Welcome to Safari Somali Cuisine
Safari Somali Cuisine, located at 6319 N Ridge Ave, Chicago, is a hidden gem that invites diners to experience the rich flavors of Somali and Kenyan cuisine. With no formal menu, guests are encouraged to ask what's cooking, making each visit a unique culinary journey. Highlights include their tender goat, flavorful injera, and the beloved Somali spaghetti, which has garnered rave reviews. The warm, welcoming atmosphere, coupled with exceptional customer service from owner Chef Habon and host Abdi, enhances the dining experience. Sip on their aromatic spiced tea, and you'll understand why this establishment becomes a cherished favorite among food lovers.
Safari Somali Cuisine: Reviews & Ratings
Loved finding this treasure! I went when they were only serving breakfast, and I chose liver for my protein and injera for my bread. It was really delicious, nice and tender and flavorful, the injera was crisp and spongy. The tea is also great, super hot, sweet, and spicy. I loved every lick of this and I keep thinking about it, can’t wait to go back and try everything.
Habon is a wonderful owner/chef. Abdi an entertaining host. Our party of 13 had a wonderful evening. All the food came out hot, goat was tender with just the right amount of spices. Plus a small potent pili-pili.The ladies enjoyed the fresh brewed sweet tea too. Somali Kenyan menu. Definitely a unique restaurant with a welcoming vibe. A must try
This restaurant was a rare find in the majestic city of Chicago. The food was great, the service even better, but the real standout was the tea—I could drink several cups of it every day. The other customers dining in were also amazing, giving me recommendations for spots to visit in Chicago. I highly recommend this place.
This was such an amazing place! The food is phenomenal! You really do feel like you were eating mom or grandma‘s home-cooked food. It is so homey and the best type of soul food anyone can ever have. The portions are huge the price is so fair and the owners are just so friendly and sweet. We came here and told him just give us a mix of what you have right now and we got the rice, beans, potato, spinach, and beef and goat with the spaghetti noodles and it was soooooooo good. The owner was so sweet and gave us this spiced tea to end it off and even the tea was delicious!! Top 5 yummiest meals I ever had in my life. Way better than any 200 steak dinner I ever had. Seriously you need to go here and try it. It will change your life.
Somali spaghetti is probably the most slept on dish in the city of Chicago and Safari Somali does not sleep ! There is no menu. Just walk in and ask what's cooking. It's likely going to be the famous spaghetti or rice. Now I know where to go for the best spaghetti with beef and spicy sauce followed up with a hot cup of tea to go with milk with cloves and cardamom.
Delicious, beautiful food with a welcoming owner. I had the beef ribs that are fresh and never frozen (only available on Wednesdays) with salad and a side of seasoned rice that came with beans, cabbage, and vegetables. The hot sauce is delicious and Hot! Everything was exceptional. The plating and presentation were beautiful. The ambience was welcoming, crisp, clean, and modern. 10 out of 10. will definitely be back!
Hidden Gem!!! Food lovers alert! This place is simply amazing! Food is authentic, tasty and delicious. Quantity and quality both are great! If you would like to try halal African food then please give this place a try! Also don’t forget to try their black tea! Just amazing! They have customer parking area as well!
I ordered a goat rice dish and was amazed! Incredibly juicy and tender meat, with generous portions if veggies and side dishes (they go very nice together). The rice was absolutely amazing! And they had complimentary raspberry juice as well!! All for a VERY affordable price. What a gem!
Location
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6319 N Ridge Ave, Chicago, IL 60660, United States Hotline: +1 773-961-7401
Safari Somali Cuisine is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary adventure nestled in the heart of Chicago at 6319 N Ridge Ave. With an inviting atmosphere and a menu that changes daily, this hidden gem invites diners to discover the rich and vibrant flavors of Somali-Kenyan cuisine. As you step through the doors, you're not just entering a restaurant; you're entering a home, where the warmth of hospitality and the tantalizing aromas promise an unforgettable experience.
One of the standout dishes is the Somali spaghetti, often regarded as an underappreciated treasure of the city's dining scene. Customers have raved about its deliciousness, describing it as a must-try dish that is prepared with care and full of flavor. Notably, the spaghetti with beef and its accompanying spicy sauce has a way of connecting diners to the heart of Somali culinary tradition.
But Safari Somali Cuisine offers far more than just the perfect pasta. The liver with injera is another highlight, celebrated for its tenderness and remarkable seasoning. The injera itself, crisp and spongy, perfectly complements the rich flavors of the meat. And let’s not overlook the sweet, hot, and spicy tea that has become a signature at this location—customers can't help but sing its praises, claiming it’s addictive and something they look forward to with every visit.
What truly sets Safari Somali Cuisine apart is the warm and welcoming vibe that permeates the entire experience. Helmed by the personable owner and chef Habon, together with the entertaining host Abdi, the dining experience transcends food. Guests describe it as family-like, with friendly interactions engaging every table. This communal atmosphere seems to enhance the flavors, making every bite more enjoyable.
As you savor your meal, you might just find yourself chatting with fellow diners, sharing recommendations and stories about your time in the city. The ambiance is not just about eating; it’s about the connection that food fosters. Safely tucked away in Chicago’s bustling food scene, Safari Somali Cuisine captures the essence of soul food that feels like you’re enjoying a lovingly prepared meal crafted by mom or grandma.
It’s a place that promises not only incredible food but also an enriching experience for your heart and palate. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning loyal customer, the promise of delightful dishes and a superior dining experience awaits. Don’t miss your chance to explore this unique culinary treasure—every meal is a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of Somali flavors.