Hoyo's Kitchen - Columbus

Columbus has a sizable Somali population, and all too often it flies under the radar for being so insular. People, business and yes, restaurants, are clustered in a few neighborhoods leaving the wider city unaware of the great things in its midst. Hoyo’s Kitchen is a really great chance to break out of that.

I can’t quite describe everything we had. The platters were full of saffron rice, a couple different types of diced chicken (one curried), chicken drumsticks, lamb shanks, and pieces of goat (for which they are known). There were sides of salad and cups of chickpeas and lentils. All of it was beautifully seasoned and tender. “Hoyo” is the Somali word for “mother,” and that idea rang true for our visit. It was like discovering a new type of home cooking. Given the warm welcome and the rich variety of food, we’re already planning return visits.

This place was amazing! The owner actually sat down with us, and helped us pick our lunches. He even explained what Somali cooking was. I had a terrible experience with goat at another resturant( not related and I was hesitant to order it again. He asked me to have faith in him and he assured me his goat will be better. AND IT WAS! Tender, juicey, tasted almost like roast beef. I give this place a million like, and recommend it to anyone. It was that good.

Tasty Fresh Food. Very nice decor, excellent food and kind/helpful service! Will definitely be back to try several more dishes.

Wonderful food, Even better service!. Not only was the food here fantastic, the woman who served us (owner or manager, I think) was one of the nicest people I've ever met in my life. She was extremely warm and friendly, gave great suggestions for food, and continually gave us bonus food free of charge. My friends and I agreed it felt like we were in the home of a close friend or relative, or being served by someone's extremely hospitable mother. I cannot speak highly enough of our experience at Solay.