Outstanding food, beautiful staff, plenty of spice, and great prices. I've never had Somali food before, and I'll seek it out in the future! (Oh, the housemade lemonade was also sweet, tart, and fresh: highly recommended!) read more

I stopped by this food stall for lunch after seeing so many great reviews and decided to try the Chicken Safari, injera bread, and a sambusa. Since it was my first time trying this style of cuisine, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The food was flavorful, and I enjoyed getting to experience something new. While I thought everything was good, it didn't quite stand out enough to be memorable compared to some other meals I've had. One thing that did stand out was the service. The staff member who helped me was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and happy to answer my questions, which made for a great overall experience. If you're looking to try Somali cuisine while visiting the North Market, this is a solid option with good food and excellent customer service. read more

Had my first sambusa and it was so good!!! I love how kind the staff is and the food always tastes like it's made with love and good vibes. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Safari Chicken Bowl (mild) - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Tried for the 1st time yesterday & I loved it. Both rice were good & flavorful. Cabbage cooked perfectly with a Lil crunch. Mango chicken so good. I got side order of sauce from mango chicken which made me live it even more. Pickled onions lovely. I'd like cucumbers pickled vs plain. Greens were too soft for my taste. 1st time I ever had a Sambusa & it was freshly cooked & I loved it too. Green sauce is spiiccy but good. AB I believe is owner & an awesome server too! Look forward to my next visit!!! read more

Recently stopped at this place at the North Market. Been trying to increase my protein intake, and this was the perfect spot to do that. Would definitely recommend them and hope to make it back in the near future. read more

Items labeled as Vegan and Vegetarian, but we were told that the vegetarian rice was also vegan, as were all the sides. Started with a base of a combo of both the types of rice and all the sides. There's also cold toppings like spinach, purple cabbage, tomatoes, onions, lettuce. Two of the three sauces were vegan as well. Unfortunately there is not an Injera gluten free option. Our server was very helpful and friendly and offered all the options to us. She also made a point of asking if we needed our parking validated and told us how that worked. It's inside a food court and finding seating was easy. Food was delicious and filling and I actually had enough left over for a snack later. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Vegan bowl with two rices as a base. - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

I got the Somali rice bowl with the hot chicken. I don't know how to spell the word so my bad. But, for my sides I got the cabbage and chickpeas. I added a little lettuce ,cucumber, garlic yogurt and a spicy green sauce. Overall I'd say it was great! Very flavorful. I wish it was more hot in temperature but other than that I would go here again. I got the homemade ginger lemonade. Service was great and it's inside the North Market. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Chicken Somali Basmati Rice Bowl - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Might be my new favorite spot in North market. I love finding good African food in this place puts out some outstanding stuff. I like the build your own bowl options. It makes an unfamiliar cuisine unfamiliar to most people seem approachable. What you'll find once you try this place is delicious proteins, wonderfully spiced sides and some outstanding injera. read more

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One of the few restaurants i absolutely loved in Ohio. I crave it even living out in Los Angeles. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Absolutely loved this spot! The portions are a great size and worth the price. I got the mango chicken with Somali rice and a Mango juice! It was 10/10! The staff was friendly and quick. The location is nice in the North Market. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Pretty tasty Somali food stall inside North Market. They seem to sell tons of mango chicken over rice, but I went for the goat over injera; the former is quite good and the latter is a generous portion. Service is efficient and they clearly have a crowd, which is always a good sign! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Inside North Market. - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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This North Market is exploding with exciting food options. On our fourth trip here just to eat at Hoyo's Kitchen. If you're new to Somali cuisine, this is where you begin. These folks are most helpful in guiding you. So many ingredients mesh well that you are bound to find the combination that best suits you. It works like many places these days. Pick between a bowl, wrap or salad. Then a protein and vegetables. Finally, sides and a drink. A popular choice: Somali Chai Tea. The Safari Chicken Bowl was popular in our group. I opted for the goat, chickpeas and spinach. Then a side of Injera. If you're into spicy, try the sugaar. The goat has bones. Not something I care for, but it was so good I persevered just fine. The chickpeas were fresh as was the spinach. I should've ordered the wrap, not the bowl. But I did get the injera. The injera was addicting. It's good for you, too. Made with teff flour and a fermented starter, they tell me it helps to maintain gut flora which helps your body attack the bad bacteria! 08/24 read more

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The meats were chewy. Didn't expect that. The rice and veggies were really good. The sauces they provide are beyond amazing. Made the meal exceptional. The server was very nice. Great experience. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Goat, beef, rice, veggies all in one Goat Bowl Beef Suqaar Bowl - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Somalian food. Delicious. Flavourful. Homemade. Downtown Columbus, Ohio. This review is from my visit to Hoyo's Kitchen in North Market in March 2023. I had previously visited North Market many times so it was nice to come back and see a new business addition, Hoyo's Kitchen. I was in town for the Arnold Classic competition with a friend so we decided to stop in for lunch. FOOD -- choose between a bowl or a salad. For the bowl, you can get Somali rice, spicy rice, or injera which is the light bread that looks like Indian Naan bread but much lighter with an almost bitter taste. For protein options, choose between beef, goat meat, chicken, or vegetarian. I ordered a somali rice bowl with chicken which was tasty. It came in a plastic container with a reasonable amount of food. It was the perfect lunch after walking around so much at the Arnold Classic. TIP: Some of the chicken choices have different levels of spice so ask them about it. I love spicy foods but I can't remember if I got the mango chicken or the slightly spicier chicken suqaar since I'm writing this review over a year later. I recommend this local business and I'll certainly be back. **** GOAL of 150 reviews in 2024 - 66/150 total reviews in 2024 - 716 total overall Yelp reviews - Reviewed on 13 July 2024 read more

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I saw the word Hoyo's on a sign and I knew I had found the Somali food! Order everything, you can't go wrong. Friendly service. Lovely building. read more

Stopped in for a snack while visiting the market. I got a chicken sambusa and the pineapple ginger lemonade. The sambusa was delicious and quite large and the mix of green chile sauce and garlic sauce was great. The lemonade was so refreshing with a hint of ginger. Wish I had more room in my tummy to try the entrees read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

People rave about Hoyo's but I found it to be just OK. The portion size is huge overall but there was maybe a teaspoon of lentils in the bowl I had. It had a pleasant earthy flavor but the chicken was super dry. Like desert dry. I was curious about the spicy rice and wanted to sample it but they would not provide a sample and suggested I get half and half. Which I did. I wasn't pleased they couldn't provide a spoonful to sample. The spicy rice was OK. If you don't like heat, I wouldn't order it though. All in all. Kinda meh and pricey for being just OK. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

My husband and I wanted to try this place while visiting Columbus because of the great Yelp reviews. We both ordered the Safari Chicken and Beef Suqaar. For our sides we ordered cabbage, spinach, lentils and chickpeas. The food was good and the portion sizes were even better! Try Hoyo's Kitchen for yourself! read more

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First of all, I'm not sure if she's the owner but I want to say she is, she's soooo sweeet! Or at least maybe a family member? She helped me build an all vegan bowl and the flavors were amazing. If you love spicy food, you'll enjoy the options with lots of spice! Not everything is spicy though, if that's not your thing. My vegan bowl: Spicy rice and regular rice Lentils Chickpeas Spinach Cabbage Spinach Cucumber Tomato Green chili salsa (on the side) I also enjoyed a Sambusa (similar to samosa if you're more familiar with the Indian fried pocket). It was stuffed with lots of delicious ingredients and happy they had a vegan one as well. Thank you!! Highly recommend. ***this location is inside the North Market read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Cannot stress enough how AMAZING Hoyo's is!! Firstly, I had enough food for 3 meals. That's impressive considering I kept eating until I was stuffed because the food was so good. The Mango Chicken heat was perfectly sweet and spicy, and remained juicy through 2 reheats. The spinach kind of reminded me of Saag, it was great. Everything was so well seasoned and delicious, from the chicken to the lentils to the rice. I never eat all my rice when I get bowls from places like Chipotle, but I had a completely clean bowl by the time I finished. Hoyo's is absolutely my new obsession. read more

I must have missed this place the first time I came here, I decided to try this place out. Service was okay, they were friendly. The portions are huge and it is pricey. I got Somali rice, beef suqaar, spinach, and chickpeas. I ordered a beef sambusa. The sambusa was hot and tasty. The rice was flavorful. The beef suqaar was kind of tough, dry, and flavorless. I was hoping for meat that was tender and requires less chewing. Chickpeas were delicious but spinach was okay. Overall i would fine like a 3.5 because it was the first time I didn't finish my meal. read more

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Best Sambusa I've had in a long time!!! The sambusa was so good I took one bite and any thought of taking a photo was gone!!! It was perfectly crispy on the outside but the inside was a perfect blend of chicken and spices! I would honestly go back and get only sambusas. They had veggie, chicken, and beef. I also got the mango chicken bowl and it was pretty good however the sambusas really outshone it. Still tasty. This spot is inside a market so there is plenty to choose from! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Mango chicken bowl - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

So tucked into the north market where you have so many restaurants to choose from. We diced to try out Hoyos kitchen after a long time. Have to say first, don't think the prices are comparable and a little outrageous. Previously used to be $13 for the mango chicken, now it's $18 WOW. That is a big difference and honestly if one is to charge that amount for a bowl, it should be packed with lots of flavor and /or quantity. Ordered the Somalian rice as the base, mango chicken, lentils, cooked cabbage. Topped with tomato, cucumber and spinach. Again, I think for the price they could add more, especially on the fresh items to at least make you feel like you got your money's worth. Also ordered a samosa. Originally ordered the chicken but that was not ready so he gave us the beef. Now for the flavor. The bowl was bland and I was super sad about that. I love ethnic flavors to build upon each other. However this was lacking and just felt like simple food. The samosas However was filled with flavor and was cooked perfectly, just wish the main meal had that much flavor provided. Overall, I would try them again but will most likely sample the protein first to ensure flavor is coming through and would also advise to add more since charging such high amount for a simple rice and meat bowl. read more

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Omigoodness-it was a flavor explosion!!! I loved every bite. Normally, I can't finish my whole meal, but I was addicted; I couldn't stop myself. I had the chicken Suqaar with spicy rice. It came with various selections of cooked and raw vegetables. I had the chick peas and cucumber. Chick peas were delicious; I would order that again. The cucumber wasn't the best choice for me, but still good. I'm in Columbus for work, so I ordered Uber eats. Vincent was very nice. Obviously, I can't critique the restaurant, but with food like that unless the restaurant is dirty you won't notice. Oh-YES please! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Really good Somali food. Bold flavors just like Indian food. The chickpea curry is exactly like Indian chickpea curry. The mango chicken and spicy rice are a great combo for those who like spice. With the added hot sauces, I was really sweating it. The owner is amazing and friendly guy. We had a great conversation. Can't wait to get back on my next visit to Columbus. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Mango Chicken Bowl (medium heat, sweet and a little spicy) - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

I have never been to Somalia but had plenty of other African cuisines like Moroccan, Mozambican, Ghanaian food, etc. First trip to Columbus and this restaurant didn't disappoint. The staff was very nice as I asked him some questions about the various proteins. Got the goat with cabbage and lentils for sides. Generous portion for a reasonable price. The meat was tender with good flavor. There were two types of rice: the red was super spicy and I picked the yellowish mild one. He also offered a few sauces but I didn't really use anything as the flavors were just amazing. Get something cold to drink with as my nose was running from the spiciness! Very good and I wish there's one in Madison, WI!!! Must try! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Stopped by on my lunch break after being told about it for months by a friend. I will definitely be back. Great customer service and food. I had a bowl with the "yellow" rice sweet and spicy chicken and beef and some veggies. Also had a beef sambusa (so good I went back for a chicken, also good). And then I had a ginger lemonade. Really good. Decent price point. Really no commissions. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Delicious! I approached with caution because I had no frame of reference for Somali cuisine. My fears were easily released for two reasons: 1) The staff is so nice and knowledgeable. They answered any questions I had and 2) they make it so simple to order...think a Somalian version of Chipotle...pick a base of rice or injera, pick a protein, and pick from some choices of hot and cold vegetables and a sauce to finish. My only critique (and it is a very small one) is that I wished somewhere on the physical menu or online, they provided descriptions of their items. I was really pleased with what I ordered and the staff was so nice but I feel like that would be really helpful. Also, try the Sambusas! You will thank me later. I can't wait to go back and try something new! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Safari Chicken Bowl (mild) with cabbage and spinach - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Woah! An absolute culinary voyage. The ingredients seemed fresh, the cabbage and chickpeas were crisp. The mango habanero and spicy rice were a perfect amount of spicy. Not so much that your eyes watered. All of the bowls are incredibly tasty. I think ordering the yogurt sauce is a good refreshing dip to have on the side. Ordered to go which was quick and easy. Highly recommend! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Excellent food, generous portions, and reasonably priced. This is the first time I've ever had Somalian food and it won't be the last. Nice seasonings on the protein plus fluffy rice, beans, and fresh veggies as a topping. We also got the ginger lemonade which was a fun drink. Be sure to try this place out!!!! read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Beef suqaar with lentils over rice and topped with lettuce, onion, and cucumber - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Delicious food! Nice assembly line setup so it's pretty quick. I got the mango chicken with Somali rice, lentils and spinach. Very good but it's fun because you can make it your own and try different combos. I go anytime I come to Columbus to visit family. read more

The hype is real! I visited this place since it came up in the recommendations for a 5* place near me and I can confirm that the hype is real! Probably the only place in the market with a queue during lunch time. I got the spicy rice with mango chicken, chickpeas and lentils with all the veggies. The rice and the chicken was so flavorful and the portion sizes are big! I also tried the chicken sambusa which was pretty good too! Definitely coming back again once I'm back in Columbus. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Queuing up - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

I had a goat curry rice bowl here. The curry sauce was delicious but the goat was unevenly cooked - some pieces were super tender and others were still clinging to the bone - and there was a LOT of bone, so it didn't feel like a good value. I really enjoyed my mix of spicy and plain rice and the yogurt sauce was a nice cooking topping but weirdly sweet. Would definitely try again. read more

First I must say that I've heard so many good things about this place. We love going to The North Market, but we don't get to go often, since we live in the 'burbs. This was our excuse. North Market is an ambiance, all on it's own. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of vendors selling their wares out of a stall, this place is for you. There was plenty of seating on the second floor. We had a whole table for ourselves, but wouldn't have minded if somebody would've sat there too. It's that kind of place. The woman serving Hoyo's food was in the Hoyo's family. She talked about her brother, and you could tell she had pride in the place. She helped us with ordering, since we were new to Hoyo's and Somali food. My wife ordered the mango chicken, with half spicy, half regular rice, and added cabbage and chickpeas. She also asked for a side of yogurt, on the woman's suggestion. My wife said the chicken had a hint of spice, and the yogurt balanced that spice perfectly. I got the chicken Suqaar, which was rated among the spiciest dishes. I like spice, so I wasn't scared. This dish made me sweat. I too got half and half rice, cabbage, and spinach. It was sooooo good. At first I thought it was a touch pricey at $16, but reconsider while digging in. This bowl is plenty for somebody who's really hungry to eat in one sitting, or could work as two meals, for somebody who isn't quite as hungry. The portions were big. Can't say enough good stuff about Hoyo's. We'll be back! read more

This was my first time trying Somalian food. Since I didn't know what to order I asked the sever for their recommendations. He asked me to try half and half of their spicy chicken and mango chicken over basmati rice and sautéed spinach. Absolutely loved the combination. The rice was perfectly flavored and it blended in so well with the spicy chicken and the mango chicken. The portion might look large but trust me you will crush it in no time. Price was very nominal. It's located in the north market. Very good ambiance as well. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Chicken Suqaar Bowl (Spicy) - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Food bowl concept with Somali food. It was really good, the meat I ordered 1/2 portion of both chicken options. I preferred the less sweet one. Good portions, good flavor. I would come back again! It's hidden around the corner in bubbly food hall. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

If you have never been to Hoyo's Kitchen in the North Market... RUN don't walk there!!!! After just one visit, this place has become top 10 places to eat in the city, in my book. Plenty of options starting from your base, to your protein, and to hot and cold toppings. I myself went with the mango chicken with lentils and chickpeas while my dude got the goat. He mentioned how it was the best goat he's ever had. Their food is *quality*. And quite filling. Also, don't sleep on their drinks. I got I believe the pineapple ginger juice and it was fire! I'll definitely be back, and it will be soon. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Goat Bowl - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Service was pleasant. They were very patient with my questions. Hubby got the rice bowl with goat and I got the rice bowl with sweet mango chicken and I did half regular and half spicy rice. The goat was so good I wished I had gotten it, rather than chicken. It was too sweet for me but the spicy rice did balance put the sweetness of the chicken. Oh my goodness make sure you get the Pineapple lemonade. It was DELICIOUS!!! read more

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Pro - Food was super yummy, flavorful, and large quantity! - For spicy option, recommend spicy rice, chicken suqaar (spicy) or mango chicken (spicy and sweet), green chili salsa Con - Parking by the North Market. It is hard to tell, but the garage is open next to it (can get ticket validated inside the North Market) - Update (or remove) prices from Hoyo's website read more

This is my favorite spot at the North Market! I had sadly never tried Somalian food before Hoyos- and was so impressed after my first time trying! It is a build your own bowl type place, and they have different rice/salad options, protein options, and bowl toppings. My favorite order is the white rice, mango chicken (mild/medium in heat level in my opinion), chickpeas, lentils, and all of the cold veggies. I also get the garlic sauce on top, and request the other two hot sauces on the side to use at my discretion- because they have a lot of heat! Hoyos typically always has a line because of how popular it is, but the line moves very fast. The employees are always very friendly and helpful if you have any questions. I recommend stopping by and eating your meal on the patio (if it's not freezing outside!). If it is, there is plenty of seating on the second floor of North Market. read more

Hoyo's Kitchen - Mango Chicken (medium heat) - African Near Me - Columbus, Ohio