50 Best Mediterranean Restaurants near Evanston

“Habibi In is as good as it looks! The servings were so generous and everything was delicious. The falafel was my favorite dish and the best I’ve had in the Chicagoland area. The staff was so friendly and welcoming.“

“excelente, todo el menú delicioso 😋 las bebidas. muy buen servicio“

“Amazing all around!!! The food was delicious and service was great. The pita was incredible and the hummus was truly authentic. We had the schnitzel which was super crunchy and the sauce on the side was very flavorful. The patio in the back is so nice and spacious and the word burning oven inside really sets the vibe. The drinks were also unique and delicious. You have to go!!“

“Turquoise was absolutely AMAZING! I've done quite a few food reviews over the years because I'm definitely a foodie, and I have to say—this was by far one of the best dining experiences I've had. The food was authentic and incredibly delicious, and the staff was phenomenal—prompt, courteous, attentive, and on top of everything. Even the bread and dip were incredible! The dip was so light and refreshing, made with yogurt, thinly sliced carrots, garlic, basil, and the most delicious blend of flavors. It was one of those things you just keep going back for. I seriously wish I had the recipe! The calamari literally melted in our mouths, and the beet salad was fresh, crisp, and so refreshing. But the lamb shank and mushroom risotto... OH. DEAR. GOD. 😂 That was like diving into a plate of heaven. The risotto was ridiculously good—creamy, rich, and perfectly prepared. And the lamb? Like butter. So tender it practically fell apart. From the bread and appetizers to the entrées and service, everything was exceptional. WOW. Turquoise, you absolutely knocked it out of the park. This is the kind of meal you're still thinking about the next day. We will definitely be back! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“Great staff, absolutely delicious food in a warm welcoming atmosphere. can't recommend them enough.“

“My daughter who is living in Asia tracked down this place for me (well, actually she wanted to eat there vicariously)and it was a great find. She asked me how I would rate the food (1-10) and when I said 10, she was impressed since I am not a foodie. Food just doesn't do it for me well.. until this meal. It started with me picking up the meal. The family who own this gem are so generous, so welcoming that I stayed talking to them longer than my dogs, who were waiting outside, would have liked. When I arrived home, the lentil soup was stilling piping hot and wow, so delicious. I am not a lentil soup, or even soup, person but I am definitely returning for more. The sauteed spinach with bulgar was well-yeah, I would definitely eat bulgar all the time if it tasted like this. As it turns out, there was so much food that I have a second meal. Thank you for this great meal and the welcoming. I, and people I know, will be there.“

“A must try spot! Great food, coffee and atmosphere! Definitely recommend!“

“On the evening of July 5 my wife and I tried Avaspi on Belmont Avenue in Lakeview for the first time. It will not be the last! I love lamb and am quite particular as to how is it prepared. The “lamb delight” menu item was the best lamb I have ever had in a restaurant: tender, succulent, and prepared to perfection. The side salad accompanying it was not your ordinary side salad! My wife and I both enjoyed the Mixed Meze appetizer plate. Each of the five items was quite good but the muhammara was to die for. We ended our meal with tea, baklava and kubralice. The décor and ambience were refreshing and relaxing, and the service was outstanding. The pricing was very reasonable. Please give it a try. We do not think you will be disappointed.“

“Hands down one of the best restaurants in Chicago. It’s rare to find a restaurant where every dish is so flavorful and on point but Elia does it so gracefully! Amazing atmosphere and great service - Ebrar made our dinner experience so enjoyable. Can’t wait to go back!“

“Love CAVA! The build-your-own bowls are amazing, the pita dishes are delicious, and everything feels fresh and healthy. Cute spot on Milwaukee Ave, but be prepared if the line is long, because it's popular for a reason!! Would deffo come back :)“

“We thought the atmosphere was cozy, service was very nice, and food was really good/tasty. We shared the Arugula Beet Salad and Grilled Octopus apps, then had the Grilled Salmon (really tasty!) and Chicken Verdura (tasted as expected) entrées. Also, the cheesecake they served we both agreed was better tasting than any we’d had before.“

“I recently had the pleasure of dining at Medi Kitchen & Cocktail in Chicago, and it was truly a gastronomic adventure that exceeded all expectations. From the moment I stepped in, the warm and inviting ambiance set the stage for what turned out to be an unforgettable dining experience. To start, I ordered the Potato Borak as an appetizer, and it was a revelation in flavor. The crispy pastry wrapped around creamy mashed potatoes and herbs created an exquisite contrast in textures, and the accompanying dipping sauce added a delightful tangy kick. It was an ideal prelude to the culinary journey that awaited. The Fattoush Salad was a refreshing and colorful medley of fresh vegetables, toasted pita bread, and a zesty dressing that awakened the palate. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish was impeccable, making it a perfect palate cleanser before the main course. Speaking of the main course, the Beef Kabob and Shish Tawook were nothing short of spectacular. The Beef Kabob was tender and succulent, with a delightful smoky char that added depth to the taste. The Shish Tawook, featuring marinated chicken skewers, was incredibly flavorful and cooked to perfection. Both dishes were served with fragrant saffron rice and a medley of grilled vegetables that complemented the proteins superbly. The crowning jewel of the meal, however, was the Fairouz drink. Each sip was a symphony of textures and flavors, a sweet crescendo to an already exceptional meal. What sets Medi Kitchen & Cocktail apart is not just the outstanding cuisine but also the impeccable service. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, offering recommendations and ensuring that every need was met. In conclusion, my dining experience at Medi was nothing short of extraordinary. The culinary artistry, attention to detail, and warm ambiance combined to create a memorable evening. I can confidently give this restaurant a resounding 5/5 rating, and I eagerly anticipate my next visit to savor more of their delectable offerings. If you're in Chicago and looking for a taste of Mediterranean cuisine at its finest, Medi Kitchen & Cocktail is an absolute must-visit.“

“Excellent food! I had the veggie platter and everything was very tasty.“

“Service and food all outstanding. I will be going back.“

“I had an amazing experience at Shawarma and Grill! The service was absolutely top-notch from start to finish. As soon as I walked in, the staff greeted me with genuine smiles and made me feel welcome right away. They were attentive without being overbearing, and made sure everything was just right throughout my meal.“

“I don’t always write reviews but when I do it’s because I’m impressed or disappointed. I ordered for to go. I had the grilled platter. Rice two kind, beef I think or lamb, chicken and kafta. Everything was delicious. Chicken was the best it was soft inside and just fall apart in the mouth. Hummus was great not too strong not too salty. Fattoush salad was also great. Overall I would recommend as a place to go for a quick middle eastern bite.“

“Suffron Cafe is a great option for tasty Mediterranean food in Chicago. The place doesn’t have much seating inside, but they’ve added a couple of tables outside, which definitely helps when the weather allows it.

We sat outside and had the gyro plate, beef kabob plate, and dolmas (stuffed grape leaves). Both plates came with generous portions, and everything was very tasty. The meat was flavorful, and the rice, hummus and salad made for a very filling meal. The dolmas were also a nice addition to share.

Even though we ordered at the counter, the food was brought out to our table. Good food, generous portions and friendly service. Definitely a good spot if you’re looking for Mediterranean food in the area.“

“Such a good meal for lunch today! Portion sizes were great, our waitress was wonderful, & the food was soooo yummy!! 😋 We will definitely be back!“

“The food was absolutely delicious and our servers did a great job explaining the dishes and directing us. I’m certain that we will go back although I’m not a huge fan of fixed price menu. It’s probabaly more food that my wife and I would normally eat. By the time we got to our final course we had pretty much already reached our capacity. Although I admit I forced myself to finish the amazingly good pastrami entree. Hard to pick one thing that was most outstanding in a meal of perfect dishes.“

“Attended a very lovely wedding + reception there today (not a usual function they perform) and it was absolutely amazing! The decor, the atmosphere, the food & service were all top notch! Tres Bien!!!“

“all food are very good ,the best!!“

“Love this place! Food is so good, well packaged, and quick delivery.“

“I have gone to Andros Taverna for many years now where I am never disappointed and always impressed with the service, the quality of food and ingredients, the atmosphere and the passion in general. Chef Doug Psaltis is a true expert and artist performing at the highest levels. The gyros are the best, best gyros in Chicago by far, the seafood world class, the homemade bread and pita are incredible. The foods and meats are cooked over wood fire, wood fire grilled. We had our daughters baptism catered from here which was excellent assortment of Greek food - this is a Greek restaurant you will go to for many years to come.“

“absolutely delicious! the falafel was perfectly crispy on the outside and moist in the middle“

“This food is delicious - classic dishes done well. The chicken and beef shawarma, the falafel, the pita bread and the kebabs are excellent. Rice is fabulous. Couldn't be easier to order and pick up. The restaurant is clean and nice for dining in. All around awesome choice for regular family dinners.“

“Food is delicious and personal so nice“

“this is one of the best Mediterranean food I have ever ate I would definitely come back“

“Amazing food & service! Thank you Chicago♥️“

“Absolutely delicious food perfect customer service Decent prices very clean place“

“Great food. Very friendly staff“

“I really liked this place. It's very clean, the service was very polite. I had the chicken shawarma wrap and dolmas. The dolmas were pretty standard but good. The chicken shawarma was seasoned very well and the wrap wasn't messy! I'll be back to try their hummus and baba ghanouj.“

“The best. Great food, just as great as the conversations with Jamal“

“We loved our pistachio cold brew lattes-the best and best price! Especially Jose who was an amazing server! We will come back!!“

“Stopped in for lunch at Falafel & Grill between thrifting in WP, and so happy we did! Service was fast and friendly, and the food was super filling and tasted very fresh. The Chicken Shawarma Sandwich is a MUST!“

“We had the best time here for an early dinner before heading downtown for a show. Highlights of the meal are the French Onion Toast and Ricotta Gnocci. They also have a mocktail menu which had some delicious drinks on it. Will definitely be back soon!“

“عاشت ايدكم على هذا الكباب ، طعم عراقي اصلي“

“Absolutely delicious, as always! We miss being closer to Hala In. #supportlocal“

“My first experience at this restaurant was enjoyable due to the staff explaining what items came with which plate, recommending dishes/drinks and understanding my food preferences. I ordered a Lamb Koubideh and Persian Iced Tea with sugar packets, both were flavorful and full filling.“

“Had lunch there today and I have to say this is the first time I was disappointed with the service. The food was excellent but that's it. Asked for 2nd drink and never got it. Water was never refilled until we were through eating. When first ordering our wine we had problems. I will continue to eat here and hopefully this is a one time occurrence.“

“I just picked up falafel and baba ghanouj and it has to be the best falafel I’ve ever had. I was coming back from Skokie and I wanted to go to Pita Inn on Dempster and it was too busy but I did not miss anything - this is better!“

“Great place to grab lunch. Their pizza is perfect 😋 and wings were delicious. My daughter wanted something on the sweeter side so she had their delicious Nutella panini. I couldn't resist to ask for a bite 😅. I will definitely be back often. Highly recommended.“

“Run to Zizi’s! The food is amazing! Fresh and delicious. Huge portions and everyone is so friendly. John our wonderful waiter made our experience even better. GREAT Place all around!!!!“

“AMAZING, DELICIOUS, and FRESH food!“

“Cappadocia catered a 40 person party for us this past weekend and knocked it out of the park. The food was amazing - everyone raved about it - and the team was so easy and kind to work with. It’s clear how sincerely they care about their business and delivering high quality food and service. This is our new favorite spot in the area; I couldn’t recommend Cappadocia more!“

“Always delicious! Always accommodating…over the past five years I’ve experienced feeding from 3-30, and never disappointed! The service is always great! They take huge pride in their food and work. We just had a party for 30, and I should have just put out a banner so people would stop asking me where the food was from 💖. All were very impressed!“

“Perfect place to eat a meal or host an event. We just hosted a bridal shower and could not be more pleased with the decor, the food and the service. The staff are very attentive, Definitely worth a visit“

“We have a nice dinner the food was so good, and for sure we will back 💖💖“

“Update: I’ve been going here for many years, with longer hours now and a remodeled and much larger dining area that looks and feels pleasant, they’ve really been doing a great job! Quality is consistent and always tastes great. Very fresh and lots of healthy options that taste great! Cannot recommend this place enough.

Amazing Middle Eastern food! Prices are amazing, food is fantastic, and overall the whole business has a very strong flow to it! Employees work very hard to serve costumers and help keep the place clean. Absolutely amazing!“

“My first time eating lunch at Ema was outstanding. I was meeting a colleague and wasn’t sure what to expect because we had a lot of work to cover. The entire staff was very helpful, courteous and knowledgeable about the menu. We received wonderful service and had a very healthy lunch. The food was great and all our salads were fresh and delicious.“

“My friends and I ate in the informal side of the restaurant and the food was very good, reasonably priced and plentiful. The service was polite and accommodating. I'll be patronizing this fine establishment in the years to come and suggest others follow suit when interested in Persian cuisine.“