Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Old Town

42 restaurants available nearby

1. Aba - Chicago

4.8

Exceptional(2636)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mediterranean • West Loop

Booked 138 times today

Aba in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant shines with Chef CJ Jacobson’s unique, light culinary approach, drawing rich flavors from regions like Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece. Guests are consistently amazed, describing the experience as "astounding" with flavors that are "entertaining to eat" and a setting that immediately sets the tone for a delightful Mediterranean meal. Signature dishes like the Smoky Garlic Hummus and Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak are crowd favorites, often highlighted in reviews as "phenomenal" and "to die for." The carefully curated bar program complements the dining experience with rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits, enhancing the authenticity and quality of the meal. Whether it's the impeccable service, the stunning decor, or the mouth-watering cuisine, Aba offers a Mediterranean dining experience that is truly unforgettable.

2. Elia

4.5

Awesome(262)

Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 39 times today

Elia, nestled in the vibrant Bucktown / Wicker Park area of Chicago, is a standout for its authentic Italian cuisine, blended seamlessly with Mediterranean influences. Patrons rave about the "incredibly delicious" dishes like the Adana Kebab paired with Hummus mezze, and the "most delicious" Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib. The Italian flair is evident in the use of fresh, quality ingredients that echo the culinary traditions of Italy, crafted into both classic and inventive dishes. The restaurant's ambiance, complemented by sprawling Mediterranean murals and mid-century modern lighting, enhances the dining experience, making Elia a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Italy with a Mediterranean twist.

3. Cira

4.7

Exceptional(1782)

Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • West Loop

Booked 91 times today

Cira, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, is a treasure trove of Mediterranean cuisine, delighting diners with its modern twist on traditional flavors. The restaurant's menu is a mosaic of small, shareable plates that celebrate the culinary symbiosis across the Mediterranean Basin. Guests rave about the authenticity and creativity of dishes like the "SUPERB pitas" and "phenomenal pistachio ravioli." As one diner exclaims, "The food was simply incredible!" Cira's ability to blend hearty and healthy options ensures every palate is catered to, making it a must-visit for those seeking a truly Mediterranean feast in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

4. avec River North

4.7

Exceptional(430)

Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)

Booked 24 times today

Avec River North, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary French/American cuisine. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its "consistently delicious" fare, under the guidance of James Beard award-winning chef Paul Kahan and executive chef Dylan Patel. Patrons rave about the "creative and perfectly prepared food," with dishes like the bacon-wrapped dates and duck confit agnolotti receiving high praise. The ambiance of Avec River North matches the quality of its dishes, described as "a great vibe" and perfect for any occasion. As one diner put it, "Every dish was heavenly," making Avec River North a must-visit for a quintessential Chicago dining experience.

5. Ema - River North

4.7

Exceptional(4549)

Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)

Booked 75 times today

Ema, nestled in Chicago's vibrant River North, is a culinary gem that brilliantly fuses Mediterranean flavors with the essence of Californian cuisine. Praised for its "always fresh high-quality food" and "fantastic cocktails," Ema stands out for its commitment to authenticity and excellence. Diners rave about the innovative dishes like the "Bhel" hummus and the "delicious" chicken kebab, highlighting the creative twist Ema brings to Californian dining. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "beautiful airy space," complements its stellar service, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Whether it's the "impeccable service" or the "outstanding evening sharing small plates," Ema consistently delivers a top-tier gastronomic experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving Californian cuisine in Chicago.

6. avec West Loop

4.8

Exceptional(843)

Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • West Loop

Booked 38 times today

Avec West Loop in Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighborhood captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Midwestern twist on Mediterranean classics. Celebrating over 20 years of culinary excellence, avec is renowned for its wine-focused dining and communal seating, fostering an intimate and interactive atmosphere. Customers rave about the uniquely inventive dishes, with one diner exclaiming, "The food is excellent but the quarters a bit cramped in this location. Don’t miss the short rib hummus and the chorizo dates." Another highlights the exceptional service and unforgettable flavors, stating, "Incredible food and service. Easy going service with loads of knowledge and great direction for first-time diners." Avec continues to impress with its consistent quality and innovative menu, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Contemporary American dining experience in Chicago.

7. il Carciofo

new

4.8

Exceptional(67)

Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • West Loop

Booked 96 times today

Located in the historic Fulton Market district of Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets in one of Chef Joe's favorite cities, Rome. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of elevated yet familiar Italian fare with traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas produced daily in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains that highlight the season's bounty.

8. MEDI

4.6

Exceptional(359)

Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • Lincoln Park

Booked 3 times today

Located in the vibrant Lincoln Park, Chicago, Medi Kitchen + Cocktail is a standout venue for superb cocktail experiences. Known for its modern Mediterranean flair, the bar is celebrated for its craft cocktails that are as inventive as they are delicious. Patrons rave about the balance and creativity of the drinks, with favorites like “The date went sour” earning accolades as top-tier choices. The ambiance, enhanced by Middle Eastern-inspired decor and a cozy setting, makes Medi an ideal spot for everything from a lively brunch to a romantic evening. As one guest put it, the cocktails are “amazing” and the overall experience is bolstered by friendly and attentive service, making Medi a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts seeking quality and authenticity in their drinks.

A photo of Pinched on the River restaurant

9. Pinched on the River

4.6

Exceptional(413)

Price: Moderate

• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)

Booked 2 times today

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean at Pinched on the River, nestled in the charming River North neighborhood of Chicago. Renowned for its eclectic and unique Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, this riverside gem consistently impresses with dishes that burst with authenticity and freshness. Patrons rave about the "unforgettable experience" and "authentic Mediterranean flavors" that each dish delivers, from the perfectly seasoned chicken shawarma to the delightful kalamata hummus. The ambiance, enhanced by the serene riverside setting, complements the culinary journey with a picturesque backdrop, making every dining experience both memorable and enjoyable. Whether you're crafting your own bowl or selecting from their expertly curated options, Pinched on the River promises a truly delightful Mediterranean dining adventure.

10. Rose Mary

4.8

Exceptional(3301)

Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • West Loop

Booked 75 times today

Nestled in the bustling West Loop of Chicago, Rose Mary stands out as a beacon of Croatian cuisine, artfully blended with Italian influences by the talented Chef Joe Flamm. Patrons rave about the authentic and bold flavors, with dishes like the "tuna crudo" and "Burek bread" receiving special mentions for their exceptional taste. The ambiance of Rose Mary, inspired by the coastal herbs and familial warmth, complements the "Adriatic drinking food," making every meal a delightful experience. Reviewers consistently highlight the outstanding service and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of Croatia in the heart of Chicago.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
SaraVIP
Chicago / Illinois •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Arrived right at opening, happy to see other excited folks waiting to dine. Drink menu was original. Plates were adequately sized. It was nice to see Chef Flamm in the dining room! Our server Mario was wonderful.
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il CarciofoPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Loop
•
4.8
N
Noel
Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Outstanding food and service! Excellent atmosphere
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Aba - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• West Loop
•
4.8
M
Maggie
Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Every dish was exquisite and original (some entirely unique, others fresh takes on familiar things). We were a large group (8 of us). Our server (Graham) was perfectly attentive without being obsequious. An excellent pre-holiday family dinner outing!
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avec River NorthPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
M
Mark
Chicago / Illinois •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
An outstanding lunch in every way. Our server was friendly, knowledgeable , and efficient. The food was great. We had delicious hummus, 3 different varieties, a Greek salad and brussels sprout and apple salad were fresh and tasty, crispy potatoes with tzatziki sauce were unique and left us wanting more, and lamb and beef, and salmon kabobs were seasoned in a way that was different than the usual Mediterranean restaurant kabobs and we loved them. We finished with a honey pie and vanilla bean panna cotta deserts. It was a fabulous experience.
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Ema - River NorthPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
K
Kennise
Chicago / Illinois •14 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
the noise level was obnoxious. the DJ had a practically empty restaurant and she played loud techno music with willful disregard for the impact on a mostly empty restaurant and a few tables of guests trying to enjoy DELICIOUS food. The space is beautiful. The food is delicious though I found the fish stew disappointedly oily and less enjoyable than I hoped. I will return and recommend it BUT a bit of "reading the room" is indicated. She is the only person who seemed to enjoy her loud music
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EliaPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Bucktown / Wicker Park
•
4.5

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Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Old Town

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42 restaurants available nearby

1. Aba - Chicago

2. Elia

3. Cira

4. avec River North

5. Ema - River North

6. avec West Loop

7. il Carciofo

8. MEDI

9. Pinched on the River

10. Rose Mary

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