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Sultan's Market
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sultan's Market
8.2
Sultan's Market is a long-running, counter-service Middle Eastern spot (established in the mid-1990s) known for big, inexpensive falafel and shawarma wraps, salad bar boxes, and daily soups. The Wicker Park location on North Avenue draws a steady mix of neighborhood regulars and late-night crowds looking for filling plates under $15.
Must-Try Dishes:
Award Winning Falafel Sandwich, Chicken Shawarma Wrap, Baked Za'atar Fettia Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A high-volume, counter-service falafel and shawarma institution where generous portions and low prices have kept lines steady for decades.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners craving fast, filling Middle Eastern classics.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before peak bar and late-night rush.
What to order: Falafel sandwich, chicken shawarma wrap, hummus with pita.
Insider tip: Build a salad bar box with falafel on top when you want maximum value and variety in one container.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on North Ave and side streets; can be competitive during evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak and late-night hours; quieter mid-afternoon.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes in line during peak and late-night rush; service moves quickly once ordered.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, aside from brief counter lines.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — falafel, salads, lentil soup, and mezze-style sides.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, many salads, and several soups are vegan-friendly (confirm dressings and sauces).
Gluten-free options: Some salads and platters can be gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a casual, shared-prep environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangs than formal dates — it’s counter-service, affordable, and busy, making it ideal for low-key meetups rather than romantic dinners.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations aren’t used here. Seating is first-come, first-served with quick turnover; many guests take food to-go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu items, quick service, and generous portions work well for families, though seating is limited and space can feel crowded during rush periods.
Best For
Better for: Large, filling portions at very low prices, fast counter-service, and dependable falafel and shawarma for takeout or quick meals.
Skip if: You want table service, quieter dining, or upscale Middle Eastern cooking with broader mezze and grilled entrées.
Sultan's Market
8.5
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Since 1995, Sultan's Market’s Wicker Park original has served counter-service falafel, shawarma, and a loaded salad bar to lines of locals and students. The appeal is affordable plates, vegan-friendly options, and fast service rather than leisurely dining, making it a go-to for quick Middle Eastern meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Award Winning Falafel Sandwich, Grandma Zarifa's Lentil Soup, Meat Combo
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Counter-service falafel and shawarma with a deep salad bar since 1995.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners wanting fast, flavorful Middle Eastern plates.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner to avoid peak takeout rush.
What to order: Falafel sandwich, lentil soup, Meat Combo.
Insider tip: Use the salad bar strategically to build a shareable spread.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only — metered spots on North Ave and nearby side streets; can be tight during peak dining hours.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are standard.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during rush periods; generally fine for quick conversation but not ideal for long chats.
Weekend wait: Short line at peak hours (5–8 minutes typical); food comes out quickly once ordered.
Weekday lunch: Usually a brief counter line with minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — strong selection including falafel, salads, lentil soup, and sides.
Vegan options: Yes — several vegan-friendly staples and salad bar options; falafel and many spreads are plant-based.
Gluten-free options: Partial — salads and plates can be made without pita, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than formal dates — it’s counter-service, quick, and functional rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations taken; seating is first-come and limited, with many guests opting for takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids and quick meals — affordable plates and casual seating, but no high chairs or kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable Middle Eastern plates with strong vegetarian and vegan value; ideal for takeout, solo meals, and casual stops.
Skip if: You want table service, long sit-down dining, large group seating, or a quieter, more polished setting.
Hours
Monday10am - 10pm
Tuesday10am - 10pm
Wednesday10am - 10pm
Thursday10am - 10pm
Friday10am - 10pm
Saturday10am - 10pm
Sunday10am - 9pm