Welcome to Haile
Haile is a charming Ethiopian eatery located in the heart of New York's East Village. Run by two spirited sisters, Abbey and Selam, it offers an intimate dining experience filled with warmth and hospitality. Guests rave about the generous portions and vibrant flavors of the authentic dishes, from the richly spiced Doro Wot to the comforting Vegetarian Gomen. Each meal is complemented by injera, a traditional sourdough flatbread that enhances the experience. The cozy atmosphere makes Haile feel like a home away from home, inviting diners to indulge in the soulful essence of Ethiopian cuisine.
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182 Avenue B #1, New York, NY 10009, United States182 Avenue B #1, New York, NY 10009, United States Hotline: +1 212-673-8949
Introducing Haile, a little gem nestled in the vibrant East Village of New York City. Located at 182 Avenue B #1, this cozy Ethiopian restaurant brings the rich tapestry of Ethiopian flavors to the bustling streets of NYC. Run by two passionate sisters, Abbey and Selam, Haile encapsulates the warmth of home cooking combined with authentic culinary traditions.
The first thing that strikes you upon entering Haile is its welcoming atmosphere. With warm lighting and charming decor, the restaurant exudes a sense of intimacy that makes diners feel right at home. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of spices, inviting you to embark on a flavorful journey. Customers rave about the attentive service, often mentioning how the friendly staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.
Now, let's talk about the food—an experience in itself. Haile serves a variety of meticulously crafted dishes that celebrate the essence of Ethiopian cuisine. The Ye Siga Wot, featuring tender strips of beef simmered in a rich berbere sauce, is a must-try. The fragrant spices dance on your palate, delivering a depth of flavor that is both comforting and exhilarating. For those seeking a taste of chicken, the Doro Wot is an Ethiopian specialty, where succulent chicken legs are slow-cooked in a bold and savory stew, ensuring every bite is oozing with flavor.
Don’t overlook the appetizers, either! The Sambusas, filled with your choice of lentil or beef, are crunchy on the outside and bursting with flavor within. Pair these with a refreshing Timatim Fitfit salad, made with ripe tomatoes and a tangy dressing, to perfectly complement your meal.
One fascinating aspect of Haile is their commitment to genuine hospitality—there are no extra charges for sharing, making it an ideal spot for groups eager to sample a variety of dishes. Many diners have expressed how their meals feel like they were made with soul and love, highlighting the authentic family recipe that defines Haile’s offerings.
Whether you are a seasoned Ethiopian cuisine lover or trying it for the first time, Haile promises a delightful culinary adventure. With generous portions, an array of flavorful dishes, and a cozy atmosphere fueled by joyful service, you’ll find yourself wanting to return time and again. Prepare to eat with your hands and experience the true sense of community and flavor that Haile embodies!
Cozy atmosphere with great food! Flavors are all seasoned so well that you can’t get tired of it. At the end of the meal I was so full, but I still wanted to eat more ! The chicken stew is so delicious and the sides that comes with my saag were vibrant and delicious. I would highly recommend and would be coming back again !
absolutely love this place; my favorite restaurant in east village! such a cozy atmosphere, the ladies here are so kind, and the food is absolutely deliciousssss. very generous portion sizes as well.
I love New York City so much because the world truly is around you, at least when it comes to food. I was just walking down Ave B when I saw Haile, a small Ethiopian restaurant. I did some research on the reviews, and it passed the vibe check. Haile is an intimate hole in the wall restaurant, but it was JUMPIN. I was eating alone like a nerd loser so I was really shy walking in. It’s run by two Ethiopian sisters, Abbey and Selam, who were actually jokes. They are just in here vibin. I started with an Ethiopian Honey wine as wine-making is an important part of Ethiopian tradition and history, and I’ll try anything once. and it tasted exactly how you would think honey wine would taste. When I told Abbey it was my first time having Ethiopian cuisine and wanted something authentic, she recommended the combination plate with chicken, beef, and 3 vegetarian dishes. She told me to be ready to eat with my hands. I also got the beef sambusas to start. They are triangular with a pastry shell and filled with beef. GAS! The combination plate came with injera, which is a type of sourdough flatbread that is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine. I don’t have trypophobia, but this bread lowkey made me think I might. Spooky. The beef and chicken were phenomenal, but the veggie sides weren’t my favorite thing ever. I know myself and should have just got the meat combination platter, but that’s on me. All in all, this felt like a home cooked meal, made with soul and love. I’ll be back for that meat combo platter. IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__
This place is super cozy! It’s run by women that make you feel at home. They clearly work so hard and the place has such positive vibes. The food was so authentic and layered with flavors. The service is attentive and warming. It was my first time trying Ethiopian food and I don’t know why I was nervous! I really wanted a delicious meal and I definitely got one here. Highly recommend this place!
Amazing Ethiopian food! Chicken was cooked perfectly and the other entrees were delicious. This is also one of the only Ethiopian restaurants in NYC that does NOT charge for sharing. The place is small and cute with art and nice warm lighting. The women that run the place are also great.
Amazing experience, I’m so happy I gave this place a try. The restaurant is quite small but we didn’t have issue getting a table immediately. Service was very friendly and food was delicious. Lentil Sambusa was filled, came out hot, very tasteful. The main dish did not disappoint. The beef, the lamb, the vegetables, and the spongy bread are all amazing. I can’t wait to come here again.
Love this little gem serving authentic Ethiopian food. The food was amazing full of spices and the owner is super friendly, offering great customer service.
The food and service were both excellent. We had a fantastic time. This is the best Ethiopian food I’ve had so far in New York after trying a few places. A good portion of injera was included with the dishes we ordered, and our server brought out more fresh without extra charge when we had eaten about half (we did not need to ask for it). I ate every bite I could physically fit in my stomach. The vegetables were all especially delicious. We had the meat and vegetable combo for two, but I would definitely be happy with any of the combo plates, and the vegetables are a highlight. Definitely going back soon!