ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Bucktown & Logan Square
Master Critic Review
Masada
7.6
Masada is a sprawling Middle Eastern restaurant and lounge in Logan Square known for hookah-friendly patios, late hours, and large-format mezze and grill platters. Food feedback is solid but mixed compared to peers, with the draw leaning more toward lively atmosphere, group outings, and nightlife than tightly executed plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mixed Grill Platter, Hummus with Lamb, Chicken Kabob Plate
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 6.5
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A high-energy Middle Eastern restaurant with one of the area’s largest patios and late-night scenes, built around mezze, grills, and hookah service.
Who should go: Groups prioritizing atmosphere, patio space, and late hours.
When to visit: Warm evenings and late nights when the patio is busiest.
What to order: Hummus with lamb, mixed grill platter, chicken kabob plate.
Insider tip: Reserve for weekends and aim for patio seating; food tends to be most consistent earlier in the evening before the latest rush.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking; it can be competitive on weekends and later nights, with better availability on nearby residential blocks earlier in the evening. No widely reported dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Trendy casual to smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean dressy for nightlife and patio seating.
Noise level: Loud during peak evenings and late night; conversation can be difficult inside. Patio is somewhat more manageable early evening.
Weekend wait: Often 45–90 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio or large groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or minimal wait; earlier evenings on weekdays are noticeably lighter than weekends.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several mezze, salads, and sides are naturally vegetarian, though preparation is not strictly segregated.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — some dips, salads, and sides can be vegan; confirm ingredients and modifications with staff.
Gluten-free options: Many grilled meats, rice, and salads can be gluten-friendly, but there is no dedicated gluten-free kitchen or cross-contact controls.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, lively patio outings, late-night hangs, and shareable mezze and grill platters in a nightlife-leaning setting.
Consider Alternatives If: You prioritize finely tuned Middle Eastern cooking, quiet conversation, or meticulous service — choose a more food-focused, smaller dining room instead.