Seemor
Cedar PalaceB+Worth Trying
655 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
· Mediterranean restaurant, Bakery, Coffee shop
· 4.8/5 Google (1216 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Welcoming, family-run Lebanese spot with standout hospitality, reliably tasty classics, and generous catering; prices run mid-high for the area and occasional dryness/seasoning variance appears in a minority of reviews.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Cedar Palace delivers exceptional warmth and family-style hospitality with an owner who greets guests by name, paired with solid food quality anchored by flavorful mezze and shawarma. However, inconsistent execution—occasional reports of dry meat or overly tangy seasoning—prevents a higher grade, and the pleasant but modest patio setting lacks destination appeal. For neighborhood Lebanese dining with genuine hospitality and reliable catering, it's a worthwhile visit.
Restaurant Summary
Cedar Palace feels like a neighborhood living room where the team greets you by name and the room stays warm and welcoming. Plates land quickly, mezze shine, and guests often mention the owner checking in with a smile. One diner said it felt like being treated as part of the family, a theme that repeats across visits and even catering orders. The cooking leans classic Lebanese with comforting, produce-forward mezze, juicy chicken shawarma, and sweets like knafeh and rice pudding. Expect straightforward, traditional flavors rather than culinary theatrics; when the kitchen is on, dishes sing with lemon, tahini, and grill smoke. A few reviews mention occasional dryness or bold tang, but the majority report satisfying, aromatic plates and generous portions. Families fare well here: the menu offers kid-friendly staples like fries, rice, pita, shawarma, and mild dips alongside salads and veggie plates. No formal kids menu is listed, but portions are shareable and the patio gives space to spread out. For picky eaters, stick to chicken shawarma, hummus, and rice; adventurous options can wait for a future visit.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally warm, family-style hospitality and owner presence
- Classic Lebanese mezze and chicken shawarma earn consistent praise
- Strong catering program with generous portions and on-time execution
- Occasional reports of dry beef or overly tangy seasoning
- Pricing feels high to some relative to nearby options; BYOB corkage applies
What Sets It Apart
- warm_family_hospitality
- patio_seating
- strong_catering_program
What People Love
- Genuine, personal hospitality from the owner and family
- Silky hummus and smoky baba ghannouj
- Juicy chicken shawarma and well-seasoned kebabs
- Relaxed patio and easygoing vibe
- Reliable, abundant catering spreads
Points of Concern
- Beef items can run dry or overcooked on off nights; choose chicken or mezze if sensitive to texture
- Some diners feel appetizers are small for the price; value varies vs. local peers
- BYOB with reported $15 corkage; not always communicated upfront per one review
- Review patterns are strongly positive; independent critical reports suggest occasional inconsistencies
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$30-42 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair mezze (hummus or baba) with a chicken shawarma plate to balance richness and value.
- For vegetarians, combine Fattoush with Falafel Plate for a filling, varied meal.
- Dessert share: Knafah with mint tea to finish on a lighter note.
Perfect For
- Casual dinner with friends on a patio night
- Group sharing of mezze and grills
- Pre-show bite before a nearby concert
- Catering for game days and office events
Location Insights
Area: Leafy, affluent Lincoln Park corridor with mix of boutiques, residences, and casual restaurants; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, high foot traffic especially evenings and weekends.
Nearby: Near shops on Armitage, residential streets, and venues like the Salt Shed drawing pre-show diners.
Lincoln ParkLincoln Park offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, attracting locals and visitors who enjoy a mix of trendy and traditional options. The area is known for its walkability, safety, and a social atmosphere that balances family-friendly venues with nightlife and cultural activities.
Armitage CorridorThe Armitage Corridor is a popular stretch within Lincoln Park known for boutique shopping, cafes, and a growing number of fashionable restaurants. It has a lively yet relaxed vibe, appealing to diners seeking contemporary and eclectic culinary experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday09:00–21:00
Friday09:00–22:00
Saturday09:00–22:00
Sunday09:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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