Sheba Cafe

This was my first time having Ethiopian and I really loved it! While being the only patrons we received excellent service and delicious food. I would highly recommend it for newcomers to Ethiopian or the seasoned ones (as my fiance has had it and claims Queen of Sheba is a high caliber). There was nothing daunting about the meal and it was a great price! Bring people in here as this is a restaurant that deserves to stay around. It's the only Ethiopian I know of in Chicago. Pros: First-time w/ Ethiopian was delicious - BYOB - Great prices! Cons: We were the only patrons more

Our first Ethiopian restaurant. Was a wonderfully unique experience to eat communally, sharing the entrees in one large serving dish in center of table. No silveware. You eat the entrees by scooping it up with the special Ethiopian spongie bread called Injera. Fresh and tasty food. Both meat and veggie served. As others have said about most Ethiopian restuarants, service can be slow. But very friendly and accomodating. Embarrasingly cheap. Had a Entertainment Coupon, but didn't have the heart to use it -- especially because there was only one other couple dining there with us. Surprising it is not more popular. Also, BYOB! Pros: Interesting and unique dining experience. Communal eating without utensils. Fun & Good. Cons: Service can be slow. more

The food is quite good (probably premade and reheated, but for foods with many spices, that seems to work to their advantage, allowing for the flavors to blend and soak in). They don't get much traffic and tend to lack a few menu items. The servers are dolls. They are quite attentive, but you will probably have to wait for your food (never know how long). Despite the quirks, which I've come to find charming, it's a great value. We spend about $20 on nights that we're really hungry and want to get two vegetarian combos for two people, a little less when we get an appetizer and one combo. It's also BYO, so that saves you some more right there. Chances are, you will be the only people eating there, or you will be eating with only one or two other groups. Later in the evening, people who appear to regulars show up. It's not as elaborately decorated as other Ethiopian restaurants in the area, and it hasn't had new carpet and the like in a good 20 years (though the walls appear to be more recently painted). Don't go if you're fussy, but if you want tasty Ethiopian food without the hassle of a big production (say, on a weeknight or lazy Friday), make your way to Sheba. Pros: Good Food, Great Value, Decent Street Parking Cons: Availability of Menu Items, Variable Wait for Food, Decor is Rough around the Edges more