Awesome food ! Mandi is my fav Ramadan buffet is tremendous... Must try this place
(5)
Nadia A.
Mom ordered for a ramadan dinner (60 people). Amazing food! The meat was tender and juicy. Our guests were very satisfied. Basha is always a great choice.
(5)
Mustafa A.
Great food , Specially the Ramadan Buffet .. There are lots of people for iftar and you may find the atmosphere kind of weird if you are not an Arab .
(4)
Michelle S.
Excellent food, friendly service. The owner took care of us and was extremely hospitable. Per her recommendation we started with the Maza plate, which was a sampler of humus, baba ganoush, falafel, etc. Then we each had the Combo plate which was a nice sampling of meats served with rice and vegetables. Large portions, reasonable prices. Highly recommend.
(5)
Kevando ..
This place is DA BOMB. Make sure you order your food to go, because the atmosphere is weird as fuck. I suppose it's in a weird area, between a weird grocery store and even weirder white trash bar - so it's not totally their fault that the restaurant has a weird vibe. Regardless, you dont go to Al Basha to eat there. You go for the hummus and the shwarma. Both dishes are out of this world.
(5)
Henna E.
Great Ramadan buffet, preferred over Al Bawadi buffet. Lots of variety in salads and appetizers, food was delicious. The place is very clean, servers are nice and efficient. Plenty of space to move around so you feel comfortable and not overwhelmed by crowded chairs.
(5)
Sam Y.
Nice place, the food was pretty good, I like how they served the appetizers(hummus, baba ganoush, pita bread, olives, and falafel) before the actual meal and the portions are good, The one thing I was disappointed at and I was actually looking forward to was the grape leaves, when I asked the waiter as I was placing my order she said you have to call ahead for grape leaves not quite sure if she said a day before or a couple hours in advance either way it really was a downside for me, when I go out for MiddleEastern/Mediterranean the first thing I ask for is the grape leaves. All in all I would probably 50/50 chance bring someone here if it's a small group of 3. I went there for lunch and there was only one group of men dining, the place was empty I have no idea why.
(4)
Frank O.
I personally love this place, they have been there for years and I cater once a month and never had any problems with them. Food is alway good and they always have it ready when they tell you it's gonna be.
(5)
Abraham J.
Great Food!
(4)
Zaihda M.
I have been wanting to come here for a while. I am so glad I finally came! This place is really good. My husband had the Steak Platter and I had the Combo Platter. The dishes came with a salad, Hummus, and baba ganoush(dk how to spell sorry). The prices were very reasonable (around $13 for our platters) and the portions were huge & that is saying a lot coming from me because I am a BIG eater. The flavors of the meats were amazing! The meat was juicy and full of flavor the beef Sharma was THE BEST! I had Arabian coffee for dessert and it was super strong coffee with a very distinct taste. I definitely recommend this place.
(5)
Basia C.
I've only ever eaten the shwarmas here but they are probably the best in the area. I'm sure everything else tasted just as good
(4)
Fahmi A.
Excellent food chicken shawerma plate is the best great service love the ramadan buffet great price love there hummus and falafel and more !!!!!! Owner of the restaurant is very polite and nice with others
(5)
Junior D.
We always cater a mixed grill platter for 5 from here, which is loaded with chicken tenders, kefta Kabob (ground bee(maybe lamb) filet steak, Grilled vegetables and rice. They say it is only for 5 but it really serves about 9 or 10 people. You also get hummus, salad and baba gannoush. Price is about $85 with tax And they do a good job packing and wrapping for takeout. I dined in a few times but prefer taking to go and eating at home.
(5)
Catherine W.
The food was authentic and plentiful. I am going to be a regular.
(4)
Ken B.
Best shawarma I've ever had. I've been looking for a new Middle Eastern restaurant for awhile and I've found it. The beef shawarma (which I always get shrack style) and hummus are amazing! It doesnt seem like the friendliest atmosphere but the first time I picked up food I was offered a free drink. Extra pitas on request is never a problem.
(4)
Maria R.
The food was ok, and the staff not friendly at all. It seemed like they did not want our business. Weird... will not go back even if you pay me.
(1)
Ryan P.
located in a strip mall next to a dumpy bar, walking into this place for the first time could be a bit offsetting. we were there with only one other table of customers, normally no big deal except that its pretty huge inside, with most of the tables seating six or eight. if you start with some great hummus, or the baba ganoush (among other things) which they bring out to you before you order your meal, its easy to fill up on. its so good and so filling that it could be your entire meal! we odered a sort of grilled "sampler" dish to share between the two of us. it can easiely be for four adults, and amazingly delicious! i will without a doubt be back again! the staff wasnt the most friendly to us, but not rude. no matter, i wasnt there to make friends and the food was great.
(4)
Julie M.
For a Westerner, this atmosphere can be intimidating. Hardly anyone whose first language was English diners there. Be prepared to be curiously looked at. It can feel like you're crashing somebody's family birthday party because lots of interconnected families will be there all gabbing. But, the food is amazing and dirt cheap. Everything is fresh and homemade. The hommus is stellar and the falafel is seriously real. No packaged or premade crap. My boyfriend got the beef shawarma, and he inhaled as much as he could. We both ended up taking almost 6lbs of food home. The pita is fresh, warm, and fluffy. They give you plenty and are more than happy to give you more. The staff is a bit reserved, but not mean or condescending in anyway. We came during Ramadan, so we were the only ones in the place. They had special pastries filled with nuts and cheese sitting out, and when we went to pay we asked what they were. The owner happily served us one of each, which I thought was very, very nice. Btw, they were delicious! I seriously recommend this place. Don't be afraid to step in, cause if you are you'll be missing out!
(5)
Dana B.
Decided to check this place out after seeing the $15 for $30 grouponNOW. I'm a huge fan of Mediterranean food and usually go into the city to eat it but seeing as this place was just around the corner we went. I usually order the same thing every time which is hummus, falafel and a lamb pita sandwhich which I did at Al Basha. I had my sister with me who had no idea what anything was on the menus so she just got the shish-kabob. Also picked up the combination plate for my parents. Was very disappointed with the hummus, the falafel and the pita sandwhich. The falafel wasn't fresh at all. The hummus was very bland and the lamb tasted like they had just reheated up the meat. Also, everything was almost cold when we got home and its only a 10 min drive back. On a good note the shish-kabob was pretty tasty. ...I will probably stick to my place Dawali's in Chicago.
(2)
Daniel J.
Love this place. The portions are big, the food is delicious, and the people are friendly enough. I have been several times and the shawarma (beef and chicken) is fantastic, other traditional dishes are good as well, such as the the falafel, the fattoush, and kebab. All very authentic, recommend highly if you like middle eastern cuisine.
(5)
dane h.
Stopped here on Christmas Eve and was very happy. with the meal. Had Falafel sandwich and babaganouj. Loved both. Everything was flavorful and fresh. Admittedly the service wasn't great (didn't get the feeling they even cared we were there), but if I still lived in the SW burbs, this would be a regular in my rotation. Recommended.
(4)
Tanvir H.
Been there about three times and had to write a review. One of the few places that serves Mensef everyday (though not on menu). Pickled vegetables and a generous amount of pita bread come with every meal. Hummus was fresh and I ordered a beef appetizer with a tomato sauce. Just feel food is better and more auethentic than other middle eastern places. I feel this place is way better than Al Bawahi. Service is alright, gave me free bottled water when I was coughing and generally nice and pleasant. There are definitely a lot of ethnic diners and I had no issues feeling out of place. I would definitely recommend this place to anybody.
(5)
Joanna C.
Our first time! The food was amazing and our server was so great! We went with friends and ordered a bunch of dishes to share. Everything tastes fresh and delicious. The pita was still warm from being fresh baked! The sage tea is refreshing! Highly recommend Al-Basha! Love this place! Definitely going back!
(5)
Noah S.
The best Arab food I've had in the Chicagoland area. The hummus is perfect and all the chicken dishes I have tried are delicious. The portions are very very generous.
(5)
Mary E.
If you've read any of my reviews, you know that I am always on the prowl for good Arabian food, but that I am often disappointed. Well, here's an exception to my recent experiences! This food is very good. Not outstanding, but very good. The portions are really generous (enough so that you can eat your fill at the restaurant AND bring half your dinner home for the next night). Also, I've noticed a lot of places will just serve the meat and rice, but not add grilled vegetables to the entree. Not here! You get it ALL. The starters are even more of a pleasant surprise: Jerusalem salad, falafel, hummous ,baba ghanouj and an olive plate with your dinner. Plenty of warm, fresh pita. And the prices are very reasonable. I had the mixed grill and my husband had a chicken entree. The chicken was maybe a little dry, but the seasoning was delicious and not overwhelming. I look forward to trying more of their dishes. The decor is just okay--more of a banquet-type atmosphere, more conducive to large parties than to couples or small family groups. I kind of felt like we were on display, all by ourselves in a huge, open, well-lit dining room. Actually, I felt like we had interrupted something, because there was a group of men huddled together in a room off the main dining room, and they kept glancing at us like, "Hurry up and leave!" The waiter was prompt and polite but a little TOO quick to get us served and out of there. It was kind of awkward, but it would have been more awkward to get up and leave before having eaten anything. This was in the evening during the week; maybe there's a friendlier vibe going on with the lunch crowd. I will be back, and I hope there will be more fellow diners next time. Partly because it would be less weird, and partly because I hope this place does well and stays in business. There are too few viable options in this area for Arabian food. If you're out that way--shopping or maybe hiking at Lake Katherine--give this a try. You'll be glad you did.
(4)
Jeannie A.
Ended up here by accident on a Saturday with two friends. We started at the jazz bar/restaurant next door, but their menu didn't have any vegan options, so we walked here. The atmosphere is very strange - it is a giant banquet hall, with banquet tables. The lighting is extermely bright. We were the only customers in the entire place, with the exception of a table of about 10 men that were just talking. The food was good, not great. We did get complimentary vegetables and falafel. The veggies were hot pink in color, and we couldn't figure out why, nor understood the explaination from the server. I would probably not go back, more due to the atmosphere - it was just very strange.
(2)
Ananda I.
The service was good. They give you a free bottle of water. The beef shawarma was delicious! They put a yummy sauce on it I haven't had anywhere else. It would have been nice if they had lamb shawarma though. Also, it was kind of dead and they had limited options on the menu. If they had stuffed lamb and lamb shawarma, I would give them 5 stars. Since Steve's closed down I would say they are the next best Middle Eastern Restaurant.
(4)
Usman A.
Can't believe people are calling this food just okay. This is my go to Arab restaurant. Order the mixed shawarma platter, you can't go wrong with it. Also some of the best, most flavorful humus you will find. Granted, atmosphere is a bit dull but if you want some great authentic Middle Eastern food this is the place to go.
(5)
Monica B.
This place gets 3 stars because it is average overall. The lamb kebob was the best I ever had- it was a large quantity and perfectly cooked tender meat. The rice with the kebob was bland and nothing special though. I didn't care for the falafel, it too was bland, dry, and flavorless. The hummus was real tasty and good with alot of middle eastern spices on it. They give you a free bottled water with your meal which I thought was real nice. The service was fine, but very unfriendly- they didn't greet us, say thank you or goodbye. The ambiance is nothing special, but average. If the service was friendlier and some of the food was better, I would have given them 4 stars. As it stands, I probably won't be returning despite their lamb kebob being the best I ever had- I guess I just want the whole package with all the food and service to be stellar.
(3)
John L.
Not a friendly place, at all. They remodeled recently because the place was dirty with ceiling tiles falling down. I got tired of Al Jazerra TV blastingin the background. The food is ok, but the atmosphere is depressing. It is like going to an Arab cafeteria. There are better places around, save your money.I did get the impression from watching what was going on around me that if you are not known to them you do not get good service., i.e you must be of their culture.
(2)
Matthew H.
Friendly waitstaff? I think not. Quality food? Hardly. I'd go back for the hummus, and that's it.
(1)
Yelper Schmelper X.
The falafel is delicious. The atmosphere is 80's Greek diner. The mood is uncomfortable. It's a mixed bag for sure. Like other reviewers have noted, there is a table of men staring at you while you eat/order. Wierd!!!
(2)
Stephanie M.
Can not put into words how delicious the lamb is! Really it is seasoned and cooked just right. The hummus is good, the rice is delicous. And I am a huge fan of the tea with sage... Although, it is a little uncomfortable being in there when there is always only men eating. My friend brought me here and we wanted to take full advantage of the groupon she bought, but once the waitress heard we had a groupon she added a 20% gratuity fee for a party of 2. Is this normal???? Seemed like a waste of a Groupon!
(4)
Adrian W.
Hummus and chicken shawarma. The easiest way to win a 4star review from me.
(4)
Lisa Marie W.
my boyfriend and i went here cause we had a groupon the atmosphere was strange. really strange the guy did not seem like he was interested in us and slightly annoyed, and there was a whole table of men sitting and talking, and other men came out of the kitchen with a feast and walked OUTSIDE with it. we were given complimentary olives and weird hot pink veggies and bottled water. we got the hummus which was DELICIOUS. the best hummus ever. then we both got the lamb kefka with tahini. it was sooo good and the portions were huge. we had enough for dinner to take home. so the bottom line atmosphere= strange. food= good.
(4)
Nina A.
There was complete lack of service, We were the only customers beside some employees, and more over it was EId day,even the manager lacked hospitality instincts. The food was okay it did the job.
(2)
Diane S.
Fantastic, Authentic Middle Eastern food!!!! I happened upon this restaurant in a strip mall close to City Hall on College Road. It was an off time (3:30 p.m.), and near empty and quiet, but for the Arabic television station playing softly in the corner and a handful of other customers. I was promptly brought a small bowl of colorful marinated vegetables (celery, cauliflower, carrots and radishes) and green olives (see photo) and a bottled water. I ordered my usual how-good-is-this-place dish (hummos), and a shawerma sandwich. I was blown away and felt, literally, like I had been transported to the Arab market in Jerusalem. The hummos was beautifully presented, with arranged tomatoes and vegetables (cucumbers and radishes) around the edge, flavorful pools of olive oil, and a nest of whole garbanzo beans in the center (see photo). The pita bread was fresh and had been warmed to slight crispiness. The shawerma sandwich was juicy and stuffed full of meat and soft vegetables. The tabbouleh salad, of freshly chopped parsley, was the perfect side dish (gratuitous). While I live a good hour away from this dinner spot, I will find excuses to return to the area more frequently because the food was outstanding. The waitstaff, too, was friendly and checked in from time to time - just enough so as not to be overbearing. Total price for the bottled water (no charge), marinated vegetables (no charge), hummos, a shawerma sandwich, tabbouleh (no charge) and a pot of delicious mint tea? $16 - a complete steal! Oh, and I brought half of the meal home because I was BURSTING.
(5)
Jef B.
I cannot believe this restaurant has not been reviewed yet. By far this is the best Middle Eastern restaurant in the south suburbs. In a corner of a strip mall, it is easy not to see. You walk in and there are only people of Middle Eastern lineage there. You can tell, too, that everyone knows you are there . . . looking at us occasionally but more curious than anything. Maybe if more Euro types ate there they would chill out and get used to being popular. But you know the food is authentic, right? At several tables groups of men sit together; no women or children; talking animatedly about something, and not in English. It is an interesting place. We were quickly seated and every thing we ordered came quickly and in quantity. It was amazing how much food we got for under $25. We ordered stuffed falafel, kousieh, chicken shawarma and chicken/beef shawarma. We had to take half of it home, there was so much. And it was GOOD food, better than in Chicago Middle Eastern where I've eaten. Everything also came with plentiful pita bread, a Jerusalem salad and a green salad. We have finally found our Middle Eastern in the southlands. I'm eager to hear what other Yelpers think about it.
(4)
Carrie H.
l return to Al Bas'ha again and again with friends who also happily accompany me again and again. The food is phenomenal. My favorites are traditional, simple Middle Eastern delights: hummus, tabouleh, and falafel washed down with sage tea. The hummus is their own recipe blended with the perfect ratio of tahini and chick peas and lovingly garnished with olive oil, chili powder, and a rainbow of crudites. Tabouleh is a green power packed parsley salad with cracked wheat, diced tomato, onion, and lemon juice. The falafel is a tad dry but stuff the pita with tabouleh and hummus and you have a satisfying sandwich. Their sage tea is soothing and hits the spot. It's vitamin packed food heavy on fiber and protein and prepared very well. I also return here time and time again, because always I feel good afterwards. The value is unbeatable. An abundant dinner for two averages $16. Speaking of great prices, next door is a Middle Eastern grocer with unbeatable prices and a range of good food and staples to stock your pantry. The best way to know a culture is through your stomach. A culture's food represents its geographical area and life style. When you break bread with a culture other than your own, you bond with the world a little bit more, one meal at a time. *Thanks to Khaled for notifying me about non-smoking measures. I have removed that portion of my review.
(4)
Nicole S.
Al Basha offers delicious authentic Middle Eastern cuisine! The restaurant itself looks like a big banquet room nothing too fancy, but upon entering you can't help take in the mouth watering aromas. It didn't help that my group was starving upon entering. For appetizers our table ordered Falafel, Baba Gannoooj, Hummus (which was extra creamy) and Kebeh which I was just introduced to and absolutely love it!!! The Pita bread brought out to us was also very fresh. They also brought us out jerusalem and cucumber salad along with bottled water so we munched away as we waited for our entrees. Then the entrees came... the portions are huge! I had the shish kabab plate with tender marinated filet mignon, rice pilaf and grilled vegetables I barely got half of my meal down I was so full! Everyone in the group I dined with raved about thier meals, although this place is a ways from me being on the south side it's definately worth the trip!
(5)
DONE U.
Went there around 9:30pm on a Monday night, fairly nice size place, we were the only ones there at that time other than a table full of what looked to me like friends of the owner. Had hummus as an appetizer, wow! it was pretty darn good, fresh warm pita....We both ordered the combo plates, which made up of chicken, steak and beef with some rice...the beef wasn't the best, it needed a lil more flavor for my taste, but the chicken and steak were excellent. The rice wasn't the greatest but it did the job. I would go back for sure! I used a coupon from my entertainment book and that saved us $16...gotta love coupons!
(4)
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Address :7216 W College Dr
Palos Heights, IL, 60463
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Salman K.
Awesome food ! Mandi is my fav Ramadan buffet is tremendous... Must try this place
(5)Nadia A.
Mom ordered for a ramadan dinner (60 people). Amazing food! The meat was tender and juicy. Our guests were very satisfied. Basha is always a great choice.
(5)Mustafa A.
Great food , Specially the Ramadan Buffet .. There are lots of people for iftar and you may find the atmosphere kind of weird if you are not an Arab .
(4)Michelle S.
Excellent food, friendly service. The owner took care of us and was extremely hospitable. Per her recommendation we started with the Maza plate, which was a sampler of humus, baba ganoush, falafel, etc. Then we each had the Combo plate which was a nice sampling of meats served with rice and vegetables. Large portions, reasonable prices. Highly recommend.
(5)Kevando ..
This place is DA BOMB. Make sure you order your food to go, because the atmosphere is weird as fuck. I suppose it's in a weird area, between a weird grocery store and even weirder white trash bar - so it's not totally their fault that the restaurant has a weird vibe. Regardless, you dont go to Al Basha to eat there. You go for the hummus and the shwarma. Both dishes are out of this world.
(5)Henna E.
Great Ramadan buffet, preferred over Al Bawadi buffet. Lots of variety in salads and appetizers, food was delicious. The place is very clean, servers are nice and efficient. Plenty of space to move around so you feel comfortable and not overwhelmed by crowded chairs.
(5)Sam Y.
Nice place, the food was pretty good, I like how they served the appetizers(hummus, baba ganoush, pita bread, olives, and falafel) before the actual meal and the portions are good, The one thing I was disappointed at and I was actually looking forward to was the grape leaves, when I asked the waiter as I was placing my order she said you have to call ahead for grape leaves not quite sure if she said a day before or a couple hours in advance either way it really was a downside for me, when I go out for MiddleEastern/Mediterranean the first thing I ask for is the grape leaves. All in all I would probably 50/50 chance bring someone here if it's a small group of 3. I went there for lunch and there was only one group of men dining, the place was empty I have no idea why.
(4)Frank O.
I personally love this place, they have been there for years and I cater once a month and never had any problems with them. Food is alway good and they always have it ready when they tell you it's gonna be.
(5)Abraham J.
Great Food!
(4)Zaihda M.
I have been wanting to come here for a while. I am so glad I finally came! This place is really good. My husband had the Steak Platter and I had the Combo Platter. The dishes came with a salad, Hummus, and baba ganoush(dk how to spell sorry). The prices were very reasonable (around $13 for our platters) and the portions were huge & that is saying a lot coming from me because I am a BIG eater. The flavors of the meats were amazing! The meat was juicy and full of flavor the beef Sharma was THE BEST! I had Arabian coffee for dessert and it was super strong coffee with a very distinct taste. I definitely recommend this place.
(5)Basia C.
I've only ever eaten the shwarmas here but they are probably the best in the area. I'm sure everything else tasted just as good
(4)Fahmi A.
Excellent food chicken shawerma plate is the best great service love the ramadan buffet great price love there hummus and falafel and more !!!!!! Owner of the restaurant is very polite and nice with others
(5)Junior D.
We always cater a mixed grill platter for 5 from here, which is loaded with chicken tenders, kefta Kabob (ground bee(maybe lamb) filet steak, Grilled vegetables and rice. They say it is only for 5 but it really serves about 9 or 10 people. You also get hummus, salad and baba gannoush. Price is about $85 with tax And they do a good job packing and wrapping for takeout. I dined in a few times but prefer taking to go and eating at home.
(5)Catherine W.
The food was authentic and plentiful. I am going to be a regular.
(4)Ken B.
Best shawarma I've ever had. I've been looking for a new Middle Eastern restaurant for awhile and I've found it. The beef shawarma (which I always get shrack style) and hummus are amazing! It doesnt seem like the friendliest atmosphere but the first time I picked up food I was offered a free drink. Extra pitas on request is never a problem.
(4)Maria R.
The food was ok, and the staff not friendly at all. It seemed like they did not want our business. Weird... will not go back even if you pay me.
(1)Ryan P.
located in a strip mall next to a dumpy bar, walking into this place for the first time could be a bit offsetting. we were there with only one other table of customers, normally no big deal except that its pretty huge inside, with most of the tables seating six or eight. if you start with some great hummus, or the baba ganoush (among other things) which they bring out to you before you order your meal, its easy to fill up on. its so good and so filling that it could be your entire meal! we odered a sort of grilled "sampler" dish to share between the two of us. it can easiely be for four adults, and amazingly delicious! i will without a doubt be back again! the staff wasnt the most friendly to us, but not rude. no matter, i wasnt there to make friends and the food was great.
(4)Julie M.
For a Westerner, this atmosphere can be intimidating. Hardly anyone whose first language was English diners there. Be prepared to be curiously looked at. It can feel like you're crashing somebody's family birthday party because lots of interconnected families will be there all gabbing. But, the food is amazing and dirt cheap. Everything is fresh and homemade. The hommus is stellar and the falafel is seriously real. No packaged or premade crap. My boyfriend got the beef shawarma, and he inhaled as much as he could. We both ended up taking almost 6lbs of food home. The pita is fresh, warm, and fluffy. They give you plenty and are more than happy to give you more. The staff is a bit reserved, but not mean or condescending in anyway. We came during Ramadan, so we were the only ones in the place. They had special pastries filled with nuts and cheese sitting out, and when we went to pay we asked what they were. The owner happily served us one of each, which I thought was very, very nice. Btw, they were delicious! I seriously recommend this place. Don't be afraid to step in, cause if you are you'll be missing out!
(5)Dana B.
Decided to check this place out after seeing the $15 for $30 grouponNOW. I'm a huge fan of Mediterranean food and usually go into the city to eat it but seeing as this place was just around the corner we went. I usually order the same thing every time which is hummus, falafel and a lamb pita sandwhich which I did at Al Basha. I had my sister with me who had no idea what anything was on the menus so she just got the shish-kabob. Also picked up the combination plate for my parents. Was very disappointed with the hummus, the falafel and the pita sandwhich. The falafel wasn't fresh at all. The hummus was very bland and the lamb tasted like they had just reheated up the meat. Also, everything was almost cold when we got home and its only a 10 min drive back. On a good note the shish-kabob was pretty tasty. ...I will probably stick to my place Dawali's in Chicago.
(2)Daniel J.
Love this place. The portions are big, the food is delicious, and the people are friendly enough. I have been several times and the shawarma (beef and chicken) is fantastic, other traditional dishes are good as well, such as the the falafel, the fattoush, and kebab. All very authentic, recommend highly if you like middle eastern cuisine.
(5)dane h.
Stopped here on Christmas Eve and was very happy. with the meal. Had Falafel sandwich and babaganouj. Loved both. Everything was flavorful and fresh. Admittedly the service wasn't great (didn't get the feeling they even cared we were there), but if I still lived in the SW burbs, this would be a regular in my rotation. Recommended.
(4)Tanvir H.
Been there about three times and had to write a review. One of the few places that serves Mensef everyday (though not on menu). Pickled vegetables and a generous amount of pita bread come with every meal. Hummus was fresh and I ordered a beef appetizer with a tomato sauce. Just feel food is better and more auethentic than other middle eastern places. I feel this place is way better than Al Bawahi. Service is alright, gave me free bottled water when I was coughing and generally nice and pleasant. There are definitely a lot of ethnic diners and I had no issues feeling out of place. I would definitely recommend this place to anybody.
(5)Joanna C.
Our first time! The food was amazing and our server was so great! We went with friends and ordered a bunch of dishes to share. Everything tastes fresh and delicious. The pita was still warm from being fresh baked! The sage tea is refreshing! Highly recommend Al-Basha! Love this place! Definitely going back!
(5)Noah S.
The best Arab food I've had in the Chicagoland area. The hummus is perfect and all the chicken dishes I have tried are delicious. The portions are very very generous.
(5)Mary E.
If you've read any of my reviews, you know that I am always on the prowl for good Arabian food, but that I am often disappointed. Well, here's an exception to my recent experiences! This food is very good. Not outstanding, but very good. The portions are really generous (enough so that you can eat your fill at the restaurant AND bring half your dinner home for the next night). Also, I've noticed a lot of places will just serve the meat and rice, but not add grilled vegetables to the entree. Not here! You get it ALL. The starters are even more of a pleasant surprise: Jerusalem salad, falafel, hummous ,baba ghanouj and an olive plate with your dinner. Plenty of warm, fresh pita. And the prices are very reasonable. I had the mixed grill and my husband had a chicken entree. The chicken was maybe a little dry, but the seasoning was delicious and not overwhelming. I look forward to trying more of their dishes. The decor is just okay--more of a banquet-type atmosphere, more conducive to large parties than to couples or small family groups. I kind of felt like we were on display, all by ourselves in a huge, open, well-lit dining room. Actually, I felt like we had interrupted something, because there was a group of men huddled together in a room off the main dining room, and they kept glancing at us like, "Hurry up and leave!" The waiter was prompt and polite but a little TOO quick to get us served and out of there. It was kind of awkward, but it would have been more awkward to get up and leave before having eaten anything. This was in the evening during the week; maybe there's a friendlier vibe going on with the lunch crowd. I will be back, and I hope there will be more fellow diners next time. Partly because it would be less weird, and partly because I hope this place does well and stays in business. There are too few viable options in this area for Arabian food. If you're out that way--shopping or maybe hiking at Lake Katherine--give this a try. You'll be glad you did.
(4)Jeannie A.
Ended up here by accident on a Saturday with two friends. We started at the jazz bar/restaurant next door, but their menu didn't have any vegan options, so we walked here. The atmosphere is very strange - it is a giant banquet hall, with banquet tables. The lighting is extermely bright. We were the only customers in the entire place, with the exception of a table of about 10 men that were just talking. The food was good, not great. We did get complimentary vegetables and falafel. The veggies were hot pink in color, and we couldn't figure out why, nor understood the explaination from the server. I would probably not go back, more due to the atmosphere - it was just very strange.
(2)Ananda I.
The service was good. They give you a free bottle of water. The beef shawarma was delicious! They put a yummy sauce on it I haven't had anywhere else. It would have been nice if they had lamb shawarma though. Also, it was kind of dead and they had limited options on the menu. If they had stuffed lamb and lamb shawarma, I would give them 5 stars. Since Steve's closed down I would say they are the next best Middle Eastern Restaurant.
(4)Usman A.
Can't believe people are calling this food just okay. This is my go to Arab restaurant. Order the mixed shawarma platter, you can't go wrong with it. Also some of the best, most flavorful humus you will find. Granted, atmosphere is a bit dull but if you want some great authentic Middle Eastern food this is the place to go.
(5)Monica B.
This place gets 3 stars because it is average overall. The lamb kebob was the best I ever had- it was a large quantity and perfectly cooked tender meat. The rice with the kebob was bland and nothing special though. I didn't care for the falafel, it too was bland, dry, and flavorless. The hummus was real tasty and good with alot of middle eastern spices on it. They give you a free bottled water with your meal which I thought was real nice. The service was fine, but very unfriendly- they didn't greet us, say thank you or goodbye. The ambiance is nothing special, but average. If the service was friendlier and some of the food was better, I would have given them 4 stars. As it stands, I probably won't be returning despite their lamb kebob being the best I ever had- I guess I just want the whole package with all the food and service to be stellar.
(3)John L.
Not a friendly place, at all. They remodeled recently because the place was dirty with ceiling tiles falling down. I got tired of Al Jazerra TV blastingin the background. The food is ok, but the atmosphere is depressing. It is like going to an Arab cafeteria. There are better places around, save your money.I did get the impression from watching what was going on around me that if you are not known to them you do not get good service., i.e you must be of their culture.
(2)Matthew H.
Friendly waitstaff? I think not. Quality food? Hardly. I'd go back for the hummus, and that's it.
(1)Yelper Schmelper X.
The falafel is delicious. The atmosphere is 80's Greek diner. The mood is uncomfortable. It's a mixed bag for sure. Like other reviewers have noted, there is a table of men staring at you while you eat/order. Wierd!!!
(2)Stephanie M.
Can not put into words how delicious the lamb is! Really it is seasoned and cooked just right. The hummus is good, the rice is delicous. And I am a huge fan of the tea with sage... Although, it is a little uncomfortable being in there when there is always only men eating. My friend brought me here and we wanted to take full advantage of the groupon she bought, but once the waitress heard we had a groupon she added a 20% gratuity fee for a party of 2. Is this normal???? Seemed like a waste of a Groupon!
(4)Adrian W.
Hummus and chicken shawarma. The easiest way to win a 4star review from me.
(4)Lisa Marie W.
my boyfriend and i went here cause we had a groupon the atmosphere was strange. really strange the guy did not seem like he was interested in us and slightly annoyed, and there was a whole table of men sitting and talking, and other men came out of the kitchen with a feast and walked OUTSIDE with it. we were given complimentary olives and weird hot pink veggies and bottled water. we got the hummus which was DELICIOUS. the best hummus ever. then we both got the lamb kefka with tahini. it was sooo good and the portions were huge. we had enough for dinner to take home. so the bottom line atmosphere= strange. food= good.
(4)Nina A.
There was complete lack of service, We were the only customers beside some employees, and more over it was EId day,even the manager lacked hospitality instincts. The food was okay it did the job.
(2)Diane S.
Fantastic, Authentic Middle Eastern food!!!! I happened upon this restaurant in a strip mall close to City Hall on College Road. It was an off time (3:30 p.m.), and near empty and quiet, but for the Arabic television station playing softly in the corner and a handful of other customers. I was promptly brought a small bowl of colorful marinated vegetables (celery, cauliflower, carrots and radishes) and green olives (see photo) and a bottled water. I ordered my usual how-good-is-this-place dish (hummos), and a shawerma sandwich. I was blown away and felt, literally, like I had been transported to the Arab market in Jerusalem. The hummos was beautifully presented, with arranged tomatoes and vegetables (cucumbers and radishes) around the edge, flavorful pools of olive oil, and a nest of whole garbanzo beans in the center (see photo). The pita bread was fresh and had been warmed to slight crispiness. The shawerma sandwich was juicy and stuffed full of meat and soft vegetables. The tabbouleh salad, of freshly chopped parsley, was the perfect side dish (gratuitous). While I live a good hour away from this dinner spot, I will find excuses to return to the area more frequently because the food was outstanding. The waitstaff, too, was friendly and checked in from time to time - just enough so as not to be overbearing. Total price for the bottled water (no charge), marinated vegetables (no charge), hummos, a shawerma sandwich, tabbouleh (no charge) and a pot of delicious mint tea? $16 - a complete steal! Oh, and I brought half of the meal home because I was BURSTING.
(5)Jef B.
I cannot believe this restaurant has not been reviewed yet. By far this is the best Middle Eastern restaurant in the south suburbs. In a corner of a strip mall, it is easy not to see. You walk in and there are only people of Middle Eastern lineage there. You can tell, too, that everyone knows you are there . . . looking at us occasionally but more curious than anything. Maybe if more Euro types ate there they would chill out and get used to being popular. But you know the food is authentic, right? At several tables groups of men sit together; no women or children; talking animatedly about something, and not in English. It is an interesting place. We were quickly seated and every thing we ordered came quickly and in quantity. It was amazing how much food we got for under $25. We ordered stuffed falafel, kousieh, chicken shawarma and chicken/beef shawarma. We had to take half of it home, there was so much. And it was GOOD food, better than in Chicago Middle Eastern where I've eaten. Everything also came with plentiful pita bread, a Jerusalem salad and a green salad. We have finally found our Middle Eastern in the southlands. I'm eager to hear what other Yelpers think about it.
(4)Carrie H.
l return to Al Bas'ha again and again with friends who also happily accompany me again and again. The food is phenomenal. My favorites are traditional, simple Middle Eastern delights: hummus, tabouleh, and falafel washed down with sage tea. The hummus is their own recipe blended with the perfect ratio of tahini and chick peas and lovingly garnished with olive oil, chili powder, and a rainbow of crudites. Tabouleh is a green power packed parsley salad with cracked wheat, diced tomato, onion, and lemon juice. The falafel is a tad dry but stuff the pita with tabouleh and hummus and you have a satisfying sandwich. Their sage tea is soothing and hits the spot. It's vitamin packed food heavy on fiber and protein and prepared very well. I also return here time and time again, because always I feel good afterwards. The value is unbeatable. An abundant dinner for two averages $16. Speaking of great prices, next door is a Middle Eastern grocer with unbeatable prices and a range of good food and staples to stock your pantry. The best way to know a culture is through your stomach. A culture's food represents its geographical area and life style. When you break bread with a culture other than your own, you bond with the world a little bit more, one meal at a time. *Thanks to Khaled for notifying me about non-smoking measures. I have removed that portion of my review.
(4)Nicole S.
Al Basha offers delicious authentic Middle Eastern cuisine! The restaurant itself looks like a big banquet room nothing too fancy, but upon entering you can't help take in the mouth watering aromas. It didn't help that my group was starving upon entering. For appetizers our table ordered Falafel, Baba Gannoooj, Hummus (which was extra creamy) and Kebeh which I was just introduced to and absolutely love it!!! The Pita bread brought out to us was also very fresh. They also brought us out jerusalem and cucumber salad along with bottled water so we munched away as we waited for our entrees. Then the entrees came... the portions are huge! I had the shish kabab plate with tender marinated filet mignon, rice pilaf and grilled vegetables I barely got half of my meal down I was so full! Everyone in the group I dined with raved about thier meals, although this place is a ways from me being on the south side it's definately worth the trip!
(5)DONE U.
Went there around 9:30pm on a Monday night, fairly nice size place, we were the only ones there at that time other than a table full of what looked to me like friends of the owner. Had hummus as an appetizer, wow! it was pretty darn good, fresh warm pita....We both ordered the combo plates, which made up of chicken, steak and beef with some rice...the beef wasn't the best, it needed a lil more flavor for my taste, but the chicken and steak were excellent. The rice wasn't the greatest but it did the job. I would go back for sure! I used a coupon from my entertainment book and that saved us $16...gotta love coupons!
(4)