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Shawarma and baba ganoush in Illinois

A meal that balances the smoky depth of baba ganoush with the precise spice of a well-made shawarma, instead of choosing one over the other.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Damashkey Cuisine image 1
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Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting and rustic dรฉcor that creates a tranquil oasis. A separate lounge area provides a quiet space for tea and desserts. The space is clean and elegantly decorated, blending simplicity with charm.

Beef shawarma wraps come crispy yet tender with full savory textures. Chicken and mixed shawarma plates offer incredible flavor reflecting authentic Syrian style.

Baba ganoush here stands out for its exceptional flavor and smooth texture. It pairs well with other appetizers like hummus and pickled beets, making it a solid choice for both dine-in and takeout.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken shawarma; it's the best Mediterranean food I've ever tasted."

"I found the chicken shawarma to be delicious and perfectly cooked."

"I believed their Baba Ganoush was the best I had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

3

Expect limited menu items available during peak hours.

02
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers an airy, spacious interior with tasteful decor and soft lighting that creates a calm, casual vibe. Plenty of seating and outlets support relaxed dining or working. The atmosphere balances upscale design with a welcoming, comfortable feel.

Spicy chicken shawarma stands out for its rich flavor and consistent quality. Both chicken and beef or lamb shawarmas come in generous portions and pair well with creamy hummus.

Freshness stands out with the baba ganoush being very flavorful and addicting. It pairs well with pita and complements other dishes like hummus and rice wrapped in grape leaves.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and authentically delicious."

"The chicken shawarma here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The baba ganoush here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Knafeh is only available at the River North location from 4 PM to 10 PM.

2

The place is legit zabiha halal.

3

They give free hummus and salad with each order.

03
Nineveh Kebob Express image 1

Small family-owned restaurant offers a cozy, no-frills atmosphere with a warm and welcoming vibe. The space feels calm and quiet, creating a comfortable setting that feels like home. Regulars appreciate the friendly energy and straightforward dining experience.

Juicy chicken shawarma with a crispy exterior and authentic, mouthwatering beef shawarma stand out here. The shawarma pairs well with crispy falafel and smoky Baba Ganoush, making for a solid, flavorful meal.

Chunky, garlicky, and smoky with a noticeable kick, the baba ganoush stands out. It pairs well with shawarma and falafel, though it leans toward needing more salt and lemon for balance.

People are saying

"The Shawarma owner was so kind and humble, I felt like family."

"I ate the best falafel I've ever had."

"The Baba Ganoush was chunky, smoky, and garlicky."

Good to know

1

All meats are certified Zabiha halal.

2

The meal cost around $16, offering good value.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it a filling experience.

04
Suda's image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Elegant dining room blends cozy atmosphere with clean, unpretentious design featuring white tablecloths and large windows. Background includes live Arabic music that enhances the welcoming vibe. Space offers wheelchair accessibility and a private lower level for parties, reflecting a sophisticated yet straightforward style.

Beef and chicken shawarma stand out with rich flavor and pair well with their hot sauce. Shawarma sandwiches come highly praised for their authentic taste and satisfying portions.

Smoky, creamy, and delightfully chunky, the baba ganoush features juicy pops of pomegranate that add texture and sweetness. It balances garlicky and perfectly salted flavors for a rich taste.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, authentic, and delicious."

"The Shawarma here feels like a warm, family welcome."

"The Baba Ganoush is smoky, creamy, and perfectly salted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets very busy.

2

Suda's offers excellent vegetarian and vegan options.

3

The pricing is reasonable, providing great value for the quality of food.

05
Sarra Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with an authentic Middle Eastern feel and a clean, bright interior welcomes diners into a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The space suits groups and offers great music at a comfortable volume, creating a chill and inviting vibe throughout the day.

Beef and chicken shawarma come with garlic sauce and cook to perfection. Kabobs and shawarma sandwiches deliver amazing flavor.

Freshness stands out in the baba ganoush here, with a particularly delicious taste. It works well as an appetizer and even appears in a dessert form.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is so delicious and flavorful."

"Nadeen made me feel like a guest, serving delicious shawarma."

"I found the Baba Ganoush especially good and fresh."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs only $10 and offers great value.

2

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

3

They offer excellent vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

06
Olive Mediterranean Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Modern design and clean, spare space create a welcoming fast-casual environment. Energy stays mid-level, with a steady flow of diners seeking quick, healthy meals. Flavorful kabob plates and unique baklava stand out among the menu offerings.

Chicken shawarma offers a home-cooked taste and appears consistently delicious in plates and pita sandwiches. Steak shawarma comes as a wrap and is noted as tasty, though it is not available in the build-your-own plate option.

Spicy flavor defines the baba ganoush here, adding a fun kick. It pairs well with garlic sauce and stands out alongside dishes like couscous and spicy chicken kebab.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"The cucumber and tomato salad is always fresh and not soggy."

"The chicken shawarma plate here is so good, it tastes like home."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially for larger vehicles.

2

The menu is limited, with small portion sizes compared to other locations.

3

Sauces for the falafel are not complimentary and must be purchased.

07
Salam Restaurant image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Rotating shawarma rotisserie creates an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience with homey decor and comfortable seating. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for families and casual meals. The place maintains a clean, well-designed interior that enhances the overall vibe.

Beef and chicken shawarma come with generous portions and rich flavors. The chicken shawarma stands out as especially delicious and pairs well with falafel cauliflower sandwiches and kibbeh.

Smoky flavor stands out in the baba ganoush here. It pairs well with dishes like falafel and hummus, making it a popular choice on the menu.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and fresh."

"The chicken shawarma here is cooked perfectly and so flavorful."

"I found the baba ganoush to be particularly good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes for the price.

2

They charge an extra fee for service on top of the meal cost.

3

The food is reasonably priced, with a Combination Entree costing $16.99 plus tax.

08
Al Bawadi Grill image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant with authentic decor and traditional design creates a warm, lively atmosphere filled with subtle music and cultural details. Staff wear charming outfits, enhancing the immersive experience. Fresh flatbread is made in-house, visible near the entrance, adding to the genuine vibe.

Beef shawarma comes tender and loaded with a tangy-garlic kick. Chicken shawarma wraps are delicious and filling, making the shawarma platter a solid choice for a satisfying meal.

Baba ganoush arrives at every table as a small starter plate with pickled vegetables. It tastes exceptional and pairs well with other dishes like kefta and rice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, authentic, and full of flavor."

"The shawarma here is juicy, smoky, and seasoned just right."

"I could eat the baba ganoush all day, every day."

Good to know

1

The Ramadan Iftar buffet costs $100 for two people.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Iftar buffet during Ramadan.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during the Iftar buffet with large crowds.

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