traditional glasses and WHEW it was all just perfection. I can't wait to come back here.
The food is delicious (had lamb tibs and beef awaze and the veggie platter, all delicious). Portion sizes are good. Service is good. We showed up with a group of ten and they were very accommodating and were able to seat us very quickly. Definitely a hidden gem. Try the honey wine!
There are tons of reviews from users saying Bahel has the best Ethiopian food they've ever had, and I 100% agree! Hands down the BEST I've ever had, and I've had quite a lot at many different restaurants. As with pretty much every Ethiopian restaurant there are lots of vegan and vegetarian options. Unlike most Ethiopian restaurants I didn't have one or two favorites from the vegetarian combo. Every single thing I ate was equally delicious. That's something that's uncommon at any restaurant. Unbelievable! Stop reading this and order some Bahel right NOW! ???
Food and service were excellent! We used to live in Oakland where we had tons of options for Ethiopian food, so we have high expectations when we try new places. So glad we decided to try this place instead of waiting forever at the popular place across the street. It did not disappoint! Worth checking out!
This place is amazing. It didn't look that attractive from outside but don't judge a book by it's cover right.. That's totally true in this case. Two of us shared a veggie plate and that was filling for both of us and at an unbeatable price. The injiras were soft, they were cold but I guess that's how they come (in any Ethiopian place). Each curry had exquisite taste! Amazing experience! Will def go again.
Our waitress was informative and patient. We ate very well. I have this as one of my favorite Ethiopian restaurants in the nation.They have a nice situation at Bahel. Visit Theory afterwards for drinks and good vibes
Delicious door but traditional coffee ceremony, life time experience, thank You