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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Des Plaines

Salad and food spots

A meal centered on fresh greens that leaves you feeling energized instead of weighed down.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Karavan Restaurant image 1
Karavan Restaurant image 2
Karavan Restaurant image 3
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Restaurant blends Kyrgyz cultural design with cozy, warm atmosphere featuring both indoor and outdoor seating. Space feels spacious and colorful, inviting for family dinners or gatherings. Unique authentic cuisine stands out alongside a notable non-alcoholic bar and attentive service.

Beef pepper salad stands out with its zany and delicious flavor. The eggplant salad also appears as a recommended choice.

Authentic Central Asian cuisine shines with well-prepared dishes and exceptional service. The food pairs with a warm atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and awesome."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and welcoming."

"The eggplant salad was savory and crunchy."

Good to know

1

Karavan Restaurant is the only Kyrgyz restaurant in Chicago.

2

The restaurant claims to be 'Halal' but allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

3

I was charged $40 for the iftar buffet at Karavan Restaurant.

02
Sofia Grill image 1
Bulgarian restaurant

Small, no-frills restaurant offers authentic Bulgarian cuisine with standout dishes like kebapcheta sausage and tripe soup. Atmosphere feels homey and cozy despite limited seating and a corridor-like dining area. Lunch hours bring a crowded, lively vibe with mostly small groups dining.

Shopska Salad stands out as a popular side with fresh, crisp flavors. The potato salad features a strong dill taste and a smooth, mashed texture. The cabbage salad offers a distinct, enjoyable crunch.

Authentic Bulgarian cuisine shines with traditional dishes made to order. Portions come at a great price and the flavors often remind of childhood memories in Bulgaria.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and awesome."

"I found the meatball soup to be fantastic."

"I found the cabbage salad to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch prices average around $20 per person.

2

Parking is plentiful and available near the restaurant.

3

Daily specials are offered, providing variety for repeat visitors.

03
ARI Sushi Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese restaurant offers cozy, welcoming atmosphere with bright lighting and walls covered in dish photos. Space feels tight and intimate, suited for solo diners or small groups. Sushi quality stands out as fresh and delicious, paired with a notable sake selection.

Tuna and Avocado salad serves as a delicious starter. Ginger salad comes with the lunch special, which also includes 3 maki rolls and miso soup at an affordable price.

Japanese cuisine offers a real taste with dishes that are well made and consistently great. Menu prices stay affordable while food arrives quickly even for groups.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I've ever tasted."

"The ginger salad here is the best I've ever eaten."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials that are very good.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

Quality fish and consistent service are hallmarks of the restaurant.

04
Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a clean, modern interior with spacious seating and cultural decorations that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Outlets at every booth and a freestyle soda machine add convenience. The vibe suits quick lunches more than cozy, long meals.

Salads come fresh and crisp here with a noticeable quality. They pair well with dishes like chicken shawarma and bowls featuring hummus, rice, and beef, making for a great combination.

Food comes fresh and delicious with standout dishes like falafel with hummus and garlic dip, mixed meat and shrimp plates, and baklava desserts. Service pairs well with the food, creating a satisfying meal experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The falafel here is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

"The salad here is really good and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill is certified halal.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-presented dining area.

3

The portions are generous for the price paid.

05
KOW image 1
Restaurant

Large, beautifully designed space features loud K-pop music, laser lights, and a ramen bar where customers can cook their own ramen. Atmosphere feels lively and upbeat, with neon accents and big screens playing music videos. Guests enjoy a vibrant setting with interactive dining and a full bar on a mezzanine level.

Freshness stands out with the salad and side dishes. The kimchi adds a tasty, spicy kick alongside the greens.

Food here stands out for its amazing flavor and delicious quality. Staff often help cook the food, adding to the friendly service experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The bulgogi here is top quality, maybe the best I've had."

"I felt like I got a lot of food for the price."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $33 per person.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during weekend dinner hours.

3

A 50% charge applies for unfinished food left on the table.

06
Balkanika Restaurant image 1
Bulgarian restaurant

Spacious restaurant with modern European design and detailed decor offers multiple rooms including private spaces and a large outdoor patio. Atmosphere shifts from lively and loud near the bar and dance floor to quieter adjoining rooms suited for conversation. Weekend DJ sets create an energetic vibe where people dance and enjoy music.

Freshness stands out with the shopska salad and crisp sides. Options include cabbage salad and other bright, fresh salads that complement grilled dishes well.

Food captures authentic Balkan flavors with excellent portion sizes and high quality. Dishes offer a unique and satisfying taste of Balkan comfort food.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"The authentic Balkan food here is packed with flavor."

"The shopska salad felt so fresh and bright."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a large lot behind the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended for large gatherings to ensure seating.

3

Salsa classes are held every Tuesday night at 7pm.

07
The Gyros Factory โ€“ Best Gyros, Catering,Souvlaki, Fresh Cut Fries, Burgers, Italian Beef, Des Plaines image 1

Large, open space with newly remodeled interior and plenty of seating creates a clean, comfortable setting. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, making it very accessible. Known for authentic Greek gyros and standout dishes like saganaki and beef tallow fries.

Salads feature a crisp texture and come loaded with feta in the Greek option. They pair well with sides like rice pilaf to complement the meal.

Food features authentic Greek comfort with dishes like gyros, souvlaki, and fresh cut fries. Options also include burgers and Italian beef, all prepared with care and flavor.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is amazing, especially the gyros."

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The Greek salad was crisp and loaded with feta."

Good to know

1

Parking is available close to the entrance.

2

Expect a little wait while your food is cooked to order.

3

Prices are around eleven dollars for a small gyro.

08
Outback Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers an open layout with a large modern bar and clean, fresh space. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming but music plays loud, affecting casual conversation. Guests enjoy well-cooked steaks and a variety of cocktails in a casual dining setting.

Massive portions stand out, especially the wedge salad priced at $6.99. The Caesar salad comes highly rated for its quality, and the premium Chopped Pecan Salad offers a rich, nutty option.

Excellent food pairs with phenomenal service for a consistently satisfying dining experience. The atmosphere supports a casual vibe that keeps customers coming back for years.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The service here makes it a great spot for date nights."

"I loved the premium Chopped Pecan Salad."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Prices are better than expected, offering good value.

09
Sultan Kebab & Shawerma image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Narrow, simple dining space offers casual, quiet atmosphere with outdoor seating under string lights. Friendly environment complements large portions of Mediterranean dishes. Clean but dated interior keeps the vibe unpretentious and comfortable.

Salads come fresh and vibrant, often paired with Chicken Shawarma or grilled chicken. Portions are huge and filling, adding depth with sides like rice and hummus.

Mediterranean and Egyptian dishes stand out for their authentic and delicious flavors. Food comes at very affordable prices and offers a consistently excellent dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and made to order."

"The Mediterranean food's chicken shawarma is seasoned to perfection."

"The chicken and beef kebabs are tender and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

2

Expect large portion sizes; the platter is very filling.

3

Prices for sandwiches start around $13, which some may find high.

10
Restaurant Mehanata image 1
Bulgarian restaurant

Cozy space with authentic Balkan decor and a homey, country style creates a relaxing, inviting atmosphere. Traditional Bulgarian music plays on weekends, enhancing the unique cultural vibe. Outdoor terrace offers a breathable setting, contrasting with a less inviting exterior.

Salads come fresh and crisp with a noticeable crunch. The Shopska salad stands out for its lightness and burst of flavor, often served alongside sizzling meats.

Traditional Bulgarian dishes offer fresh, flavorful, and exotic tastes. The food stands out for being absolutely delicious with great quality and service.

People are saying

"The food here is bold, delicious, and truly unforgettable."

"I found the Bulgarian food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"The Bulgarian salads here feel like a joyous village wedding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking can be challenging; avoid the first three rows to prevent towing.

3

The restaurant allows dancing on tables during Friday and Saturday night events.

11
VIA ROMA image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers a cozy, family-style atmosphere with loud, lively energy inside and a charming patio with umbrellas outside. Regulars frequent the space, creating a welcoming vibe, while the BYOB policy adds a relaxed, personal touch to dining.

Salads come in large portions with options like the buttery, light Asparagus Salad and a Caesar salad that is big but not necessarily more flavorful. The artichoke salad costs $19 but does not stand out in quality.

Offers fresh, genuine Italian food with large portions and consistently delicious flavors. Food pairs well with attentive service and a pleasant outdoor dining option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and the portions large."

"The Italian food here is amazing, bursting with flavor."

"I thought the salad was very good."

Good to know

1

VIA ROMA allows customers to bring their own beverages without a corkage fee.

2

VIA ROMA does not accept reservations.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high demand.

12
Aladdin Kitchen and Market image 1
Turkish restaurant

Space combines authentic Turkish market with a modern, clean restaurant and an impressive bakery. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and cozy with warm lighting and lively conversations. Visitors find a high-quality, well-decorated environment that blends shopping and dining seamlessly.

Salads here are fresh and seasoned with a spicy blend of tomatoes and vegetables. The special salad and onion salad stand out as refreshing options.

Authentic Turkish cuisine shines with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The food offers a delicious dining experience with consistently amazing quality and taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The Turkish flavors at this grocery store are on point."

"The tomato salad was a wonderful spicy blend of tomatoes and vegetables."

Good to know

1

Expect a 3% fee for credit card transactions.

2

Dรถner may not be available at all times.

3

Quality food is offered at affordable prices.

13
Brandy's Gyros image 1
Gyro restaurant

Vintage decorations and a display of diecast cars create a retro diner vibe with a welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, and the space feels comfortable and clean. The place offers a fast-paced yet cozy setting with a mix of classic and modern touches.

Greek salads come with fresh ingredients and get positive mentions. Grilled chicken Caesar salad offers a solid option. Taco salad tends to be mostly lettuce with flavorless meat and high price.

Food arrives fresh and hot with quick service. The menu features gyros and a Greek salad, all consistently good and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly top-notch."

"The Greek food here, especially the gyros, has great flavor and good portions."

"The Greek salads here are so fresh."

Good to know

1

Brandy's Gyros offers a diverse menu including Greek, Italian, and American dishes.

2

Prices at Brandy's Gyros are generally considered reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

The portions at Brandy's Gyros are generous, providing good value for money.

14
Giordano's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space offers an intimate, cozy vibe with limited seating suited for casual dining or takeout. Atmosphere stays friendly and family-oriented, creating a welcoming spot to relax. Known for halal deep dish pizza, it attracts those seeking specialty options in a casual setting.

Salads come in small portions and often accompany meals like pizza or soup. The Caesar salad stands out as a very good option.

Delicious food arrives quickly and pairs well with excellent service. The quality remains consistently amazing across visits.

People are saying

"I was amazed to find a place with Halal deep dish pizza."

"I thought the deep dish pizza was thick, cheesy, and full of flavor."

"The food here is really good and always hot."

Good to know

1

Giordano's offers halal options, including halal pepperoni and salami on their pizzas.

2

Expect to pay extra for halal ingredients, with charges around $8 for sausage.

3

It takes over 30 minutes for food to arrive, with an additional 45 minutes for pizza service.

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Des Plaines, Illinois

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