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Falafel & Grill

1433 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

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Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Falafel & Grill 8.4
Lakeview
A high-throughput Middle Eastern counter that consistently lands best in the shawarma-and-falafel lane, with sides that show real care. It’s a reliable move for a fast meal that still tastes fresh, especially when you keep the order focused and let the classics do the work.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken shawarma plate, Falafel wrap, Lentil soup with lemon
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 8.2 Consistency: 8.7 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 6.7 Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Big-flavor shawarma and falafel that holds up at high volume.
Who should go: Fast, filling Middle Eastern cravings
When to visit: Off-peak lunch for shortest line
What to order: Chicken shawarma, falafel, lentil soup
Insider tip: Pick one main lane (shawarma or falafel) and add two sides—don’t over-order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby; availability varies and gets tighter after 6pm. Public transit is often easier during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate during rushes, quieter off-peak; easy conversation when seated.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak; shorter if ordering to-go
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes typical, faster off-peak
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel plates/wraps, lentil soup, and multiple vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Yes—falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, salads, and several sides (skip sauces as needed).
Gluten-free options: Limited—shawarma or falafel plates without pita; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a low-pressure, casual meet than a long sit-down date—fast service and counter seating keep things relaxed.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—ordering is counter-based with open seating; tables turn quickly even when it’s busy.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple flavors, quick service, and flexible plates work well for kids and families.
Best For
Better for: Fast, reliable Middle Eastern classics with fresh-tasting sides and strong consistency at high volume.
Skip if: You want a leisurely, full-service dining experience or a more experimental, upscale Mediterranean menu.
Falafel & Grill 8.4
Lakeview
A fast-casual Middle Eastern counter that’s built for repeatable shawarma-and-falafel satisfaction at neighborhood scale. Stick to one main lane (chicken shawarma or falafel) plus hummus and a fresh side, and it delivers the most consistent payoff without menu sprawl.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken shawarma, Falafel, Hummus
Scores:
Value: 8.7 Service: 8.1 Consistency: 8.3 Food Quality: 8.8 Atmosphere: 6.6 Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: High-volume shawarma-and-falafel counter with strong consistency signal.
Who should go: Weeknight takeout regulars
When to visit: Off-peak lunch for speed
What to order: Chicken shawarma, falafel, hummus
Insider tip: Choose shawarma OR falafel as anchor, then add two sides.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on surrounding residential blocks but tighter during evening hours.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are standard.
Noise level: Low to moderate — counter-service environment with steady foot traffic, but conversations are easy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dinner rush; faster for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short line that moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel plates, salads, hummus, baba ghanoush, and sides.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, hummus, tahini-based items, salads, and lentil soup (confirm daily).
Gluten-free options: Limited — proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible and pita is standard.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a sit-down date — it’s better for a casual, low-pressure meal or quick bite rather than a linger-and-talk setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with open seating, so reservations aren’t needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple flavors, fast service, and flexible portions make it easy for kids, especially during earlier hours.
Best For
Better for: Fast, reliable Middle Eastern staples with strong value and consistency — especially shawarma and falafel at neighborhood scale.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service dining experience, upscale ambiance, or more experimental Middle Eastern dishes.

Hours

Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 10pm