Are you a fan of the rich flavors and vibrant colors of Mediterranean cuisine? If you find yourself in the bustling city of Chicago and are on the hunt for the best Mediterranean restaurants to satisfy your cravings, look no further! We have curated a list of the top culinary gems that will take your taste buds on a journey through the Mediterranean region. From savory kebabs to tangy tzatziki, these establishments are sure to transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean Sea with every bite. Join us as we explore the best Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago that promise an unforgettable dining experience.
Top 5 Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Chicago
When it comes to experiencing the culinary delights of the Mediterranean in the heart of Chicago, these five restaurants stand out as the cream of the crop. Renowned for their authenticity, quality ingredients, and exceptional service, these dining establishments have captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts across the city. Let’s delve into what makes these Mediterranean restaurants truly shine in the vibrant culinary scene of Chicago.
Name | Address | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
Aba | 302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607, United States | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 | 2891 |
Ema | 74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 | 2600 |
Cedar Palace | 655 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 | 810 |
Nia Restaurant | 803 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 | 622 |
Sinya Mediterranean | 3224 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 | 394 |
Aba
Aba, located in Chicago’s lively Fulton District, is a delightful Mediterranean restaurant offering a taste of the Mediterranean that is nothing short of magical. The menu celebrates culinary artistry with dishes bursting with flavors that transport diners straight to sun-soaked shores. The ambiance at Aba is enchanting, with warm lighting, charming olive trees, and a cozy escape from the bustling city.
What We Liked:
- Easy and accommodating party planning
- Fresh and delicious food, especially the chicken and lamb
- Ambiance with charming olive trees
- Genuine warmth and impeccable service from staff
- Fresh juices used in all drinks
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some dishes were basic and did not stand out
- Tangy birthday dessert with yogurt ice cream was not enjoyable
- Limited variety in vegetarian options
- Noise level can get high during peak hours
- Limited parking options in the area
Rating Scores:
- Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Aba | 302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607, United States | (773) 645-1400 |
Ema
Ema is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers delicious food with great presentation in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. With a focus on Mediterranean Greek cuisine, Ema provides a solid dining experience with flavorful dishes and attentive staff.
What We Liked:
- Delicious food with great presentation
- Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
- Dedicated gluten-free menu for celiac customers
- Quick and attentive service
- Flavorful dishes like charred eggplant and grilled halloumi
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some dishes had minor issues like overly salty eggs and undercooked rice
- Cramped tables in the restaurant
- Unpleasant odor upon entering the restaurant
- Additional surcharge on the bill felt unreasonable for small parties
- Limited variety in vegetarian options
Rating Scores:
- Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Ema | 74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States | (312) 527-5586 |
Cedar Palace
Cedar Palace is a Lebanese restaurant known for its authentic and flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine. With a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, Cedar Palace offers a memorable dining experience with a variety of delicious options.
What We Liked:
- Delicious and flavorful food, especially the lentil soup and shawarma
- Tons of vegetarian options available
- Exceptional service with friendly staff
- Authentic Middle Eastern cooking
- Welcoming atmosphere and well-thought-out decor
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited street parking available
- Additional credit card fee of 3.5%
- Limited variety in dessert options
Rating Scores:
- Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Cedar Palace | 655 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, | +13126430933 |
Nia Restaurant
Nia Restaurant is a charming spot perfect for a date night or a gathering with friends and family. With a cozy ambiance, knowledgeable staff, and delicious food, Nia offers a memorable dining experience in Chicago’s West Loop.
What We Liked:
- Delicious and fresh food, especially the char steak, croquettes, and shrimp risotto
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff
- Cozy ambiance with low lighting and great music
- Chef’s menu option for a taste of everything
- Perfect spot for a date night or family dinner
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited dessert options
- Some menu items may feel more like sides than main courses
Rating Scores:
- Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Nia Restaurant | 803 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States | (312) 226-3110 |
Sinya Mediterranean
Sinya Mediterranean is a delightful spot offering flavorful Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and generous portions. With friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere, Sinya Mediterranean provides a satisfying dining experience in a casual setting.
What We Liked:
- Flavorful and juicy dishes like the filet, chicken wrap, and Baba Ghanoush
- Best hot sauce with a kick
- Generous portions ensuring value for money
- Crispy Waffle Fries and excellent Gyro and Falafel
- Fast and friendly service
What We Didn’t Like:
- Average atmosphere
- Limited variety in vegetarian options
Rating Scores:
- Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐
- Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Contact Details
Logo | Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Sinya Mediterranean | 3224 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States | +17738975700 |
The Cost of Dining at the Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Chicago
When it comes to indulging in the exquisite flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at the top restaurants in Chicago, it’s essential to consider the cost factor. Here’s a breakdown of the average prices you can expect at these culinary hotspots:
Restaurant Name | Average Cost for Two | Signature Dish Price |
|---|---|---|
Olive Tree | $60 – $80 | $20 |
Aegean Taverna | $50 – $70 | $18 |
Mediterranean Grill | $40 – $60 | $15 |
Blue Door Kitchen | $70 – $90 | $25 |
Ema | $80 – $100 | $30 |
- Average Cost for Two: The prices listed represent the approximate cost for a meal for two people, including appetizers, main courses, and drinks.
- Signature Dish Price: Indulge in the restaurant’s standout dish at the specified price point to experience the pinnacle of Mediterranean flavors.
While dining at these Mediterranean restaurants may lean towards the upscale side, the exceptional quality of food and dining experience they offer make them well worth the investment for a memorable culinary journey.
FAQ
1. What types of dishes can I expect to find at Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago?
At Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago, you can expect a diverse array of dishes ranging from traditional favorites like hummus, falafel, and kebabs to regional specialties such as spanakopita, moussaka, and shawarma.
2. Are there vegetarian and vegan options available at these Mediterranean restaurants?
Yes, most Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including dishes like tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and vegetable kebabs to cater to diverse dietary preferences.
3. Do these restaurants accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! Many Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago are accommodating when it comes to food allergies and dietary restrictions. They are often willing to modify dishes or suggest alternatives to ensure all guests can enjoy a safe and delicious dining experience.
4. Is it necessary to make reservations at the top Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago?
While it’s recommended to make reservations, especially during peak dining hours or weekends, some restaurants may accommodate walk-in guests depending on availability. Making a reservation in advance can help secure your table and avoid any potential wait times.
5. What sets the ambiance of Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago apart from other dining establishments?
The ambiance of Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago often reflects the warm and inviting hospitality of the Mediterranean region. Expect cozy interiors, rustic décor, and sometimes outdoor seating areas that transport diners to a Mediterranean-inspired oasis in the heart of the city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exploring the best Mediterranean restaurants in Chicago is not just a culinary experience but a journey through the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of the Mediterranean region. From the authenticity of the dishes to the welcoming ambiance, each restaurant on our list offers a unique opportunity to savor the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in the bustling city of Chicago. Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or someone looking to embark on a gastronomic adventure, these top Mediterranean restaurants are sure to delight your senses and leave you craving for more. So, gather your loved ones, make a reservation, and prepare to indulge in a dining experience that transcends borders and brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table in Chicago. Bon appétit!
How We Picked the Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Chicago
Curating a list of the best Mediterranean restaurants in a city as diverse and dynamic as Chicago is no easy feat. Our process involved a meticulous evaluation of various factors to ensure that only the crème de la crème made it to our coveted list. Here’s a glimpse into the criteria we considered:
- Authenticity: We prioritized restaurants that stayed true to the traditional flavors and cooking techniques of the Mediterranean region.
- Quality of Ingredients: Freshness and quality are paramount in Mediterranean cuisine, so we looked for restaurants that sourced the finest ingredients.
- Menu Variety: From classic dishes to innovative creations, we favored restaurants that offered a diverse menu to cater to different tastes.
- Ambiance: The overall dining experience matters, so we selected restaurants with inviting atmospheres and exceptional service.
- Customer Reviews: We paid close attention to feedback from diners to ensure that our selections resonated with the discerning palates of Chicago foodies.
By meticulously analyzing these aspects, we were able to handpick the top Mediterranean restaurants that promise an unparalleled dining experience in the vibrant city of Chicago.