Tsion Cafe

4.2 (244 reviews)

ModerateEthiopian, Mediterranean, Bars

Closed • 6:00 pm - 10:00 PM

Updated over 3 months ago

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Tsion Cafe - Mushroom Tibs Qeysir - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

Tsion Cafe - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

Tsion Cafe - Ethiopian Veggie Combo for 1 - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Tsion Cafe - Back patio view inside of restaurant - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Lynn O.

I love everything about this restaurant. This was my second time here, and I brought 2 friends along. The drinks were great, the food was amazing, and the music added to the wonderful ambiance. We ordered several vegan items off the menu and we enjoyed everything we had. I can hardly wait to return!

Rebecca S.

My first time at Tsion Cafe was with a large group of 10 to celebrate a birthday. The restaurant staff warmly welcomed us to a nice table and brought water and menus. They asked if we were familiar with Ethiopian food and whether we would want them to explain the menu briefly which was appreciated. We asked questions about how much to order for our large group and were given great recommendations, We ended up ordering the perfect amount of food, it was all sooooo delicious. I only managed to photograph the appetizers but the entree were incredible. Some of what we ordered in addition go hummus and Sambusas Fikre (Lover's) Combo Beets, shiro,cabbage, mild lentils, gomen, injera Tsion Platter Shiro, atakilt, mild lentils, qey sir, injera Oyster Mushroom Wot Oyster mushroom slow simmered in spicy sauce Atakilt sauteed cabbage with spiced potatoes and carrots All Great, we also got a few extra sides of injera to help us share better. Everyone in the group reached the consensus that while everything was delicious, the mushrooms were the star of the show. While we said we were too full for dessert, the owner heard we were celebrating a birthday and came over with malawach and halva for the table. I usually find halva to be too sweet, but this hazelnut halva was PERFECTION. Not too sweet just right We will definitely be back to Tsion cafe and I highly recommend this restaurant whether you are looking to expand your palette and try new foods or if you are a long time lover of Ethiopian food!

Sarah T.

Very good Ethiopian with some dishes not typically found Each large plate serves one person Portobello tibs, Tsion plate, and a sweet potato jolof bowl all excellent. Unlike other Ethiopians places you have to ask for extra injera and they also serves forks Injera: it was ok but I prefer all teff Bathroom: clean and single serve non gendered Location: very close to subway and bus stops

Me and Beejhy Barhany in the outside seating area at Tsion Café

Jodi B.

As the Co-President of Women's Media Group we hosted a special booksigning and culinary event! The book is GURSHA and the recipes come from Chef and owner of Tsion Cafe in Harlem-Beejhy Barhany! The food is amazing, the atmosphere electric and cozy, and the staff is spectacular! It is a must eat place whether you go to the restaurant for the full experience or order for pick up and eat at home! If you love the food as much as I do-you will want to get the book at try the recipes! Enjoy!!!

Melissa N.

They certainly deserve 5 stars. It's a wonderful hybrid of Ethiopian and Israeli food. I came here for a special occasion and was blown away! First of all, the owner approached us and explained her background, the history of the restaurant, and all of the dishes we had ordered. We shared so much food. We had sambusa, lentils, injera chips, kitfo tartar, veggie combo, doro tibs, jollof rice, and quinoa salad. The best dishes, in my opinion, were the doro tips (spiced chicken) and the jollof rice (West African rice). But everything was incredibly flavorful. Then we were treated to an incredible traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. The coffee ceremony is regarded as a significant social event. We ended the night with a delicious dessert called Malawech with roasted coconut and honey. Oh! What a great place :)

Cole D.

A very nice cultural exploration with kind service and full bellies. The most unique thing is the bread and the chicken was well spiced. Overall the food is a 3. The flavors and uniqueness didn't quite grab me, but the style of eating and cultural education of the bread and how it's served was very fun. The food was great. The chicken soaks into the bread center. Yum. The rice was average, as well as the corn. The collared greens were my favorite. Those were the exception - very well seasoned and flavored. The appetizer was like an Ethiopian samosa, tasty. But 2 for $8? I knew that ordering it, but a little steep! Great service. We met the owner. Very nice. They came and regularly checked up on us and answered questions about the unique bread. Food, ok. Experience, awesome. Service, awesome.

Josephine L.

I honestly don't want to write this review so I can keep it my Harlem secret. But I also really want Tsion to be here forever. So here goes. Tsion's owner Beejhy is the friendliest, most delightful person you'll ever meet. She's Jewish and Ethiopian, which is why the menu at Tsion goes beyond the typical Ethiopian dishes to incorporate Israeli and other Middle Eastern items. Everything we got was fantastic. - Malawach (Mediterranean pancake, boiled egg, green awaze, grated tomatoes): Please start your meal with this. You won't regret it. - Ethiopian Veggie Combo (shiro, atakilt, messer, kik, alicha, gomen): Anyone who knows Ethiopian food knows the veggies are the star of the show. Especially that cabbage. Drooooool - Sega Tibs (filet mignon, tomatoes, shallot, jalapenos, awaze): Tender yet meaty, and oozing fragrant spices. This is one of the better versions I've had. - Jollof Rice: The previous item cake with a choice of side, so we had to try this West African staple. It was delicious, but a tad too oily. - Vanilla Halva: On the house because Beejhy is awesome. I normally don't like halva and don't eat much of it even when I travel through the Middle East, but this one was less dry and sweet than most--so I liked it. Bonus: If you're high-functioning alcoholics like we are, you can easily get South African wines by the bottle for ~$30-40. We got several. We drank several. We left happy.

Isabella T.

I came to Tsion Cafe for dinner with 3 people on a Sunday night around 6:15pm. We had a reservation and were seated in the outdoor patio right away. This was perfect since the sun had not set/ the weather was warm and not rainy. The restaurant is small and feels very cozy/homey with an ambiance that is relaxed and cute with colorful and lively decor. Service was pretty great as well-- we got good recommendations from our waitress and she was very attentive of our table and any needs that arose. For food we ordered: Lentil sambusa: we got this for our table as an appetizer and it was super good! Very satisfying pastry with lentil filling (there is a chicken option too but we decided on lentil) that comes with two pieces per order. The dough itself was very crispy and flaky. Wish they had more filling inside them though-- it felt very pastry heavy without that much lentil. It did come with a tangy yogurt dip that I loved. It gave the dish a really nice, refreshing, creamy complement to balance out the spices. Veggie combo for 2: ordered two of these as we were a group of 4. They came with a small basket of rolled pieces of injera. Very generous portion size. Comes with a nice variety of different legume stews (lentils, yellow peas), collard greens, cabbage and carrots. All super tasty! Loved the injera as well, it's very fluffy and has a flavor that reminds me of sourdough bread. My favorite was the kik alicha which are the yellow peas! I'm usually a huge fan of this dish and wasn't disappointed here. Doro tibs with jollof rice: shared this with our table. Small pieces of chicken with veggies that are full of flavor. We got it with jollof rice instead of injera to be able to try something different. The rice was very good and had a tomatoey, smoky taste. I'm a bigger fan of lamb tibs but sadly these weren't available and the chicken ones were good enough! Will try them next time though if they are an option. Overall had a good experience here. Super cute vibes, great service, and amazing food! Pricing is a bit on the high side but most Ethiopian cuisine places tend to be. It's well worth it for the high quality, wholesome, filling food and fun experience of eating in a large group! Would recommend if you are looking for Ethiopian food in the area.

Tonya H.

First time having Ethiopian cuisine. Walking in, you step down into this into an ambiance like no other. Brick wall filled with art, low lighting and warm. You immediately feel the energy shift to this warm inviting little gem. Beautiful art decor on the wall and there is a patio in the back. Also they have lovely authentic Ethiopian jewelry for sale. Drink: The cocktail choices are amazing. The drinks were well made and very refreshing. I had the pleasure of have the Red Foxx which is a beautifully handcrafted sorrel concoction of bliss! I had two. They also have one of my favorite beers Golden Monkey, a Belgian Wheat ale that is hard to come by in restaurants. Food: if you have never tried Ethiopian food I would highly recommend trying this little spot out. It was the way the food was made. You can tell when a cook takes pride in the taste and my tastebuds had a great party. I opted for the Tsion spiced salmon, I requested medium rare, but it was well done anyway, which is ok. I enjoyed it nonetheless and it wasn't dry! Every bite was flavorful. The lentils were perfect and the potatoes had the right amount of crisp. I also tried a piece of injera and I must say with lentils scooped in it made it quite tasty I have to give a big thank you as well to Tizita she was kind, polite and taught us some awesome words. We had a group of 6. Social distance completely enforced, temperature check and contact tracing. I will be back the whole staff was so kind and you can always win me with that

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Elena R.

5 years ago

Ate here a couple weeks ago with a friend and loved it! The food tasted fresh and was so good. We also got drinks (I forgot the name but it had vodka and passion fruit juice) and they were delicious too. Definitely can't wait to go back and hopefully eat in the garden area they have out back read more

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Yair L.

119

8 years ago

It's my first time trying Ethiopian food, and it was amazing! The flavors were familiar from other middle eastern dishes I know, but with a twist (it's influenced by the Israeli kitchen as well, that's why it's familiar to me). The crew was generous, and sweet and humble, we had live music, and they were really lifting the spirit of the place. The second you come in to this restaurant you can't ignore the warmth and authenticity of the place. It just makes you smile. The dish I ordered was a vegan combo for two, and it was HUGE. Next time I'm saving space for dessert. read more

Tsion Cafe - Vegan combo for two. Delicious and filling. - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Aeriel B.

11 years ago

AHHH!!!!! This place was absolutely amazing. Boyfriend and I originally came in for our free coffee on the CUPS app. But when I sat down, we decided to order the Mediterranean pancake. It was amazing. Amazing. Amazing. It had a rich and flavorful deep tenure that was combined with light tomato sauce and a boiled egg all for a great price- $9.50!!! For drinks, we got the ginger tea and the iced chai. The ginger tea was amazing and something one should drink after a long night of alcohol. They were both bitter when we got them BUT they give a syrup blend (it seemed like Agave) which dissolves into the drink AND you can sweeten it to your tasting which I think is GENIUS. I love this place and as soon as I finished my meal, I made plans to come back ASAP. read more

Tsion Cafe - Menu - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Ryan M.

Elite 26

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10 years ago

Do it! It's well worth making that unexpected stop, planned visit, or trailing off your usual route for. I've only had Ethiopian once back home in nola, and it was also a good experience so it might be safe to say Ethiopian is a cuisine that appeals to my taste. Walked in as a party of three on a Thursday night whim and was seated right away. I knew the second we got there my buds were gonna be happy; those smells don't lie. This nice, chilly evening called for tea, so the spiced Ethiopian it was, delicious decision. Unable to settle on one dish each, we went family-style in ordering. Tibs are a must, don't play yourself by not getting these. We also had Firfir, Malawach, and Shakshuka. Everything was great, I thought the Shakshuka was phenomenal with the pita, it was my favorite of all the dishes we had. Careful tho, it's really hot! To say mostly everything did not contain any meat, I left completely satisfied in fulness. We also allowed room for a desert, which was more like a sweet version of Malawach. It reminded me a lot of baklava, almost like a baklava pancake, really good. It was the perfect finale to it all. Service was good and on point, everyone there was really nice and sweet. I hope they'll be around for a while, it's a great neighborhood restaurant deserving of out-the-door business. read more

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Misha T.

Elite 26

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10 years ago

I was a little disappointed in the ful (fool, phool. fuul, etc) and shakshuka. The ful was decidedly bland and really needed a fair amount of salt added in. The shakshuka, on the other hand, was very flavorful, but unfortunately the eggs were overcooked inside. Still, it's a pretty cool spot and I like the tables out back. read more

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Tori J.

6 years ago

I ate the fava bean dish and couldn't stop smiling

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Jeff L.

431

6 years ago

Great family-run restaurant with delicious food and a beautiful garden. Highly recommend.

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Assefash M.

267

6 years ago

Four stars for customer service! Thank you for caring so much about our experience, love the interior and aesthetic.

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Bea W.

Elite 23

227

8 years ago

I've lived in the neighborhood for some time now and never made it in to try this place! Better late than never and I'm happy I finally did, it's so cute! We sat outside on the little patio which was cute and cozy! Our server was very friendly and very helpful at explaining what everything was on the menu. I've never had Ethiopian food before so i had to have him explain pretty much everything. We ended up ordering a combo of the veggie platter for two and the doro wat. Food came out quickly and it was sooo good! I thought the portion was a bit small at first, but once finished I was so full! Had a nice ginger iced tea to wash it at all down. Very pleasant experience all and all, I'll definitely be back! read more

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Ella B.

4 years ago

best brunch I've ever had. Intimate atmosphere and lovely staff. A must-visit if you're in Harlem.

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Leah S.

426

6 years ago

I've been here twice and everything is delicious. The shakshuka is the best I've ever had, the ful fava beans are so good, the Ethiopian veggie stews on injera are great, and the malawach with dessert is out of this world. The customer service is also excellent! Can't wait to come back. read more

Tsion Cafe - Shakshuka, Ethiopian veggie stews on injera - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Keren S.

7 years ago

An amazing neighborhood bar and restaurant A magical atmosphere within the restaurant In summer you can sit in a charming patio Excellent Ethiopian food, alcohol and excellent cocktails Highly recommend! read more

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Elysse C.

9 years ago

Very disappointed. The quality and quantity of food to price is horrible. The flavors tasted the same. We ordered an appetizer of chicken filled fried dough flavorless and the special of the day which was a chicken stew. It came with 2 small drumsticks and the flavor was mediocre. We also ordered the salmon which was OVER cooked, deep fried to a point the skin side was burnt. The server was also the cook who asked me how I wanted the salmon cooked (medium) and still over cooked it. I have had great Ethiopian food before and this is not even close to what I know Ethiopian food tastes like. read more

Tsion Cafe - Different and yummy - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

Tsion Cafe - The sauce was good. The chicken inside flavorless. Thank goodness for that sauce. - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

Tsion Cafe - Salmon was over cooked and skin side burnt. The lentils were creamy but had no flavor. Potatoes were regular pan fried. - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

Tsion Cafe - there special. Chicken stew. Lacking flavor. 2 drumsticks and a egg for almost $20, questioning the prices and flavor. - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Hilary P.

9 years ago

We ordered the veggie combo platter for two. While it looked very appetizing, it was some of the blandest Ethiopian food I've ever had. Everything kind of tasted the same - very disappointing and definitely overpriced. The service wasn't great, either. We had barely seated ourselves before the waitress asked if we were ready to order (no). Later, she asked if we were finished while we were obviously still eating (also no!). Very bizarre. Anyway, there's far better Ethiopian food in the city. Skip this one! read more

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Saul K.

9 years ago

My daughter, age 6, declared after plowing through my veggie combo, "this is one of my favorite restaurants I've ever been to," and then wouldn't share her shakshuka with me. read more

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Tash B.

Elite 19

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9 years ago

Stopped by early afternoon to check out the menu and see if I wanted to order something to go. I had been starving all day and seeing that they were opened made my day (I love Ethiopian!). I walked in and only one table was occupied by a group. The rest of the place was empty. I asked to see a menu and the woman who appeared to be the manager/waitress/not bartender shouted at me that they were "right there" as if I was interrupting her. The menus were indeed "right there" but I was not sure seeing as how they were all flipped to the alcohol listings. Either way, that's not how you greet someone who walks into your empty restaurant. If this is the treatment I get when they aren't busy, I definitely don't want to be here when it is. I asked a question about a dish and after realizing that she had no intention of helping me, I decided that I would not place an order. I love patronizing minority-owned businesses, especially in Harlem but this is always a reoccurring issue. The bartender was the only saving grace in that he attempted to engage with me and answer any questions I had. He's the reason I'm giving this place two stars. If ever I return and actually place an order, I will update my review. read more

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Gamze L.

6 years ago

They're so nice and kind. We made one birthday party here it was perfect. Service was great and food was delicious. We loved the place and everything. read more

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Allie K.

9 years ago

Worth the trip. Everything was phenomenal, from the spice / flavor laden components to the spongy and tangy injera, and finally the wonderful coconut and honey malawache? Spelling? Just go, you'll be happy Update : the worst service ever today. Te man with the ponytail got our order deleted in the system (apparently) and then left the check with card idling on the time for 15 minutes, despite my alerting him to it. Really disappointed. Third / fourth time going and it makes me want to not go back. read more

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Saul S.

9 years ago

Tsion is a lovely Hamilton Heights destination, with delicious Ethiopian food, plenty of vegetarian options, live music, a great bar selection, and warm staff (I'm talking to you, Fikir, sorry if I spelled your name wrong). They also bring in local artists who display their works on the walls, and have a beautiful back patio where I have enjoyed several evenings this summer already. Must try the vegetarian combo- order it for 1 and then share it so you can try more things. Last night I also tried the ful- pronounced fool- which was spiced just rich and had creamy, tangy feta and fresh peppers on top. Also, injera. So much injera. The only negative thing I have to say is that I want to go to Tsion way more often than my partner. read more

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Vibhu K.

Elite 23

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273

269

9 years ago

Get. the. veggie. combo. platter. Do it. Also ethiopian tea there ROCKS. It's a lovely environment with decent portions and generally no wait. It is a bit on the expensive side especially for Harlem but from what I understand the food is unique and very authentic. read more

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Ellen S.

Elite 25

193

9 years ago

Great meal and worth venturing out of your neighborhood or food comfort zone. The staff couldn't be more warm and welcoming. They are more than willing to offer suggestions or recommendations to help you make the right choices. Plan to go on a night when they have jazz, it won't disappoint. We ordered a South African pinotage that paired well with the food and spices. The smokiness really worked well. We shared the Malawach and Sambusa. Both we tasty, preferred the Sambusa. Similar to an Indian Samosa. The Malawach was fine, just preferred the Sambusa. For dinner, our table shared the Doro Tibs, Doro Wot, and Ethiopian Veggie Combo. The injera is served as rolled up strips, and certainly fills you up pretty quickly. All the flavors and spices were very satisfying on a freezing cold night. We drove but there are a couple subway stops very close by so the place is accessible to those living downtown. read more

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Jose L H.

9 years ago

I wanted to love this place because this neighborhood needs a good Ethiopian restaurant. Unfortunately, the food is not so good in spite the potential. One thing I do love about this place is their back garden seating area which is nice in the summer for sipping wine (ill get to the wine in a minute). The food: All the dishes I've tried so far have one thing in common; a tangy flavor consistently present in all the dishes and accompaniments that overwhelm the palate rather quickly. This repetitive taste throughout a seemingly diversely platter can disappoint. The wine: So far I've only had one easy drinking wine there. The prices are a little high for their quality. I really hope Ethiopia is producing wines as good as their coffee, so I am still hoping to try a really good wine next time. The service: The servers are friendly and welcoming and representative of this neighborhood. I love that. I hope to see them get better read more

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Delano T.

8 years ago

Appetizers and chicken stew was excellent. Good wine and beer selection. Excellent atmosphere. read more

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Karen E.

Elite 12

253

9 years ago

I only had bfast food so I can't really comment on their Ethiopian food. But bfast was good, I just got a croissant. It came with a bunch of veggies not listed on the menu. I ate it and while it was good, that might be turnoff for picky eaters. I also got a coffee and they only have one size, which sucked bc I wanted a larger coffee lol. It was good but it would probably not be my go-to spot read more

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Regina F.

4 years ago

Lovely, peaceful oasis. Went on an open mic night, filled with stories, poetry, songs, and laughter. Excellent drinks and food. I like mine spicy, and the kitchen didn't disappoint. My server was extremely attentive. Can't wait to return! read more

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Kayla F.

364

131

8 years ago

This place is great! Quiet little cafe-type restaurant. The Malawach is my favorite, crispy and light. But the veggie platter was also great! Ethiopian food has many great options for vegetarians. read more

Tsion Cafe - Malawach - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Roslyn S.

8 years ago

While venue is aesthetically beautiful and has fun fusion of Ethiopian and other African Cuisines I feel that I was treated differently than other customers. It seems like there is preferential service and courtesy given to patrons of European decent. Although the venue was mostly empty when I entered it took more than serval minuets for me to be greeted and I had to seat myself. This contrasts the immediate warm welcome and seating provided to two separate groups of European persons that entered the venue an hour or so after I had been there. This cafe has a lot of potential but it's important to treat all customer in an equitable manner. read more

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Franz H.

6 years ago

I love this place. Such yummy East African/Habesha food. And the decor is absolutely mesmerizing. The interior is really a work of art. The drinks are delicious and they have unique items like ethiopian/jollof rice pairing. I am so happy a place like Tsion exists in Harlem. read more

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Amanda H.

8 years ago

Lovely service. Cozy ambience. Great food - had the Ful for a starter (Fava Beans, feta, red and green pepper, onion) - served with pita bread. Then for my entree I had the Doro (chicken) Tibs, and my friend had the veggie combo. Both delish. And the honey wine was just the right amount sweet. We sat in the garden and then moved inside to enjoy the jazz band. Definitely felt like we were in an undiscovered gem. Part of me wants to keep it a secret, but I want them to make it - hence the review. Go there! You will love it! read more

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Stefano D.

6 years ago

We had to sensation that they tried to get as much money as possible offering mediocre if not bad quality food (my friend had stomachache after eating here) and $14 watered Drinks. I also don't understand why the server doesn't know anything about the food and the drink that they serve. We entered the restaurant happy and we left with stomachache and in the bad mood after that we spent $106 for 1 drink and one dish each. read more

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Bob R.

7 years ago

Purely by accident we happened upon Tsion Cafe and couldn't have been more pleased. Food first: amazing variety, fresh, perfectly cooked, great Ethiopian Spice with a shot cocktails. The folks working there couldn't have been more friendly and accommodating. Place is also a beautiful space. Will definitely be coming back. read more

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Marilia C.

10 years ago

Nice space, one of the few well evaluated in Yelp in the area. However... I arrived late for lunch, Saturday. I asked immediately for water. The dish I have chosen (the only one with meat) was not available. I tried something else, with poached eggs. It arrived hot, boiling in the small pan. The eggs, in this setting, were over cooked, almost hard boiled egg. And still no water. I could capture the attention of someone (just two tables) and asked again for water. "You could be more patient" . Well, enough for me. Ah, the water was warm. read more

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Fuller H.

11 years ago

Terrible service! We waited 20 minutes for service, then were told that if we wanted to stay we HAD to order food (the restaurant was 3/4 empty). The waitress took a half an hour to bring half of our order, never came back to check on us or to bring the rest of the order and I finally had to go to the counter to pay the bill. They are exceedingly unwelcoming, the coffee was watery, and the heat was so high that sitting still we were all in a flop sweat. I can't say as to whether the food was any good because MINE NEVER CAME! Won't be back! read more

Business owner information

Tsion C.

Hi Fuller H., we're sorry to hear of your experience. We are…

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Janet A.

11 years ago

Recently my husband and I moved from the well manicured neighborhood of Gramercy Park to up-and-coming Sugar Hill in Harlem. While investigating the area prior to our move, I began taking down notes regarding places I thought I would need to know about (Banks. drug stores, etc) and places I would like to eat and drink at. BOY does Tsion fit the bill in every department!! Intimate. Cozy. Modern wood-filled decor. Sweet backyard. Oh, I did I mention, fab Ethiopian dishes as well as Jewish food (bagels and lox, eggs and lox with Injrea bread). Everything I have eaten here has been fabulous and don't forget to check out the Sugar Hill brand beer (made elsewhere but who cares) and the Organic Spanish red wine which is divine in my estimation. Love it love it love it. Tsion is really a jazz club but is normally open from 10AM to 9 or 10PM (later on weekends) and music is just the icing on the cake. Did I mention they serve all kinds of deserts as well? You have to check this place out to believe it! --Janet Aschkenay read more

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Safak O.

10 years ago

Although, the place has a nice and comfortable atmosphere the Ethiopian food I ordered was a big disappointment. I ordered a veggie combo for $28. It was below mediocre especially for the price they charged. The injera was rubbery and tasteless-they might be using too much wheat and little amount of teff, I'm not sure. The ingredients were very bland and dry, as well. What happened to the fresh Ethiopian spices and lemony juices that diffuse into the injera? I've eaten at Ethiopian Restaurants in LA, Washington DC, San Francisco, Oakland CA, Boulder CO etc since I'm a big fan of this cuisine. Tsion Cafe serves one of the least desirable I have experienced. Wouldn't think twice to go back to order another veggie combo again. read more

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Alice F.

9 years ago

A friendly and chill atmosphere. My friends and I were not very familiar with Mediterranean or Ethiopian food so the staff recommended us some of his favorite dishes in the house. Overall great experience. I loved the colorful decor of the place. read more

Tsion Cafe - Shakshuka with 6 eggs. Delicious - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

Tsion Cafe - Little colorful backyard - Ethiopian Near Me - New York, New York

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Jennifer C.

11 years ago

La Colombe coffee (doesn't get much better than this in the U.S.) + Harney & Sons teas + an eclectic, thoughtfully composed menu = fabulous! The cafe is spacious, warm, and cozy -- the perfect spot, I'd say, for a casual meal, a lively brunch with friends, or a few quiet afternoon hours of reading and writing. The firfir (Ethiopian onion stew with tomatoes and shredded injera) was flavorful and hearty but not heavy. Well-incorporated sun-dried tomatoes added earthiness and sweetness, and fresh green chili peppers, a nice kick. I also loved the housemade sea moss drink, a specialty of the cafe owner. Frothy, creamy, and sweetened with a touch of honey, it complemented the mild heat of the firfir. Drink prices are spot on. Food prices are moderate. The large main courses are priced a few dollars higher than average for the neighborhood, but the experience is worth it. I'll definitely be back, alone, with the hubs, and with friends. read more

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Madeline L.

4 years ago

Such an amazing experience dining here! The food is fantastic and truly shows the Israeli Ethiopian culture. Food here is best coupled with community dining, portion sizes are large! Wherever you are in the city, this restaurant is worth the trip. read more

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Nana K.

145

10 years ago

It was my first time having Ethopian food. I have roots in West Africa and usually stick to the food the food from that region. However, I decided it was about time to embrace other African delicacies so I gave it a try. I am so happy that I did because it was delicious! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Although the food is cultural specific it was nice to see that the clientele was very mixed. My husband I both ordered the Doro Tibs. It was mouth watering. Great combination of spices. The bread was great too. Unlike any other bread I've had. It was a huge serving so I brought some home for the lunch the next day. It was some of the best leftovers ever. My only complaint about the place is that I've tried to eat there at least 3-4 times since and it's always packed. Not a seat available. That's wonderful for them. I am happy that their business is booming but I sure miss those Tibs. I'm also looking forward to trying their brunch one of these days. read more

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Revi R.

340

5 years ago

Came here for my husband's birthday and had the best experience. We loved the vibes, music, ambiance, and most importantly ... THE FOOD!!!! Highly recommend the honey malawach, but everything was so so good. read more

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Page 3 of 7

763 St Nicholas Ave
New York, NY 10031
Harlem
Directions
(212) 234-2070
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.tsioncafe.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Tsion Cafe open?

Tsion Cafe opens at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Tsion Cafe opens at 5:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.Tsion Cafe opens at 12:00 PM on Sunday.

What time does Tsion Cafe close?

Tsion Cafe is closed on Monday.Tsion Cafe closes at 10:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Tsion Cafe closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.Tsion Cafe closes at 9:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon ClosedTue-Thu 6:00 PM - 10:00 PMFri-Sat 5:00 PM - 11:00 PMSun 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Tsion Cafe take Bitcoin?

No, Tsion Cafe does not take Bitcoin.

Does Tsion Cafe take credit cards?

Yes, Tsion Cafe takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Tsion Cafe have catering options?

Yes, Tsion Cafe does have catering options.

Does Tsion Cafe have a happy hour?

No, Tsion Cafe does not have a happy hour.

Does Tsion Cafe serve alcohol?

Yes, Tsion Cafe serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Tsion Cafe allow dogs?

No, Tsion Cafe does not allow dogs.

Does Tsion Cafe have TVs?

No, Tsion Cafe does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Tsion Cafe have bike parking?

Yes, Tsion Cafe has bike parking.

Does Tsion Cafe have outdoor seating?

Yes, Tsion Cafe has outdoor seating options.

Does Tsion Cafe have parking?

Yes, Tsion Cafe has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Tsion Cafe wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Tsion Cafe is wheelchair accessible.

Does Tsion Cafe allow outdoor smoking?

No, Tsion Cafe does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Tsion Cafe have free WiFi?

Yes, Tsion Cafe has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

We specialize in Ethiopian and Mediterranean feel good foods. Our Ethiopian brunch are a specialty on Saturday and Sunday. Gluten-free injera is available for all our Ethiopian dishes. Ingredients are locally sourced and organic whenever possible.

History

Established in 2014.

We wanted to introduce a place where the community can come together over good food, music, and the arts.

Meet the Business Owner: Tsion B.

We create a beautiful place where Harlemites could access healthy food, delicious Ethiopian food. Nourishing the body, mind and soul.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Tsion Cafe

What's the nearest subway/train/bus/ferry?

It's steps away from the 145th street stop off the A/B/C/D lines also very close to an M3 bus stop

View question details

How's the noise level?

If there is live music then it is pretty loud. On an average day it is a normal noise level depending on how packed it is.

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Explore benefits

Çka Ka Qëllue

4.5

(297 reviews)

6.0 mi

Family-owned & operated

Fine dining

I'm so glad my friend recommended going here because it's one of those restaurants that pique your…read moreinterest but you never really know how to navigate-- but lucky me, I had an Albanian friend to show me around. First thing you'll notice upon entry is how absolutely decorated it is. If you're a fan of Witcher, it's like walking into an an old-timey tavern. If you have no idea then-- it's like an old-timey tavern. I wouldn't be surprised of they had bard Fridays and homemade mead. It's also a big space. Reminds me of one of the last remnants of the bygone era that was the Obama-era glow. Like peak millenial where restaurants were starting to get viral but not to the point where they have to hyper compete with a gimmicky dish. The prices are a bit steep and was making me consider dropping my rating down a star but fuggit, I like their food. I played it safe and got the mixed grill meats but that's because I lack reading comprehension and thought the main dish (I don't know what it's called, it's just the 1st entree listed) was a baked meat pie situation, it was more grilled steak on a bed of mash potatoes but these mash potatoes were savory like gravy. I wish I got my friend's dish. The mixed grilled meats were a lot closer to doners or skewer meat. Different cuts but also different flavors. What they had in common was a sort of spice-forward sizzling taste. My friend got two appetizers (which I also don't know the name of) but were definitely the most beautifully presented foods I've had in a long while. They were both creams but one had a pepper in it (not the spicy kind). The pepper one was a light refreshing sourness and the other was a heavier but not heeeeavy savory one. Both great to dip your bread in. I wanted to try the lemon cookie for dessert but my friend got us all Tres Leches by accident. That was great but I would say the most non-novel out of everything we got. Delicious, just not something out of the norm-- which is what I go for when I'm trying a new cuisine like Albanian. I wouldn't say this is normal day-to-day Albanian (I have a few friends), it's more like the Americana equivalent, an upscale where Albanians go out to eat.

Food/drinks: Everything we ordered was really delicious! Want to come back to try other items on…read morethe menu, this was my first time having Albanian food Thought the bread that came with the dips was just okay cause it was dry but I'm not sure if that is how it's supposed to be Atmosphere: really cute and cozy inside, there is an outdoor back section that is also cute! Service: friendly! Servers explained menu and provided recommendations Price: as expected in NY

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Hummus Kitchen

Not sure what's happening but the space is closed. Looks to be under renovations. Yelp page show…read morethem as open but they are clearly closed. Hope they open soon! Great food and friendly staff.

Notwithstanding one's political views (which I only bring up because the signs on the wall leave…read morelittle room for doubt), this modest Israeli eatery makes a solid sabich sandwich in the neighborhood. The eggplant was nicely fried, and I appreciate that they offer the sandwich in a laffa as well, which is usually my preferred vessel when available. The falafel was a bit dry, but not bad. I wasn't expecting fries on the side, but they were a welcome (and delicious) addition.

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Bar area

Baklava and Turkish coffee

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Blueberry Lemonade

Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

Have come here numerous times over the years via birthday parties, hangouts and private dinners…read more Sahara ALWAYS provides the perfect atmosphere for any of those scenarios plus reasonably priced, great food (their bread is my favorite) and friendly service. Can't wait to go back!

The food is amazing and the atmosphere is cozy and quaint! Staff is wonderful and friendly. I will…read moredefinitely be returning :)

Photos

Atmosphere

Beyti Kebab

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Arnavut Cigeri (Calf Liver)

ilili NoMad

Gorgeous upscale dinner spot in midtown! We came as a group of 7 and were seated comfortably, lots…read moreof room within the restaurant. Great place to share several food items with a group. It was a little hard to hear and converse at times as it gets crowded, but the food was delicious and there are really unique items on the menu. Food: The duck shawarma was one of our favorites! The lamb and scallops were also flavorful and tender. The dips were delicious with the pita, but I wish the serving size for the dips were bigger. The fries were great - well seasoned! Also recommend the milky pudding, it was a nice refreshing way to end the dinner. Service: Our server was super helpful in letting us know what items are more shareable and his suggestions for cocktails. Definitely try some of the arak based cocktails. Vibe: Gorgeous interior, the mirrors and lighting really elevates the space and makes it a lovely spot for group dinners or dates.

We went for Mother's Day brunch. When we arrived a few minutes early we did have to wait a bit. The…read morerestaurant had two floors, nicely decorated and cozy. We were lead upstairs to a table. There were 7 of us The seating was cozy but not cramped. We started with 7 family style small dishes: Hummus with Falafel Pops (chickpea purée, tahini, falafel, olive oil), Spring Burrata (roasted cherry tomatoes, toast, basil oil), Hamachi Crudo (passionfruit vinaigrette, citrus zest, cucumber, mint, sesame tuile), Scallops (carrot puree, serrano pepper, brown butter sauce), Tenderloin Skewer (zaatar chimichurri, fresh herb salad), and Shiitake Stuffed Grape Leaves (tomato coulis, yogurt foam, herbs). Everything was delicious. The hummus was well seasoned the falafel had a nice crunch. It went well with the warm puffy gyro bread that came to the table. The burrata was wasm and creamy. I love the vinaigrette on the fish. I ended up eating most of it. The scallops were the sweetest, most tender ones I have ever had. The tenderloin skewers were tender and well seasoned. I liked the grape leaves but the rice consistency was very soft almost mushy and you can barely tell there were mushrooms. There was barely any mushrooms flavor. Next we all chose an entree. I got the duck breast, my husband and daughter each had the beef tenderloin. The duck breast was smaller than i expected. The skin was nicely seared and very crispy but boy did it give my jaw a workout. It was done medium rare. It was juicy but tough. The small beef tenderloin was tender and smoky. The waiter poured the sauce over the tenderloin for added flavor. Finally dessert was a fruit plate with ice cream and pudding. The fruit was fresh and the flavors of the ice cream and pudding unique. It was a nice end to a good brunch. The price was a little expensive at $85 a person.

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Ilili Restaurant NYC's outdoor dining

Brussels Sprouts

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Glass of Chateau Ksara 'Blanc de Blancs' 2023 (~$17)

Zaytinya

Jose Andres has always delivered at every one of his restaurants that we have been to…read more Staff were incredibly attentive and the restaurant itself is beautiful. The food was outstanding. We expected nothing less. The tea cocktail was a new twist and very refreshing.

Service was slow and left a lot to be desired. Our waiter dropped off our menu and came back 10…read moreminutes later to take our order. We got our pita and labne 20 minutes later, followed by our mains 20 minutes later. My friend asked our waiter for more water, but he forgot and we had to flag someone else down. I understand giving us space to appreciate the food and enjoy each other's company, but definitely still think the service could have been more attentive. All that said, the interior was lovely. Vibes were great. The food was pretty good. Labneh was thick and exactly how I like it. The celebration rice was yummy, but we paid $10 more for the tiniest amount of chicken. Carrots were sweet and tasty, as expected. Brussels sprouts it's were delicious, I would highly recommend you ordering it to share. Overall, the food was good, but the service definitely needs to improve.

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Fantastic bar

Dessert: the roll with rose water custard cream

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Crispy Brussels Afelia (~$16)

Sophra Grill

I ordered this on Postmates and I wasn't expecting a delivery with the best Turkish food in New…read moreYork City. I had ordered ala turka but its not authentic really. pI think that this might've been the best Turkish food in New York City. I've been to Turkey several times and this was one to one authentic and the lentil soup is the best I've had also, the rice pudding is wow. As far as the meal I ordered the lamb chops and it came with the rice with the rice was perfection. It was completely cooked better than any other rice I've had in a long time. I must say the lamb chops I would say was mediocre, but I mean the price is such a good price that it is kind of what it is. I mean one seemed to be overcooked. The other three was edible and tender. Sometimes there's just one bad item. I don't know, but I'm going to order again tonight and try it again. Let's give them one more chance of the lamb chops. It's probably the best lentil soup I've had since istanbul.

Great Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern flavors in Murray Hill... perfect for take out or dining in…read moretheir restaurant where you can stare at their amazing desserts in the display case. Fast, friendly, yummy. From salads, apps (bababganush, hummus, muhammara, tabouli, etc.), gyros, pides and platters. Everything looks delicious. For take out I love their chicken gyro on home bread, with "white sauce" no hot sauce. $13.50 plus tax.

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Taboonette

My wife and I tried Taboonette after visiting a nearby exhibit. The fast casual vibe was perfect…read morefor a quick lunch. Staff were polite and professional. I enjoyed the lamb shawarma pan with brown rice. The sauces made for a flavorful dish and the bonus green hot sauce was a nice addition! My wife wasn't as happy with the Israeli salad but realized that she wanted something more than the cucumbers. Nice casual and seemingly healthy lunch!

Visually stunning but lacking unique flavor…read more The pita bread and hummus are 5s! The rice and lamb are plain and fine. The rice even felt old to me. Or it felt dry.

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Ravagh Persian Grill

First time visiting New York and I was seriously craving good kabobs after a long day of exploring…read more We found this place and it ended up being such a gem! We made a reservation earlier in the day and everything from start to finish was smooth. Everyone was so welcoming and kind, which made the experience even better. The food was AMAZING, super fresh, top quality, and the portions were huge. Definitely worth every penny. The kabobs were flavorful, juicy, and honestly some of the best I've had. You can tell they really care about the food and overall experience here. If you're visiting NYC or even local and looking for delicious Persian food, definitely give this place a try. So happy this ended up being one of our first food spots in New York!

We been to ravagh a few times. It never disappoint. One of the best Persian restaurant in nyc…read more The koobideh comes in two skewer and rice. Great portion to share. We also had the fesenju. It was very authentic. The pita bread was amazing Soft fluffy and chewy. The ice cream texture was very authentic but could use a like more saffron. Great place. Definitely go for a visit.

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Salmon Kebob

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Dining area

Turkish Kitchen

Hi am adel it's great the food is good I visited this…read morerestaurant more times For open 11 am and close 11 pm but now 4 pm wish they think about open because we need eating after 12

Turkish Kitchen is my neighborhood mainstay, I can't even count how many times I've been over the…read moreyears. The birthday coupons are what had brought me in every year, but even though they stopped during Covid, I still enjoy visiting. My go-to dish is the Iskender Kebab - delicious slices of lamb with tomato sauce and yogurt over baked pita bread. I also enjoy the combination platter with dips - the baba ghanoush is delicious. The atmosphere is classy but down-to-earth. The cocktails are tasty. The service can be slow, but it means we are never rushed out. The prices are mid-high, but commensurate with the quality of food. I recently came with a large group, including kids. Service was welcoming despite the chaos. Our bread was frequently replenished and our bottles of wine poured. On top of that, we were given tastes of dessert & liqueur - such a nice treat at the end of a long meal. I especially appreciated that the head guy alerted us that gratuity was already added to the check. We had such a great time, that we opted to tip more! I was happy that my group had such a positive experience, and surely will continue to return.

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The Original Pita and Beyond

4.5

(20 reviews)

6.1 mi

Sunday 90 minutes bottomless brunch with my besties. Good portions, delicious food and Fernando…read morekept our drinks flowing.

Absolutely no frills…read more Great staff, great food, reasonable prices. They have great deals and everything is made from scratch. I especially love their homemade soups. I don't come here for the ambience, I come for good food without breaking the bank! Great takeout option as well.

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Steak enchiladas with rice and beans

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Monkey Bar

4.3

(492 reviews)

4.8 mi

Visiting the monkey bar was a fantastic experience! The atmosphere was lively, the drinks were…read moredelicious, and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. It's a great spot to unwind and have fun with friends. Highly recommend!

Amazing vibes and food! We got a lunch reservation and I was surprised at how busy the restaurant…read morestill was. Service was a bit slow but not an issue. The waiter was really nice. I ordered the non-alcoholic ginger drink, spicy rigatoni pasta and the truffles pasta and Monkey Bread. Everything was so light and fluffy. None of the food felt heavy or greasy. Would definitely come here again!

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Spicy Shrimp scampi

Truffle Monkey Bread (~$35)

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Truffle Monkey Bread

Fraunces Tavern

Admittedly we were trying to go to The Dead Rabbit, I was excited to see wall to wall holiday…read moredecor. Except that place was unjustifiably packed. Like I'm talking you are going to be best friends with your neighbor. So we left and ended up going next door to Fraunces. I'm so glad we did! This place was gorgeous interior, multiple rooms and each seem to have historic value. Additionally there's a museum too we did not to get to check out. We sat down and I lived the ambiance, it was high amount of views and things to take in. I ended up getting a seasonal cocktail (Cutie Pie). It reminded me of a cross between pumpkin pie and egg nogg. Aka you can't get more holiday than that. Their drink menu requires a QR code. The burger was good, just a good ole fashioned burger. We also tried the sticky toffee pudding. I don't know what I was expecting as this was new to me but it was decent. The service was a bit slow, we would have long periods were we didn't see our server and she/he changed mid service without letting us know. So that was a bit confusing. But otherwise I would certain recommend swinging by!

I came here with a group of friends for brunch on a Saturday afternoon. The hostess kindly sat us…read morebefore our party had all assembled. The restaurant is huge with multiple rooms. I had the Irish breakfast, which came with eggs, toast, mushrooms, a tomato, baked beans, sausage, black pudding, and white pudding. Service was a bit slow at times, but our waitress was nice and the food was decent.

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Here is where GW used to hang out with his pals...

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Washington's long room. A must see

Shuka

This place was absolutely incredible. Genuinely blown away!!…read more We stumbled upon Shuka after a morning of exploring downtown. Although we arrived at 2pm, we were told there was a 40 minute wait, which ended up being around 15-20. We started with the sweet pea hummus dip which was unreal, it was so good. I got the chicken sandwich and my friend got the green shakshuka, and both were so fresh and delicious. We both decided we need to come back next time I'm back in the city!

I ordered the lamb kebab. It only comes with half a pita! You pay $30 and don't get a whole piece…read moreof pita even though one pita would be the right amount of pita for a kebab. Just give me a pita! What is that about? But okay, I ordered an extra pita, I'm still hopeful. But out of the 5 pieces of lamb in my kebab, two were *grisly*! They don't give you a sharp knife, so you kind of have to bite off pieces; but when a piece is grisly you can't tear off a piece and end up with a full piece in your mouth, chewing for many minutes around the grisly center. Everyone knows what this is like and it's to be expected in life, but NOT at a high-end restaurant where you've paid a significant margin above the average meal, and don't even get a full pita. Guys, do some QC and soul-searching - and be generous with pita.

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Chi Restaurant & Bar

An amazing place with an amazing staff. Food was great, looked exactly how it does on pictures, and…read morealways came out hot. Went during happy hour and the presentation and taste of the drinks was awesome. Staff super friendly and gave honest reviews about what to get 10/10 would recommend this spot

Amazing the food and ambience was great! Servers were kind and prompt. Went back twice during my…read moretrip to new york. Will be back again.

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Chi Bar - Modern bar area with handcrafted cocktails

Midnight Margarita - infused Mezcal, Italicus, Tonka, Mexican Apertif, Vanilla Acid

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Chi Backroom 4 - Perfect for intimate group gatherings

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Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

20 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

J R.

11 years ago

I really didn't want to do this. I live one block away and have lived in this neighborhood for years, love healthy food, and would eat here all the time if I didn't get such a weird vibe. I was really looking forward to this place opening, and I have been there several times since it's inception. My conclusion: this place is a rip off and they feel entitled to the artist that come through. I am pretty sure they are not being paid despite the huge mark up on the food/drink for the "ambience". There's some serious entitlement going on when you're not willing to fairly compensate people who are bringing business into your establishment and write it off as your ingredients are fresh. The food and drink are good, but I just can't justify pay the prices with the poor service and the other options around the area. They claim to want to be a part of the community, yet are way over priced for many of the people in the area. If they were more reasonable I KNOW they would get WAY more business and come out ahead in the long run, but something tells me they don't have much business experience. Let me give some examples: Tsion had a buffalo burger and sweet potato fries for a whopping $16.50. I can go to whole foods and buy a WHOLE POUND of grass fed beef or bison for $10. If I really don't want to cook, I could also go a few blocks further to La Libertad or the Grange or even Harlem Public and get organic/grass fed for significantly cheaper. La Libertad's burgers are $10, they organic, and delicious! They also have some great egg options for breakfast over there that are literally half the price of Tsion and the portions are bigger (and yes they also use organic ingredients, they just don't use it as an excuse to over charge!). The bagel and lox is almost $14 here! I could go to Taszo cafe and get it for $8, and it tastes better and the coffee is just as good (also fair trade). Taszo is also starting to do live music, and word from the people I've asked is that they treat their artist better. They have a lot of cheaper food options there, including many gluten free and vegan ones. I'll walk the few extra blocks. When I have eaten there, the drink cups they give you are SO small, yet you are charged for a large and not given any refills (which the coffee prices are already pretty high considering the other options in the neighborhood that also have fair trade organic beans, to be honest I can't think of a coffee place that's not a deli that doesn't have organic fair trade, I know Starbucks does yet this place charges literally almost twice what Sbux does for a smaller cup of joe!). Most coffee places make a point to get "for here" cups that correlate with the size they charge you for, but this is not the case at Tsion. When you order the veggie combo, they complain about giving you Injera with it. Excuse me, I can go to any other Ethiopian place and pay for a lunch price of $10 and not get the attitude or I could even go for dinner and pay $16 instead of $20 for more food and no complaints about wanting Injera with it. In fact, I've never been to an Ethiopian place that didn't automatically get a side of Injera and also didn't keep asking if you wanted more when you run out. The portions for most of their stuff are disappointingly small. I found myself hungry a few hours later after dropping $20 with no left overs to take home. There are a few places around Columbia if you don't mind taking a little train ride or there's Abyssinia which is not too far. Do you really have to be that cheap?!?! Injera ingredients are not expensive enough to be that stingy! Especially when the prices is higher than surrounding places. Also: if you do go in DO NOT order the injera rolls. They were $8.50 for basically injera bread with a tiny tiny tiny bit of lentil (pretty sure it was lentil paste it was hard to even taste it was spread so thin). I felt sooooooooo ripped off. As you can see I've been here a few times and each time I sigh with a heavy heart paying the check. I could probably go on about all the things they would need to fix to get my business back, but I got things to do. I hope the owners read this and give some thought and consider their prices versus other neighborhood places. I'm not just trying to slam this place, but hoping it becomes more reasonable in time because it is a nice space (and it's closer to me!). For now I'll take my business to the other restaurants mentioned. read more

Mike B.

1 year ago

Prioritizing healthy eating has always been an important part of my lifestyle, so stumbling upon Tsion Café felt like a true gem of a discovery. Their menu is not only completely vegan and kosher, but it also emphasizes locally sourced and organic ingredients, which is something I deeply appreciate. Knowing that the dishes are thoughtfully crafted with fresh, high-quality components made my dining experience even more enjoyable. I decided to try the Tel-Aviv Quinoa Salad, and it exceeded my expectations. This vibrant dish featured a refreshing combination of organic greens, crunchy toasted quinoa, crispy injera chips, shredded carrots, and fresh cucumbers, all beautifully tossed in a rich and creamy tahini dressing infused with cilantro and lime. Every bite was bursting with flavor, and the balance of textures--between the crisp vegetables, the nutty quinoa, and the smooth dressing--was absolutely perfect. One of the standout aspects of Tsion Café is their dedication to inclusivity when it comes to dietary needs. I was thrilled to learn that they offer gluten-free injera upon request, making it accessible to those with gluten sensitivities or specific dietary restrictions. The café's commitment to providing wholesome, nourishing meals without compromising on taste is truly commendable. Beyond the incredible food, the ambiance of Tsion Café made my visit even more special. The cozy, artistic setting, paired with the warm hospitality of the staff, made me feel right at home. Whether you're looking for a satisfying and nutritious meal, a place that honors mindful eating, or simply a welcoming spot to enjoy a great dish, Tsion Café delivers on all fronts. Without a doubt, it has now become my go-to destination for delicious, health-conscious dining in the city. read more

Broodthaers Society O.

2 years ago

This used to be a favorite restaurant of mine, but no more. Their menu has switched to offering plant-based items only, which is admirable, except for the fact that they seem to be using this "ethical" approach as an excuse to cut the portions by half and double the prices. We ordered one platter of cabbage, beets, collard greens, lentils and pureed lentils for $25. It was $1.50 worth of vegetables (if even that) and not even enough food for one person. There wasn't even enough injera to eat with, we had to order more just to finish the already measly portions, and of course we were charged for that too. I'm just totting up now, but 50% of the new menu is dedicated to their liquor offerings, including a bs cocktail called a "Redd Foxx" for $18. Beers are $9. This is in Harlem. Beers in Tribeca are $8. The whole restaurant reeks of a money grab, i.e. desperation, and a mean-spirited desperation at that. I give this place six more months, Jehovah willing. read more

Joe S.

2 years ago

So awful now, it used to be great when the owners were more concerned with serving good food than with rapacious greed. We ordered one platter of lentils, cabbage, beets, and collard greens priced at $25 and it was not even enough food for one person. This was $1 worth of vegetables tops if I had to buy it myself at the grocery. I can remember coming here and ordering platters that were round and heaping with offerings, the "platters" now (I use the term loosely) are half the size with half the offerings. The feeling you get from the wait staff and the owner--if you can see either with any regularity--is like it or leave. Leave we did, never to return. read more

Tessa S.

11 years ago

I had my first performance at Tsion Cafe last night and I was so impressed with everything - the staff, the ambience, the honey wine, the amazing food! Shame about my diet because the pastries looked incredible, but I loved my veggie platter with the spongey sort of pancake thing you eat it with. Love the decor. It works as a gallery space too. And there's a pretty little garden beyond the French doors at the back. It's sort of like a mini Arts Center (but with incredible food) with poetry nights, music nights (different genres on different nights), and a nice bar if you just want to hang. We'll be back! read more

Jordan S.

11 years ago

This place looks humble from the outside, but it is a diamond in the rough. The atmosphere is cozy and cute, the food is incredible, and the service is a rare but perfect mix of professional and warm. Whether you're stopping by for some organic fair trade coffee or an authentic Ethiopian meal, this place is a winner in the Hamilton Heights area. read more

Alex H.

255

11 years ago

I come here for the coffee. I feel like I am the only person getting coffee to go and I don't know why! Without a doubt the best coffee in Harlem. If you like strong delicious coffee this is your place. You pay more than you do at a deli, but it is totally worth it. So glad to have a neighborhood joint serving great coffee! read more

Avery B.

9 years ago

The sweet potato fries and hamburger are pretty good - but don't play it safe here. Try the fava bean appetizer, the bell pepper, feta, tomato and feta stew topped with poached eggs. The jazz is the real cool thing here: local Harlem musicians gather here for laid back sessions. read more

Bran O.

5 years ago

This is the perfect location for meals. Went there on Monday with my bestie and their food is seriously outstanding. We really enjoyed and the space was great filled with friendly people. I will honestly come back as I mentioned to one of your staff member. Thanks!! read more

Dave J.

11 years ago

Service wasn't too slow, 15 minute wait though is why four stars not five. Authentic Ethiopian food is hard to find, seemed to care about that vital aspect. Looked as cafes many times do, but nice experience overall at a decent price. read more

Norman R.

7 years ago

Beautiful quiet space with excellent relaxed atmosphere and low lighting. The food was phenomenal. Best sweet potato fries I've ever eaten and the actual Ethiopian dishes were equally impressive. Will definitely be back. read more

Eve S.

225

7 years ago

A really lovely place with great food, service, and atmosphere. I lived in DC for a long time and have craved good Ethiopian food but so many NYC places kinda fell flat. Tsion is a welcome exception! read more

Alice B.