Founded in 2006, the award-winning Nile Ethiopian on International Drive boasts a history of bringing authentic Ethiopian cuisine to the community for over 15 years. Owner Abeba Gonetse transports diners to a traditional Ethiopian home kitchen where everything is cooked from the heart.
For those new to Ethiopian cuisine, the food is a vibrant and flavorful blend of herbs, spices, and unique cooking techniques featuring savory stews to crispy flatbreads.
Over 15 years ago, Nile became the first Ethiopian restaurant open in Orlando under Abeba. Her friends and people would always ask her to open an Ethiopian restaurant and so she did to help share her experiences and the culinary traditions of Ethiopia.
For those who have not been before, Nile Ethiopian features authentic, traditional options as well as dishes for vegans and non-vegans, people with gluten allergies and celiac, as well as people who are adventurous.
Over the years some of Abeba’s favorite lessons in the restaurant industry has been learning how to socialize with people, learning from people a lot of things, including behaviors, character, friendship and family.
Amongst numerous awards consistently throughout the years, Nile Ethiopian recently won Critic’s Choice for Best African in the 2023 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards.
Ethiopian cuisine is characterized by the use of spices such as cumin and cloves as well as sauteed meat (tibs), stewed dishes (wat), and a fermented sourdough bread (injera).
One of the most popular dishes in Ethiopian cuisine is injera, a spongy, sourdough flatbread made from teff flour. This bread is used to scoop up a variety of stews and curries, creating a delicious and interactive dining experience.
Growing up in Ethiopia, chicken dorwat was a specialty made by Abeba’s mom for special occasions and a personal favorite for Abeba today. Another favorite is shiro – made with vegetables – affordable and healthy and eaten regularly.
Steak Tartare, Yellow Split Peas, Collard Greens, Cabbage & Carrots, Red Lentil, Chicken & Spice, Chicken Doro Wat, Beef Stew, Seasoned Beef
There are also fantastic vegetarian/vegan options which include stewed cabbage, mixed lentil beans, collard greens, and more. Definitely get the Taste of the Nile veggie platter for those interested in plant based dishes.
Sambusa – Deep fried pastries stuffed with lentils, finely chopped red onions and jalapeño peppers.
St. George Beer
Habesha Cold Gold Lager
Coffee Ceremony at Nile Ethiopian – A Must Try For Any Coffee Lover
Nile Ethiopian is also known for their traditional coffee ceremony where green coffee beans are hand roasted in a flat pan over hot coals, ground in a pestle and brewed in a black clay pot called a jebena.
The ceremony is considered a sign of respect and friendship and usually performed by the woman of the household as an honor.
After roasting, the beans are brewed and served fresh at your table.
Be sure to check out Nile Ethiopian the next time you are in the I-Drive area for a delicious and fun Ethiopian experience with welcoming hospitality and phenomenal coffee!
For more information, visit: nileorlando.com
Nile Ethiopian
7048 International Drive
Orlando, Florida 32819
Mon – Fri: 5–9PM
Sat – Sun: 12–9PM
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