One Taste Of These Middle Eastern Dishes, And You’ll See Why Everyone’s Flocking To Illinois

Illinois might not be the first place that comes to mind for Middle Eastern cuisine, but this Midwest state harbors some incredible culinary gems. From Chicago’s bustling neighborhoods to quiet suburban enclaves, these restaurants have mastered the art of authentic flavors from across the Middle East.

Whether you’re craving perfectly spiced kebabs, cloud-like hummus, or freshly baked pita, these seven spots represent the cream of the crop in Illinois’ Middle Eastern food scene.

1. Sifr Restaurant: Wood-Fired Wonders In River North

Chicago’s River North district boasts this modern Middle Eastern marvel where wood-fire cooking highlights many dishes, though not every item is prepared this way. Chef Maher Chebaro crafts dishes that honor traditional recipes while incorporating contemporary techniques.

The restaurant’s warm atmosphere features exposed brick and natural woods, creating a cozy backdrop for the flavor explosions on your plate. Signature items include charred eggplant with tahini and pomegranate, and sujuk-spiced octopus that keeps travelers coming back.

Locals recommend making reservations well in advance, especially for weekend dinners when Chicago food enthusiasts fill every table.

2. Galit: Michelin Magic In Lincoln Park

Earning its coveted one Michelin star through culinary excellence, Galit stands as a testament to Chef Zach Engel’s vision for Middle Eastern cuisine in Illinois. The Lincoln Park hotspot dazzles with its modern take on traditional dishes from across the region.

Hummus takes center stage here, served with freshly baked pita that arrives steaming to your table. Each variation comes topped with seasonal specialties like braised lamb or fire-roasted vegetables.

The restaurant’s bright, airy space fills with happy chatter as diners sample from the carefully curated menu and impressive wine list featuring bottles from Lebanon, Israel, and beyond.

3. Taste Of Lebanon: Andersonville’s Hidden Gem

Tucked away in Chicago’s charming Andersonville neighborhood, this unassuming storefront has been serving authentic Lebanese cuisine for decades. What Taste of Lebanon lacks in fancy decor, it more than makes up for with genuinely delicious food that transports you straight to Beirut.

Cash-only and counter-service only, the restaurant embodies no-frills dining at its finest. Their lentil soup has achieved legendary status among Illinois food enthusiasts, while the shawarma wrap remains a perennial favorite.

Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the generous portions and wallet-friendly prices, making this spot a must-visit for authentic Middle Eastern flavors without breaking the bank.

4. Al Bawadi Grill: Bridgeview’s Palestinian Paradise

Just outside Chicago in Bridgeview, Al Bawadi Grill serves as Illinois’ ambassador for authentic Palestinian cuisine. The spacious restaurant buzzes with energy as families gather around large tables laden with shareable platters of grilled meats and mezze.

Charcoal-grilled kebabs emerge from the kitchen with perfect char marks and aromatic spices that will haunt your dreams. Their house specialty, mansaf – a traditional lamb dish cooked in fermented yogurt sauce – offers a taste experience you’ll rarely find elsewhere in the state.

Weekend evenings sometimes include live music alongside a festive atmosphere that makes the short drive from Chicago absolutely worthwhile for food adventurers.

5. Jarasa Kabob: Skokie’s Flavor Powerhouse

Northern Illinois travelers in the know make special trips to Skokie for Jarasa Kabob’s exceptional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fusion cuisine. Family-owned and operated, this welcoming spot delivers consistently outstanding food that keeps loyal customers returning week after week.

Their kabob platters arrive at the table sizzling hot, accompanied by fragrant rice and house-made garlic sauce that elevates every bite. Vegetarians rejoice over the falafel – crispy outside, fluffy inside, and seasoned to perfection.

The restaurant’s bright, casual atmosphere makes it perfect for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners when exploring the suburbs north of Chicago.

6. Yalla Middle Eastern Cuisine: Mokena’s Culinary Treasure

Southern Illinois residents no longer need to trek to Chicago for authentic Middle Eastern flavors thanks to Yalla in Mokena. This family-owned establishment brings the vibrant tastes of the region to the suburbs with recipes passed down through generations.

First-timers should try the mezze sampler – a colorful array of dips and small plates designed for sharing. The house-made baklava, drenched in honey and layered with pistachios, provides the perfect sweet ending to your meal.

Friendly service and a warm atmosphere make visitors feel like part of the family, creating an experience that goes beyond just excellent food to genuine Illinois hospitality.

7. Sultan’s Market: Chicago’s Falafel Phenomenon

A Chicago institution with multiple locations throughout the city, Sultan’s Market has been satisfying Middle Eastern food cravings since 1995. The original Wicker Park location still draws lines out the door during lunch rush, a testament to its enduring popularity.

Their falafel sandwich – a pita stuffed with crispy chickpea fritters, fresh vegetables, and tahini – has achieved cult status among Illinois residents. The buffet-style setup allows diners to customize plates with colorful salads, dips, and hot dishes.

College students, young professionals, and budget-conscious travelers appreciate the generous portions at reasonable prices, making Sultan’s a cornerstone of Chicago’s affordable dining scene.