Best Hidden Gems Heaven Sandwiches Restaurants in Prospect Heights
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Zaytoons
A long-running Vanderbilt Ave Middle Eastern spot built for repeatable platters and strong spreads.
Notable Picks
#1
Zaytoons
8.3
A Vanderbilt Ave Middle Eastern workhorse where the ordering rhythm is simple: one platter, one spread, and you’re set. It’s strongest in the falafel-and-kebab lane, with hummus and baba that keep the meal grounded and repeatable. Founded in 1998 by two cousins (Ahmad and Faried), it reads like a true neighborhood institution rather than a trend.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel platter, Lamb kabob platter, Hummus & baba ganoush with pita
What makes it special: A long-running Vanderbilt Ave Middle Eastern spot built for repeatable platters and strong spreads.
8
A whole-animal butcher shop that quietly doubles as a serious sandwich counter—rich, meat-forward builds with house touches (think bacon jam, chopped liver, and sausages) that reward disciplined ordering. Treat it like a premium lunch pickup: one sandwich and you’re done.
Must-Try Dishes:
Turkey sandwich with bacon jam, Chopped liver sandwich, Boudinwich
What makes it special: Butcher-level ingredients turned into lunch sandwiches with real character.
Worthy Picks
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
A counter-service option for a straightforward burger-and-fries reset in the Washington Ave corridor. It works best when you treat it like a combo stop—one burger, one fry, one drink—so you leave satisfied without chasing extras.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic burger, Fries, Chopped salad
What makes it special: A no-drama burger counter that’s built for fast, repeatable orders.