ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in West Loop
Master Critic Review
Turkitch Kitchen
7.7
A Turkish stall inside the Chicago French Market that shines when you treat it like a curated snack-and-sweets stop. Go savory with kofte or a pastry lane, then finish with baklava rather than trying to turn it into a big mixed order.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kofte, Borek (Turkish pastry), Baklava
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Turkish street-food energy in a market format with a strong pastry-and-baklava finish.
Who should go: Market grazers and pastry-first snack hunters
When to visit: Mid-morning or mid-afternoon for shorter lines
What to order: Kofte, borek, baklava
Insider tip: Order in two phases: one savory item first, then pick desserts after you see the case.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid street parking and nearby garages around the Chicago French Market; street spots are limited during weekday lunch rush.
Dress code: Casual and practical — jeans, sneakers, and workday attire fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — food hall background noise, fine for conversation but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak food hall hours
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes, longer right at noon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — borek, pastries, and some savory sides work well.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable-based items depending on the day.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some grilled items may work, but pastries are flour-forward.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a casual daytime meet or snack stop than a sit-down date — it’s fun and low-pressure, but not private.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is communal food hall seating, first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — pastries and simple savory items work well for kids, though seating is shared and fast-paced.
Best For
Better for: Quick Turkish bites and a strong baklava finish inside a food hall setting.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a full Turkish sit-down meal or a quiet, lingering dining experience.