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Yaba's Food & Middle Eastern Grill
ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Bucktown & Logan Square
Best Greek in Bucktown & Logan Square
Best Middle Eastern in Bucktown & Logan Square
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Bucktown & Logan Square
Master Critic Review
Yaba's Food & Middle Eastern Grill
7.9
Yaba's Food & Middle Eastern Grill is a family-run counter inside a small market where shawarma, falafel, and homey plates come out of a compact open kitchen. Logan Square locals use it as a dependable, affordable takeout option for freshly fried falafel, lentil soup, and mixed plates that travel well.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Plate, Chicken Shawarma Wrap, Lentil Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A tiny grocery-counter hybrid where hand-made falafel, shawarma, and lentil soup anchor some of the neighborhood’s most affordable Middle Eastern plates.
Who should go: Locals wanting low-cost, homestyle Middle Eastern takeout or delivery.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner to avoid peak takeout queues.
What to order: Falafel plate, chicken shawarma wrap, lentil soup.
Insider tip: Ask which sides are freshest that day—staff will steer you toward the best salads and dips from the case.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on nearby residential blocks; generally manageable but can tighten during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; most guests stop in for takeaway or a quick counter meal.
Noise level: Low to moderate — small market setting with kitchen activity but easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: Usually short waits (5–15 minutes) during rushes while orders are cooked to order.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or brief queue at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel plates, salads, lentil soup, and mezze-style sides work well.
Vegan options: Yes — several vegan-friendly staples (falafel, lentil soup, many salads); confirm sauces and dips if strict.
Gluten-free options: Partial — many proteins, salads, and plates can be served without pita; wraps and sandwiches include gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual bite than a formal date — it’s a compact counter inside a market with limited ambiance and seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service and first-come, first-served; seating is limited, so many guests opt for takeaway.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick, affordable meals and takeout; space is tight and seating is limited, so families may be most comfortable carrying out.
Best For
Better for: Budget-friendly Middle Eastern plates, freshly fried falafel, and takeout that travels well at a lower price point than sit-down restaurants.
Skip if: You want full-service dining, large groups with guaranteed seating, or a polished, linger-friendly atmosphere.