Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Avondale

Due to a glut of options, there are few places in Chicago that spark the “when are we coming back?” conversation before the main course is finished. This is one of those places. The dishes were comfortable yet complex, making you realize, there’s a talent-level in the kitchen that makes them impossible to replicate. Each bite from first course through dessert was exceptional, which is a feat considering we were last seating on a Tuesday night. What made the experience was the service. Lauren S. was welcoming and informative without being pushy. She deftly answered all of our questions that felt like she was guiding us through the menu based on her expertise not her opinion. This included steering us away from certain dishes when she understood our flavor profiles, and explaining things without ruining the surprise. Her attention to little things without feeling crowded made us realize what front of house talent does to heighten the experience. The only knock was the nitty-picky things on the space. The bathroom was a bit disheveled, there was a crud on the handle of a fork (nothing on the tongs, I checked before using it). Extremely minor unless you’re judging for Micheline stars. Simply put, where it matters everything is well thought out from concept to execution. If you can get in, it’s an absolute no-brainer.

We loved our dinner at Aba!! Everything we ordered came out hot and absolutely delicious!! I 100% recommend Aba for an elegant and amazing experience!

Absolutely outstanding! This restaurant has some of the best Mediterranean flavors I’ve ever experienced. The Lavraki was perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, with just the right touch of seasoning. The beet salad was a fresh and vibrant masterpiece, beautifully balanced with flavors and textures. The Tzatziki was creamy, tangy, and the perfect complement to the meal. And don’t even get me started on the baklava— frozen yogurt, crispy pastry sheets, honey with just the right amount of sweetness to end the meal on a high note. From start to finish, the food was impeccable, and the service was warm and attentive. Highly recommend!

I recently dined at a charming Turkish Mediterranean restaurant, and it was a delightful experience. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with earthy tones and traditional touches that made for a cozy setting. The menu featured a great variety of fresh, flavorful dishes, from savory kebabs to tender lamb and perfectly seasoned mezze. The hummus and babaganoush were standout appetizers, while the baklava offered a sweet, rich finish to the meal. Service was attentive and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommended for anyone craving authentic Turkish Mediterranean cuisine!

Love Elina’s and have been often because the vibes, service, and food is top notch. Definitely a great date night. Intimate and cozy!