Döner 97

218

1165

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1 month ago

Knock me over with a feather! What I thought of myself as a worldly guy, who has eaten just about everything, had my first, ever "Döner" sandwich ever! What's a "Döner" you ask? It's an incredibly popular Turkish sandwich, loved and adored in the city of Berlin, Germany of all places. Our son, visiting us here in Chicago (from New York) was taunting the virtues of this rather large and tasty sandwich and of course, the city of Chicago has a restaurant making this; just right up the street. Döner 97 on Clark Street adjacent to Lincoln Park is serving up this delicious, sloppy (in a good way) sandwich with all of the fixings. I had their Combination Döner Sandwich a combination of both beef / lamb and chicken kebab sandwich with tender, seasoned meat, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces in warm flatbread. I really liked it. We also bought a Chicken Döner Sandwich with delicious chicken döner kebab sandwich: tender, seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces in warm flatbread. Also very good. These Döner sandwiches are huge like a massive Mexican burrito, messy like a sloppy Joe sandwich, but fun like French Fondue. Döner 97 was a first for me and I was pleasantly surprised! read more

Döner 97 - Carving the meats - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Döner 97 - The restaurant - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Steven E.

178

1604

9038

11 months ago

My cousin Mickey and his wife, Minnie, drive from Skokie twice a month because of their love for the place. It's more fast food than dining room, even though there are tables and chairs, if you prefer. The döner sandwiches are something special. It's clear they use fresh ingredients and put a little tlc in every one they prepare. If you're into baked potato check out the build your own Kumpir. Butter drenched potato with your choice of veggies and proteins added. A meal in itself! I sampled and loved their Red Lentil soup and Bulgar dishes. The big winner this night was the Ćevapi sausages in their special flatbread. Pro Tip: consider splitting something. The portion size is impressive. If you like leftovers, ignore my tip and get two completely different dishes that you can share the next day. Actually, that's two tips in one. So Pro Tips! The cost was fairly reasonable and the waitstaff very efficient. Cousin Mickey (his name is Michael, her's is Amelia; they DID have the nicknames before meeting each other) spent two years traveling back and forth between Germany and Turkey and he claims this fare to be very authentic. 09/25 read more

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Christopher H.

1

39

38

9 months ago

One of the best meals in the city. Authentic doner with fantastic sauces. I took my wife here and she was extremely skeptical because she doesn't like Mediterranean/schwarma. The entire meal she was saying how good it was. Highly recommend. read more

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Rob G.

28

312

425

2 years ago

This the best doner shoppe in the Lincoln Park / Lakeview area. Their doners are made fresh and the ingredients are all exceptional. My go-to is always the beef / lamb doner sandwich. They always fill the pita to the brim of meat, tomatoes and lettuce. A shout out to the staff as well - they are super friendly, quick but take care in making your order. Do visit if you are ever on Clark St. read more

Döner 97 - Combination Dner Sandwich - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Asad R.

32

333

19

9 months ago

I really enjoyed this! We got the doner sandwich which was huge! I liked how they layered the sauce in between the layers and how much meat there was inside. It was also packed really well as I got it to go. I was missing the doner sandwiches in Europe and this definitely scratched the itch. I would say to give it a try if you're in the area. read more

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Jose C.

Elite 26 All-Star

3723

1546

6783

2 years ago

This was my first time trying doner. Ive had my fair share of gyros, and what Mexican hasn't had Al pastor off the trompo, but never this type of Turkish style. I placed an order online for a combination diner bowl. It came with beef & lamb and chicken with lettuce, tomato, red cabbage, white garlic sauce, red pepper sauce and bulgur instead of rice. This is a new one for me. It's a healthier grab than rice and was very unique. Overall the bowl was delicious. It was very flavorful, but definitely on the pricier side. Would I order it again? Absolutely. read more

Döner 97 - Combination Doner Bowl - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Rie U.

233

423

1213

2 years ago

SO. GOOD. Back when I lived in Tokyo, I'd always go to this Turkish kebab stand after a night out. It was truly a no-frills shop and the only thing on the menu was their 500 Yen doner kebab sandwich-- but it was so fucking delicious. Doner 97's beef & lamb sandwich absolutely reminded me of that place. The pita pocket was warm and toasty, and there was so much beef & lamb packed into it along with some veggies that added a nice cronch. And the sauce! Omg the sauce was so fucking good! I'd buy a bottle of that for sure if they sold it. Let's not forget about the stellar service. The guy at the counter was so friendly! We'll definitely be back for sure!! read more

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Olivia C.

8

70

66

2 years ago

It's rare to find Doner places around where I live so I was super excited to see this place. Doner was good, have had better, could've been more veggies in it. Overall decent experience. read more

Döner 97 - Half chicken half lamb - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Devona S.

6

72

131

2 years ago

The best service, it was my first time and they explained everything and provided recommendations without any judgement. I got the beef/lamb bowl over fries and to be honest, HUGE portion sizes. The meat was some of the best I've ever had and the white garlic and the spicy sauce was to die for. Very casual place with adequate seating to eat in but I chose to take it to go. read more

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Ryan M.

1

12

1

10 months ago

The best Doner I have had in the US. Simply the best. My brother and I had it yesterday afternoon and made sure to swing back before we left town for one more! read more

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Tin l.

0

3

2

9 months ago

Extremely good food! The best Döner I've ever had. Their sandwich is packed with flavor and sauce. Good amount of meat for the price!

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Hannah H.

21

157

360

2 years ago

Just checked out this brand new spot on Clark street and it was yummy! Everything was SO flavorful and the menu items were unique. I loved the Kumpir, I've never had anything like it before and I'm so glad I got to try it. The Doner sandwich with chicken and lamb were both delicious. I can't wait to visit again read more

Döner 97 - Kumpir 97 - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Döner 97 - Doner Dner Sandwich - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Gökberk E.

0

2

0

9 months ago

I'm from Turkey . I was really disappointed with the chicken döner here. The meat tasted old and had a strange smell, like it wasn't fresh at all. The portion was tiny compared to the price, and the bread was dry and stale. The fries were soggy and cold, and the sauce was watery with barely any flavor. Honestly, I couldn't even finish my meal . You have to change to Chefs . He doesn't know anything about doner. And also he doesn't know how talk to customer . -- I expected much better quality. Definitely not coming back. (The restaurant owner calls me and threatens me to delete the comment. He said that if I don't delete the comment, he will call the police to his house. It's a really funny management.) read more

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Monica W.

0

2

1

1 year ago

Stopped in for the first time to grab a Beef/Lamb bowl to go. The bulgur is a healthier rice. The bowl was filling and so yummy! Had enough for leftovers. A nice alternative to my typical chipotle bowl. I will definitely be back! read more

Döner 97 - Beef/Lamb Doner Bowl with Bulgur - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Tedi N.

0

18

11

2 years ago

Food and service were 5/5. Will be going back. I had the doner original sandwich and fries. Both were A1. read more

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Tom B.

0

18

0

9 months ago

Food was burnt. I hope they fix things in the kitchen and turn it around. Service was very friendly, but you have to get the food right.

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Scott L.

0

20

26

2 years ago

Doner 97 was great. I got the sandwich to try the bread and let me tell you I can't wait to go back. The sandwich was filling and every bite was full of flavor. The meat was great, the bread was soft, yet sturdy and all the ingredients tasted very fresh. Make this your next meal! read more

Döner 97 - Doner sandwich - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Döner 97 - Doner sandwich with lamb - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Alice H.

Elite 25

165

177

356

2 years ago

Hubby came back from Berlin and has been craving Doner kebab ever since. Enter Doner 97. Hubby tried the juicy cuts of meat & amazing thin, crispy bread & killer sauce and is no longer scouring the city for this dish. So so good. Only wish would be to add more meat to the pita sandwich :) read more

Döner 97 - In action - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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kris r.

31

118

33

2 years ago

Had to try this place since I had doner in Vienna and this place brought back memories of that. This is my second time here. Had the build your own salad with a bulgur base and tzatziki as dressing. Very generous portion. Had chicken doner sandwich last time that was excellent. Will be back. read more

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brenda s.

34

227

121

2 years ago

Stopped by here with my husband and 17 mo granddaughter after going to the nature museum. Food was delicious- I got the lamb and beef Doner in the pita and husband got the same in a bowl. Place was clean and comfortable- they didn't have high chairs or booster seats tho so we had to feed the baby in her stroller. Service was good. read more

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Shari W.

9

26

0

2 years ago

Finally stopped in after walking by for months. Got the Doner Chicken Salad. DELICIOUS!!!! I ate most of it, gave the balance to my husband who agreed with me. Really fresh and flavorful. This could become one of our go to's for quick delicious food. read more

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NaywriChi W.

Elite 17

166

1170

14149

2 years ago

Ahh! This used to be New York Pizza Style, remember that? The first location in the country. The staff and service is wonderful. read more

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George H.

4

235

3

2 years ago

Excellent food! The lamb/beef sandwich was great. I ordered fries extra crispy and they actually made them well done. Thanks!

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Andrew S.

Elite 24

7

57

72

2 years ago

This is a pretty solid doner kebab spot! Since going to Berlin last year I've been on the hunt for a good doner kebab and I think this is the closest I've found. The portions are pretty big, there's a good flavor, and the staff is really friendly. I really wish this place was open later at night; I feel like this would make a great late-night snack! Still worth a visit. read more

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Nancy J.

0

27

8

2 years ago

Food and service were great. Portion sizes are large. We will definitely go back next time we're in Chicago. read more

Döner 97 - Döner sandwich and döner bowl. - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Serge G.

67

304

1152

2 years ago

Döner 97 was really good. Decent price point and I highly recommend their sandwich or bowl! The beef shawarma they have here is pretty juicy. read more

Döner 97 - Mixed Protein Bowl - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Döner 97 - Dner Sandwich with Beef & Lamb - German Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Amanda S.

358

14

8

2 years ago

Since my time in Germany I've been trying to find SOME semblance of good German-Turkish style döner - and this place did not disappoint. The portions are generous and the food is extremely fresh and flavorful. I got the chicken döner sandwich and it was delightful. Not 100% a match to what you'll find in Germany but the closest I've been able to find in the states. On top of that the staff was extremely friendly and polite. 10/10 recommend for a quick bite or take out. read more

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Scott D.

1

21

2

2 years ago

The best doner kebab in Chicago & possibly the USA. Just as I remember them in the UK.

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Connor M.

0

8

0

1 year ago

The lamb/beef sandwich is one of my favorite bites in all of Chicago. You can tell they put a lot of work into sourcing every aspect of it. Super nice staff too! read more

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Jeff R.

26

12

0

2 years ago

Great first time experience! Recently back from Germany where the Doner restaurants are plentiful and delicious. Decided we needed to find this type of food in Chicago and so glad to see that this place is here. Food was delicious, fresh and flavorful. Service was great and atmosphere is nice. We will return! read more

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YS T.

0

56

2

1 year ago

Very expensive for what you get. But it tastes pretty good. Don't expect European style döner though but it ain't that far off.

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Cv C.

0

3

0

2 years ago

Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor. Hands down, some of the best Döner you will get in Chicago! They use the freshest ingredients and the restaurant is super clean. The taste is very much like the Döner you get in Germany. read more

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Josh E.

Elite 22

41

31

94

2 years ago

This sandwich was amazing! I've struggled to find good doner in Chicago and this place knows what they are doing. I got the chicken doner sandwich and it was extremely flavorful. The chicken was saucy and saucy, and came with well balanced toppings and a really good white sauce and not-too-spicy red sauce. It was in a panini type pita, which was a bit different from the classic pita or wrap, but still very good. Nice people working there and a small but clean restaurant. A+ I'll be going again often. read more

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Margaret M.

0

2

0

1 year ago

I couldn't ask for more intelligent or quicker service Every visit is a pleasure No question is too much or worker too busy to help to help you with! read more

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Michael S.

17

10

3

2 years ago

Really good. It was a little while ago that I had it so I don't remember the details. The reason for the 4-star, instead of 5, is that the restaurant is missing some elements of a legit Donër Kebab joint. That said, I had the lamb and chicken and enjoyed it. Would get it again. read more

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MJ B.

2

18

0

2 years ago

Found this place via some online neighborhood search -- and glad we did! Seriously good food, excellent service. It's small yet comfortable. We were there at 2pm so the lunch crowd was gone. Check this out! You will thank me... read more

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Trekforbeer B.

77

1164

0

2 years ago

Super disappointing. The chicken was solid, nice flavor but it was tough. The beef/lamb had almost no flavor. I did love the wrap, good flavor, and better texture. The fries were terrible. They were an orangey color that would indicate lots of flavor and seasoning. They were totally bland, and had to be frozen not fresh mad. Very sad meal. read more

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Sammy F.

0

1

2 years ago

a dream come true. the döner kebab is delicious and made with care. the bread is perfect, the meat is tender, the garlic sauce is juicy and to have it spicy is just right. read more

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Ron M.

0

5

1

2 years ago

Legit, just like I remember the doners being in Germany (Frankfurt area). But these ones are even bigger, thumbs up!

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More info about Döner 97

2435 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60614
Lincoln Park
Directions
(773) 698-6324
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://doner97.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Döner 97 open?

Döner 97 opens at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Döner 97 close?

Döner 97 is closed on Monday.Döner 97 closes at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon ClosedTue-Sun 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Food & Alcohol

Does Döner 97 serve alcohol?

Yes, Döner 97 serves alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Döner 97 allow dogs?

Yes, Döner 97 allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Döner 97 have outdoor seating?

No, Döner 97 does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Döner 97 have parking?

Yes, Döner 97 has parking options.

Other Amenities

Does Döner 97 have free WiFi?

Yes, Döner 97 has free WiFi.

More Info

Health Score

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Cafe Istanbul

Loved all three dishes we ordered: the seafood salad, the eggplant appetizer, and the variety kebab…read moreplate. The combination made for the perfect meal on a hot day. It was light and refreshing, but also still satisfying and filling. Everything complemented each other really well.

This was a place I happened upon when a nearby diner was closed. I looked at their menu online &…read moredecided to give them a chance & was NOT disappointed. The atmosphere alone was quite inviting. Cozy, shaded, outdoor seating. The inside was very formal as well. The most appealing element of this place is how reasonable their pricing is. My waiter Ori (sp?) was awesome. Very personable. He started me off with a complimentary Carrot Dip appetizer which was by fast the highlight of my meal. He stated that it's not always on the menu, but I will ask for it anytime I go back. I can't give them 5 stars only because my main course, the Doner entree, which is a seasoned lamb & veal meat with basmati rice was a bit salty. Not overwhelmingly salty, but noticeable. But I'm definitely going back to test their other dishes, especially if their carrot dip is available.

The dining area (Wed night)

Iskender

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Bereket Turkish Mediterranean Restaurant

Chris!!! And family!!!! Our first time there was awesome…read moreand beyond!!!! We made it home safe!! Thanks for the tea recommendation. The fabulous food , and drink will have us coming back! Phil and Isaac (Cincinnati )

I had the Beef Doner Wrap and the Lahmacun oven special. To be honest, I've tried much better…read moreplaces for wraps and pide. The wrap was extremely dry and hard to enjoy, and the meat had a strange smell. We ordered beef, but it had a very strong lamb smell and taste for some reason. The pide was also disappointing. Even though it had parsley inside, it lacked flavor. It mostly tasted like bread with a bit of tomato paste. Considering the high prices, it's definitely overpriced for the quality. Very disappointing experience overall. PS: But service is amazing. Thank you for our waitress for the best service.

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Antepli Mediterranean Grill

I brought my family from Nebraska to try my favorite Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago this week,…read moreand I could not applaud them enough. The service was incredibly welcoming and friendly. The staff helped my family of 6 navigate and understand the menu graciously and with enthusiasm. The food arrived timely and was delicious as always. We ended up ordering baklava for dessert. It is a perfect way to end your meal. Highly recommend for anyone looking for authentic Mediterranean food and heartfelt hospitality!

Staff is a 10/10, super kind and understanding. They answer all questions and really help you…read moreunderstand what you're ordering! The food tastes lovely and the portions are beyond fulfilling. They have a variety of different dishes and lots of flavors. The atmosphere is pretty nice and rather comforting. The music is calm, the lighting is bright, and overall it makes the meal that much more enjoyable! Highly recommended!

Lamb Chops

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Turkish coffee

Cira

We had a lovely lunch here last week…read more The restaurant is beautiful! The ambiance is really incredible. The staff were friendly and helpful. The food was delicious. muhammara- incredible, so was the pita Tunisian rice bowl with cauliflower- incredible working lunch with avocado toast- I didn't get a bit but it looked amazing I plan to return here!

Had a great girl dinner with some friends at Cira on a Friday night. The crowd was really chill and…read morethe vibe was 30s and 40s. What I liked is that the DJ was spinning some good music and the drinks were flowing. On this occasion, I had a really good spicy Margarita and I also had a Hugo spritz. That paired really well with the cheeseburger and french fries. Cheeseburger is on lunch menu. For the table, some of my friends also ordered the hummus which was really good and another favorite was the baba ghanoush. All in all it was a very nice dinner and I would definitely come hang out, but I get this establishment if I was in the Fulton market area

Join us for weekend brunch!

Pastries

Bloody Mary

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Turquoise Restaurant

Zhala provided a really good service and she was very attentive. Best service and good food!read more

Back in Chicago, gastronimer activated, led us to Turquoise, a quaint Turkish restaurant in Roscoe…read moreVillage. Indoor and outdoor seating, pet friendly, servers friendlier, cordial and very happy to guide the diner who is unfamiliar with Turkish cuisine. We started with lentil soup and artichoke salad. Mary had the Calamari appetizer, that was huge. Braised Lamb shank over a mushroom risotto for me. To put it into perspective, my wife Mary makes a superb lamb shank and outrageous mushroom risotto and takes it personally when anyone rates someone else's as better. She has actually consented and acknowledged these to be superior, enough said. Finished with a decent baklava but unbelievable Turkish coffee. Juan Valdez, step aside, this is coffee. Overall, very highly recommend Turquoise Restaurant.

Bar

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Avaspi

4.8

(109 reviews)

1.4 mi

An absolutely standout meal, each dish better than the next. The stuffed dates, however, were about…read moreas spectacular as anything I've had. A perfect place to go with a group to try as many different things as possible. And don't sleep on their happy hour, which makes the experience even better!

Avaspi is one of the best restaurants I've been to in Chicago. My party of six split 6 appetizers…read moreand 3 entrees. Mediterranean Meze - very flavorful blend of 22 ingredients according to our waiter. This dish was truly unique. 5/5 Grilled Halloumi Meze - delicious cheese with olives and garlic bread. 4/5 Stuffed Eggplant - savory and creamy dish which actually might be even better served hot. 5/5 Calamari Meze - Excellent and tender. Not chewy at all which was nice. There were a ton of olives which I didn't think complimented the calamari. Overall, still 5/5. Mushroom Tava - mushrooms were cooked perfectly and were delicious. One of my favorite dishes of the night. 5/5 Stuffed Mushrooms - this dish fell flat on flavor and had more of the typical mushroom texture. 3/5 The Hunkar entrée initially was extremely salty. I mentioned this to the waiter and they remade it, which turned out great, so I'm hoping the salty dish was a one-off. 5/5 Our waiter was very friendly and attentive throughout. The restaurant itself is also casual upscale, so nice for most occasions. Avaspi exceeds expectations and I highly recommend this excellent Mediterranean restaurant.

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The Gundis Kurdish Kitchen

Food was really good and the service was incredible. Very nice and genuine people work here. They…read morewere able to accommodate multiple allergies and substitutions. Food was reasonably priced and very filling. I highly recommend the stuffed chicken and beef shish. Kurdish coffee wasn't overpowering, very nutty, espresso sized.

I've been here so many times since my first visit, that I assumed that I had already reviewed this…read moreplace. This restaurant is my favorite brunch spot in Chicago. I bring friends and family from our of town to visit here, and I will even come solo if given the opportunity. The vibe is always classy casual, haha. During weekend brunch, the place is usually at 80% or more capacity, so I always like to make a reservation on OpenTable to secure a seat. I have only ever had the same server, and he's a gem. I order the Soujouk Beef Scramble, one of the signature dishes, and it always fills me up. The dish always comes with bread and fries, and both compliment the scramble well, depending if you want to add a bit of saltiness or savoriness to your taste. The scramble itself is light but rich in tomato flavor, and the saltiness from the meat is subtle yet powerful. If ordering for two, the larger spread consisting of jams, olives, butters and sides is well worth the price.

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Oda Mediterranean Cuisine

My date took me here to Oda on a weeknight. Oda is listed as Mediterranean but cuisine leans more…read moreTurkish/Georgian. I found the food, drink and dessert to be very savory. We shared the Oda Grill Combo and Karniyarik/Moussaka. Both were outstanding and seasoned just right. I ordered a cocktail (Drop it Like It's Hot) and that too was refreshingly tasty for a warm summer evening. Ambiance is really cute and they have an outdoor patio. Our server was kind, attentive and helped me make a decision on dinner and dessert when I was torn between a few choices. They let us hang around after dinner and they didn't rush us out which was nice too. We had the option to dine in or out but we chose to stay inside because of the humidity and frankly, we just love our air-conditioning. Granted if the weather is favorable, it's a nice space for alfresco dining. Parking is generally street only since they lack a parking lot. Depending on what time you go, you might end up finding free parking on the side streets since the meters tend to run out after 6.

Now why aren't more people talking about Oda? I will be a FREQUENT visitor now! To start this is…read morethe perfect, quaint, neighborhood restaurant. Dim lit but still inviting and plenty of seating for various sized parties but still keeps the intimacy. Our server, Alec was friendly, attentive and gave us the entire run down on the food, cuisine, and his favorite recommendations! Everything was absolutely AMAZING. Big Fs: Fresh, flavorful and filling. Once of my main highlights from the meal was something Alec recommended, the Adjaruli Khachapuri which is Georgian cheese and egg baked in a bread boat. I had never had this before and was blown away by how absolutely tasty it was! I also ordered the Kofte Chargrilled Meatballs which were amazing they came in a large portion but also were SO good bold in flavor with the perfect texture! I ordered the Crimson Petal and the Drop it Like it's Hot cocktails which were both extremely tasty! This was the perfect meal and I cannot wait to get back!

Pita and hummus - excellent

Interior of Oda!

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Dining room

Ema

The atmosphere was great for our 6 person group for brunch! Service was fantastic…read more A very nice ambiance that wasn't too loud for a brunch at 11am where we could all hear each other, sat at a round table so we could see each other. That part was lovely because often I find that with larger groups it's hard to ensure everyone is able to interact (especially since I was taking my parents) Lamb shakshuka was a winner in my book!! So flavorful and perfect hearty brunch. The skewers my parents got were wonderfully cooked. Others got a more standard scrambled egg breakfast that they said was nothing special. Definitely opt for a Mediterranean breakfast if you're at a Mediterranean spot imo.

I was really disappointed with my experience at Ema. The portions were much smaller than expected,…read moreespecially considering the prices. The biggest issue was that our drink glasses had a terrible odor, as if they hadn't been washed properly. We mentioned it to the manager, who promptly replaced the glasses, and the new ones did not have the smell, which confirmed there was an issue with the original ones. I ordered the short ribs, which cost $35 and the portion was extremely small. One of the pieces was also mostly fat, leaving very little actual meat. For the price, I expected a much better-quality dish and a more satisfying portion. Overall, the experience did not live up to the restaurant's reputation or pricing. Unfortunately, I won't be returning.

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Zizi's Cafe

I visited Zizi's Cafe on 2/1 for lunch and had an incredible experience. The staff were friendly,…read morewelcoming, and knowledgeable on the menu. The waitress brought us a carrot dip with very warm bread which was delicious, and I ordered the Döner wrap which was filled with delicious ground lamb and beef. The restaurant was very clean, there was plenty of seating, and they had wonderful decor to look at. I cannot wait to return as the restaurant had a homey feeling to it. Thank you Zizi's for a wonderful experience!

This has become one of our regular spots both for takeaway and a great night out. There is so…read moremuch that makes this place special - starting with their warm and always fresh bread to start. The carrot spread makes it refreshing as well. I'm always a fan of their wraps. I love the gyro wrap - the lamb and ground beef mix is tasty and there is no shortage of helpings that I always have left overs. Fries are always fresh cut and piping hot. Service is always top notch. We are taken care of in a friendly, timely and professional manner.

Lamb Rice Bowl- Lunch Special only

The dining area

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Lamb dinner

Quartino Ristorante

Awesome! We were in town from Kansas City and this restaurant was recommended to us. It was just…read morearound the corner from our hotel so we fortunately we were able to get a reservation and have an incredible dinner.

Came here on a friends recommendation and love loved it!!! The food was so delicious, everything we…read morehad was 10/10. The balsamic they have on each table were also so delicious my friends bartered with the manager to buy a couple bottles :D 5/5 food - we had the bruschette, sausage and mushroom pizza. gnocchi, and bolognese pasta. would recommend them all!! 5/5 service - our waitress (Georgia) was so nice we were all locked in on the World Cup game playing 5/5 vibes - a nice medium between upscale and casual

PROSCIUTTO SAN DANIELE and Duck Prosciutto

Bathroom

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Coppa alla banana

The Purple Pig

My new favorite restaurant! the food is DELICIOUS and the staff was incredible. I don't give…read morereviews much but just loved it here so I had to :)

This place had a line that went out of the door during the multiple times I've crossed the…read moreMagnificent Mile bridge in Chicago. Made last minute reservations for brunch next day after the infamous architecture tour. It was quiet as we've put in an early morning. All the more better to savor all intricate dishes from start to finish. Like the name, The Purple Pig, their specialty is pork dishes so majority of our orders were this. Daily special of the bone marrow bacon jam toast - glazed, slippery off the bone, savory and sweet. Always love a good bone marrow dish to get the sweetness off it. This was so good that there were bits of the marrow and jam left stuck to the bone, I took a piece of the toast and scooped the bone dry. Nothing left for anyone to attack this. Non pork dishes were the Mushroom 3 ways and Spanish octopus. Mushroom dish was savory with all the coated sauces elevating this. Spanish octopus was kicked lightly and easily can bite in to enjoy the tender and charred portions. But the award went to my main course - the braised pork shoulder with saffron, apricots and Swiss chard. Aside from the rippable pork meat when dining on it, the sauces fused together on this dish elevated it and had everyone coming back for more. I needed an official Chicago culinary experience and found it at The Purple Pig without a doubt.

The kitchen

Chicago style hot dog

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Squid Ink Chitarra

Green Street Smoked Meats

This place was so good that I came back the very next evening for dinner again…read more On my first visit, I ordered the pulled pork with mac and cheese, cornbread, and sweet tea. Every single part of the meal was outstanding. The pulled pork was delicious on its own, but I also loved the sweet barbecue sauce. The cornbread was, without exaggeration, the best I've ever had!! It was moist, flavorful, and served with absolutely incredible butter. The mac and cheese was rich, creamy, and one of the best I've ever had as well. Even the sweet tea was perfect: actually sweet without being overpowering or having that bitter, earthy aftertaste that some sweet teas have. I couldn't stop thinking about it, so I came back the next night and tried the brisket. It was sooooo good too. It was tender, smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor. At that point I knew the first meal wasn't a fluke. It's not inexpensive, but the portions are generous, and I felt the quality more than justified the price. I was there by myself because I'm traveling for work and actually enjoyed the communal tables. They made the atmosphere feel welcoming and a little less lonely than sitting by myself. The staff was excellent, too. The gentleman with the glasses at the meat counter was friendly, funny, and made the experience even more enjoyable. He even threw in a complimentary rib, which was such a nice surprise and a great example of the hospitality here. One thing to know before you go: the line can get long, but don't let that scare you away, it moves efficiently, and the food is absolutely worth the wait. Green Street Smoked Meats lived up to every bit of the hype. Between two visits, I tried the pulled pork, brisket, mac and cheese, cornbread, sweet tea, and a rib, and every single thing was excellent. This will be one of my first stops the next time I'm in Chicago.

3.5/5 stars. It's definitely a little pricey and didn't quite live up to the Texas BBQ I've had. It…read morecomes with two slices of bread and pickled onions on the side. Got 1/2 lb brisket, 1/2 lb pork ribs, 1/2 lb pulled pork, broccoli salad, elote style corn, and baked beans for $87 + tip. The Prime Sliced Brisket (7/10) was super tender and practically fell apart, but I wished the bark had a harder crust and a bit more flavor. The Pork Ribs (6.5/10) were somewhere between tender and chewy, so I'd probably skip them. The Pulled Pork (6.5/10) was slightly sweet but tasted pretty standard. All of the meats could've used a little more seasoning, and I wish they came out hotter. The spicy BBQ sauce and golden sauce were both delicious though. The Elote Style Corn (8/10) was my favorite side. Super creamy with plenty of parmesan. The Broccoli Salad (7/10) had great crunch from the pumpkin seeds and sweetness from the raisins, though I wish the seeds were toasted. The Baked Beans (6.5/10) had pork belly and onions mixed in, but otherwise tasted like a solid, classic baked bean. The vibes felt like a true Texas BBQ joint. You line up, order at the counter, watch them slice the meat in front of you, then grab a table cafeteria-style. The industrial space and dim lighting fit the atmosphere well. 7/10. Service was great. The guy slicing the meat asked how my day was, and staff were constantly walking around clearing tables. 8/10.

Chopped Brisket Hot Link Pork Ribs smoked turkey Elote Style Corn Baked Beans

Photo from the bar

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Line to order + Menu

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Naomi L.

Elite 23

261

332

365

2 years ago

This review has been a long time coming! Having been born and raised in Germany, Doners were an integral part of my daily life. If you've ever had the pleasure of sampling one in Germany, you'll undoubtedly understand the depth of flavor and satisfaction they provide. I've been eagerly urging all my friends here in the US to give Doners a try, assuring them that once they do, they'll find themselves craving it regularly. But, let's be clear, I'm talking about the authentic German-style Doner experience here! So, when I stumbled upon Doner 97, I knew I had to pay them a visit. I even took the extra step of calling ahead, emphasizing my background as an Afro German with a deep-rooted knowledge of what constitutes a genuine Doner. While the person who answered the phone exuded confidence, I couldn't help but maintain a level of skepticism. Nonetheless, despite residing in the Loop, I was willing to make the trek to Lakeview, fully aware of the risk of potential disappointment. However, as soon as I stepped foot inside Doner 97, I was instantly transported back to the bustling streets of Germany, surrounded by the aroma of sizzling meats and fresh bread. And let me tell you, from the very first bite, everything was absolutely on point. This was the real deal - the Doner experience I remembered from my childhood. Any minor adjustments I deemed necessary, I promptly shared with the owner, who displayed an unparalleled level of receptiveness and gratitude. It's truly a rarity to encounter an owner so genuinely open to feedback, especially from a stranger! In my opinion, this embodies the quintessential European hospitality and attitude that I hold dear. Doner 97 truly deserves more recognition for the exceptional culinary experience they offer right here in Chicago. They're not just making food; they're crafting an experience that transcends mere sustenance. So, if you happen to find yourself in the vicinity, I implore you to treat yourself to a Doner from Doner 97. Trust me; you won't regret it. Bravo, Doner 97! Since my initial visit, I've already found myself placing two additional delivery orders, and I have no intention of stopping anytime soon. read more

Jason M.

0

1

0

2 years ago

I recently visited Doner 97 and had a great meal. I ordered the beef kebab sandwich and the house specialty, kumpir - both were amazing. The pita bread they use is seriously the best-kept secret - so fresh and perfectly chewy! It's clear this family-owned spot pours love into their food and the owner's friendliness makes the place warm and welcoming. Highly recommend to anyone craving authentic, delicious kebabs. read more

Frankie D.

55

2

0

2 years ago

I went to this place twice, it's amazing food! I love the mix kebab sandwich! I went to Turkey three times and this place it's more than authentic! read more

Mercedess B.

0

7

4

2 years ago

The best food ever. Very fast and clean Ambient very good Good quality Service fast read more

Döner 97 - german - Updated August 2026

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Zizi's Cafe

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I visited Zizi's Cafe on 2/1 for lunch and had an incredible experience. The staff were friendly,…read morewelcoming, and knowledgeable on the menu. The waitress brought us a carrot dip with very warm bread which was delicious, and I ordered the Döner wrap which was filled with delicious ground lamb and beef. The restaurant was very clean, there was plenty of seating, and they had wonderful decor to look at. I cannot wait to return as the restaurant had a homey feeling to it. Thank you Zizi's for a wonderful experience!

This has become one of our regular spots both for takeaway and a great night out. There is so…read moremuch that makes this place special - starting with their warm and always fresh bread to start. The carrot spread makes it refreshing as well. I'm always a fan of their wraps. I love the gyro wrap - the lamb and ground beef mix is tasty and there is no shortage of helpings that I always have left overs. Fries are always fresh cut and piping hot. Service is always top notch. We are taken care of in a friendly, timely and professional manner.

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With limited time for dinner and uncertainty/disagreement about what we were in the mood for, this…read morewas such a good choice. What are the odds one restaurant can be a serious contender for the best falafel AND the best burgers in town? I've been there a few times and I'm in love with the ka'ak patty melt burger. Its not only melted cheese and grilled onions. It's bacon and jalapeño and za'ater mayonnaise. And it's two burgers. Served on an amazing sesame loaf. We split it and fries (also delicious with za'atar seasoning) and that was plenty.. But the onion burger is also pretty great. And you have to get the falafel. Also the onion rings. You may want to skip lunch. Ragadan has quickly become one of the first places I think of when we consider picking up dinner somewhere. We've eaten in, but there's not a lot of ambience. And even though they have a powerful space heater, the dining area is kind of cold in the winter. The kitchen is open though, so you end up interacting with the friendly staff. It's a bonus to see how clean they keep the kitchen.

Zam Zam Middle Eastern Grill

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Best middle eastern food in Chicago ! Super yummi food !…read moreLove the authentic steak wrap ! AMAZING. Best homemade falafels . The lamb chop plate is super tasty and

My favorite middle eastern food spot in Wrigley when I need something quick and tasty. The portions…read moreare huge so you'll have leftovers for days. Their chicken shawarma wrap and chicken shawarma plate are my go-to's. The staff is always nice and food comes out very quickly. It's a great place to grab a quick dinner, it's very casual inside.

Shawarma Garden

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•$

Great people, good food, very fair prices (especially for the sandwiches/wraps)…read more Low key, unassuming place. It's a frequent go to for an on the fly sandwich, chicken shawarma and beef & lamb shawarma are my normal orders. I've had their entrees too and very good when want a little bigger meal or a more elaborate takeout sort of thing.

Great hole in the wall middle eastern spot. I ordered the shawarma chicken entree and it was…read moredelicious! The shawarma chicken was very tender and flavorful. It stood out compared to other chicken shawarma in the city. Prices are very reasonable. Service was good and fast! We ate inside and there's plenty seating. Also, Good go- to spot.

Oasis Fresh

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FIVE STARS HANDS DOWN…read more Absolutely outstanding food. The Jordanian owner cooks the food himself and does so with extreme precision. If you're in a hurry call ahead and pickup - unless you want it uber fresh then wait and you'll be pleasantly surprised. A friend treated myself and another friend to sandwiches. I got the falafel sandwich and it was devine. The owner even threw in a comped lentil soup to try and it was a little on the chunky side but loved it! Friend got the beef kifta sandwich and he was super impressed as well. Outstanding food and if you have to wait a short while for it; it's absolutely DELISH! THANK YOU!

Excellent value and quality Mediterranean food. The chicken shawarma came with generous portion and…read moregreat flavor. The addition of four complimentary topping (I picked baba ghanouj, hummus, and grape leaves) also tasted amazing and very fresh.

I-Cafe

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The food is really quite delicious. I've ordered the chicken doner Kebab and the kebab plate. The…read morechicken is very juicy, not dry at all. Love their carrot salad too! If you're looking for a delicious reasonably priced meal, try I-Cafe!

Serai Cafe & Deli

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Serai Cafe & Deli is a MUST-check-out in downtown Chicago…read more This spot is a straight-up hidden gem. The Reuben is FANTASTIC -- perfectly stacked, ridiculously satisfying, and honestly one of the best I've had in the city. And don't even think about leaving without the mango drink. It's refreshing, bright, and dangerously addictive. On top of all that, the ownership is amazing -- you can tell they genuinely care about the food, the customers, and the vibe. If you're downtown and want something that actually hits every time, Serai is the move. Really creative stuff here. And great halal experience.

It was empty on a weekday evening when i went which was sad. The employees were welcoming and…read morefriendly and the atmosphere is really nice. There's plenty of seating for groups to hang out. I got the reuben sandwich and turkey pesto panini. The size is also pretty decent so u will be full, even if it doesn't look like it right away. However unfortunately i didnt love it the sandwiches. There are no bread options so you're stuck with the rye bread for the ruben and although that's traditional- you need stronger ingredients to balance that out. And unfortunately it was a little too dry and there wasn't enough sauce, cheese or fresh sauerkraut to balance it out, especially with the layers of meat. Same with the panini which was somehow worse, i've made better ones in middle school lol. Really for both i can give a 2.5/5 at best. I like that they have halal meat and a limited menu so options aren't overwhelming. But my feedback would be to offer people different types of bread to choose from and really perfecting the skill and ratio of what makes a perfect sandwich. For $30 for 2 sandwiches I expect to be wow'd and craving another fix in a week and that's just not the case here. I hope they can improve and get more business!

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Just went here to order a gyro sandwich for $12 and received the tiniest portion I have ever…read morereceived from a local Mediterranean place. Have to be honest the price doesn't match the food you receive. I know at least 3 nearby places that give you way more for the same or less price. Please work on your portion sizes or else your place isn't worth it Also had a friend order separately and the workers never called out his order. He had to ask if his order ready and it was just sitting on the counter for 8 mins already at that point. Do better

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One of those cases where "social media sent me." I saw the luscious cheese and the smoke... and the…read moredesire to visit followed me like a shadow. I finally had the chance, and well: If we remove the cheese injection and smoke, we are left with a solid fast-casual burger. It's somewhere above fast food, but below a full-service, sit-down restaurant that even somewhat specializes. What helps the burger stand out, however, is the option for cheese injection and smoke. As a cheese lover, I'm somewhat divided on the cheese. On one hand, if I'm saying no to cheese sauce, something is wrong with me, and you should call the doctor. Then again, an average burger with cheese sauce is just that. The smoke is a slightly different story. It imparts flavor to the burger and seems to be concentrated in the bun more than anything. This adds an interesting, new flavor dimension, but I fear it's not enough to elevate a middle-tier product sufficiently to propel it into greatness. Some rapid-fire notes: Fries: I have no negative notes. These seemed fresh and were both cooked and seasoned well. Prices: They seem to fall in that fast-casual price bracket, but with additions and combos, it starts to add up. Service: I feel for a freshly-made product, the service was appropriately fast. While it was also friendly, some acknowledgment when I came to the counter, rather than waiting for my existence to be verified, would have been appreciated. Finally, there's one thing I noticed that I want to point out. I saw an employee grab a bottle of Mrs. Meyers Cleaning Spray, add water to it, and use it to wipe down a table. I don't know what the procedures for sanitizing a table should be, nor can I tell you what actually was or wasn't in the spray bottle. However, it does present the possibility that tables are being wiped down with mostly water. I'm glad I went, for the craving was satisfied. However, mediocre pancakes with great syrup are still mediocre pancakes. With this, while I'm not necessarily against returning at some point, I feel as though my craving and curiosity have been satisfied, and I will not return.

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