Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Wicker Park & West Town (60622)
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Rumi Middle Eastern Grill
Build-your-own Middle Eastern bowls with plenty of fresh toppings.
Notable Picks
8.7
Rumi Middle Eastern Grill is a counter-service Palestinian-owned spot in Wicker Park where shawarma plates, falafel, and hummus come out fast but carefully prepared. Diners lean on it for build-your-own platters, fresh-baked pita, and halal grilled meats that work for both quick lunches and casual dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma bowl, Falafel plate with hummus, Lentil soup
What makes it special: Build-your-own Middle Eastern bowls with plenty of fresh toppings.
8.4
Cafe Istanbul is a Turkish-Mediterranean dining room where warm bread, doner, and Iskender kebab come out of an open kitchen to a steady crowd. It lands between neighborhood casual and occasion-worthy, with portions that often stretch to leftovers and a patio that makes it a go-to for relaxed dinners on Division.
Must-Try Dishes:
Iskender kebab, Doner plate, Homemade Turkish bread
What makes it special: Turkish comfort cooking with hearty portions and a lively patio.
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Falafel & Grill is a narrow counter along Milwaukee Avenue turning out shawarma sandwiches, combination meat plates, and lentil soup at prices that still feel fair for Wicker Park. Regulars treat it as a reliable, no-frills option when they want crispy falafel, generous portions, and quick service before or after a night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel sandwich, Chicken shawarma plate, Hummus with pita
What makes it special: Counter-service falafel and shawarma with strong value for the portions.
#4
Elia
8.2
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Date Night Magic
Girls Night Out Approved
Group Dining Gatherings
Elia is a modern Mediterranean restaurant on Division where mezze, mixed grills, and seafood arrive in a candlelit room accented with deep reds and live-fire aromas. It’s used for birthday dinners and date nights when diners want an all-evening experience built around shared plates and a broader wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
All-you-can-eat mezze and grill spread, Lamb chops, Baklava dessert
What makes it special: Modern, music-forward Mediterranean room built for lingering celebrations.
#5
Hummus Grill
8.1
Hummus Grill is a family-owned Mediterranean counter on Damen where shawarma wraps, mix grills, and vegetarian plates come with creamy hummus and fresh salads. It’s a neighborhood staple for quick takeout or casual meals when you want something filling but not overly heavy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Plate, House Mix Grill Plate, Beef and Lamb Shawarma Wrap
What makes it special: Family-run Mediterranean grill with big portions, creamy hummus, and salads.