Falafelji

4.4 (367 reviews)

ModerateMediterranean

Open • 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

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Falafelji - Falafel, chicken shawarma platter and chicken pita chicken sandwich and chicken beef shawarma platter. - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Falafelji - Tabouleh Salad Fresh and flavorful!! 10Hidden gem!! - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Falafelji - Falafel (no sauce) - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Falafelji - a menu for a restaurant - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Jamgul M.

My experience was a very good one. I visited the restaurant for lunch. It was highly recommended by a coworker that went with me. He was definitely right about the food. Good service. Good tasty food. I was satisfied and will definitely be returning soon.

Chicken Kabob Plate!! So goood! Especially when you don't want gross fast food. This is so filling, reasonably priced and delicious.

Aly R.

So goood! Especially when you don't want gross fast food. This is so filling, reasonably priced and delicious. Service was great!

Trina K.

Yes, yes, yes! Ordered carry out beef Shawarma, chicken Shawarma, and falafel. Loved everything about each item. I placed the order onsite and it was prepared in less than 10 minutes. Each meal included, rice, pita, veggies and a grilled pepper. Gyro is offered as minced with beef (kofta kebab). The only downside is it's a bit of a challenge to get in and out of the parking lot because it's a busy intersection.

Edward M.

This is a hidden gem for middle eastern restaurants in the area I enjoy eating here the food is fresh and very tasty This is a must try

Noemy S.

Kabob chicken plate is so good. The chicken is soft and fresh. The workers are so nice. I'm still amazed that the chicken wasn't dry. So much flavor and the hummus is delicious.

Jorge P.

First time trying this and I literally told the workers thank you as I was leaving because it was that fantastic. Highly recommend this place, like highly highly. It was my first time trying Middle Eastern food and now I want to have it for dinner at least once a week. Our plate with fries and a drink fed two people for about $20 (that's with a tip), so the price is good and the quality is great. The right amount of spice & flavor! Also, they were playing some bangers (music) haha The cook had the same music taste as me and kind of made the experience even better. Their side salad (kind of like pico de gallo) was a beautiful addition to the chicken & rice, very smart whoever created this dish. Thank you. This fast restaurant made me want to try Middle Eastern food all over Chicago but also set the bar pretty high so that's nerve wrecking, not wanting to be disappointed (haa). Thank you Falafelji! Personal Review: 9.1/10

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Padme A.

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5 years ago

Odd name, odd location, but pretty good mediterranean food. Fresh, huge portions. Great flavors. We found out about this place just this year during Covid. They were one of the few places open at one point and so glad we found them. Great prices. Friendly staff. Free parking. Easy to get to. Only down side is the wait for the food. Order ahead to avoid this. Also, they don't have feta cheese. read more

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Kris K.

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5 years ago

Absoluely the best falafel, hummus, baba ganoush, salads and lentil soup for miles in a part of Chicagoland better known for hotdogs, ribs, pizza, and other toxic offerings made famous by our beloved Windy City. By contrast, Falafelji's food is very fresh and healthy, and made to order (well worth the wait). The staff are friendly and pay close attention to detail as they prepare your meal to your liking. Falafelji is a small place on the west side of Harlem just south of Ogden, so keep your eyes open or you might just miss it (as I did for many years until only recently). It's right on the way home to Brookfield, Riverside, La Grange, or Berwyn if you're driving back to the 'burbs from the City via the Stevenson. If you crave Mediterranean food in the nearer west/southwest sector, Falafelji is the place to go. Watch for the green sign! read more

Falafelji - Green sign - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Business owner information

Bilal B.

Thank so much for your support. We really appreciate it. We always…

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Ryon K.

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4 years ago

Food is delicious and fresh, they also have the best hummus I've ever tasted. Very well seasoned. I will literally order just a large hummus and a pack of pita sometimes that's how good it is(i eat meat with every meal btw). Restaurant is decent size, set up more like a fast food type than a sit down and eat style. They are pricey here. I used to love coming here, but it was killing my wallet eating here all the time. The portions are decent size, but the prices they're asking are for sit down restaurant type menus. read more

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Juan B.

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3 years ago

Very good food and clean space with a great atmosphere. Will definitely be returning in the near future

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WindyCity X.

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6 years ago

I'm not going to play around with this review...it's been LONG overdue. I've had shawarma from LOTS of places from Lyons, to Oak Park, Burr Ridge,to Chicago, and I've enjoyed them all, but I'll drive an extra 3 miles to get it here. I'm hooked! And I know better than to come home without getting her a plate too. The guys working there are fantastic, super nice and courteous, and the place is always clean. VERY generous people working there. read more

Falafelji - Chicken Shawerma Platter - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Business owner information

Bilal B.

Thanks so much for your continued support in these difficult times.…

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Natalie C.

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5 years ago

Excellent food! Authentic Mediterranean cuisine at a great price! Definitely recommend! read more

Falafelji - Hummus, Falafel, Combination kabobs w rice - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Eric B.

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3 years ago

My favorite Mediterranean place in the area. Everything is delicious. I could eat it 7 days a week.

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Mike K.

Elite 21

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8 years ago

The falafel here is pretty good. The garlic sauce was delicious and I asked for extra and he put it on my sandwich for me. The guy did a pretty fast job and it wasn't very expensive. I only wish the falafel was a little more crispy. ‍ oh well I can just ask him to leave it in a little longer. I'd come back here and try more things read more

Falafelji - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Peter S.

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4 years ago

I go here every chance I am near midway airport! Don't buy food in the airport, leave early and stop here...everything is great ... very vegetarian friendly ytoo read more

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Leo Z.

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4 years ago

Food was ready on time and was very delicious and fresh. People working there was very friendly read more

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Lisa A.

Elite 23

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6 years ago

Had to come back. Best hummus I've ever had and everything is cooked so fresh and I really like how all the food salads, meat and falafel are flavored so week. Very inexpensive and I'm taking more home for the rest of the week. Small small little place with 8 tables for a quick dine in but it's more for carry out. No bathrooms or Wi-GI. read more

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Betsy R.

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2 years ago

Great food, great service will be back! Everything freshly made... the customer service is good...

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Trundy X.

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3 years ago

Aweeeesome food - super fresh. Picked up & it's in a strip-mall - but don't let that stop you. Nicest person inside, nice price and damn nice food. 5/5. read more

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Ashley S.

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1

0

2 years ago

The customer service during todays visit was extremely poor. The cashier who is a young male was disgustingly rude. He stated he was the manager & owner which is astounding to be both of those things and to be so belittling. Shameful establishment with very rude disgusting unprofessional employees read more

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Matthew B.

217

200

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4 years ago

Place is always good, with friendly service. The shawarma is great, and they have some healthy options too.

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Jenny V.

13

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4 years ago

Great Food great lunch stop. Love the chicken kabobs and the spicy crème sauce on top

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Jesse M.

22

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4 years ago

Delicious food as a non-meat eater. Arabic salad fresh and tasty, grape leaves with excellent flavor, and a falafel pita so good I wish I had bought two of them. My stomach grumbled typing this, lol. read more

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Sara S.

Elite 21

14

132

296

6 years ago

My husband and I have eaten here two or three times. It's local for us and it'll do in a pinch but unfortunately there are much better Mediterranean restaurants that we would much rather frequent if we have extra time to travel to them. I ordered the chicken shawarma platter while my husband ordered the chicken kebab platter. Their veggies were literally just onions.....I wouldn't qualify that as "grilled vegetables" when there's only one vegetable.....but okay. And the salad was skimpy!!!Also, i am not a huge fan of their garlic mayo sauce as it lacks flavor. read more

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Jen M.

Elite 21

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198

9 years ago

The great reviews do not lie. A group of seven of us came here after craving Middle Eastern food and finding Falafelji on Yelp. I personally tasted the falafel, pita bread, herb fries, hummus, baba ganoush, chicken shawarma sandwich and stuffed grape leaves (wow, this list makes me look rather gluttonous). Everything was downright tasty, but I would like to give a special shout out to the falafel (perfectly crisp and not a tad greasy), herb fries, baba ganoush and chicken shawarma sandwich (amazing!). As mentioned by others, decor is simple at best. You're going here for some fabulous food, not a stylistic experience. If you haven't already, give Falafelji a chance. I think you'll be glad you did. read more

Falafelji - As my dining companions pointed out, those are tasty, substantial sandwiches for $6. - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Falafelji - Vegetarian combo plate - $10. Worth every cent. - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Carlos J.

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3 years ago

Love that rice and the Lamb, Have ordered multiple times and still haven't been dissatisfied.

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Angie O.

2

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9 years ago

Ordering was efficient & simple ! Found what was best for my yummy felafel cravings. A Yelp photo of the menu helped, then in person with friendly guy taking my order. Thank you sir ! I waited maybe ten quick minutes and food was ready - Platter of Mezze and small side of rice. Looks like a little food, perhaps I have a small appetite or maybe the food was so delightfully delicious and pleasant I did have to put away for next day . If I get to return I will order the same small side of rice , more falafel because both the hummus and the baba ghanoush with beautiful garnish !!! , the cucumber salad, the so yummy grape wraps was all the comfort of eating good food . I do live far but work in the area, I hope to try more vegetarian options. $14 Thank you ! I do recommend ! Also a website for menu & ordering. read more

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Ania D.

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4 years ago

This place is fantastic!! Not only do they have fresh food but we often cater for office lunches and they give above and beyond in regards to the amount of food and it's always hot and freshly made! read more

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Jenny A.

77

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5 years ago

I love this spot! Their falafels are always crispy and moist on the inside. The hummus is amazing. My favorite is the falafel sandwich. They are very generous with the portions. The service is also awesome and speedy. read more

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Anthony S.

444

28

5

4 years ago

My go to spot for Arab Food. Definitely the best in the area. I always go with the Combination platter

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John H.

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20

7

4 years ago

One of my fave go-to take out places when I have a taste for Mediterranean food! Not far from my home near Midway and on the way coming home from working in the far western burbs. I've only tried the chicken Shawarma dinner since I don't eat red meat and it is always OUTSTANDING! I cut up the jalapeño pepper they include to eat with my meal that adds just enough spiciness and they top off the meat and rice with just enough sauce! I always look forward to the sweet onion they include too! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! read more

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Karen R.

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9

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4 years ago

My daughter and granddaughters love their food...so do I! Always freshly prepared and delicious! The best Mediterranean food for miles around by far! We have never been disappointed! read more

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Romina L.

2

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7 years ago

This lil gem is so delicious!! Worth the wait as they cook the food to order- next time I'll order online. Otherwise- my chicken kabob platter was excellent along with the hummus. Def. coming back read more

Falafelji - Hummus - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Falafelji - Chicken Kabob Platter - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Business owner information

Bilal B.

Thanks so much

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Victoria O.

28

148

3

5 years ago

Just so you know...this place remains excellent. Whatever we order is tasty and fresh. The owner, Bilal, is very kind and professional, and his staff is as well. I've never had a bad thing here. Let's see...what have we ordered? Falafel sandwiches, hummus, sharwerma, kibbeh, lentil soup, tabbouleh....it's all good, and the quality is consistent. I love that this place is close to my house. I could walk here...yeah, no. I COULD walk, but likely will not. Because I'm incredibly lazy. But I could...if necessary... read more

Business owner information

Bilal B.

Thanks so much, our house is your house

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Jenni B.

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42

1

4 years ago

Great place for a quick bite. Falafel is super good and shawarma is just as good. Super quick service.

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Soumya C.

13

70

4

5 years ago

I am short of words. Had falafel plate. Everything was more than perfect. If you can cook vegetarian food to the perfection then nonveg would not be an big deal. Can't wait to come back sometime to try out something nonvegeterian. read more

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Martin P.

11

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9 years ago

I wanted to be fair and post that the owner has contacted me 18 hours ago and offered me a gift card for my troubles. However, when people like myself order food without something, only to have it shoved out like it was shown in the pictures it is because we are allergic and only can take certain items of food in either zero to minimum amounts. So the $25 gift card would not have equaled the hospital stay I would have to pay for after eating the plate in my pictures. Thanks but no thanks. read more

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Mary H.

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2

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7 years ago

We were looking for a Mediterranean restaurant that was close to home and by happenstance, we recently found this little hidden gem off of Harlem Avenue. I was very surprised that being such a small restaurant establishment it had so many wonderful dishes on their menu. So far everything that we have tried was excellent. We have eaten the Falafel, Hummus, Grape Leaves, Kirby (best we've had eaten yet), and Chicken Shawarma Sandwich, and have purchased separate warm pita breads to go with the hummus. We have yet to try all the other items on their menu, but those will be next on our list. Just one thing to keep in mind since this restaurant is located in a small mall strip, parking can be difficult. So far, we haven't had any trouble finding parking, so just something to keep in mind in case you are in a hurry. Also, if you are ordering to carry out, give yourself enough time as these guys are very busy from their online and eat in orders, so it does take time to get your order since everything is made fresh to order. I gave this hidden gem five stars for their consistent food quality that is delicious and worth the wait when carrying out or eating in! Happy eating! :) read more

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Marco S.

0

30

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7 years ago

This is seriously flavorful food. The combination platter is perfect. Has all the different meats they serve and comes with a delicious side salad and rice. A warm pita to go with and the meal is just about as good as you'd ever wish. Highly recommend! read more

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Qto K.

12

23

12

9 years ago

Cheap. Attentive workers. Ugly decor, but the food makes up for it! read more

Falafelji - Falafel platter : comes with rice and two sides Grape leaves aren't my favorite but they're not bad! U need the fries! - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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Katie B.

161

46

2

5 years ago

The hummus is just the best in the area. Chicken shawarma is where it's at. Good portions, nice staff, quick service.

Business owner information

Bilal B.

Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback. Please come back soon…

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Aurora G.

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4

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3 years ago

FRESH FOOD!!! The quality of the meat is extraordinary! Prices are accessible and the amount is fulfilling thank you!

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Liz O.

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3

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5 years ago

This review is due to COVID precautions ... this should definitely be considered during this time. 1. Staff no masks 2. Staff no gloves 3. Client sitting waiting for food without masks. They do offer curbside ... not sure how safe this is considering the above. I decided to wait outside for my already paid order. I truly hope they take into consideration the current pandemic and for their own safety and safety of clients take the appropriate precautions. My actual food order was complete, they did forget my falafel sauce that I asked for ... read more

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Mario G.

1

11

2

6 years ago

I like the food so I've gone there a number of times. However, I plan to avoid going back until the COVID scare is over. The folks working there are not wearing masks and there is no plastic barrier between customer and cashier. Pretty scary read more

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Ryan C.

23

32

3

9 years ago

The outlying area is a bit of a black hole when it comes to fast-food Mediterranean restaurants. Luckily, Falafelji more than fills that void. It's a no-frills environment with a fair amount of seating, but you're probably better off going take-out. Falafelji doesn't have a soda fountain, so cans of soda and bottles of water are the only way to go. I've been here twice now, and have gotten the same thing both times, the falafel sandwich and herb fries. The food is incredible, and prepared after you order. As a result, the sandwich is fresh, and the fries are hot. The sandwich, fries, and a can of soda totaled to just under $10. I brought a group of friends here, and they brought all of our food out at the same time. It's not something you think about, but for a small fast-food joint like Falafelji, it's an important attention to detail. The menu is relatively small, but focused, with solid vegetarian options. I will be coming back. read more

Falafelji - Falafel sandwich with herb fries. - Mediterranean Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

Business owner information

Bilal B.

Ryan…

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Elsa A.

17

14

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4 years ago

These boys know their food and they never disappoint. They are always kind, respectful and I am in love with anything in their menu. I am happy they are in my neighborhood but I would drive anywhere to eat there. The food is amazing!! Highly recommend this business. read more

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Page 2 of 10

3910 Harlem Ave
Lyons, IL 60534
Directions
(708) 447-4757
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.myfalafelji.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Falafelji open?

Falafelji opens at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Falafelji opens at 12:00 PM on Sunday.

What time does Falafelji close?

Falafelji is closed on Monday.Falafelji closes at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Falafelji closes at 8:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon ClosedTue-Sat 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMSun 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Falafelji take credit cards?

Yes, Falafelji takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Falafelji have catering options?

Yes, Falafelji does have catering options.

Does Falafelji serve alcohol?

No, Falafelji does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Falafelji allow dogs?

No, Falafelji does not allow dogs.

Does Falafelji have TVs?

No, Falafelji does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Falafelji have bike parking?

Yes, Falafelji has bike parking.

Does Falafelji have parking?

Yes, Falafelji has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Falafelji have free WiFi?

No, Falafelji does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

In the early 1920, my grandfather Hasan left his small village of N’ilin to go work at a falafel restaurant in the port city of Yafa. He learned the trade quickly and made some of the best falafel and hummus in town. My grandfather moved on to be a chef for the some of the Jordanian diplomatic missions around the world. He travelled around the world, cooking Middle Eastern specialties and learning about other food culture from different countries. My grandfather told me that the secret to good food is good ingredients. Always use fresh and high quality vegetables and meats was his advice which I followed all my life.

History

Established in 2012.

In the early 1920, my grandfather Hasan left his small village of N'ilin to go work at a falafel restaurant in the port city of Yafa. He learned the trade quickly and made some of the best falafel and hummus in town. My grandfather moved on to be a chef for the some of the Jordanian diplomatic missions around the world. He travelled around the world, cooking Middle Eastern specialties and learning about other food culture from different countries. At the young age of 10 years old, I started helping my grandfather. Peeling the garlic, cleaning the herbs and making the falafels were some of my chores. It was plenty of fun to go and help out on my summer breaks. My grandfather told me that the secret to good food is good ingredients. Always use fresh and high quality vegetables and meats was his advice which I followed all my life. Today, I opened Falafelji, which simply means a guy who sells falafels, staying true to grandfather Hasan's advice.

Meet the Business Owner: Bilal B.

Business owner bilal

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El Moral Meat Market

(1 review)

This spot is def a hidden gem. Not surprised that it was not found on yelp. When you walk in…read morethrough the front it is a store front, but the real magic happens in the back. Everything from menudo, to home made tamales, to tacos can be ordered in the back. If you enjoy real home cooked Mexican food this is the place for you. I started off with a simple but delicious bean taco. It sounds easy but there's an art to it and when I tried to ask how they made the beans the answer was simple "secret recipe." Then I moved to the main dish, menudo. What a joy that was, simmering and quite delicious and then I finished the meal with homemade tamales. Guys if you're looking for authentic Mexican food this is the spot for you. Ask for Lola when you walk in. Like I said think of this spot as a speak easy of food, hidden gem is in the back. You can also ask Lola about catering.

Riverside Foods

(50 reviews)

$$

Love this grocery store! I'm greeted everytime I enter. Everyone is so helpful! It may not carry…read moreeverything that Jewel has, but I can find what I'm looking for.

The service in here is on point 100% it is clean ane the cashiers, butchers, managers are is…read moreextremely helpful I highly recommend this store, it has been here for decades I know why! They never let a customer down! The best sales in the area and the most friendly in town! The food is a great quality! If they dont have it they will get it! Love this place !

E. Formella & Sons

(6 reviews)

$$

Their pasta sauces, salsas, olives and giardinara are absolutely delicious. I use their products,…read moregift their products and recruit many people into using their items. You've gotta love a multi generational, family business that strives to produce a great quality, home made tasting and fresh product. You can taste the love that goes into their recipes. Time tested and true. Give them a try. I guarantee you'll become a regular customer.

Their giardiniera is awesome!! I love it on pizza! Highly recommend Formella and Sons.read more

Olivaceto

(14 reviews)

$$$

I am obsessed with their high quality olive oils and vinegars! Huge selection so each time I…read morechoose something different! Very knowledgeable owner helps with questions and I am impressed!

Olivaceto is a small olive and balsamic store that is located in LaGrange, IL…read more You can walk around and taste the different flavors of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The owner is nice and very knowledgeable about each of the oils and vinegars that is sold in the store. There are other gifts as well you can purchase for gifts or yourself. I like how there are other olive oils from other regions of the world. Great oils to cook with as well. I purchased a few bottles of the olive oils, and they were paired nicely with my dishes. The owner sometimes gets caught up with doing other things. So, you will have to get her attention at times. Overall great store with some high-quality cooking oils and vinegars..

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27 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Andrea M.

54

19

4

9 years ago

Came to this place on a rainy night. No regrets. My husband and i both ordered the chicken shawarma platter, and had some hummus, falafel, and tabbouleh. Tabbouleh was fantastic, the best I've ever had. The other things were also quite tasty and we were very pleased. Staff was very gracious. A no-frills place; most likely they do a lot of takeout, but the food is excellent. Will return. read more

Roosevelt S.

0

2

1

11 months ago

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside -- falafel is a plant-based masterpiece that never disappoints! Each bite is packed with perfectly spiced chickpeas, garlic, herbs, and just the right crunch. Whether tucked in a warm pita with creamy tahini and fresh veggies, or served as a snack with dipping sauces, falafel delivers bold Middle Eastern flavor with every bite read more

Christopher M.

99

16

0

4 years ago

Only ordered kibeh and falafel. The kibeh was very good, crispy on the outside and soft inside... Not dry. The falafels on the other hand were not great. They are small in size which probably contributes to the being over cooked/fried and somewhat dried out. Will visit again and adjust review if needed. read more

Maryam I.

0

4

0

5 years ago

Fast service. Good food. I had their chicken sandwich with the garlic sauce and it was delicious. Been trying to come back for more but its a little out of the way for us. But will be back for more for sure. read more

Joan H.

Elite 25

6

79

364

9 years ago

I love this place! We go there all the time. The employees are very nice. The food is awesome. Everything I have ordered there is delicious. The prices are reasonable. I really recommend this place. read more

Fatime N.

0

13

4

7 years ago

I love this place . Amazing food I love the food . I come at least once a week employees and great and friendly . Great atmosphere love the place . read more

Rodney R.

156

9

0

10 years ago

Great place, tasty food! The food was great, the staff was wonderful. I don't know when I'll be back, but I will be back! Highly recommended. read more