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Salam Restaurant
ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Lincoln Square
Best Middle Eastern in Lincoln Square
Master Critic Review
Salam Restaurant
8.2
A Middle Eastern sit-down spot where the best meals come from leaning into classics—grilled meats, bright salads, and shareable dips—rather than over-ordering across the menu. When it hits, the cooking feels honest and satisfying, especially if you keep the table on one grill centerpiece and one dip-and-bread lane.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mixed grill platter, Hummus with warm pita, Fattoush or Jerusalem salad
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A long-running neighborhood Middle Eastern room with strong community pull and broad menu appeal.
Who should go: Groups craving dips and grilled meats
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for calmer service
What to order: Mixed grill, hummus, fattoush
Insider tip: Go one platter + two dips—skip adding a second heavy main unless you’re a big group.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking on nearby residential streets; usually manageable on weeknights but tighter on weekends. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual. Jeans and sweaters are common; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate. Lively with groups, but you can still hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several reliable options including hummus, falafel, salads, and vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Limited but workable – falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, and some salads (confirm dressings).
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free grilled meats and salads, but cross-contact is possible; not a dedicated setup.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual or low-pressure first date than a romantic one. The food is comforting and shareable, but the room leans lively and family-oriented rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weeknights. On weekends, expect a short wait during dinner rush, but walk-ins are common.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Portions are generous, flavors are approachable, and the atmosphere works well for families with school-age kids.
Best For
Better for: Classic Middle Eastern comfort cooking, generous portions, and group-friendly platters that feel familiar and satisfying.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sleek date-night vibe, highly specialized regional dishes, or a quick grab-and-go meal.