The 16 Best Ethnic Restaurants in Chicago

Gorée Cuisine

Chicago is a melting pot of cultures, and its diverse range of ethnic restaurants is a testament to that. From authentic Mexican taquerias to cozy Italian trattorias, the Windy City offers a culinary adventure for every taste bud.

Whether you're craving spicy Indian curry, tangy Thai noodles, or savory Greek souvlaki, there's no shortage of options when it comes to ethnic restaurants in Chicago. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine. That's where this list of the best ethnic restaurants in Chicago comes in handy.

  • Various cuisines to choose from
  • Authentic dishes made by expert chefs
  • Cozy and inviting ambiance
  • Convenient locations throughout Chicago
  • Excellent customer reviews

Whether you're a local looking to try something new or a visitor eager to experience the city's diverse flavors, these ethnic restaurants in Chicago are sure to satisfy your cravings. Without further ado, here are the 16 best ethnic restaurants in Chicago:

Gorée Cuisine

+1 773-855-8120

  • Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM

1. Gorée Cuisine

4.8/5 (More than 922 reviews)
1126 E 47th St, Chicago, IL 60653, United States
West African restaurant

Information and Reviews

Gorée Cuisine is a renowned West African restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is popular for its fast service and an extensive selection of tea.

Customers rave about their experience at Gorée Cuisine, highlighting the following key points:

  • Generous portions and flavorful dishes
  • Warm and friendly staff with prompt service
  • Cozy and inviting atmosphere

With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 922 reviews, Gorée Cuisine has solidified its position as a top culinary destination in Chicago. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a relaxing evening of fine dining, Gorée Cuisine promises an authentic and satisfying experience for all.

EUROASIA RESTAURANT

+1 312-988-0662
Website not available

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM

2. EUROASIA RESTAURANT

4.7/5 (More than 741 reviews)
351 W Oak St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
Halal restaurant

Information and Reviews

EuroAsia Restaurant is a beloved Halal restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. They provide options for delivery, takeaway, and dine-in meals. The restaurant is known for its great tea selection and is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews highlight several key points:

  • A fantastic evening with amazing food and hospitality. Staff was communicative and understanding. The Borsch and Lapsha were flavorful and delicious. The Honey Cake comes highly recommended.
  • The Lamb Mandy and chicken noodle soup are must-try dishes, as well as the lemon honey tea.
  • Best borscht in the city with delicious authentic Central Asian/Eastern European food at reasonable prices. Friendly staff and management add to the experience.
  • Exceptional food with hearty creaminess in dishes like Frikase and flavorful options like Manty, Kuurdak, and more. Generous portions and a cozy, family-friendly vibe make EuroAsia a go-to spot.

These reviews reflect the positive experiences of customers who have enjoyed the delicious food and warm atmosphere at EuroAsia Restaurant.

Casa Yari

+1 773-661-9546

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Thursday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Friday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10:30 AM–2:30 PM
  • Sunday: 10:30 AM–2:30 PM

3. Casa Yari

4.7/5 (More than 520 reviews)
3268 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Latin American restaurant

Information and Reviews

Casa Yari is a captivating Latin American restaurant nestled in Chicago, IL. The charm of the small, intimate space adds to the dining experience, making customers feel right at home. The restaurant offers a variety of services like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, catering to different preferences.

Customers rave about the delightful vegan brunch options available at Casa Yari. The vegan steak and stuffed French toast are highlighted for their unique flavors and perfect textures. The generous portion sizes and impeccable taste leave visitors eager to return for more.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

  • Best vegan brunch in Chicago with unique flavorful dishes
  • Absolutely delicious Latin fusion food with great vegan options even for non-vegan diners
  • Delicious food, quick service, and a charming atmosphere worth visiting
  • Amazing vegan and non-vegan dishes, bold flavors, and excellent service

If you're looking for a cozy spot with exceptional Latin American cuisine that caters to varied dietary preferences, Casa Yari is the place to be.

Sultan's Market

+1 773-235-3072

  • Monday: 10 AM–10 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–10 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–9 PM

4. Sultan's Market

4.5/5 (More than 1424 reviews)
2057 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Middle Eastern restaurant

Information and Reviews

Sultan's Market is a vibrant Middle Eastern restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of delicious options for its customers. Services like Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in make it convenient for patrons to enjoy their meals. Known for its fast service, the restaurant is popular among customers for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

Some key customer reviews include:

  • Quality food. Lamb was a bit dry, go for the all falafel option; some of the best falafel. Booths are a bit uncomfortable, but worth it.
  • Really sweet employees and even better food. Great portions for a great price.
  • Amazing lamb and chicken shawarma! Real lamb and chicken make it stand out. Must try!
  • Love this spot! Amazing food and generous portions. Best chicken shawarma around.

With a rating of 4.5 based on 1424 reviews, it is evident that Sultan's Market is a favorite in the Chicago area. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of the Middle East at Sultan's Market!

Shokran

+1 773-427-9130

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 3–9 PM
  • Thursday: 3–9 PM
  • Friday: 3–10 PM
  • Saturday: 3–10 PM
  • Sunday: 3–9 PM

5. Shokran

4.6/5 (More than 583 reviews)
4027 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, United States
Moroccan restaurant

Information and Reviews

Shokran is a beloved Moroccan restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features that make it stand out. Customers can enjoy kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, regular delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

This restaurant is known for its great coffee and an impressive tea selection. The atmosphere at Shokran is described as casual, cosy, and romantic, making it a versatile spot for various occasions. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilets available.

Customers have praised Shokran for its authentic and flavorful Moroccan dishes. Reviews highlight the tender and well-seasoned lamb dishes, delicious Moroccan tea, and the top-notch customer service. The restaurant's cash-only policy has been noted by many visitors, with an ATM conveniently located inside.

  • Authentic Moroccan dishes with flavorful seasonings
  • Great coffee and tea selection in a cozy atmosphere
  • Cash-only policy with an ATM available on-site
Eggholic - Indian Veg & Egg Street Food

+1 312-940-3521

  • Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM

6. Eggholic - Indian Veg & Egg Street Food

4.5/5 (More than 964 reviews)
833 W Chicago Ave FL 1, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
Indian restaurant

Information and Reviews

Eggholic - Indian Veg & Egg Street Food is a renowned Indian restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of delectable dishes. The business provides exceptional service options such as outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in for customers. Customers can also enjoy the highlights of fast service and the sporty ambiance.

This eatery is especially popular for its breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, making it ideal for solo dining or group gatherings. The restaurant is accessible with wheelchair-friendly amenities and offers a range of offerings including alcohol, cocktails, and vegetarian options. Customers can enjoy a casual and trendy atmosphere, making it suitable for families, groups, and tourists.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

  • Delicious food, must-try dishes like Amdavadi Touch Sandwich, Dahi Puri Chaat, and Mango Lassi
  • Quick service with limited seating, perfect for a fast meal
  • Great for authentic flavors, friendly staff, and a welcoming environment
  • Reasonable pricing with generous portion sizes and tasty options like Eggy Bowls
Yassa African Restaurant

+1 773-488-5599

  • Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM

7. Yassa African Restaurant

4.4/5 (More than 1370 reviews)
3511 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60653, United States
African restaurant

Information and Reviews

Yassa African Restaurant is a popular African restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant offers various service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. It is known for its comfort food, halal food, healthy options, and more.

One of the highlights of Yassa African Restaurant is its great tea selection. Customers have praised the restaurant for its homey atmosphere, friendly service, and beautiful decorations. Most reviews mention the flavorful and traditional dishes, with portions that are large and filling.

Here are some summarized reviews from customers:

  • A customer appreciated the family-owned restaurant for its solid selection of dishes, reasonable prices, and wonderful ambience.
  • Another customer enjoyed the saka and jollof rice, praising the freshness and tasty flavors of the dishes.
  • One customer, however, had a negative experience with the red snapper dish and found the taste to be horrible and unpleasant.
  • A customer loved the food and service, recommending the grilled fish and mafe', and praising the pleasant atmosphere that made them feel like they were in Senegal.

Overall, Yassa African Restaurant provides a cosy and trendy atmosphere where customers can enjoy authentic African cuisine and excellent service.

Mogadishu Restaurant

+1 312-265-1850

  • Monday: 7 AM–11:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 7 AM–11:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 7 AM–11:30 PM
  • Thursday: 7 AM–11:30 PM
  • Friday: 7 AM–11:30 PM
  • Saturday: 7 AM–11:30 PM
  • Sunday: 7 AM–11:30 PM

8. Mogadishu Restaurant

4.6/5 (More than 437 reviews)
931 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
East African restaurant

Information and Reviews

Mogadishu Restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience with its wide range of East African cuisine. Customers have praised the restaurant for its excellent food and value, friendly service, and generous portions. Some have highlighted the delicious chicken, lamb, and fish platters, while others have enjoyed the crepe/bread with honey and moist, tender chicken with flavorful rice.

Here are a few snippets from customer reviews:

  • Excellent food and value with large portions. Super friendly service. Nice small place.
  • Absolutely delicious platter for three with fish, chicken, and lamb. Super friendly service. Packed with locals at 6pm.
  • Nice experience exploring a different cuisine and culture. Some dishes were not as fresh or seasoned well, but tasty rice, veggies, and black tea.
  • Traditional Somali cuisine like delicious chicken and sweet bread. Very welcoming staff. Can't wait to return.

Whether you are a fan of Somali cuisine or looking to try something new, Mogadishu Restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual dining experience with great food and friendly service.

Old Jerusalem Restaurant

+1 312-944-0459

  • Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM

9. Old Jerusalem Restaurant

4.5/5 (More than 694 reviews)
1411 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
Middle Eastern restaurant

Information and Reviews

Old Jerusalem Restaurant is a popular Middle Eastern restaurant located in Chicago. This establishment offers a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, regular delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for being great for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

  • The food is absolutely delicious, and the service is amazing. Customers feel at home with kind and helpful staff. Highly recommended dishes include hummus, lentil soup, chicken kababs, musaheb, and baklava.
  • Great place for Mediterranean food with attentive service. Must-try dishes include hummus, baba, kefta platter, and garlic sauce.
  • While some customers find the food homemade and enjoyable, others feel the flavors are underwhelming. Recommended dishes are the vegetarian sample salad platter, meat sample platter, and desserts.
  • Visitors appreciate the family-run atmosphere and the variety of authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Standout items are the crispy falafels, warm pita bread, and flavorful salads.

Overall, Old Jerusalem Restaurant has received rave reviews from customers for its delicious food, friendly service, and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you're a fan of classic dishes or looking to try something new, this restaurant is a must-visit in Chicago.

Zebda

+1 773-545-7000
Website not available

  • Monday: 9 AM–11 PM
  • Tuesday: 9 AM–11 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM–11 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM–11 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM–11 PM

10. Zebda

4.6/5 (More than 292 reviews)
4344 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60641, United States
North African restaurant

Information and Reviews

Zebda is a renowned North African restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of dining options. Customers can enjoy Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in services. The restaurant is popular for its Great tea selection and is known for serving delicious Coffee, Comfort food, Healthy options, Quick bite, and Vegetarian options.

The cozy and casual atmosphere at Zebda attracts a diverse crowd, including groups and families with kids. The restaurant accepts reservations and provides amenities like toilets for customer convenience. Customers have praised the food at Zebda, highlighting the freshness and flavors of their dishes.

  • Guests love the delicious veggie soup and salmon salad, paired with tasty dressing and fresh veggies.
  • The tajine dishes, especially the lamb and chicken versions, were noted to be excellently prepared with the right ingredients and love.
  • Some visitors mentioned that the almond cake and combination plate were must-try items, with flavorful tastes and quick service.
  • A few negative comments pointed out instances of finding rubber bands in dishes and dissatisfaction with food freshness.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience, Zebda promises a delightful culinary journey for all patrons.

Laa Mushkila Restaurant

+1 773-739-3300

  • Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM–8 PM
  • Saturday: 8 AM–9 PM
  • Sunday: 8 AM–6 PM

11. Laa Mushkila Restaurant

4.7/5 (More than 104 reviews)
6258 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60660, United States
East African restaurant

Information and Reviews

Laa Mushkila Restaurant is a popular East African restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and delicious East African cuisine.

  • A customer mentioned that the food is unique and delicious, with kind staff and a peaceful atmosphere for solo dining.
  • Another reviewer praised the vegan and vegetarian options, mentioning the amazing dishes and sweet bread.
  • One customer raved about the fresh and tender lamb, recommending the place for anyone who loves Somali food.

With a high rating of 4.7 stars and positive customer reviews, Laa Mushkila Restaurant is a must-visit spot for those looking to experience authentic East African flavors in a cozy and trendy atmosphere.

BULSHO restaurant

+1 312-265-0198
Website not available

  • Monday: 6 AM–1 AM
  • Tuesday: 6 AM–1 AM
  • Wednesday: 6 AM–1 AM
  • Thursday: 6 AM–1 AM
  • Friday: 6 AM–1 AM
  • Saturday: 6 AM–1 AM
  • Sunday: 6 AM–1 AM

12. BULSHO restaurant

4.6/5 (More than 176 reviews)
211 W Walton St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
East African restaurant

Information and Reviews

BULSHO restaurant is a popular East African restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a range of services including kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for being Black-owned and is a favorite for many locals.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

  • Simple place with decent food, especially popular for breakfast.
  • Authentic and delicious food with beautiful presentation.
  • Amazing sweet malawah served at the restaurant.
  • Friendly service and unique dining experience with cafeteria-style setup.

One reviewer mentioned that the food was decent but criticized the unpleasant smell in the restaurant. However, overall, the majority of customers praise the BULSHO restaurant for its delicious food, generous portions, friendly service, and unique dining experience. If you're looking for authentic East African cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, this restaurant is worth a visit.

Chayhana

+1 872-985-6308
Website not available

  • Monday: 9 AM–12 AM
  • Tuesday: 9 AM–12 AM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM–12 AM
  • Thursday: 9 AM–12 AM
  • Friday: 9 AM–12 AM
  • Saturday: 9 AM–12 AM
  • Sunday: 9 AM–12 AM

13. Chayhana

4.4/5 (More than 513 reviews)
1812 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613, United States
Asian restaurant

Information and Reviews

Chayhana is an Asian restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services for its customers. The restaurant provides Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options, making it convenient for those who prefer different dining experiences. Popular for both Lunch and Dinner, it is also a great spot for Solo dining.

Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at Chayhana. Here are some key points from the reviews:

  • Authentic Central Asian food with hearty, delicious dishes like handmade noodles, dumplings, and pastries.
  • Generous portions of food, flavorful soups, and freshly made Greek salads.
  • Friendly and efficient service, along with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Must-try items include the hot bread with butter and spicy sauce, the honey cake for dessert, and the traditional green tea.

With a rating of 4.4, based on 513 reviews, Chayhana continues to impress customers with its quality food and excellent service. If you're looking to explore Central Asian cuisine in Chicago, this is the place to visit!

Serai

+1 872-206-8368

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 3–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 3–10 PM
  • Thursday: 3–10 PM
  • Friday: 3–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM

14. Serai

4.3/5 (More than 792 reviews)
2169 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
Malaysian restaurant

Information and Reviews

Serai is a popular Malaysian restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features that make it stand out. Customers can enjoy options such as Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant is known for its Great tea selection and is popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

  • A customer described Serai as a hidden gem with delicious dishes like Nonya Curry Chicken, Beef/Chicken Rendang, Laksa, Ayam Merah, and Chilli Chicken.
  • Another visitor praised the restaurant's personality, menu, and vibe, recommending the cumin margarita and pasta dishes.
  • A reviewer highlighted the authentic Southeast Asian dining experience, mentioning well-executed dishes from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
  • A customer was impressed by the quality and portions of the dishes, despite the busy atmosphere, and recommended Serai for its exceptional food.
Sayat Nova Armenian Restaurant

+1 312-644-9159

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 4–9 PM
  • Thursday: 4–9 PM
  • Friday: 4–9 PM
  • Saturday: 4–9 PM
  • Sunday: 4–9 PM

15. Sayat Nova Armenian Restaurant

4.3/5 (More than 585 reviews)
157 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Armenian restaurant

Information and Reviews

Sayat Nova Armenian Restaurant is a true gem in Chicago, offering a delightful experience for those seeking authentic Armenian cuisine. With a rating of 4.3, this restaurant has garnered 585 reviews from satisfied customers who have raved about their visit.

  • Customers love the amazing atmosphere that makes them feel right at home.
  • The chicken xorovats/kebab is highly recommended for its perfect tenderness and flavor.
  • Many patrons praise the charcoal-seared meats and traditional Armenian dishes that reminisce Mediterranean cuisine.
  • The exquisite decor and relaxing yet attentive service are highlighted as top-notch qualities of Sayat Nova.

From the outdoor seating to the diverse menu offering alcohol, cocktails, and vegetarian options, Sayat Nova provides a dining experience that caters to various tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a leisurely dinner or a quick bite, Sayat Nova's fast service and delightful ambience will surely leave you craving for more.

Qaato African Restaurant

+1 773-465-6255
Website not available

  • Monday: 12–8 PM
  • Tuesday: 12–8 PM
  • Wednesday: 12–8 PM
  • Thursday: 12–8 PM
  • Friday: 12–8 PM
  • Saturday: 12–8 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

16. Qaato African Restaurant

4.0/5 (More than 224 reviews)
7118 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60626, United States
West African restaurant

Information and Reviews

Qaato African Restaurant is a renowned West African restaurant located in Chicago. They offer a variety of services and features that cater to their customers' needs. Some of the key offerings include comfort food, healthy options, quick bites, small plates, vegan options, and vegetarian options. Customers can enjoy a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere while dining in. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.

Here are some summarized reviews from customers:

  • "I travelled an hour for Egusi soup & Fufu. I’m afraid the dish was horrible & the smell was awful. I’ll never come to this establishment again! Save your money & wait." (1 star)
  • "I am absolutely hooked on this place. The flavors are wonderful. I don’t think it gets better than this All my love to Qaato." (5 stars)
  • "Love the food, but whomever is on the phone has to either exercise more patience & actually take calls or don’t even bother taking calls." (2 stars)
  • "The best African food I had in Chicago! Very nutritious, tasty, and simply delicious! Keep up the good work! Cheers!" (5 stars)

Map of Ethnic Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is a diverse city with a rich tapestry of cultures, each bringing their own unique flavors to the culinary scene. From French bistros to Japanese sushi bars to Mexican taquerias, there is no shortage of options to tantalize your taste buds. Explore the map below to discover the array of ethnic restaurants that call Chicago home.

Related Services

Go up