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Local picks in Chicago

Modern Mediterranean food

Mediterranean dishes that capture the spirit of the region without leaning on predictable, worn-out cliches.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
nubar Cafe image 1
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Spacious, modern cafรฉ with Mediterranean-inspired dรฉcor and floor-to-ceiling windows offering bright natural light. Warm, cozy atmosphere with friendly energy and fast Wi-Fi makes it suitable for working or socializing. Music varies from chill Kurdish tunes to loud, lively beats depending on the time.

Bright and spacious interior with plenty of seating supports studying and working. The design feels clean, modern, and cozy, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Falafel stands out with a crunchy outside and soft, bright green inside. The shawarma wrap is juicy and full of flavor, and the hummus and pita rank among the best around.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great in this beautiful, modern space."

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the hummus and pita."

"It's so modern, clean, and bright, perfect for working."

Good to know

1

Expect over 20-minute wait times for food during busy hours.

2

The kitchen closes early, so check food availability before visiting.

3

Prices are considered high for the portion sizes offered.

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.

Stylish decor and comfy seating create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The space feels clean and modern, perfect for settling in with a laptop.

Chicken shawarma wrap stands out with its spicy, rich flavor. The hummus with warm pita offers a creamy, satisfying bite. Kebabs, falafel, and rice come with fresh, light tastes and generous portions.

People are saying

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

"The hummus here is perfectly smooth and memorable."

"It's a chic and modern place with a stylish, inviting vibe."

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
Kazka City Cafe image 1

Cafe offers a cozy, stylish interior with a Ukrainian theme and comfortable seating designed for quiet work or study. Atmosphere stays peaceful and warm, attracting those seeking a relaxed spot with excellent pastries and hearty dishes. Space features a kids' corner, adding a family-friendly touch.

Cozy and stylish with a modern atmosphere. The space feels comfortable and has cool vibes throughout.

Shakshuka stands out with its perfect preparation and unique flavor. It pairs well with tasty coffee for a solid Mediterranean meal.

People are saying

"It's a cozy atmosphere with warm service."

"It's a modern cafe with a cozy and stylish atmosphere."

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the shakshuka, is perfect."

Good to know

1

Nuts were not listed in the ingredients for the eggs benedict, despite the kitchen being made aware of the allergy.

2

The ordering system involves receiving a loud beeping buzzer that goes off every five minutes.

3

After finishing, customers are expected to load their dirty dishes onto a tiny cart already piled with other plates.

04
VELA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space channels sophisticated Mexican vibes with warm, vibrant design inspired by Mexico City. Music shifts from chill to loud with a live DJ mixing house, reggaeton, and hip hop, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy upscale casual energy with comfortable seating and standout cocktails.

Cozy modern vibes blend with authentic Mexican dishes that have a fresh twist. The spot stands out as a genuine example of modern Mexican cuisine.

Mezze stands out with three dips and mixed chips. Empanada, salmon tostada, and taco gobernador offer distinct flavors, each really amazing.

People are saying

"The food here has flavor profiles that are above and beyond."

"The Mediterranean mezze here is amazing and flavorful."

"The Modern food and drinks were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 off cocktails and half-price appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant hosts a popup event with their sister restaurant every month.

05
Yasemi, A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Spacious restaurant with modern, elegant decor and airy layout that avoids crowding. Atmosphere feels casual but chic, with loud music creating an energetic vibe. Tables require personal light to read menus due to dim lighting.

Decor features a modern and charming style. The menu offers modern Mediterranean dishes with vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

Lamb Kebabs and Salmon come with beautiful seasoning and sauces. Vegetarian kebabs use Maitake Mushroom. The spread sampler features homemade pita, hummus, and tatziki with a modern twist.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh and delicious, especially the hummus."

"The chicken and beef kebabs are perfectly grilled and full of flavor."

"I loved the modern Mediterranean food, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with unique cocktails at reasonable prices.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters during happy hour, a great deal for seafood lovers.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% surcharge to all bills, so plan accordingly.

06
Spoko image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant with an intimate, local vibe and a glass garage door that opens to a large beer garden and outdoor patio. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed to loud when busy, offering a friendly and comfy setting. Known for serving authentic Polish beers and dishes like pierogi and sausage made onsite.

Legit Polish street food comes with a modern twist here. The spot offers cute vibes alongside modern Polish eats.

Chicken kebab features real ingredients and a high end taste similar to Polish style. Meat lacks the thin shaved strips and greasy flavor typical of authentic shawarma.

People are saying

"The Outdoor Seating here is amazing, especially the Polish staples."

"I loved the modern Polish street food twist here."

"You have to try their chicken kebab; it's fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available with decent prices for drinks and small bites.

2

The portion sizes are large for the prices, offering good value.

3

Spoko is vegetarian and pescetarian friendly, with various menu options.

07
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Lamb ragu hummus stands out with its rich flavor, paired well with gluten-free crackers. House-made stracciatella, charred eggplant and peach hummus, and halloumi kebab highlight the menu alongside chicken skewers with fresh tzatziki and Ginger Turmeric Labneh.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"You have to try the Mediterranean food; the hummus is one of the best."

"It's a beautiful, warm, and inviting modern space."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

08
Taxim image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a gorgeous rooftop patio with heated outdoor seating and mood lighting that creates a cozy, cultured atmosphere. The space is notably loud and lively, with sound echoing throughout, even when not crowded. Greek wines and wood-fired lamb stand out as distinctive features of the dining experience.

Combines authentic Greek flavors with modern, polished touches and incredible freshness from the countryside. Offers a mix of traditional and innovative dishes that feel both cosmopolitan and warm.

Hummus stands out with a creamy, rich texture. Tzatziki tastes like labne, offering a thicker, tangy twist. Mediterranean dishes focus on fresh, authentic flavors throughout.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is phenomenal, especially the duck gyros."

"The food here is fresh, sophisticated, and perfectly matched."

"The duck gyro here is a standout Mediterranean dish."

Good to know

1

A 22% gratuity is automatically added to bills for parties of 2 or more.

2

The total cost for two people can exceed $200 for a meal.

3

Parking past 10:00 p.m. on Milwaukee Avenue may result in towing.

09
NYC HALAL EATS image 1
Halal restaurant

Open kitchen and modern decor create a clean, inviting space with urban wall art. Atmosphere varies from quiet and family-friendly to lively with loud music, echoing classic NYC cart vibes. Seating suits groups but comfort varies, with some chairs less supportive.

Modern decor features unique wall designs that create a cool urban vibe. The interior feels inviting and service stays quick even when busy.

Falafel stands out with its crispy texture and tasty flavor. The chicken, lamb, and falafel combo offers a delicious mix that pairs well over rice.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and really good."

"The Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, is crispy and tasty."

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

They serve late night eats.

2

All food is Halal.

3

The restaurant was super clean.

10
Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina image 1
Greek restaurant

Small, colorful space with vibrant blue accents and a clean, cozy atmosphere evokes a Greek village feel. DJ mixes Greek and EDM music, creating a lively, friendly vibe. Indoor dining resembles a trendy Greek coffee shop, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed setting.

Big, beautiful windows create a modern aesthetic that blends with traditional dishes. Recipes follow grandma style but use quality ingredients and attention to detail for a fresh feel.

Plates feature lamb and beef shawarma alongside chicken options. Greek gyros come with tzatziki and pita, plus red onion and tomatoes. The hummus has a creamy texture that invites licking the bowl.

People are saying

"I thought the gyro meat was seasoned to perfection."

"I loved the traditional dishes with a modern twist."

"The Mediterranean food here is absolutely incredible and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 5 AM, perfect for late-night bites.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Desserts are affordable, with sharable options priced at $6.

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