The Nile: Being in two places simultaneously

At times, we all find ourselves trying to escape from our daily schedule, our so called narrow path of work and play. Where would this fantasy lie and in what way is it different from the reality which is now? A simple answer is to take the tongue and place it in a world not of our own; to perform an act with the fingertips that in one way feels entirely novel and in another way brings back a sense of youth. The Nile restaurant brings to Richmond a side of the world that most of the people in the city never experience through their entire lives. Without leaving the shores of the U.S., there is a cultural cuisine to indulge your primary senses in and open your mind as well as your sinuses.

The Nile uses a wide variety of Ethiopian dishes and spices that will surely change your outlook on food from here on out. Many of their dishes are served with a very unique and very healthy type of bread called "Injera." The bread is made from one of the smallest grains in the world. They allow the grain to ferment in water, then after a set amount of time, they bake the grain. It comes out to look like a grey, sponge-like pita that is torn and happens to be the utensil in eating the meal making it an experience that almost takes one back to eating finger-food as a child.

Much of the menu consists of "Tibs" which consists of red meat, poultry, or seafood that is sauteéd with jalapeño, onion, and a variety of spices and is cooked to the preferred state. "Wat" which is another constant on the menu is a thick stew primarily prepared with either meat or beans and cooked with shallots and/or onions and "Berbere," a multitude of herbs that have been ground to a powder. Their cuisine is quite fragrant and spicy (not the "HOT" type of spicy either) and there is plenty to choose from for those picky eaters out there. Another interesting perquisite is the combination option on the menu which includes the privilege of combining five different selections from particular areas of the list. They also have vegetarian choices and their drinks are exceptionally flavorful.

My personal favorite on the menu is a Combination platter with one of their Guava martinis.

The menu prices vary anywhere from $5.00 to $14.00

The Nile is located at 309 N. Laurel st. (Between W. Grace st. and W. Broad st.) 804-225-5544