[[HIGHLIGHT]]Small cute restaurant, nice decor.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Food was delicious and very generous portions. Will be going back.

I had the most amazing time celebrating my friend at this restaurant. My friend that mentioned that she does not like Ethiopian food has only good things to say. This is great establishment where the staff is always so friendly and attentive. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place is clean and there is even a hand washing station.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I love how the Ethiopian culture is highlighted from the videos broadcasted on the tv, art and decor throughout the restaurant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food was amazing. We got mild spice and it did not disappoint. We got the 4 person meal for 3 of us and there was plenty of left overs. There was a. Assortment of meats and vegetarian options and they were all delicious. My only issue was the injera and some of the sides were cold or close to Lukewarm. I love hot food or at least warm. Also, there is paid street side parking outside. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Ordered from Doordash last week and it just hit the spot! I tried the Beef Awaze Tibs and it was so good! The beef was tender and the sauce it was cooked in was something special. They sent extra injera as well with the order which I very much appreciated. I hope next time to try this spot in person. I know I'll have another tasty meal! read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Beef Awaze Tibs - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Absolutely delicious meal. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are usually very few people in here, but it's nicely decorated[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]], the prices ane fair and the serving sizes are generous, and the service is friendly. We love it here, just wish I lived closer! read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Lamb combo plate for 2 - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Went back again with friends and it was once again amazing! [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was rather empty so our group of 6 at 7pm on a Friday could get sat right away![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Quick and wonderful service with great recommendations. We got the platter for 4 with 2 more meats of all different spice levels. Even with all of us we had left overs! We also got 2 bottles of honey wine! It ended up with tip costing us $38 a person which I'd say is amazing read more

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This was our first visit to this restaurant--and it definitely won't be our last! We're not local to the area, but it's now on our "must return" list. We ordered the lamb combo, which was absolutely delicious. The lamb was perfectly prepared, and the sides--lentils, mushrooms, collard greens, cabbage with potatoes, and beets--were all flavorful and satisfying. The injera was excellent, too! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Beyond the amazing food, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The owner clearly knew and cared about his regulars, and his young daughter added a charming touch to the family-friendly vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It was a lovely experience overall, and we're already looking forward to coming back. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Delicious, unique food! Our server was attentive and the food came out hot and delicious. Everything tasted fresh and I loooove the injera. I could've eaten multiple rolls of it lol. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Such a fun dining experience![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I will definitely be back. read more

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Axum is conveniently located right outside of the Indianapolis Public Library parking garage and made for an outstanding Saturday family lunch. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The staff were extremely attentive and friendly, and we loved the atmosphere inside the restaurant itself (beautiful wall art especially).[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We split a beef tibs dish for 2 with all three types of lentils, mushrooms, collards and cabbage at medium spicy heat--and it was all outstanding. I enjoyed a glass of the house made tej (national beverage in Ethiopia comparable to mead) and, if I wasn't driving, I'd have had two more. My wife had their ginger-honey tea, also house-made, and it was excellent, both delicious and practically medicinal. Our family loves Ethiopian, Somali and Eritrean cuisine, and we will certainly return to Axum. read more

Great service and tasty food! We left the selection to the chef and were not disappointed. The "spicy" was perfect - with full flavor. The mild was truly mild. A lovely experience. read more

A friend invited me to get dinner here a week ago. I'd never had Ethiopian food before. It's AMAZING! It's served with this spongey bread that serves as your cutlery. We split no.13 with beef tibs. It was amazing! The bread does fill you up quick a bit I must warn. But the lentils, veggies, and beef were amazing! read more

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Great food! It was our first time eating here and the server was great at helping us pick our dish and making sure we were taken care of. Great African music playing, too. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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The vegan plate included all six of their vegan menu items plus beets and served with injera. The fermented taste of the injera is such a good pairing with their dishes. My favorite of the seven was the Misir Wot (split, red lentils simmered in a medium berbere sauce, onion, a pinch of garlic, and ginger). It was so good I got an order of the lentils to go, the Axum Lentils Vegan Combination, with three different types of lentil dishes in one order - Misir Wot, Misir Alicha, and Kik Alicha. About a year ago I tried Ethiopian for the first time at a place in Fishers, which has since closed. Even though this place is a bit farther for me, it's nice to have it as an option. The ambiance inside is welcoming and the service was fast and employees were friendly. Street parking is out front and on Sundays there is no cost to park. read more

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My husband and I stopped in for dinner and had a great evening. I really wanted Ethiopian food. Made a reservation just in case. The owner was very informative since we didn't know what would be best to order but still enjoy a variety. We did have the honey wine(DONT PUT ICE IN IT) we did at first and the owner told us it's best to have it at room temperature with the food to bring out the flavors. Oooops! Definitely will visit again. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Lamb plate for two Axum Special Lamb Tibs with Vegan for 2 Combo - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I ate dinner on Thursday and the food was great! Service is not the best, but food is good. I return on Friday and order the same food. When my food arrived it was cold. I informed my server that the food was cold. He said " it's not cold". I repeated my self 3 times and he continued to say that the food was not cold. How about I'm telling you my food is cold and just fix it. No, he wants to tell me the food is cold. We have never had this issue. I will never come back here. He was rude and did not hear my food up. read more

Every time I come, it's a great experience! They have vegetarian options as well as meat options. We got the platter for 4 to share and it was a great spread. I loved the beef and lamb in particular! I would highly recommend :) read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

What a gem! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Loved our lunch as a family--unique dining experience and such a personal touch![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

I have to share this delicious combo platter from Axum Ethiopian Restaurant located in downtown Indy on Pennsylvania. I believe this is the Axum special with beef. The spices and incredible depth of flavor (especially in the green lentils) is like a warm hug for your tastebuds. Highly recommend! read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Food is always incredibly delicious and wonderfully spiced. I never cease enjoying their perfectly made injera and vegetarian dishes. Service is always good and the staff always kind and understanding. One of the best Ethiopian restaurants in Indy! read more

Have been many times. AMAZING food and service . Consistently on point. Love this place. . read more

I was delighted to find some Ethiopian food and was not disapoonted. Everything tasted fresh and flavorful. I had the vegan platter to-go and they even wrapped it cleverly to keep my food warm. Would gladly eat here again. read more

I was in town for a conference and was talking to my Lyft driver on where to go for dinner. He recommended Axum and it was absolutely fantastic. Everything was extremely flavorful and the portion size was huge. Everyone was so friendly and I am so glad I went here. Please go here for really amazing food, and great service. Ps I feel like everyone in Indianapolis is just so friendly read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - #20 Vegan Combo - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

The vegan platter is our favorite 'go-to' at Axum. It's full of flavor, and very filling. It keeps really well for leftovers the next day. I've never eaten in the restaurant, I've only gone in to pick up food. The ambiance is always very quiet, dark, a little sleepy. Usually one or two tables at most are seated. If you want delicious flavors, healthy, vegan food, Axum has some great options. read more

Two of us visited for dinner and I was surprised there was only one other table occupied. From the Yelp reviews, I only felt comfortable ordering the Chef's Special/ variety platter for 2. It turned out to be plenty of food - we didn't finish it all. The bread you use to scoop up the ingredients to eat, has a fermented, sour flavor. All of the components on the tray were very tasty, a couple quite spicy. I enjoyed trying Ethiopian food. read more

This was my first time trying Ethiopian food, there's a few places in Indy that serves Ethiopian dishes but we decided to go to this one cause it has the highest rating Although the food doesn't look as appetizing , let me tell you it's the opposite it was so delicious! If you don't like spicy food, make sure to read the descriptions because some of them were a little bit on the fiery side The service was okay, I think there was 1 person working by himself both as the server and as the cook, towards our dining experience it got a little bit busy, and he wasn't able to check on us and give us more drinks The food definitely made up for the service, would come back again, I'd recommend for someone who hasn't had any Ethiopian food read more

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Axum has the best Ethiopian food I've found across multiple U.S. cities! Vegan friendly as well. Highly recommend.

Tucked away between buildings, you will find this authentic, delicious Ethiopian dining experience! It's everything you want out of traditional Ethiopian food-- Injera paired with an array of traditional dishes that are earthy and balanced with the perfect amount of spices and acidity. Dinner for two and a couple diet cokes won't set you back too much and you'll likely have leftovers. Service was also friendly and fast. Feeling lucky that Indy has this culinary, culture rich gem! read more

Okay, so I must say, this place is a must go to type of place!!! I was a little confused that they didn't have a sign outside of their building, it just looked like an ordinary little building on the outside, but once you're inside... WOW! It is so well decorated and beautiful!! Every table has some kind of beautiful Ethiopian print, and the wall on the art is just as beautiful!! We were greeted by a nice young man, we tried the Axum Special for two, and it did not disappoint!! The meat was so well marinated and the three different lentil soups it came on top of the injera they all had different tastes and the slightly bitter injera complimented it so well! I would 100% recommend and go back! read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - SpecialAxum Special Tibs - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

[[HIGHLIGHT]]great family run place, great atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] server helped us with what to get. got the beef tibs and vegetarian combo and everything was pretty good-- a little less flavorful and spicy than other ethiopian i've gotten but very solid. i will definitely try different dishes here soon read more

Well that was a delicious and fun experience. A few friends and I were talking about Axum they other day and decided to order the three person vegan combo meal for the four of us to share in the backyard. You read that right- three servings is plenty for four people (in fact, we all had leftovers for lunch the next day). We opted for the vegan combo because it so clearly is the trending item in Axum's Yelp reviews. I called and placed the carry out order and the gentleman on the phone told me it would be ready in 10-12 minutes (so fast!). I popped in and grabbed the food and the entire experience was very swift and smooth. I was impressed by how tidily they were able to package a meal that is typically served in a grand and spread out manner. Each bite was packed with flavor and scooped up with the generous servings of injera bread. Overall, a fantastic experience and we can't wait to return for more carryout. read more

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The food was delicious, the service was incredible. The atmosphere was beautiful and welcoming. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - So delicious! - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I went there with my roommate, and I loved it. Before yesterday I had never eaten at an African restaurant before. I've always been interested in trying Ethiopian food. I did not know what to expect, but all I could say was that that was some of the best food I had in Indy. The restaurant is located in the St. Joseph neighborhood right across the street from the public library. When I walked into the restaurant, it had a very African feel. It was a very Grundy and hands on kind of place. The tables and walls had a lot of traditional Ethiopian art to inside the restaurant. I ordered the beef awaze tibs and it was so good. It was surrounded by this sponge looking bread where the food is hands on. You don't need to use any silverware while eating here. The food was filling but so good for leftovers as well. Definitely a place prop should go too. The location is underrated as it's not right in the center of downtown but it's right near there. read more

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I went there with my friend, And I must say it. Was TASTY!! I've had Ethiopian food before and nothing beats sharing with your friends. What I love the most about this place is your at with you hands. It's reminiscent of my own culture. The food was perfect, the spices melded in perfectly together. The injera was chefs kiss Pros: Hospitality Cleanliness Food Parking Customer services Honestly I have. I cons. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Their combination was excellent. Very flavorful. Good injera and tender meat. The tej was really sour. More sour than any I've ever had and I really couldn't drink it. They were kind enough to take it off my bill. Next time I'm in the area I'll definitely try and go back. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Combo - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I really enjoy Ethiopian food, but unfortunately I was not thrilled with this experience. The inside was nice, big beautiful bar with colorful paintings that really showcased the beauty of the Eritrean/Ethiopian people. Service was good, very prompt and the server was very nice. The good was just ok. I came with a party of 8. My order consisted of both the meat and veggie special. The meat was the same sauce but divided between chicken, lamb and beef. The veggies was a very bland collard, cabbage and carrots and red, green and yellow lentils. The meat was tender. Unlike other spots, this one didn't come with a hard boiled egg. The meat had great spice but all three were much too similar. The collards were fresh but just not seasoned enough. The cabbage was ok, but not as seasoned as I was expecting. Overall the location was good, service was wonderful but food fell just a bit short. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Interior bar - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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We have loved this place for years. We introduced our baby to it and I think love is an understatement. We will be coming back with her soon! Always a solid choice. The best comfort food. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Beef and lentils - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This is for the takeout/UberEats Somewhat far so they aren't always available for delivery Their injera is so good, it's somehow spongier and also more moist than other places Their vegetarian mix has generous servings, even the order for one is enough for multiple meals The lamb is very tender and flavorful I only wish their fosolia were sweeter Expensive but worth it Our new favorite Ethiopian place read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Fantastically soft and fluffy injera - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

If you haven't tried Ethiopian food before, you must get to Axum. Located across the street from the Central Library, there's plenty of open street parking. There's plenty of tables, even for a group inside and I've never had a wait. There's plenty of variety of options for meat eaters, vegetarians or vegans, all are delicious! My favorites are the lentils. They are seasoned well and go perfectly with the injera bread! The bread is the best vessel for all the great options. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Meat and Vegan Combo for Two - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

We live downtown and often walk to the library, spotting this place next door. We finally executed our plan of having dinner and then taking our 18m daughter to play at the library afterwards. We were the only ones there at 5:30 (1 more party walked in as we were leaving). The server was amazing - so friendly and helpful. Her English wasn't the best but she helped us pick the right food (beef tibs combo) and drinks (an Ethiopian beer). The spice level was also perfect. We used to live in Chicago and have had Ethiopian/Eritrean food before, so we were prepared, but I could see how eating with your hands (with the help of injera) could be surprising and less popular in Indiana. They said they'd been around for 10 years, though, so I hope they continue to succeed. They have silverware for those who prefer a more Western experience. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Despite the austere exterior, the inside is tastefully decorated and IMPECCABLY clean - glass and metal were all polished and floors were spotless.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We honestly felt bad leaving behind our mini mess, as well as the many handprints and mouth prints from our daughter running around and exploring while we were waiting for the food. read more

Located across the street from Central Library in downtown Indy, this unassuming exterior leads you to some of the most delicious, healthy food. If you've never had Ethiopian food before, it'll be a surprise to you that you eat your entire meal with your hands. You order a plate of your choosing, and it's served on a massive tray of injera - spongy, sourdough-risen flatbread. There are groupings of the different bean, meat or vegetable combinations piled on top of the injera, which you rip off and use to pick up the meat, beans or vegetables. These are great meals to share, but you can also order your own. I got the #22: a lentils vegan combo that consisted of red lentils with ginger and garlic, green lentils with onion and turmeric, yellow peas with onion, garlic and turmeric and spiced chickpeas in tomato bullion. I loved them ALL. None of them were spicy (you can ask the server to tell you which ones aren't), but are flavored so deliciously. I finished my entire plate and left feeling both full and healthy. The owner is from Ethiopia and even uses money raised by this business to send home to his family, and he even gives leftover food at night to the people on the street around his business. He's SO kind and works super hard. It's awesome to always see people in here supporting their delicious food and hard work! read more

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Axum continues to impress me and the folks I've eaten with. The menu has a plethora of vegan options. The meat available is mostly lamb, but they have a bit of everything. Try their house tea! The TVs inside usually have sports and/or Ethiopian-related programming. The food doesn't keep the best as leftovers since the injera soaks up the liquid, but putting it in an air fryer makes leftovers doable. ParkMobile street parking is usually available right by the restaurant, and the Central Library garage is a good deal too. Look up Ethiopian dining etiquette before you go! The price for most meals is around $18 which is worth it for the amount of food. Usually there is no wait. read more

Axum Ethiopian Restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana