The 7 Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and if you’re craving the rich flavors of the Middle East, you’re in for a treat. The city boasts an array of Middle Eastern restaurants that offer everything from traditional dishes to modern twists on classic flavors. In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 best Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago, where each bite promises a journey through vibrant spices and authentic aromas.

When choosing a Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago, consider the following aspects:

Authenticity: Look for restaurants that use traditional recipes and cooking methods.
Menu Variety: A diverse menu featuring appetizers like hummus and falafel, main dishes such as shawarma and kabobs, and desserts like baklava.
Ambiance: A welcoming atmosphere that reflects Middle Eastern culture.
Price Range: Restaurants offering options for both casual dining and special occasions, with prices typically ranging from $10 to $50 per meal.
Customer Reviews: Positive feedback from diners about food quality and service.
Catering Services: Availability of catering for events and parties.
Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options for enjoying Middle Eastern cuisine at home.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: A variety of plant-based dishes for those with dietary preferences.

Prepare to embark on a flavorful adventure as we guide you through the must-visit Middle Eastern dining spots in Chicago, where quality ingredients and culinary expertise meet.

1. Crave Kabob
2. Pars Cove Restaurant
3. Falafel Dream

4. Tiba Restaurant
5. Benjyehuda
6. Benjyehuda
7. Mr. Shawarma

Number of companies

2828

Verified reviews

4,43

Average rating

(312)6006800

1. Crave Kabob

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

1521 W Madison St, 60607.0, Chicago

Middle Eastern restaurant
Fast food restaurant
Greek restaurant
Lunch restaurant
Mediterranean restaurant
Salad shop
Sandwich shop
Vegan restaurant
Vegetarian restaurant

Why we chose them

Crave Kabob is a modern, counter-serve Mediterranean spot that brings generations of authentic recipes to the heart of Chicago’s West Loop. Known for its diverse offerings, it caters to a wide range of tastes with its fusion of Middle Eastern, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisines. The establishment stands out for its vibrant menu, which includes fast food options, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and vegan and vegetarian dishes, making it a go-to destination for lunch enthusiasts and Mediterranean food lovers alike.

With a commitment to exceptional customer service, the restaurant provides a unique dining experience through its seamless order options, available for both pickup and delivery. The atmosphere is welcoming, with convenient parking facilities nearby. Emphasizing a desire to appease taste buds, Crave Kabob ensures every meal is crafted with care, promising a delightful culinary journey that keeps customers coming back for more. Its dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a notable addition to our directory.

(773)5491515

2. Pars Cove Restaurant

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

435 W Diversey Pkwy, 60614.0, Chicago

Middle Eastern restaurant
Bar
Mediterranean restaurant
Persian restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Vegetarian restaurant

Why we chose them

Pars Cove Restaurant has been a cherished culinary destination in Lincoln Park since 1976, offering a delightful blend of Persian and Mediterranean fare. The restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a night out with loved ones. Known for its romantic dining rooms, Pars Cove offers a menu featuring diverse options from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, including seafood and vegetarian dishes. Patrons rave about favorites like the Appetizer Sampler and Chicken Ju-Jeh Kabob, making it a go-to spot for special occasions.

With a reputation for exceptional service and flavorful dishes, Pars Cove stands out as a top choice for those seeking authentic Persian and Mediterranean experiences in Chicago. The restaurant’s charm and commitment to quality have earned it glowing reviews, with guests feeling warmly welcomed by the attentive staff. Offering a bar alongside its diverse menu, Pars Cove ensures that every visit is memorable, whether for a romantic date night or a gathering with friends. This dedication to providing an excellent dining experience makes it a valuable addition to our company directory.

(773)6250000

3. Falafel Dream

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,2/5

3950 N Harlem Ave, 60634.0, Chicago

Middle Eastern restaurant
Falafel restaurant
Delivery Restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Falafel Dream is a low-key eatery renowned for its delectable Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a delightful array of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Patrons can savor signature dishes such as the Falafel Plate, Stuffed Falafel, and Chicken Shawarma, all crafted with attention to quality and taste. The restaurant is celebrated for its outstanding food, excellent service, and friendly staff, making it a special place to enjoy meals with loved ones. The extensive menu also includes family deals, entrees, appetizers, sandwiches, salads, soups, drinks, sides, and desserts, catering to diverse culinary preferences.

In addition to its welcoming dine-in environment, the restaurant provides a convenient delivery service within a five-mile radius, ensuring that customers can enjoy their favorite dishes at home. With delivery charges set at a reasonable rate per mile, it stands out as an accessible option for those craving Middle Eastern flavors. Customers can easily book a table or order online, reflecting the eatery’s commitment to good food, quality, and fair pricing. Whether you choose to dine in or have your meal delivered, this restaurant promises a memorable experience.

(872)2086660

4. Tiba Restaurant

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

2721 W Lawrence Ave, 60625.0, Chicago

Mediterranean restaurant
Falafel restaurant
Middle Eastern restaurant
Restaurant
Vegan restaurant
Vegetarian restaurant

Why we chose them

Tiba Restaurant stands out as an informal yet exceptional choice for Mediterranean cuisine in Chicago. Known for its flavorful offerings, the restaurant specializes in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, vegan, and vegetarian dishes, with a particular emphasis on its renowned falafel. Customers rave about the quality and taste, describing it as the best falafel in the city. With a menu that leans into the healthy and vibrant ingredients of the Mediterranean diet, Tiba offers a satisfying culinary experience that caters to a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all.

The restaurant offers a range of services including dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering, making it a convenient choice for any occasion. Patrons can indulge in generous portions of dishes like baba ghanoush and seasoned beef sandwiches, complemented by their highly recommended crispy fries. Tiba also engages its loyal customers through the Falafel Fan Club, offering rewards and bonuses to enhance their dining experience. With a focus on delicious, healthy food, and a welcoming atmosphere, Tiba is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic Mediterranean flavors in Chicago.

(312)7269653

5. Benjyehuda

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

10 S La Salle St #2400, 60603.0, Chicago

Mediterranean restaurant
Caterer
Middle Eastern restaurant

Why we chose them

BenjYehuda – La Salle stands out as a vibrant cafe offering a unique taste of Israeli street food in the heart of Chicago. Known for its lively atmosphere and bold embrace of counter culture, this Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurant delivers an experience that values quality over profits. With an enticing menu that includes falafel, gyro, chicken shawarma, and more, each dish is crafted with skill and love, ensuring a flavorful journey for every visitor. Their approach to food is refreshingly flexible, inviting customers to customize their meals with a variety of toppings at no additional charge.

Offering more than just a sit-down dining experience, BenjYehuda also excels as a caterer, providing packages to suit various events. The emphasis on vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options highlights their commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in their offerings. With a presence in multiple locations around Chicago, they have become a favorite for those seeking authentic, delicious Mediterranean cuisine in a fast-casual setting. Their dedication to creating a community-focused space where rules are meant to be broken makes them a noteworthy addition to our directory.

(312)9293664

6. Benjyehuda

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

145 N Wells St, 60606.0, Chicago

Mediterranean restaurant
Caterer
Middle Eastern restaurant

Why we chose them

BenjYehuda is a dynamic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurant that proudly defies convention by embracing a vibrant counter culture. Known for its bold flavors and engaging atmosphere, the restaurant specializes in falafel and shawarma, offering a menu that highlights fresh ingredients and authentic recipes. Their offerings include vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. With a commitment to quality over profit, this fast-casual eatery provides an immersive dining experience where guests can enjoy hearty dishes like chicken shawarma and falafel, all crafted with a sense of creativity and authenticity.

As a popular caterer, BenjYehuda extends its culinary expertise to events, with catering packages that bring the rich flavors of the Mediterranean to any gathering. Their diverse selection of sides, like hummus and baba ganoush, along with signature sauces, offer a customizable experience for every palate. The restaurant’s unique approach and dedication to serving delicious, high-quality food make it a standout choice for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in a lively, rule-breaking setting. This distinctive blend of food and culture is why they are featured in our company directory.

(773)9618807

7. Mr. Shawarma

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

4552 N Magnolia Ave, 60640.0, Chicago

Shawarma restaurant
Middle Eastern restaurant

Why we chose them

Mr. Shawarma stands out as a premier destination for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a delectable array of shawarma dishes that capture the rich flavors of the region. Known for its commitment to quality and tradition, this restaurant has become a favorite among those seeking a genuine culinary experience. Customers are drawn to the expertly spiced meats, fresh ingredients, and the welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit memorable.

The restaurant’s focus on crafting the perfect shawarma sets it apart, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors. As a dedicated shawarma restaurant and Middle Eastern restaurant, it provides a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring that each dish is as flavorful as it is authentic. This dedication to excellence is why it has earned a spot in our directory, highlighting its role in bringing Middle Eastern delicacies to the community.

FAQs

What types of dishes can I expect at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago?

Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago typically offer a variety of dishes including appetizers like hummus and falafel, main courses such as shawarma and kabobs, and desserts like baklava. Many also provide vegetarian and vegan options.

How can I determine the authenticity of a Middle Eastern restaurant?

To determine authenticity, look for restaurants that use traditional recipes and cooking methods, and consider customer reviews that highlight the authenticity of the flavors and dishes.

What is the typical price range for a meal at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago?

The price range for a meal at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago typically varies from €9 to €46 ($10 to $50), depending on the type of dining experience and menu selection.

Do Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago offer catering services?

Yes, many Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago offer catering services for events and parties. It's best to contact the restaurant directly to inquire about their catering options and menu.

Are there options for takeout and delivery at Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago?

Most Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago offer convenient takeout and delivery options, allowing you to enjoy their cuisine from the comfort of your home.

What ambiance should I expect at a Middle Eastern restaurant?

Middle Eastern restaurants often feature a welcoming atmosphere that reflects Middle Eastern culture, with décor and music that enhance the dining experience.

How can I find customer reviews for Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago?

Customer reviews can be found on various online platforms such as restaurant websites, social media pages, and review sites like Yelp or TripAdvisor. These reviews can provide insights into the food quality and service.

What should I consider when choosing a Middle Eastern restaurant for a special occasion?

Consider factors such as the authenticity of the menu, the ambiance of the restaurant, customer reviews, and whether they offer private dining options or catering services for a more personalized experience.