Chicago’s Mediterranean Eats Perfect for Sharing
avec chicago
There is a reason the Mediterranean is known for their amazing food. The core elements of the cuisine are the olive, wheat, and the grape, which means lots of olive oil, pasta and wine are on the table at a Mediterranean restaurant. Add in some fresh seafood and you’ve got an amazing meal ahead! And since we’d all love a trip to a Greek island or the Italian coast, you can get just that with your next dinner out. Just dig in at one of these Chicago spots…
avec {615 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.377.2002}: avec takes the Mediterranean concept of shared plates and perfects it. Their communal tables have long been a gathering place in Chicago thanks to amazing food and a warm atmosphere. They’re also now offering a fast-casual menu as part of their “avec rotisserie” pop-up concept.
Fig & Olive {104 East Oak Street, Chicago; 312.445.0060}: Much like their name would imply, Fig & Olive’s menu focuses on flavored olive oils that accompany their dishes. Choose one of their delicious crostinis, pair them with a cocktail, and enjoy their stunning views while you dine.
Cira
Cira {200 North Green Street, Chicago; 312.761.1777}: This expansive gathering place focuses on fresh, coastal ingredients served in a sun-soaked dining room. Join them for Golden Hour from 2-5PM, Monday through Friday, for delicious specials like $9 cocktails and $1 bites. You won’t regret it!
CDA {Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, 20 East Chestnut Street, Chicago; 312.324.4063}: Move a little off the coast to enjoy fresh twists on French cuisine in the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile’s newly updated patio and restaurant. Their Penne al Forno is just one of the menu items full of the flavor-packed ingredients the Mediterranean is known for.
Athena {212 South Halsted Street #1, Chicago; 312.655.0000}: For years, Athena has reigned over the Greektown food scene much like the goddess herself, serving classic dishes to the region. Their newly updated indoor/outdoor patio is perfect for a celebratory meal during all seasons. Just make sure to start with the Saganaki for a meal that’s hot, hot, hot ;)
Galit
Galit {2429 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 773.360.8755}: The Middle East meets the Mediterranean on the Galit menu…and you won’t want to miss this culinary union. They’re currently even serving some of their menu favorites “on the street” - in their sunny patio seating! Don’t miss out on this chance to dig into the mezze menu of dishes like Charred Broccoli or Falafel under the stars.
Ēma {74 West Illinois Street, Chicago; 312.527.5586}: Sister restaurant to West Loop’s aba, Ēma focuses on spreads, dips and mezze, Mediterranean small plates. It’s light, bright and full of creative plates like Green Falafel and Black Garlic Shrimp.
Kurah Mediterranean {1355 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.624.8611}: If you couldn’t tell from their name, Kurah knows their way around a Mediterranean menu! From Shawarma to Grilled Kabobs to Spicy Hummus, and more, all their plates are made for sharing. Be ready for a feast when you dine with them!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor