ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Niles
Best Middle Eastern in Niles
Best Late Night Restaurants in Niles
Master Critic Review
Miraj Restaurant
7.8
A Middle Eastern/Mediterranean dining room where the best meals come from a tight mezze-to-grill order rather than a sprawling table of overlapping plates. Build around one dip, one hot starter, and one kebab-style anchor to keep flavors distinct.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hummus, Cheese burek, Mixed grill kebabs
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A mezze-and-grill format where a focused order lands best.
Who should go: Small groups who want Middle Eastern comfort plates
When to visit: Early dinner for smoother pacing and quieter room
What to order: Hummus, cheese burek, mixed grill kebabs
Insider tip: Do one dip, one pastry starter, one grill anchor—avoid doubling similar kebabs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking along Milwaukee Avenue and nearby side streets; generally manageable early, tighter after peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual — jeans and nice tops are fine; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate — lively with groups but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple mezze and vegetable-based starters work well as a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited but doable — hummus, salads, and select mezze fit if you order carefully.
Gluten-free options: Some options available — grilled proteins and dips work best; breads and pastries are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure date than a romantic one — the shareable mezze format gives you something to talk about, but it’s more comfortable than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weekdays or earlier in the evening; weekends are doable with a short wait if you arrive before peak dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family groups are common, portions are generous, and the menu has approachable grilled options for kids.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want familiar Middle Eastern comfort food with a flexible mezze-and-grill approach rather than a formal dining experience.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for high-end plating, a modern Mediterranean twist, or a quiet, date-night-focused atmosphere.