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Crave Kabob
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Crave Kabob
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Crave Kabob is a counter-service fixture near the United Center turning out build-your-own bowls, shawarma, and kabob plates at high-volume with a strong value-to-portion ratio. It’s where nearby workers, students, and event-goers grab fast, filling Middle Eastern plates that hold up to delivery as well as dine-in.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Plate, Crave Bowl with mixed kabobs and dips, Mixed Grill Platter
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: High-volume shawarma and kabob counter where customization, portions, and price all line up.
Who should go: Pre-game crowds and locals wanting fast, filling Mediterranean bowls.
When to visit: Before United Center events or weeknights to avoid peak lines.
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, build-your-own Crave Bowl, mixed grill platter.
Insider tip: Stack your bowl with extra dips and pickles instead of more rice to keep things flavorful, not just heavy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking and nearby paid lots; expect event-night congestion near the United Center.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are (athleisure, jeans, game-day gear all fine).
Noise level: Moderate — conversational during off-hours, louder around event rush.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak pre-event windows; otherwise minimal wait.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, even during lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — falafel, salads, dips, and customizable bowls.
Vegan options: Available — falafel, hummus, salads, and veggie bowls if you skip sauces with dairy.
Gluten-free options: Many rice or salad-based plates work; pita is not gluten-free and cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual bite than a romantic first date — it’s counter-service and efficiency-focused, but solid for a low-key meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Seating is usually available except right before major events.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — casual, quick, and portion-flexible. No special kids menu, but bowls and plates are easy to customize.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, customizable bowls, and fast service at a strong value — especially pre- or post-event.
Skip if: You want table service, cocktails, or a long sit-down Middle Eastern meal with ambiance.
Crave Kabob
8.3
Crave Kabob is a counter-service Mediterranean spot near the United Center known for build-your-own bowls, shawarma, and kabob plates at friendly prices. Regulars rely on it for fast, customizable meals with generous portions that work for takeout, delivery, or a quick dine-in stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma, Crave Bowl, Mixed Grill Plate
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: High-volume Mediterranean counter spot turning out customizable shawarma and kabob bowls.
Who should go: Students, locals, and event-goers wanting fast, filling Mediterranean plates.
When to visit: Pre-game or weeknight dinner rush for quick, efficient service.
What to order: Chicken Shawarma, Crave Bowl with kabobs and dips, Mixed Grill Plate.
Insider tip: Build a bowl with extra dips like baba ghanoush and spicy hummus to stretch leftovers into a second meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available nearby, but it can tighten up during United Center events. Allow a few extra minutes on game or concert nights.
Dress code: Casual. Come as you are — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to hold a conversation, though it may get livelier during peak hours or event rushes.
Weekend wait: Usually minimal, though there can be a short line during pre-event rushes.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait — fast counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel, salads, veggie bowls, and plenty of dips work well.
Vegan options: Yes — you can easily build a vegan-friendly bowl with falafel, grains, veggies, and dairy-free sauces.
Gluten-free options: Many items are gluten-friendly if you skip the pita, but it’s not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual bite than a romantic first date. It’s counter-service and relaxed, great if you want something low-key and affordable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It’s walk-in only with quick turnover. During event rushes seating may be limited, but you can usually still find a spot or take it to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The menu is flexible and portions are shareable. No formal kids’ menu, but picky eaters can build simple bowls or plates.
Best For
Better for: Fast, generous, customizable Mediterranean meals at a great value — especially for takeout or pre-event fuel-ups.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down, upscale Mediterranean restaurant with table service or cocktails.