Monsieur Chou
Google
This restaurant is a true gem and an absolute must-visit in Colorado Springs. We dined there on a Tuesday evening at 6 PM after making a same-day reservation around 11:30 AM. Out of all the places we visited during our five-day trip to Denver and Colorado Springs, this was by far our favorite.
The food was exceptional. We ordered the Doro Wat (chicken) and Yebeg Alecha (lamb) as our main dishes. Each entree came with injera (Ethiopian bread), Misser Alecha (red lentils), Misser Wat (yellow lentils), and Atakilt (mixed vegetables). The injera had a soft and slightly tangy flavor that was delicious even on its own. We were impressed by both the Misser Alecha and the Misser Wat — rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. The chicken was tender, and the sauce was so good. I could finish the sauce with the injera alone. The lamb was well-seasoned and aromatic. Wrapping the meats and sides in injera brought all the flavors together beautifully — each bite was packed with spice, tang, and comfort. We also loved our drinks (Rose Water infused Lemonade and Orange Blossom Iced Tea), which had delicate floral notes. For dessert, the baklava was outstanding — crisp, flaky layers, a bold nutty flavor, and just the right touch of sweetness from the honey syrup.
The atmosphere added even more to the experience. The restaurant was filled with traditional Ethiopian decorations and artwork (out of respect for the artists, we refrained from taking photos), and soft music played in the background. The vibe was warm, cozy, and calm — ideal for a family gathering or a quiet meal with friends.
What truly made this place unforgettable, though, was the owner’s hospitality. From the way she interacted with guests, it was clear that many were returning customers. She took the time to share aspects of Ethiopian culture with us and even offered small samples to help us decide on spice levels. Since it was our first time, she also taught us how to eat the dishes properly — a gesture we really appreciated.
In short, this restaurant offers an unbeatable combination of flavorful food, a welcoming atmosphere, and genuinely kind people. The prices are also very reasonable. For me, this place became one of the most memorable parts of our trip — it's the first time I’ve missed a place because of a restaurant. I already can't wait to return.