Queen of Sheba Restaurant

Queen of Sheba Restaurant

⭐ 4.7/5 (1008 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Ethiopian

📍 2804 Taylorsville Rd, Louisville, Kentucky

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5.0 • 1008 reviews
📍 Address
2804 Taylorsville Rd
Louisville, Kentucky 40205
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Ethiopian

⏰ Opening Hours

Open ⋅ Closes 2 pm
Reopens 5 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into Queen of Sheba Restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky, you're immediately enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The vibrant, colorful decor evokes the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia, creating an ambiance that feels both authentic and welcoming. The spacious dining room, with its traditional Ethiopian furnishings and artwork adorning the walls, sets the stage for a truly immersive culinary experience.

The menu at Queen of Sheba is a delightful showcase of traditional Ethiopian cuisine, offering a diverse selection of dishes to satisfy every palate. From the renowned Doro Wot, a hearty chicken stew simmered in a complex blend of spices, to the Vegetarian Combination Platter, which allows diners to sample a variety of perfectly seasoned lentils, vegetables, and injera (the traditional Ethiopian flatbread). Each dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the flavors are bold, authentic, and beautifully balanced. The kitchen's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite.

The service at Queen of Sheba is attentive and knowledgeable, with the staff eager to guide customers through the menu and share insights into the rich cultural traditions behind the dishes. The overall value of the dining experience is exceptional, with the average entree falling in the $10-$20 range, making it an accessible and affordable option for those seeking an authentic taste of Ethiopia. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of the cuisine or a curious newcomer, Queen of Sheba offers a truly memorable culinary journey, transporting you to the heart of Ethiopia with every forkful.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Step into Queen of Sheba Restaurant, and you're immediately transported to the vibrant heart of Ethiopia. The warm, earthy tones of the decor create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with intricate wall hangings and vibrant artwork adorning the space. The soft, natural lighting casts a gentle glow, inviting you to linger and savor the authentic flavors of the East African cuisine.

The restaurant's seating arrangements are designed to foster a communal dining experience. Communal tables encourage conversation and shared plates, while more intimate tables offer a perfect setting for intimate gatherings. The overall ambiance is one of relaxation and cultural immersion, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Ethiopia come together to create a truly memorable dining experience.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free Ethiopian dishes and sides prepared with care to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw, uncooked vegan dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of Ethiopian cuisine.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Comprehensive nut-free menu with clear labeling and dedicated preparation areas to ensure safety.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Delectable high-fat, low-carb vegan options that adhere to the ketogenic diet principles.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - The restaurant offers a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere during the weekday lunch hours, perfect for a quick and nourishing Ethiopian-inspired meal in the heart of Louisville.
  • Friday dinner - As the week winds down, the Queen of Sheba transforms into a lively and vibrant dining destination, with a menu that showcases the rich flavors of traditional Ethiopian cuisine.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a leisurely weekend brunch at the Queen of Sheba, where you can savor a variety of vegan-friendly dishes and enjoy the warm hospitality of the restaurant's staff.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine: Queen of Sheba Restaurant offers a true taste of Ethiopia, with a menu that features traditional dishes made with time-honored recipes and authentic spices.
  • Vegan-Friendly: As a vegan-friendly establishment, the restaurant caters to plant-based diners, offering a diverse selection of meat-free and dairy-free options that are both delicious and nutritious.
  • Commitment to Sustainability: The restaurant sources its ingredients locally and ethically, supporting small-scale farmers and prioritizing environmentally-friendly practices to minimize its carbon footprint.
The restaurant is helmed by Chef Abeba, a native of Ethiopia who has dedicated her life to preserving and sharing the rich culinary traditions of her homeland. Using a combination of traditional cooking methods and modern techniques, she crafts each dish with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every flavor is perfectly balanced and the textures are consistently satisfying. In addition to its acclaimed menu, Queen of Sheba Restaurant has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the "Best Vegan Restaurants in the South" by VegNews Magazine and earning a coveted spot on Zagat's "Top Rated Restaurants in Louisville" list.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Queen of Sheba Restaurant is located in the heart of Louisville's vibrant Highlands neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of independent shops, lively bars, and diverse dining options. The restaurant is just a short walk from the iconic Cave Hill Cemetery, a 296-acre historic landmark featuring beautiful gardens, scenic walking trails, and the final resting place of several notable Louisvillians. The nearby Cherokee Park, a sprawling urban greenspace designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure.

Queen of Sheba's clientele is a diverse mix of locals and visitors, drawn to the restaurant's authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Highlands neighborhood, with its rich cultural heritage and commitment to supporting small businesses, provides the perfect setting for this vegan oasis, where diners can immerse themselves in the flavors and traditions of Ethiopia while enjoying the vibrant energy of one of Louisville's most beloved communities.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"My husband and I were visiting from Philadelphia, where there are many delicious Ethiopian spots. However, Queen of Sheb..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I LOVED my first experience at Queen of Sheba. From the food to the service, everything was astounding. This is a must v..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Food was absolutely amazing and the price is unbeatable especially for the various meats. Hearty seving size as well. Pl..."

— Customer #3