About

Our story begins with Kibrom and his wife Tirhas in the Shimelba refugee camp in Ethiopia. When they had the opportunity to move to the US in 2013, they brought their culture's cuisine and opened Kibrom's Ethiopian & Eritrean Food in 2016.

The couple relied on their experience running a restaurant for three years in Shimelba. This season let them hone their culinary skills and develop a menu they would introduce to Boise.

Their original eatery was part of The Boise International Market, a hub for refugee-owned businesses. Sadly, it was lost to a fire shortly after opening. Undeterred by this setback, the couple re-established the eatery at its current location in 2016.

It's close to landmarks like the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, making it easy to plan a meal around a day exploring Boise and Garden Valley.

The restaurant's mission goes beyond serving food; it's about educating the community about Ethiopian and Eritrean cultures and culinary traditions. Dining at Kibrom's is an introduction to a new way of eating. Ethiopian cuisine is traditionally enjoyed with hands using injera, a fermented flatbread, instead of utensils.

Kibrom and Tirhas take pride in guiding their guests through this unique dining experience. Their joy is enhancing guest's understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage.

The restaurant has been acknowledged as a semifinalist in the prestigious James Beard Award. The honor highlights its culinary expertise and contribution to sharing Ethiopian and Eritrean culture in the United States.

For a taste of East African cuisine without boarding a plane, visit Kibrom's Ethiopian & Eritrean Food.

Vibe

The exterior is modest and unassuming, fitting seamlessly into the Boise landscape. However, the simplicity of the outside belies the richness of the experience waiting within. Here, the community gathers to enjoy a meal and an experience that transcends the usual dining norms. It's the spot to kick back after perusing the flowers and trails at Idaho Botanical Garden.

The interior reflects the cultural heritage and journey of its owners. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a space that resonates with the warmth and vibrancy of East African traditions.

The decor is a thoughtful blend of traditional Ethiopian and Eritrean elements, creating an inviting and culturally immersive ambiance. The walls showcase artwork and items that tell stories of their homeland. This setting fosters a sense of connection, not just to the food but to the history and life stories that it represents.

Kibrom's Ethiopian & Eritrean Food: Menu & Drinks

One of the must-try dishes is their lamb specialty. The meat features a blend of spices, bringing out its natural tenderness and juiciness. It's a dish showcasing the owners' culinary expertise and cultural heritage.

Kibrom's menu also features an array of vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the vegetable-based traditions of Ethiopia and Eritrea. These dishes are healthy and flavorful, ensuring every guest experiences East African cuisine's true essence.

Spicy entrees like red tibs and chicken in onions will appeal to those with an adventurous palate. It comes with salad and injera or rice and is perfect after a chilly day dashing over the snow with Idaho Sleigh Rides.

When it comes to drinks, Kibrom's offers a variety of options that complement their meals. They serve traditional beverages like Tej, which features honey wine and coffee. The coffee at Kibrom's is a rich, aromatic experience, given the importance of coffee in Ethiopian and Eritrean culture.

When your Garden Valley vacation calls for a meal that will transport you to East Africa, try Kibrom's Ethiopian & Eritrean Food.

Local Tips

Don't hesitate to try various dishes, especially if it's your first time with Ethiopian food.
Embrace the traditional way of eating Ethiopian food with your hands. It's part of the authentic experience and adds to the fun!
Order for pickup or delivery and savor in your Casago rental!
Consider ordering the large platter to share, especially if you're in a group. You can sample multiple dishes and enjoy a communal dining experience.

Staging environment