I\u2019m crossing my fingers, pre-results, that Nile Ethiopian takes the Readers\u2019 Picks crown this year so that together we can give it a double birthday present, because 2026 marks 20 years in business for this wonderful, colorful, humble and no-doubt flavorful slice of I-Drive\u2019s unbelievable, under-the-radar dining scene. Nile is a lasting pioneer among loads of smaller, less glitzy, family-run businesses in the tourist zone and I am grateful that both visitors and fervent locals have kept the injera bubbling at Abeba Gonetse\u2019s lovely little spot. Look for an official story later this year.<\/p>\n
And while you\u2019re at it, look outside the theme park zone for additional options, like last year\u2019s winner: Yene Romay. And Ethiopian-Eritrean regular in this section, Selam.<\/p>\n
Critic\u2019s Choice<\/p>\n
Winner: Nile Ethiopian Cuisine<\/a>, 7048 International Drive in Orlando, 407-354-0026; nileorlando.com<\/a><\/p>\n Runners-up: Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine<\/a> in Orlando and Yene Romay Ethiopian Kitchen<\/a>, food truck<\/p>\n Readers\u2019 Choice<\/p>\n Winner: Boma \u2013 Flavors of Africa<\/a>, 2901 Osceola Parkway in Lake Buena Vista<\/p>\n Runners-up: Nile Ethiopian Cuisine<\/a> in Orlando and Jiko \u2013 The Cooking Place<\/a> in Lake Buena Vista<\/p>\n 2026 Foodie Awards: Click here to see all the winners!<\/a><\/p>\n Want to reach out? Find me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @amydroo<\/a> or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie<\/a>. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com<\/a>. For more foodie fun, join the Let\u2019s Eat, Orlando Facebook group<\/a>.<\/p>\n \t\t\t