BULSHO restaurant
BULSHO is a beloved Somali hole-in-the-wall known for generous plates of spicy rice, tender chicken, lamb shank, grilled fish, vegetables, fluffy malawa, and sweet bread, with complimentary tea and friendly staff who explain the menu. Its simple, sometimes crowded setting includes a convenient masjid, making it a memorable local experience, though cleanliness, inconsistent hours, limited meat availability, and occasional waits are worth noting.
What 225 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“The food is always delicious, fresh, and prepared with care. Very generous portions with reasonable prices. The chefs and servers always treat you with respect and do everything to make you feel welcomed and appreciated. They are happy to explain the food options available. The bread is always perfect and fluffy/sweet. Tea ( varieties) is included with your meal. A true hole in the wall with less than stellar interior decoration, a real hidden gem in every way possible. Easily the most unique restaurant in the city with the most heart. I love this place and the people there.”
“Walked by here one day and had the urge to eat some Somali food. This place delivers. Had rice with chicken & lamb shank with a side of malawa. The flavors are delightful and you know it's a good spot when other Somalis dine here”
“BULSHO restaurant One of the best Somali restaurants in Chicago. The food is authentic, fresh, and full of flavor. The rice is well cooked, and the grilled fish/meat is nicely seasoned—you can really taste the traditional Somali style. The place is simple, clean, and comfortable. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly. What makes this place even more special is that there is a masjid inside, which is very convenient for Muslims—you can enjoy your meal and still have a peaceful place to pray. Another big plus is the available parking, which makes it easy to visit without stress, especially in Chicago. Overall, great food, great atmosphere, and very convenient for the community. Highly recommended.”
“Came all the way from Philadelphia for this. I was on business and decided to check it out. The owners are so sweet and explained everything to me. I got a giant plate of food (spicy rice, chicken, and veggies) that I couldn’t possibly finish in one go even though I wanted to keep eating. Definitely worth the trip!”
“I am reminiscing on my visit here a couple years ago - I don't live in Chicago and I am not Somali. I went here with my friend as I was in the neighborhood and wanted to try African food in the city. It is a hole in the wall locals only type of cafeteria. My friend and I were the only non-africans in this busy / crowded restaurant. I ordered rice, beans, stewed vegetables and bread - I enjoyed my food a good bit but I don't eat meat so perhaps I didn't get the full experience. BUT half way through eating our meal a little ring comes on through an intercom and everyone gets up and goes to this other room - I assume to pray.🙏🏽 Here my friend and I are the only ones in the cafeteria, eating our food in silence, whereas two minutes ago it was very loud. It was just an eye opening example of how collected and community oriented people can be and still are. My friend and I were just about finishing up when everyone comes out of this room and the restaurant becomes loud again. It was probably the most interesting and beautiful experience I've had at a restaurant. I hope this place is around for a long while.”
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