ZipPicks Awards
Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Near West Side
Best Mediterranean in Near West Side
Master Critic Review
Baba Pita
8.1
A Taylor Street Mediterranean-and-Persian counter that plays best in the fresh-made lane: crisp falafel, shawarma plates, and salad-forward combos that feel built for repeat lunch runs. Treat it like a reliable weekday staple—order a protein plate, add a bright side like tabbouleh, and finish with baklava when you want a sweet closer.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma plate, Falafel with tahini, Lamb kebab plate
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Mediterranean-Persian plates that stay strongest when you keep it fresh and classic.
Who should go: Medical District lunch regulars
When to visit: Weekday lunch for best turnover
What to order: Chicken shawarma, falafel, tabbouleh
Insider tip: Build the order around one plate + one bright salad side.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on/around Taylor Street is the main move and can be tight during weekday lunch hours; plan to circle a bit or park a block or two away for an easier in-and-out pickup.
Dress code: Casual counter-service (jeans, scrubs, and sneakers all fit).
Noise level: Low to moderate — usually easy to hold a conversation, with a small lunchtime bump when the Medical District rush hits.
Weekend wait: 10-20 min typical (often shorter than a full-service spot, but can spike if you arrive right at peak meal time).
Weekday lunch: 0-10 min typical; expect a short line during the noon rush but it moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel, hummus-based plates, and salad-forward combos make it an easy vegetarian pick.
Vegan options: Yes — strong potential if you build around falafel + hummus + tabbouleh and skip dairy-based sauces; confirm sauces/dressings if you want to be strict.
Gluten-free options: Some options work (salads, proteins, rice-style plate builds), but cross-contact is possible in a compact counter setup; confirm pita/fryer handling if you’re sensitive.
Best For
Better for: Fast, repeatable Mediterranean plates that still taste fresh — especially if you lean into falafel, shawarma, and bright sides like tabbouleh. It’s a stronger “weekday staple” than a special-occasion destination.
Consider Alternatives If: Skip it if you want full-service hospitality, a long sit-down dinner vibe, or a big group hang. Choose a more ambiance-driven Mediterranean spot when the goal is date-night energy instead of efficient, healthy comfort.