Middle Eastern Restaurants near Oak Lawn, IL

“Hamdullah One of my favorite places to eat! The hummus!!!! The best … So tasty. The service… so genuine and loving. The food …soooo yummy and nutritious. Peace be upon the cooks and the preparers. Highly recommended.“

“Omg!!! This place is too amazing to not try. The food is so fresh and super tasty. This location is my favorite one!! The way Amina and the rest of the staff recognize us it’s just so heartwarming, they make us feel like family. We are so happy when we’re here and leave even happier with a full belly. Thank you Amina and staff for an amazing experience as always! You guys are amazing! We travel an hour to eat here so that tells you how delicious the food is but the service makes it even better. We love you Baba Saj Oak Lawn“

“Great food delicious 🤤 sabroso“

“First time having dinner here and it was so good. Fast service and nice atmosphere. Looking forward to coming back!“

“From the moment we stepped into this incredible Arab restaurant, we were welcomed with the kind of warmth and hospitality that made us feel like family. The atmosphere was inviting and beautifully decorated, but it was the service—and especially the owner—that truly made this experience unforgettable. The food was absolutely phenomenal. What truly set this restaurant apart, though, was the hospitality. The owner personally came over to greet us and made sure my entire family was comfortable and well taken care of. It’s rare to find someone who treats guests with such heartfelt attention. This was a memorable experience. I can’t recommend this place enough if you’re looking for not just incredible food, but also to be treated with the kind of warmth and generosity that leaves a lasting impression. We will absolutely be returning“

“As I had recently arrived from Denver, CO to pay my brother a visit. He treated me by taking me to the King of Falafel & Shawarma. The cook/cashier took our order; falafels with hummus and a mixed dish with rice and various meats (the Junior). I cannot stress enough the delicious flavors of every single food I put in my mouth. I was saddened to realize that I would have to go back home and not enjoy this food on a regular basis. So on my last day of vacationing, I went back and ordered numerous amounts of those delicious dishes, which I was able to take back on the flight and ultimately freeze for later enjoyment. I highly recommend this restaurant. Because aside from the delicious food, the staff were very courteous, warm and inviting. 5 stars out of 5!“

“Best of the best, they have the best Mankoosha in the Chicago Suburbs, Recommend 🔥“

“I have had a few wonderful experiences here. First catered food from her for Ramadan, my friend bringing me here for a birthday dinner and me loving those experiences so much I brought my family here to celebrate my son’s 6th birthday. My family loved it and highlighted not only the amazing food but the wonderful and kind customer service. I’m officially a fan and will be back soon enough“

“Al Manakeesh was incredible. We had the egg and veggies, and the turkey bagel. The portions are incredibly generous and the food was delicious. It was very affordable. The staff were kind and generous and made the experience really enjoyable. The atmosphere was very inviting, welcoming and warm. We would absolutely eat there again.“

“Great amazing food and great customer service 5 stars“

“This place *never* lets us down. The food is delicious, fresh and just so tasty. Their hummus is the BEST- they add some delicious garnishes on it. Best hummus I’ve ever had. Just too good and reliable. My kids love it too which is great.“

“Absolutely delicious. The owner was friendly and as soon as we came in many people came in after us. Definitely worth checking out. Better for takeout since its a small spot but the amount of food you get is insane. So worth it!! 🔥🔥☝🏼“

“Amazing falafel! Everything was fresh, crispy, and full of flavor. The portions were great, the service was friendly, and the food came out fast. Definitely one of the best falafel spots I’ve tried. I’ll definitely be coming back!“

“Food is amazing, environment is so relaxing and friendly. Literally the food I have ever had.“

“The shawarma is my favorite thing on the menu 👍“

“I never had kabobs presented on skewers like at Reef Kabob; such fun! Excellent hummas and tabular salad. The most gracious staff!“

“Excellent in every aspect. The food is fresh, clean, and delicious, and while it might seem a bit pricey, it is definitely worth every penny. The atmosphere is amazing, the service is top-notch, the portions are generous, and both location and parking are convenient. Highly recommended!“

“Ghawar is easily one of the best Middle Eastern spots in the Chicago area. The food is authentic, fresh, and packed with flavor—from the creamy hummus and crispy falafel to the shakshouka, foul, kibbeh, and incredible grilled meats. The pita is warm and fluffy, the portions are generous, and everything tastes made with real care and tradition.
The service is friendly and welcoming, and the space itself is beautiful, with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. Whether you come for an Arabic breakfast, a mixed grill, or sandwiches like shish tawook and kabab, you really can’t go wrong.
Ghawar is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re eating a home-cooked meal in the Middle East. Highly recommend—I’ll absolutely be back!“

“My friend got a platter and shawarma sandwiches It was delicious 10/10 I recommend“

“You know why I frequent Alwatan Bakery? Insha’Allah “God wills it” Their halal food is the best, I go there frequently for breakfast. I wouldn’t give that McDonald’s crap, or any other fast food to an abandoned starving stray dog on the street.“

“ماشالله مطعم وقاعه اشي فاخر علي الاخر والاكل بشهي وقاعه نظيفه كتير. ومعامله ولا احسن من هيك كل الاحترام لطاقم العمل وبالأخص الأخ مهند الله يعطيكم الف عافيه علي حفلتنا مبارح. كل الاحترام من غاده صالون 🙏🙏🥰“

“Prices are affordable, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff is friendly. My only complaint is that the meats are already precooked and left sitting out, so they aren’t fresh or hot. At the very least, they should try to keep them warm. Other than that, meh not bad.“

“Ayat was our waitress and she was amazing! This was my husband and I first time here and Ayat ensured we were happy and satisfied. The food was emasculate and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We’ll be back! Thank you for having us!“

“Caspian Kabab has wonderful food with such a wide variety, there is something for everyone! The owner, Massoud, goes out of his way to ensure that everyone feels is happy and full! The sample platters are a great way to try a lot of different food. His homemade hummus, crabcakes, lamb kabobs, chocolate cake are the best and you have to try his tea! Thanks you, Massoud, for a great night out with the family!!!!! We'll be back!!!!“

“My partner and I enjoyed a delightful weekday evening dinner, and the experience was extraordinary from the moment we sat down. The flavors and aromas were so inviting, they hit us even before the main dish arrived. We started with Mazza, which featured the creamiest hummus and a smoky, perfectly roasted eggplant baba ghannooj. The falafels were the highlight—simply the best I've ever had, like the perfect cherry on top of a sundae. As for the Mansaf, it was nothing short of exceptional. The rich yogurt sauce, tender lamb, crunchy almonds, and flawlessly cooked rice made for a dish that was out of this world. It was so good, I couldn't resist having the leftovers for breakfast the next day. The service was top-notch, and even though we live over two hours away, we’ll definitely be coming back.“

“Honestly I don’t know where to start from. From ordering experience to trying Yemeni food I had the most amazing experience it was our first and won’t be the last. Hands up to my young man Mohammed at the cashier from “New York” had a little chat with him he’s respectful helpful and most importantly excellent in explaining the type of food if your new to it. Food quality is amazing. I encourage everyone to give it a try you won’t be disappointed I promise👍🏼“

“It’s 100% 💯 original authentic Jordanian just like me 😊“

“الاكل ممتاز والمحل نظيف والاستقبال ممتاز ربنا يوسع عليكم“

“Very friendly service! Was able to sample some of the food items ( Thanks Souna!, forgive the misspelling) Food is very fresh and the large Kabob plate is delicious and very plentiful. Love the Falafel and the Kibbeh was good. Really good is the Arabic pizza the cheese and grilled veggie one. I will be returning!“

“Awesome food, always clean and the staff is always on point!“

“Delicious & Authentic!!!!“

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As someone who has spent more than 30 years exploring, reviewing, and appreciating food across 35 countries, I do not make compliments lightly. Hello Shawarma is genuinely among the finest shawarma establishments I have encountered anywhere in the world.

What immediately stands out is the quality of the meat. The shawarma is expertly marinated, perfectly seasoned, and cooked with remarkable precision, achieving that ideal balance between tenderness and caramelized crispness that defines truly exceptional shawarma. Every bite is rich, flavorful, and unmistakably authentic.

My strongest recommendation is the Crispy Shawarma with a touch of Shatta. The contrast between the crispy edges of the meat and the subtle heat of the Shatta creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that keeps you coming back for another bite. It's bold without being overwhelming and showcases a deep understanding of how texture and spice should complement each other.

Beyond the shawarma itself, the freshness of the ingredients is evident. The bread, vegetables, sauces, and accompaniments are all carefully selected and prepared. Nothing feels mass-produced or rushed. The garlic sauce is especially noteworthy—creamy, balanced, and crafted to enhance rather than overpower the shawarma.

The restaurant maintains high standards of cleanliness, service, and consistency, which are qualities often overlooked but essential to a truly great dining experience. The staff are welcoming, attentive, and clearly take pride in what they serve.

Having enjoyed street food, fine dining, and regional specialties across Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Asia, I can confidently say that Hello Shawarma ranks among the best shawarma experiences I have had. It is a rare example of a restaurant that combines authenticity, quality ingredients, technical skill, and genuine hospitality in every meal.

If you appreciate outstanding Middle Eastern cuisine, do yourself a favor: order the Crispy Shawarma with a touch of Shatta. You will not regret it.“

“Yay can’t miss lamb mandi“