- Attraction: Taste of Lebanon
- Location: 1509 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
- Industry: Middle Eastern Restaurant
- Website: Community Menu Page
When someone mentions a “portal to Lebanon” existing in Chicago, skeptics might roll their eyes—until they bite into one of Taste of Lebanon’s impossibly crispy falafel wraps.
This family-owned restaurant has been serving authentic Lebanese street food since 1996, when Ali Faraj’s father first opened the doors on Foster Avenue.
What started as one immigrant family’s dream has evolved into one of the most cherished lunch dives among Andersonville locals, where graduate students, longtime residents, and curious food lovers gather for what many consider Chicago’s most genuine Lebanese experience.
The weathered awning displays the red, white, and cedar tree of the Lebanese flag, hinting at the pride this tiny storefront puts into every dish.
Step inside this unassuming space and you’ll discover why customers drive from across the city for food that reminds Lebanese families of home cooking.
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Keep Exploring →The magic happens in a compact kitchen where Ali Faraj, who has worked here since age 14, continues using the same recipes and techniques his family brought from Lebanon.
Legendary Menu Highlights
The Famous Lentil Soup: Multiple reviewers call this “worth 5 stars alone” and “to die for”. The rich, creamy texture delivers a potent peppery kick that’s both surprising and addictive. At around $2, this bowl practically amounts to a complete meal and has customers returning weekly just for this single dish.
Crispy Falafel Perfection: Customers consistently praise these as “the crispiest, lightest, most fragrant” falafel in the city.
The falafel arrives hot and fresh every time, wrapped in soft pita with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, parsley, and creamy tahini sauce. Many reviewers claim these are “the best falafel they’ve ever had”.
Vegetarian Combo Plates: The #2 vegetarian combo appears repeatedly as customers’ go-to order, featuring perfectly seasoned combinations of hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, and fresh pita. The hummus and baba ganoush receive special mention for their exceptional creaminess.
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Discover MoreShawarma Wraps: The beef shawarma wrap costs just $7 and provides a very filling meal. The meat gets marinated overnight with traditional spices, then grilled and wrapped with lettuce, tomato, tahini, pickles, and garlic. Customers appreciate the option to request spicy seasoning for the perfect heat level.
Lebanese Specialties: The Lebanese salad and kefta appear frequently as customer favorites. The lamb kofta wrap offers another popular protein option that showcases traditional Lebanese flavors.
Sweet Endings: Fresh baklava costs just $1 and receives enthusiastic reviews. The pastry gets layered with care and stays consistently fresh.
Atmosphere & Character
Authentic Dive Experience: Think of this place more as an indoor food cart than a traditional restaurant.
The space feels so compact that you wonder how the family manages to cook in such tight quarters. You order at the counter in this seemingly hole-in-the-wall place, then find a seat.
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Keep Exploring →Simple, Functional Setup: The decor stays very simple, with sparse decorations and basic tables and chairs lining the path to the back.
The atmosphere feels laid-back and divey, with moderate noise levels that create a casual, comfortable environment.
Neighborhood Institution: Ali Faraj describes how this restaurant represents more than just Lebanese food—it’s part of what makes Andersonville special, alongside other local businesses that support each other.
The environment welcomes families and creates a space where you can sit back and enjoy food without any fuss.
Aromatic Warning: Fair warning—spending time inside means you’ll carry the scent of Middle Eastern cooking with you, though most customers consider this a small price for such exceptional food.
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Discover MorePractical Considerations
Cash-Only Policy: This establishment operates strictly on cash, so come prepared. There’s no ATM on site, but the affordable prices mean you won’t need much cash for a satisfying meal.
Exceptional Value: Prices stay “absurdly low”—many say they could charge double. You can fill up for under $20, with nothing on the menu exceeding $10. Large meals cost under $20, making this an incredible value in today’s restaurant landscape.
Lightning-Fast Service: Food arrives faster than Jimmy John’s, with very quick service that keeps busy lunch crowds moving efficiently.
The same friendly family member typically takes orders, staying upbeat and efficient.
Parking Reality: Parking around Foster can be challenging, but you can find spots north or south on Ashland Avenue, which remains largely free of Chicago’s newer parking meters. A block’s walk won’t hurt, and you can call ahead to have orders ready for pickup.
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Keep Exploring →Family-Friendly: Kids love the pita and hummus, making this a great family destination. The restaurant welcomes children and provides a comfortable environment for group dining.
Cross-Street Bonus: A Lebanese bakery sits directly across the street if you want to round out your meal with traditional sweets.
Taste of Lebanon
📍 1509 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
