If you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, then you know that falafel is a staple of the cuisine. It's a popular vegetarian dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans that are seasoned with herbs and spices before being formed into balls or patties and fried.
In Chicago, there are many places where you can find delicious falafel, but not all falafel is created equal.
Finding the perfect falafel can be a challenge, especially if you're new to the city. The good news is that we've done the hard work for you.
We've scoured the city to find the best places for falafel, so you don't have to. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover some of the best falafel spots in Chicago.
In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through the city to explore some of the best places for falafel.
From the classic Middle Eastern eateries to the trendy new cafes, we'll show you where to find the most delicious falafel in Chicago. So, grab your appetite and let's get started on this falafel adventure!
1. Aba
Looking for a trendy Mediterranean restaurant with delicious food and great ambiance in the West Loop area of the city, Aba is the place to be.
With its elegant outdoor space and earthy dining room, Aba offers a relaxed yet posh destination for elevated Mediterranean fare and cocktails.
The menu features a variety of shareable dishes, including the standout green falafel, pork belly, and braised lamb. The service is attentive, and the staff is friendly.
The restaurant also boasts a lounge-style rooftop patio, making it a perfect spot for a night out with friends or a date.
2. Taste of Lebanon Restaurant
Taste of Lebanon Restaurant offers delicious and affordable Lebanese food.
Their falafel wraps are a standout item and are highly recommended. The lentil soup and grape leaves are also noteworthy.
The service is friendly and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick bite or takeout.
While it may be a no-frills counter-serve spot, the quality of the food speaks for itself.
3. Cedar Palace
If you're looking for authentic Mediterranean food, Cedar Palace is the place to be. This family-run restaurant offers freshly prepared dishes made from high-quality ingredients.
Their falafel is crispy and packed with flavor, and their lamb and beef are tender and juicy.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making you feel right at home.
With BYOB and a beautiful patio, Cedar Palace is the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or family.
4. Taza Cafe
Taza Cafe is a must-visit for anyone in search of delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food.
Their falafel is crispy and full of flavor, and their charbroiled chicken and hummus are also top-notch.
The prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
The small, clean eating area is perfect for a quick bite or to-go orders. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant!
5. Hummus Grill Chicago
Hummus Grill Chicago is a must-try Mediterranean restaurant for falafel lovers.
The falafel wrap is big and delicious, and the hummus is creamy and flavorful. The gyros, kabobs, and rice are also done perfectly.
The owners and staff are friendly and provide outstanding customer service. The prices are amazing, and the atmosphere is generous.
The lamb chops plate is highly recommended. If you're in the area, don't miss out on Hummus Grill Chicago!
6. Galit
Galit is a chef-driven Middle Eastern eatery that serves up some of the best falafel in town.
Their menu features seasonal Middle Eastern fare and creative cocktails.
The staff is knowledgeable about the ingredients and the service is excellent.
The Bubbe's brisket hummus is a must-try, and their pita bread is freshly baked. Galit is a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.
7. Falafel Kebab Station
Falafel Kebab Station is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers fresh and tasty falafel.
The crispy outside and soft inside make for a perfect combination. The mint lemonade is fantastic and the shawarma sandwich is highly recommended.
The restaurant is clean and the staff is friendly. The mix kabob platter is excellent and everything is cooked fresh to order.
The fries are always fresh and the price range per meal is reasonable. If you're in the mood for falafel, give Falafel Kebab Station a try.
8. Sultan's Market
Sultan's Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious falafel. The extensive salad bar and quick counter-service make it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner.
The lamb shawarma is a standout dish and the portions are generous.
The staff is friendly and the prices are affordable. Don't forget to grab a side of baba ghanoush and some hot sauce for an extra kick.
Sultan's Market is a great choice for anyone craving Mediterranean cuisine.
9. Yummy Falafel
Yummy Falafel is a must-visit Mediterranean restaurant for falafel lovers.
The falafel is simply delicious with fresh ingredients and friendly service.
The gyro sandwich combo is also a hit, with good portion sizes and tasty flavor.
It's a convenient spot to grab a quick bite, so don't miss out!
10. LaShuk Street Food
If you're a fan of Middle Eastern food, then LaShuk Street Food is a must-visit spot.
Their falafel hummus is a standout dish that's made with fresh ingredients and comes highly recommended.
The service is top-notch, and the menu offers a variety of other tasty options like shawarma, authentic hummus, and amazing mushrooms.
LaShuk is located in a bustling food court, but it's well worth the small wait time. For the best homemade hummus and falafel in town, LaShuk is definitely worth a visit.
11. Zayna Mediterranean Grill
Zayna Mediterranean Grill is a hidden gem for falafel lovers. The food is made fresh to order, full of flavor, and well priced.
The falafel is a must-try, and the fries are also delicious. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
The portions are generous and the food is always at the right temperature.
The chicken shawarma is also highly recommended. This spot is definitely worth a visit for a great Mediterranean meal.
12. Tiba Restaurant
Tiba Restaurant is a hidden gem for Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant may lack in decor, but the food is exceptional.
The falafel is crispy and flavorful, while the hummus is creamy and delicious.
Portions are large and reasonably priced. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their recommendations.
This place is definitely worth returning to for a quick and casual meal.
