Reviews of Alem Ethiopian Village. (Restaurant) in Milwaukee (Wisconsin).

Alem Ethiopian Village

492 Reviews

281 Comments

Restaurant

Ethiopian restaurant

307 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States

Description

Information of Alem Ethiopian Village, Restaurant in Milwaukee (Wisconsin)

Discover the opening times, the location, contact, popular times, photos and real reviews by internet users.

This place has a very good rate, they treat their customers well and you’ll feel welcome, super recommended

Map

Open hours of Alem Ethiopian Village

Popular times

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Reviews of Alem Ethiopian Village

L. Yang

My first time ordering here and let me tell you, don’t sleep on them! Absolutely delicious and fresh. Additionally, the customer service was superb. I ordered takeout, selecting their veggie variety platter (collard greens, lentils, etc) and I couldn’t wait to bring it home to enjoy. The portion is well enough for two people or for two meals for ~$17 after tax. WORTH EVERY CENT. Go for it and don’t look back.

Willahelm Wan

We ordered some takeouts a few nights ago. The two salads were really refreshing. I loved the vinegar sauce. The taste of Ye Tibs Firfir and Doro Wot was amazing, but there was only a single drum stick in the Doro Wot. It was too little chicken for full size chicken entree in my opinion. They give a huge amount of injera, which is good. However, the proportion of the overall dish is off for Doro Wot. The owner was really nice and the food was delicious, but slightly disappointed with the Doro Wot. Otherwise, I would have rated this place 5 stars.

Nils Hünerfürst

Really super nice location with a friendly store owner and the best part is that the vegetarian combo is really tasty!

Ahshante Essex

This food is good! Their carry-out service even with Covid Restrictions was very accommodating. The man there was so kind to explain to me the dishes. His kindness & patients with me was most appreciated. It was my first time trying Ethiopian food and I'm happy I did ! I would have really liked to sit in the atmosphere of this place it was very beautiful to me. You guys are great! Thank you & God bless you again!

Theodore Mall

Wonderful food, full of flavor, served in a classic setting, to be enjoyed using one's hands. Of course, utensils are available by request. Diners have the choice of all the food for the table to be served in an oversized platters to be mixed and matched together with injera bread family style or served individually. The result is an authentic experience. Service is very friendly and helpful. Got food allergies? Welcome to Alem. They work on accomodating people with special needs. During the week a vegan/vegetarian lunch buffet spread is open. Try this marvel of Ethiopian cuisine once, you will want to be back.

Ryan Casperson

Great food at great prices. Service is amazing. Lunch buffet is awesome too with lots of vegetarian and vegan options. Lots of flavors from mild to spicy. Was very happy with my experience and can't wait to go back for more. Great for groups served family style.

Aaron Gruenthal

A great introduction to Ethiopian cuisine. This was my first time trying Ethiopian food, so I can’t comment on authenticity, but the hostess (and owner?) seemed very knowledgeable about the ingredients that went into the food, and how the food is prepared in Ethiopia. I didn’t ask, but I wouldn’t be surprised is she was from Ethiopia originally. The food itself was delicious and fun to eat. I got the “Carnivore” family dish with the cabbage (v5) and the jalapeño chickpeas (v8) for the sides. The food was full of spices and flavor without being overly spicy (in my opinion). My only negative comment is that the meat was a little dry and tough. Otherwise, I would highly recommend trying out this restaurant with friends or family. The plate that I got said it was good for two, but it could easily feed three.

Jo Ann Sheldon

Delicious food, nice location in Milwaukee. Great service. The only thing that would have been nice is if they would have described what was on the plates, everything kind of blended together.

Tim Hahn

First time eating Ethiopian food and it was excellent. The lamb stew was the best, but the spicy beef was a close second. The waiter was very patient, even helping us make veggie choices to go along with our dinner.

Swetha Sridharan

Our first try in Ethiopian cuisine was here and we had an amazing experience. The service was very good. We had ordered vegetarian platter for two. The curries tasted were very close to Indian cuisine. Lentils, cabbage, carrot, peas, potato, kofta balls etc. We also had their spiced tea which totally made our cold winter evening. The injera they served was very soft and freshly made. Next we would love to try their vegan lunch buffet.

Shane Lemke

This is one of the best Ethiopian restaurants that I have been to. Every type of food that I tried was delicious! The service is fast and friendly. The prices are very reasonable, you get a lot of good food for your money. I've never left feeling hungry! There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options to check out.

Patrick Supanwanid

Delicious and reasonably priced! Two of us shared the veggie platter and it was amazing! I loved how they split each one into smaller portions it made it easier to share. All were so yummy! They also have 100% teff for the gluten intolerant.

karthik balachander

The food served here was really tasty and very people running the place. The food had amazing flavour of ethiopia and is definitely the best stop for ethiopian food in Milwaukee.

Rick Leonard

I have eaten a lot of Ethiopian food around the globe, and this place is fantastic. It's a bit under some of the places in the Adams-Morgan in DC, but it's easily on par with any place in Chicago our Seattle. The service is fantastic, the staff friendly, and it's very consistently good. I've been eating here since they opened and I have yet to even have an ok meal...it's always great!

San Jay S

Went for the vegetarian buffet on a week day. The spread had 8 dishes to the from. This gives a full spectrum of dishes in Ethiopian cuisine which are based on veggies. Beans, lentils, potatoes, greens - all cooked in various ways with the ethic spices. Injera rolls were abundantly available and there is a salad bar too. Meat options available at additional cost ($7-$10). Buffet was $10 per person and worth it.

Andrew Powell

What an amazing dinner! Truly traditional Ethiopian food, welcoming and friendly staff and a cozy space. Had the Doro Wot (chicken) and Yebeg Keay Wot (lamb) combo dinner which had just the right amount of Injera. Would highly recommend.

Ratnashree Biswas

Great food. I had the Doro Wot with Veggie platter and it was excellent. Prices are economical. I enjoyed the experience of eating with hands as that's how we traditionally eat food in my country (India) too. 😊

John Speier

Best dinner I’ve had in months ver ordered a variety of dishes and really glad we did. Wow what a party in my mouth. Great flavors. Very generous portions lots of bread. Great deal. Looking forward to next time

Marilyn Besasie

If you like Indian food, you will love this restaurant! I was skeptical about trying Ethiopian food, never having had it before I didn't know if it was too "weird" for me - but thank the gods I have good friends who showed me the light! I love Indian food and this was similar. I tried about every dish on the vegan buffet and I swear - it was all delicious! I came back for dinner a week later with a group and we ordered the family style platters and absolutely every single thing on them was heavenly! The service was friendly and efficient (although we were told we were going to get individual plates to scoop the food from the platters onto, but they never came. Who cares! Eating out of the big family platter was just fine!) Eating with your hands, tearing off the bread and pinching just the right bite-sized portion into the bread, pop it into your mouth - new experience for me and it was wonderful. Everyone loved the food, no one said they didn't like this or that. I can't wait to go back. And the fact that the lunch buffet was all vegan garners my highest rating - Five Stars! Reviewed on 5/3/2019

Jack Straw

Good food. Check the menu out online before you go. Lots of good combination players witch was very cool for my first visit. Will be back.

Florens Macario

A must go place. So delicious and fresh. And the staff is very friendly!

Mika W

Spicy beef tibs, gomen (greens), lentil soup, doro wat…. Very flavorful and healthy… very good portion size, will definitely get you full… my favorite restaurant hands down!!!!

Samantha Lopez

MUST PLACE TO EAT IN MILWAUKEE!! This is my favorite restaurant in Milwaukee because not only is the food amazing but the overall experience I have when I go keeps me coming! The owners are such kind and genuine people who you can tell put so much care and love into the food they make. They always make me and my friends feel so welcome and trust me ... you can order anything on the menu and it will not disappoint!!!!

Kenisha Brown

My first time trying Ethiopian food & I Love it!!! The owner is so kind & helped me pick out my food. The food is Amazing & is prepared with love & quality!! I've been back twice now & it looks like I'll be coming back every Saturday, even though I'm an hour away. Alem is definitely worth the drive!! 🥰💕 …

yezihalem asrate

Best food I thank you for every services and quality of each of their food .

jesse jonesberg

Delicious food and excellent service. The lunch buffet is very affordable and offers many vegetarian options.

Baylee David-Foster

This is the first time I have had Ethiopian food and it was very delicious! The food is reasonably priced and the service was good. The atmosphere was very beautiful and there was a lot of authentic art that filled up the restaurant. My husband and I both got a lamb dish. His lamb was not as tender as mine; however, he was very satisfied with his dish. It could have used a little more spice, even though the server brought us extra chili powder. We are used to eating very spicy food everyday, so for the average person it would probably be just fine. The server we had was also very friendly. She even mentioned that the dishes would not be too spicy for us, especially if we eat very spicy food regularly. This was our favorite restaurant in Milwaukee by far.

Don Heese

My first time trying Ethiopian cuisine and it was excellent. The restaurant offers a buffet that is vegan and I highly recommend giving it a try. There are also meat dishes available for reasonable prices. The buffet is wonderful offering great flavors and even some spice. The staff are friendly and attentive. I would dare say this restaurant is a jewel waiting to be discovered.

B Parry

I wish these people had moved to my part of the US because this is the best Ethiopian food I have ever had in the US. Now it will be a permanent place to go eat while we visit family in the Milwaukee area. The servings are generous. The flavors are incredible. The selection is broad. And the staff and owners are lovely. What a great restaurant!

Katheryn A

Great vegan option with lots of flavor on Milwaukee! Also, the price for the amount of food you get is great also!

Erycca Manninen

Very friendly staff. Food is delicious. I love the traditional method of using the injera to scoop up the food. It was perfect for kids (finger food!) and the staff was very welcoming to them. I can see how this might be intimidating if you've never had it, but try it - you won't be disappointed. Everything was evenly spiced. Colorful presentation. I only wish we got a little more vegetables on the platter, they were so good!

Jacob Russ

We loved it, I had the beef tartar and the buffet. Amazing. I love the warm spices and flavors. The only reason that I'm only rating four stars is that I would have enjoyed a slightly bigger buffet bar. That being said, one of my friends claimed their coffee was the best he's ever had. I believe clove was involved. :) Great place, friendly staff and killer food. If you enjoy spicy, ask for the mitmita powder on the side. Excellent!

Jay Zenn

Delish friendly service. Everyone loved the food. Vegan friendly too!!!

Sean-Pierre Webster

Friendly and prompt service! VERY TASTY and FLAVORFUL with satisfying portions that had just enough to put you a little past full. I had ordered the Sambosa, Lentil Soup, Chicken Doro Wot and Beef Tibs. All of which were satisfying even for my friend who was new to Ethiopian cuisine. I must also point out that I was impressed even before I got the food because I was told there was a 20min wait after ordering which indicated the food was freshly prepared and not just boxed to go.

Kaye Homam

Love this place. The food is great. Customer service is awesome.

B M

Alem Ethiopian Village is a Ethiopian restaurant in the downtown area, providing buffet options by day and extensive sampler options. Food: We choose to do the Carnivore Sampler, which was 5 different meat dishes, and 2 chosen veggie dishes on a large platter. There are no eating utensils at all. You use the bread that comes with the dish to scoop up the dishes, and create little hand sandwiches. I won’t go through each item, but rather evaluate on the meal itself. One thing that seemed to be missing out of the eating experience was any sort of standouts, or complexities to the dishes. Everything tasted good, but nothing stood out as great, or better than another. For instance, two of the meat options tasted exactly the same, and even looked very similar. I would harken it to going on a buffet, taking a scoop of everything, and eating; you may like everything, but you would probably leave not having one thing better than the other, or have inaccurate judgments of the food based on simply eating so many different dishes at once. Outside of this, there isn’t much more to comment on the food. It really is an experience that makes this restaurant special. If you are looking for a more traditional experience to eating a dish from a different culture, this would be a good place to try. Atmosphere: Nothing overly special. It is a decent space, but nothing overly stands out as overly authentic or something that would draw you in. Service: Service was very fast and kind. Overall: 6/10. I wouldn’t see the food/atmosphere/service were bad or anything on the like, however nothing overly stood out except for the different eating experience itself. The food was fine, but more akin to a buffet quality, and you get a decent amount. However, in a culinary rich town as Milwaukee, it wouldn’t be a place we’d venture back to.

Google User

I have two favorite restaurants in Milwaukee. This is one of them. Seriously my whole family loves it here SO MUCH. The food is amazing! I never leave feeling sick, like I usually do with most restaurants. The owner is a very kind lady. They have a weekday buffet with vegan items. The coffee and tea are a must try! I crave Alem's food pretty much every day! Can't say enough good about this fantastic restaurant

Dohv Kahn

Super friendly staff. Very welcoming. Smelled so good from half a block away. Great decor as soon as you walk through the door. Menus simple yet explains well. Can get beer with your meal. Great vegan menu. I suggest getting the family platter and sharing as it’s how it’s done in Ethiopia. Gets pretty busy so come early. Parking here is my only issue. Very difficult to find a place to park on the street. Pay a bit extra and park in a garage nearby. Update. After eating, food was amazing. WOW! One of the top ten Best vegan places my wife and I have had across the States. Update. Came back for vegan buffet lunch today and it was great! Just as good as dinner service. Service just as friendly and attentive.

Mahmoud Elewa

Amazing vegetarian/vegan options. Try the coffee too!

John Grimley

Amazing amazing food. Nice, clean and quiet environment. If you're tired of the burger and fries scene come here and try something new. Every dish I've ever gotten is delicious. You can't go wrong. Did I mention their food is amazing?

Kevin L

During the pandemic, we have picked up Alem multiple times. When the pandemic is over, we look forward to dining in there again, the atmosphere is nice and cozy. The owners are so nice to talk to, their food is amazing and I really like their African beer selection.

Anish Shah

Alem is one of the best Ethiopian restaurants I've ever been to. The food has great spice and the service is fantastic. As a vegetarian, there are so many options and they are very accommodating for different request. The decorations and ambiance also make the experience very enjoyable. I'd recommend this to anybody in the Milwaukee area who's looking for a spicy meal that's different from the standard fare you get at many other restaurants

Curt Bennett

Been meaning to go here for years. Finally took the chance today and had extremely friendly polite service. Was made to feel very welcome. when the food came out it was an impressive display of all sorts of different strong flavorful dishes some spicy some mild but all with important intense flavors. and even my fat self couldn't come near to finishing what we ended up ordering. It is definitely a place worth coming back to and trying several more things.

Olivia Blain

I love the food! I go to the buffet during the weekday 11am-2pm. It is seasoned vegetable dishes with great spices. I like the tea. If you want some meat, you can order a side of meat. I find that the vegetable dishes are filling. I like the lentils. Reasonable price. Drinks are sold separately. A must try.

Aditya Karandikar

Food: Unbelievable. I'm not floored by most restaurants, but this was phenomenal. Fresh, delicious, and well presented. I had lamb (L2 dish) with the V1 and V3 lentil sides which I would highly recommend. The lamb was exceptionally cooked and flavored by the gravy and I will be returning and getting it again. Service: Felt a little rude at first but as the visit progressed it felt friendlier. May have been due to cultural differences or just a slight misunderstanding/misreading. Not enough of an issue to dampen my experience. Atmosphere: Well decorated, ethnically themed interior. Could be nice for a more intimate dinner in the evening and felt pretty casual for lunch, especially as there was a buffet (which I did not have). Value: Food like this is typically more expensive to prepare, so I'd say the price point is right on. Didn't feel expensive but didn't walk away thinking it was cheap.

Jayce

Our waiter seemed like the most down-to-earth genuinely friendly guy you'd ever meet. The Ethiopian experience is definitely one you shluld try out. Amazing food served traditionally, meaning you're going to be eating it with your hands. In fact, the whole place has a wonderful traditional feel to it, between the food, music, and decor. Not to mention both their Vegetarian and meat options are simply amazing. I'm definitely coming back and taking the rest of my vegetarian friends.

Nancy F

This place never disappoints. The food is very authentic. I've eaten at many Ethiopian restaurants in different cities; this food is right on par. A bit light on the spice (this is Milwaukee, after all), but if you request a spicier version then they do that. The stews are all VERY flavorful, regardless of spice level. I'm a carnivore but I really love their vegetarian stews as well. Great place to dine if you're vegetarian or vegan and you're tired of eating "side dishes" only at restaurants. I strongly recommend. There are many safe options and many adventurous options as well. GREAT for groups

Joshua Carlson

I've never been to an Ethiopian restaurant that I didn't like, and Alem didn't break that trend. My wife and I enjoyed a very lovely date here, and split a sampler platter. Every single stew was delicious! My wife and I try to eat vegan whenever possible, and it's really great to find restaurants like this, where a large portion of the menu is vegan, not just one or two salads. I am counting the days until I can come back for their lunch buffet. So good!

Ana

I can’t say much about the food, only because it was my first time trying Ethiopian food. But food is delicious I tried the Doro alitcha and it’s scrumptious!! They do have a variety of vegan food!! The people at Alem where pleased to answer questions and let you know about the spices!! It’s a very unique restaurant. Will definitely come here again !!

Jordan Taylor

The food was delicious!! Incredibly flavorful & seasoned + spiced to perfection. And the portions are really large. But dont just get one and share because you're definitely going to want your own once you get it. Highly recommend supporting this business

Heidi Kovacs

The best Ethiopian food around. Alem was the first Ethiopian restaurant I ever tried and since then I have tried Ethiopian all over the country, NOTHING compares. Been coming here for years. The food is amazing and cooked with love. The restaurant is traditional and cute, and the atmosphere is inviting and wonderful. Such a fun place to take a bunch of friends and get a huge meal to share or just a plate for your own. VEGAN LUNCH BUFFET!!! Love this place. Wish I could give it 10 stars.

U P

Dropped by to get vegetarian food here. I was surprised with the similarities between this cuisine and Indian cuisine. The spices used for food were great. The service and quality of food were best. Tried vegetarian samplers with options from V1 to V12 [minutes V5 and V9]. Very glad with my choice. Would recommend to all My friends and and family.

Mar Rittman

The vegan buffet is always wonderful, ready and affordable at $8. I was able to eat and visit in an hour easily while enjoying company. I am always greeted friendly and leave happily full.

Bree Kleist

The food was fantastic! I had never had Ethiopian food before. We went to the lunch buffet so that we could sample everything and find out what we liked and didn't like. I didn't find anything I didn't like. Our waiter was great. He answered all our questions regarding the meal. I recommend you try the Ethiopian coffee!

Kevin Glatt

Delicious takeout--love their veggie combo with yemisir wot, and their quosta (fish) and doro wat (chicken) are also fantastic. My daughter loves the lentil soup. Good for the whole family and also a great price--get lots of food for the money.

Ryan Michael

I ate here for the first time today and I did like the atmosphere and the staff was friendly. Getting the lunch buffet is not the best choice if you want anything with meat. The only thing in the buffet was cooked veggies, lentils, flatbread and spinach. Would like to see more meat in the buffet, especially if the price is $ 9.50 !!!!!!!!

Marissa S

Delicious food!! Loved the bread all of the dishes were served with! I would definitely go back to try the lunch buffet! The green peppers are very spicy. Highly recommend!! :)

Molly Havin’fun

One of my favorite restaurants in the Milwaukee area!!! First time eating Ethiopian and I loved it. What a fun experience, great staff and no forks... Really enjoyed the dinner for 2 with tons of vegan dishes and the tea. An amazing time and will be back soon.

Maximum RobespierreXVII (Max)

This place is great I've been here many times and tried so many of their dishes. I have never been disappointed. My two favorites are the Asa wot and their spicy lentils. The injera is awesome here as well. I also highly recommend the spiced tea!

Shawn Monroe

Wow! Incredible food! So flavorful and fresh! Such a wonderful experience eating in the authentic style of the culture. Alaska needs one of these to enjoy! ..and to the sweet owner who brought us our platter...Thank you!

Davy M

It was the first time I tried Ethiopian food and I absolutely LOVED IT!!!!. Freshly prepared food, no precooked or microwaved. It tasted fresh. The waitress was super sweet. It was an amazing experience. I will definitely go back again.

Kevin English

This restaurant is a gem. I visited on the recommendation of a family member. I was originally put off by the emptiness of the restaurant, but was soon persuaded otherwise when the food arrived. The place stays traditional: no silverware is given, you eat with your hands by scooping up the food with pieces of flatbread. The environment is calming and the food was tasty. Will definitely return

Justin Cormia

This was my first time trying Ethiopian food, and I have to say my experience couldn’t have been better. I had a few options picked out before I called, but I told the person on the phone it was my first time trying this food and asked for suggestions. She agreed with 2 of the 3 things I had already picked, and I just have to say that I was so impressed with the service, and the FOOD! I ended up getting an order of the beef sambusas, the doro wot, and the beef tibs. One thing of note is there are no utensils, unless requested. Everything is eaten with the injera bread. Just kinda scoop it up in the bread and shovel it into your facehole. You won’t regret ordering from here, and if you need suggestions, they seemed very happy to help.

Emily S

We visited Alem Ethiopian Village for the first time early on a Saturday evening. We were promptly greeted and seated, even sans reservation. The restaurant was about half full when we arrived, but quickly filled up by 7PM. We started off with the sambusa as an appetizer, requesting the beef. I think we received the lentil, but were still happy with them. Nicely fried and crispy, with good spices. For our entrées, we ordered the lamb L2 (fantastic, deliciously spiced but not too spicy, in a wonderful red pepper sauce), and vegetarian V1 (lentils in red pepper sauce - my favorite), V2 (steamed collard greens - pretty good), and V3 (yellow split peas in sauce – good, although definitely strong on the garlic). They have a decent selection of mostly imported beers, as well as some wine. Opting to have our entrées served on the same platter with injera worked well, and the injera itself was delicious; probably the best I’ve had. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was welcoming, and the service was very pleasant. However, only two people were serving the whole (full) dining room, and they probably could have used at least one extra person. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit, and plan on returning to check out some of the other options on their extensive menu.

Zakariyah Gross

Always very kind people. Great vegetarian lunch buffet. Greatest coffee in the world! Fresh roasted Yirgacheffe beans with spices from the birthplace of coffee. Served in traditional pot and cups. Beautiful environment with nice artwork from Ethiopia. Extremely flavorful food. Always an amazing experience

David B

The chicken in yogurt sauce and beef in tomato sauce were fantastic, and they were generous with the injera. Service was excellent. I'm pretty familiar with Ethiopian food, but it seemed like they would be very accommodating to the uninitiated. It's in a very corporate part of downtown, so it was quiet when I went on a Saturday night. One of the best Ethiopian older places I've been to.

Robert M

Delicious eats in a casual setting. We had doro wat (chicken with egg) and awaze tibs (beef). Both were picante (as requested) and complexly flavorful. Each entree was ~$12 and came with two vegetable sides, so our injera platter was full with the chicken, beef, and collards and two kinds of lentils. The service was attentive and efficient-- no chit-chat, but not unfriendly, either. Parking in the area can be a bit challenging, but after such a tasty and hefty meal, it wasn't a bad thing for us to walk a couple of blocks to the car.

Michael Lee

This place is great for a group. We usually get a customized combination platter for 3-4 people. When we went with 5, we just added another dish on the side. The food is varied and all of it was delicious!

Jo Ul

Maybe it was the time of day but I was kind disappointed by my visit to Alem Ethiopian village. The food was not "oh my goodness" great. It wasn't bad either. The service was eh. The server did not seem to interested in our order, food came out about 45 minutes after the order; with only two tables occupied the entire duration of my visit.

Sun Pal

Absolutely excellent place right in downtown Milwaukee. One walks in through a nice doorway that would be typical of an Ethiopian village dwelling. Nice art on the wall and music videos make this quite atmospheric. The food is just fabulous from the perfectly made kitfo (Ethiopian steak tartar) to the varied vegetable dishes that are prepared with care and spiced at just the right levels to enable a tiny bead of sweat to form without burning your mouth. Excellent

Tiffannie Mac Donald

Such a cool place! The food is so good! The ambiance is super chill. The service was excellent. Definitely a place to bring friends and family. Vegan/vegetarian friendly!

Aris

This is easily the best Ethiopian food I have ever had! The employees are friendly and they bring the food out quickly. My family and I know each worker and they are like family to us!

Stephen

My wife didn't tell me that I would be eating with my fingers. The food was amazing. We love trying new foods when we're out of town and we loved every bite. It was a fun experience, not too expensive either. The bread (I forget the name) is like a slightly sour pancake and you use it to make rolls or sop up some of the delicious sauces. It will get on your fingers, but don't worry about that because it gets on everyone's hands. I suggest trying this place any time you're within a reasonable distance.

Michael Wojcicki

Only time I ever tried Ethiopian food and I never regret trying something new. All very good choices. Try the lunch buffet special if you want a cheap option to see what they offer.

Alanna P

My husband and I absolutely love Alem, and we come here a LOT (including on his birthday). We've tried Ethiopian food in other cities, and the food at Alem always tastes fresh and healthy. If you've never tried Ethiopian, its just some of the best flavors you will ever eat! Every foodie in Milwaukee needs to come here at least once.

Gary Brazel

The food is healthy and tastes reasonably good, however it is far from outstanding being the least tasty Ethiopian food I’ve had. Of course the many other Ethiopian restaurants I’ve eaten at were mostly in Washington DC and New York City where there is a lot more competition than in Milwaukee where I think there is only one other Ethiopian place.

Mary Graves (Masylee)

First time trying Ethiopian food and wont be my last. The owners and staff are wonderful and make you feel at home. Great portions and an even better taste!

Aditya Gupta

The place that introduced me to Ethiopian food - I haven't found anyplace quite like it again. Their wat was to-die-for, I remember we loved the food so much that we ordered a second helping after having finished an entire meal! If you are in Milwaukee and want to have the food experience of your life - definitely go here

Nate Maunu

What a great place to eat! From lamb to vegetarian dishes, Alem has many options. If you don't know what you want, don't worry, because with many of the dinners you get multiple sides which will give you an idea of what Ethiopian food tastes like. It gets even better when you have more people because of the family style presentation of the food. Worried about dirty silverware? Don't be, because you'll be eating with your hands using a rolled flatbread which goes well with the dishes. I waited to long to try Ethiopian food, but I'm glad I did and I'm glad I went to Alem. That reminds me, I should visit there again soon.

Arrcee X

Excellent food. Love this place. Great meat and veggie options. Love the lentils. Lunch buffet or evening meal, you cannot go wrong here

Gary Levin

A great find. If you are vegetarian, the lunch buffet is a bargain (and even had many vegan options). You can order separate meat dishes to go with the buffet, or order a full meal.

Deep Singh

This place is fantastic. My first experience with Ethiopian food, and I was very impressed. The vegetarian and meat options are both delicious.

Sri

Great place. Been a regular for the last 10 years. Always fresh and tasty and very consistent. Very friendly service. Must visit for vegetarians and vegans.

Paul Bastian

Amazing food!!! Had carnivore platter. Sooooo good. Service was super friendly and helpful as it was our first time eating Ethiopian food. Cant wait to come back again!!!

Ashley Doelger

Best Ethiopian food! If you live in or around Milwaukee you must try Alem!

Daniel McLennan

Authentic Ethiopian food is always amazing. This place delivered. The owner is lovely and the food fantastic. A must eat location of milwaukee.

Siva Prasad

Their spicy beef dish is pretty amazing. So is their lentil dish and many others. I wish they were closer buy so I could eat there more often.

Nicole J Johnson

One of the best around town. I still miss Lulu's Ethiopian restaurant on Oakland but this one helps with the loss. Staff is very friendly and helpful.Food is delicious..

tanicito

Excellent. Food came out quickly and great service. All the food was great, my favorite was the spicy fried tilapia. Definitely better food than Ethiopian food in Philly.

Kyle

Top Ethiopian spot in Milwaukee in my opinion. The ambiance is perfectly inviting yet feels culturally genuine. If you have never had the pleasure of trying chicken tibs you really are missing out. They also give you injera for days. Wash it down with some honey wine and you have a superb meal. Parking is a pain since it's near the financial district but it's a must try spot.

KrisCris83

Best Ethiopian I've ever had. The chicken tibs was a show stopper. Friendly service delicious amazingly seasoned meat and veggies, and if you haven't tried injeria bread, nows the time.

Michael Wilkes

This is the first place I stop when I'm in Milwaukee. Their flavoring can't be touched. I always end up eating way more than I should.

Mason Termaat

Love this place definitely in my top 5 favorite restaurants. Lunch buffet is great to have fresh healthy food. Will be coming back.

Edward Amirault (Lite)

My partner & I hesitantly moved from NYC to Milwaukee having gone vegan shortly prior, but became totallyyy obsessed with this spot!! The people and food are warm and incredibly comforting. This is the only spot with vegan options in Milwaukee that I could come to without suffering any health issues after. Matter of fact, I'd come here feeling sick and leave feeling godly. Like we seriously would come here about 5-7x a month lol hands down our favorite in Milwaukee :)

Jealissa McKinney Williams

Good food! My first time trying and I was not disappointed. I got veggie sampler platter

Blake Sims

Was a cool experience and the food was delicious honestly. Just wanted more of it. Honey wine is really good. Waitress was really nice.

Rachel Brubeck

Great chicken dish (C2) and the injera was perfectly spongy. The vegetarian sides 1 and 3 were just ok, the meat was defintiely the star. Their homemade iced tea had a hint of cinnamon or something that made it extra tasty.

Earl Baum

Very tasty food! The veggie sampler platter had so many different tasty options. My second time here, and probably not the last.

Becca Marten

Hands down one of my favorite places to go out to eat. The service is always great and the food is amazing. Where else can you eat with your hands and no one looks at you strangely?

Tiffannie Mac Donald

the food is so delicious! The ambiance is super chill and low key. We got SO much food. Well worth the trip!

Mohamed Selim

I had the chance to eat their one time. They have a special way where you eat with an Ethiopian bread. Overall, it is good to try it for only one time.

Jamie Kawolsky

Very good food. Great portions. We don't have anything like this back at home and I love Ethiopian food. I would come back again.

Hannah Hazelberg

Delicious food! I have eaten here to-go and dine-in and it's always right, always hot, and satisfying.

James Thomason

A great restaurant experience. Waiter was very welcoming and provided great service. The food was super delicious and there was good amount of it.

La Kesha Lawrence

One of my favorite restaurants by far. Great flavors and good vegan options. But definitely not low cal!!!!

drheams

Food and service was excellent! Great vibe, family style shared dinner. I'll definitely be going back.

Ravi N V

The service is ok but the food is always delicious and reasonably priced. This has to be the only good and best dining option in that area of downtown.

Katlas Saltak

Aromatic spices earthy hearty stews clove coffee. Evocative artworks adorn the walls, shimmering music filters to the ears. This is what makes America vibrant and alive.

JC Osorio

Very lovely place with an amazing menu. The coffee is one of the best in town. The service was very caring and incredible helpful.

Arthur Talayko

This place has the best Ethiopian food that I have ever had. The food is delicious and perfect for sharing with family, friend or a date.

Shobha Lux

Veggies combo, ten dishes for two people. Injeera is really good too. It swells in your stomach, so we usually go hungry.

JaneMarie Schatzman

Very good food. Not fancy but comfortable and pleasant. Be prepared to eat in a non-US style. Very reasonbly priced too.

Andrew Nelson

My wife and I make it a point to eat here whenever we're in Milwaukee. It's a delicious and unique place to eat. Great ambiance.

Harry Sha

Lots of food! Good vegan options. Mango juice is really good :)

Gary Scray

Amazing food. My wife and I got the coffee after our meal and it was the most aromatic pot of coffee we ever had.

David Wolf-Hudson

Alem is wonderful! I went twice in two days. Friendly service, reasonable prices, and great flavours - an excellent experience.

Christopher Miller

Alem always has delicious food. Kind of a random location and it can be kind of quiet and slow at times. But all of the food is a pure joy to eat.

Asya Krengauz

Love this restaurant and the homemade taste! Every time we're in Milwaukee, we make it a point to go here! Highly recommended!!

Angela Matthews

I've been here so many times I love them. The food is so good.

Rajitha Chimmani

Buffet is cheap. The traditional crepes with spicy chicken entree and lentils taste good.

Jasmine Pitts

Love the food, but I just felt it was too expensive for what we received. I think the buffet is probably a better option.

JENNIFER RUCH

The waitress was very helpful when it was our first time there. Very good food!

Abhishek Patre

The food was really good, get the beers they have! (One of the really authentic place I've been)

Sam Patel

great food, love the vegetarian options. Not too spicy and good for your friends that are not too adventurous.

Kristian Perez

Delicious food, and they are available for take out as well which is great right now!

kshort

A+++ wonderful food and very friendly atmosphere. Would go back hands down.....I am very impressed.

Jamer Hernandez

A friend and I went to have lunch there during our spring break and we loved it. This was our first experience dining at an Ethiopian restaurant.

field person

The best thing that has happened today was making the decision to order take out from here, and I've had a really good day , so

Josh Makovsky

Food was excellent. Staff was courteous and pleasent. I highly recommend this resteraunt.

Maria Roks

Never had Ethiopian food, great for first-timers to the genre. Cool decor, and very yummy food.

Brett Blackburn

Been coming here for years and have to say it's become one of my favorite restaurants in the area.

Edwin Chong

Great Ethiopian food. The "carnivore" plate had more than enough meat for two.

Brent Steffen

This place has excellent food, great vegie options, good lunch and dinner menu for good price

Bill Fisher

Super nice staff, good help on ordering (and eating). The food was very good and filling.

Kevin Severs

Food has an oddly sweet flavor that I've never tasted in Ethiopian food before.

Ahmed Abdulle

It's Good restaurant And delicious Food I like it. east African traditional Food Especially Ethiopia..

Abdelrahman Salem

First time having Ethiopian food, it was very delicious and the staff are very friendly and respectful!

Aubrie Granata

Fantastic food & wonderful, friendly service! Will definitely be going back!

Saggy S

Nice Ethiopian restaurant. Very good food. Sometimes Ethiopian cultural program on TV playing. Overall good restaurant.

Shane A.

First time at a place like this and I loved it. The bread is odd at first but all together it tastes amazing.

James Shea

Excellent selection of vegan food. Get the sampler got best results.

Levi Kohlmann

Excellent, unique food at excellent prices. We will definitely be back.

yuwanda evans

The food is awesome. The greens omg the greens are awesome so is the doro wat and lamb stew

Doc H

Sensational food and fantastic staff! One of Milwaukee’s best restaurants.

Garrett Walker

The food here is DELICIOUS! The vegan platter that I had was PLENTY for two!

Deane Gauthier

We had the lunch buffet. Flavors were wonderful and could not be happier.

Annie D

Alem is one of my favorite restaurants in Milwaukee. Great vegetarian options!

Odysseas

Amazing. It was the best Ethiopian food I've ever had, hands down

P V

Great food and service. Will be back. Just have to giver the option of the white injera (fermented) one

kristi rygh

Best Ethopian food in Wisconsin! Friendly staff. Warm fun enviroment.

Scott Gray

Food was good. Injera especially tasty. The server was the best!

André Chi

Enjoyed our lunch buffet here immensely. Simple and yummy!

Omar K

I picked up food for two to go and it was still hot and very good!

YHY

Absolutely loved the food!! We did have to wait quite a bit for the food though!

William Hakos

Great lunch buffet and a fun change of pace restaurant in downtown Milwaukee.

Seth Duhnke

Wow that was fun, great tastes, aromas and lots of interesting people. Makes me say why do I ever eat anything else?

Vivek Rajamani

Good vegetarian options, friendly staff. Slightly expensive for dinner but worth it.

Tia Robertson

Alem is one of my favorite restaurants. My family and I enjoy dining here frequently.

Amy Lewis

Excellent good and warm, welcoming service. I wish I lived in Milwaukee so I could visit regularly!

VIMAL VENUGOPAL

Good place for vegetarian buffet..try C1 and L1..you won't be disappointed

Bob Mounce

Great food and Great people Thank you first time will be back again!

Natalie Rutherford

So delicious! Loved the cabbage and spinach with the beef.

Vivek Chowdhary

Great vegetarian buffet for lunch. Service can be a little slow but polite

Josh Mittelman

I've never had Ethiopian before going here, very delicious! Glad I went!

Henok Wojack

It is a great Ethiopian restaurant that has great food native to Ethiopia.

Trish P.

LOVE this place. One of best restaurants in Downtown Milwaukee

Republic Bear

Still can't eat inside but the food is still amazing!

Vincent Su

Good experience. Love different selection of vegetarian dishes.

Evan mcconahay

chicken, beef and veggie plates were delicious

Rosann Darga

The food is soooooooo good 😃 and such nice wait staff. …

Tai Rubiano

Don't think you can go wrong with anything you have in the menu

Lawrence Greenberg

Good food. Many vegetable offerings. Nice service.

Fred Johnson

I would give it a five for everything only I didn't like how my food was wrapped in that spongy kinda pungent bread.

Scott Eisenhardt

Delectable Ethiopian food. Highly recommended, love this place.

Beth Sahagian Allsop

Delicious food at good prices and delightful staff.

nick m

Rare cultural gem in a city that is finally growing up with some decent and varied food choices.

Holly B

Excellent variety of flavors, helpful waitress.

Mike Brisben

Quick vegetarian lunch buffet (can order meat on the side)

Hamadyne

Incredible atmosphere and service!

Sanat Tiwari

Very nice restaurant with lots of vegetarian options.

Gob Barre

Such a nice engera and tibsi I love it. I would eat every day!!

Jess Doe

Good food really nice people.

Manish Patil

They provide Tasty food and very nice service.

Vedavyas Rao

Food was great. But horrible attitude from a particular waiter.

Gary “grim” Kramlich

Waiter was helpful picking some stuff out and it was amazing!

digafe chalito

It is very nice i like the Ethiopian dorowot (chicken)

brainy bella

Lunch buffet!!! Was wonderful. A great hidden gem.

Ian Hyzy

Always excellent food and great prices.

Meril Mani

So much amazing food with great spices!

Michelle Breen

Traveled from Chicago to eat here. Well worth the drive.

Jerome Wagoner jr

Good food fast service helpful staff will return

David Davydov

Awesome food and experience! Loved it!

Dahir Nur

Amazing ethiopian restaurant. Will visit again!

Lara Hau

The vegan buffet is always delicious. Always.

quilla banks

Great food. Plan on going back soon.

T Wera

The food was delicious and the waitress was great.

Piyush Behera

We love the Ethopian food served at Alem

Gary Lange

It was experiencing a different cultures cuisine. No untensils.

Daniel Burkholder

Excellent food. Great prices.

Christopher August

One of the best lunch deals downtown!

Chantelle R.

Such good food, drinks, and atmosphere

thomas edwardson

Good food and atmosphere for lunch.

Mathan Senthamizhselvan

Food is good but I think the price is overrated

Denise Alden

Delicious! And the coffee is wonderful, too.

April Espinosa

Great food. Very authentic

Arpita Pandey

Delicious food and decent rates.

Altin Demiroglu

After this place, my favorite food is Ethiopian!

julie korchowsky

Great food, good service

Bob Brooks

Can't say enough. The food was outstanding.

Mark Horvatich

Here for the buffet, wonderful food. I'm stuffed.

Denihar

Awesome food.

E Buckets

THE FOOD WAS AMAZING !!! Recommend 💯 …

Ryan Birkholz

The best ethiopian in towm. Love it every time.

Monalisa Padhee

Our favourite place for lunch date :)

Bhavanesh Asar

Good place for experimenting on African food

Jennifer “Jenny” Hart

Great food, very authentic!!

Benjamin Roe

Very friendly staff and delicious food

Joel Hansen

Great food. Will be back

Dan Glader

The food was great.....the service was great.

Anne DiMotto

Delicious food and kind staff

Robert H. Skye

Awesome plant based buffet.

Nicole Strike

Very good food and experience.

Andrew Bezella

Possibly the best I've eaten!

Naturally Exquisite

Exceptional vegan food here

Julia Shaughnessy

Best Ethiopian food in the city!

Andrew White

My favorite Ethiopian food in WI.

Jezika Loola

Delicious food.

Sasha Troha

Best Ethiopian restaurant in the Midwest!

Jon Cantrall

Worth trying. Meat was very salty.

Christelle Oben

Fantastic food, atmosphere

Alexandra Salazar

Oh my god. So good! 💕 …

yamini k

Food was really delicious 👍 …

Alicia Ramirez- Sanders

Good service and great food

Melissa Walker

Best Ethiopian restaurant in Milwaukee!!

Rohit Rangarajan

Great vegetarian food.

Dawn Helsing Wolters

Wonderful. Yum! We will be back!

Kateri Cornelius

Love the lunch buffet!

Gabriel Ferrari de Araujo

Really nice food!

Heidi Curtis

A great introduction to Ethiopian cuisine

Dan Arbiture

Wonderful food and service

Chris T

Polite staff and delicious food

Karthik Dupakuntla

Nice place and good food

Alex Broses

Best Ethiopian spot in mke

Ted Jordan

Delicious, fast, good,... and delicious 😉 …

Kateri Killian

If you are feeling a little adventurous! Very delicious food, great ambience and service. I was hesitant when the food was first presented, but one bite and I went back for more!

Sneakerz Outkastz

Best Ethiopian Food in Milwaukee

Chadd Gostas

Amazing food and cheap

Taslim Ademola Abdul Salam

Great place for food.

Angela Brunner

Vegan lunch buffet ✌❤

Beverley Pickering-Reyna

Great food and service

Geo Rutherford

Awesome food!

Luke N

Phenomenal food and service

jessca

Delicious

mke414 “Foodie guru” sloan

Authentic delicious food

Stephanie Schultz dba Silversärk

Incredible food!

Jasmine Gooden

Love the buffet

Olas

Family style for friends

Diego Cottarelli

Great Ethiopian food

Brett Smith

Great food!!

Karen Spence

Great Food!!!

E

Delicious and different

Levi Brill

Great experience!

daveo

Yummy

Lily Schoudel

Great food

Dennis Reynolds

Consistently good

R. Raminyah Ingram

Delightful cuisine.

Angela Dycus

Great experience

jason seymour

Great food

Hanna Huseva

Good food.

Ruth Weill

Yum

Anmol Sharma

Delicious food.

M W

Great food

Glen Fredlund

Vegetarian options

Keya Graves

Delicious!

Pontus Lernhag

Nice place

Tiana Harris

Wonderful service and delicious food.

Bruno Niwa

(Translation) A discovery but so tasty, in a group the family dish is a good way to taste several flavors, friendly service, super light addition (Original) Une découverte mais tellement goûteuse, en groupe le plat familial est un bon moyen de goûter plusieurs saveurs, service aimable, addition légère super

o matty

lucy l

NEON DAS

H P

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