An excellent addition to the diverse Champaign-Urbana dining scene, Blue Ethiopian serves up vibrant and authentic dishes
The downtown Champaign restaurant, which opened this year, brings Ethiopian cuisine to Champaign-Urbana
First opened in January 2026, Blue Ethiopian in downtown Champaign serves up vibrant and authentic Ethiopian food.
Upon walking in the door, it is obvious that every aspect of Blue Ethiopian was meticulously thought out. Colorful decor paired with sleek marbled tabletops and wall-to-wall windows create an inviting feel for the dining experience. As parents who typically dine in the presence of toys and half-finished art projects, having a meal in such a carefully curated environment made for a particularly luxurious evening.
We went to Blue Ethiopian on a double date, but while there, we ran into friends eating alongside grandparents and two small children. All were happy and enjoying a delicious feast, making this the perfect family-friendly restaurant for all ages.
The menu is full of delicious options. Popular menu items include Sïga Tïbs (both lamb and beef), Doro Tïbs, and Doro Wät. Because so many menu items looked delicious, we opted for the Sïga Bäyaynätu, an assortment of flavorful stewed and sauteed meats served alongside cheese, salad, and plenty of injera. Each main is served with three condiments: chili, pepper paste and mustard. For two people, this was the perfect meal. We devoured every last bite — with our hands! — and enjoyed the opportunity to taste so many dishes.
Though we savored the exceptional meat options, Blue Ethiopian also serves up a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan items, including a Vegan combination platter. Additionally, the house made injera, a fermented spongy flatbread that is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine, is naturally gluten free* — making this a great stop for those wanting gluten free options in Champaign-Urbana.
Chambanamoms tip: Alongside regular hours for lunch and dinner, Blue Ethiopian has regular cafe hours from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Cafe offerings include Ethiopian coffee sourced from Columbia Street Roastery, a house-made Ethiopian spiced tea blend, sambusa, and an assortment of pastries. It’s a great first stop for a morning in downtown Champaign.
Blue Ethiopian offers takeout and catering. It has a system to inquire about reservations but depending on time and day, reservations are not always necessary.
Located on North Walnut and Taylor streets, across the street from Suzu’s Bakery — a good stop for dessert after — Blue Ethiopian Restaurant and Cafe is a welcome addition to downtown Champaign, ideal for a date night, a family meal or a celebration.
*Note: Always confirm with the restaurant that an item is indeed gluten free, especially for those with Celiac’s disease
