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Kabobi - Persian and Mediterranean GrillBWorth Trying

Name: Kabobi - Persian and Mediterranean Grill
Address: 3224 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, Chicago, United States
Rating: 4.5

3224 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60625 · Persian restaurant, Kebab shop, Mediterranean restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (5764 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Big-portioned Persian kebabs and rice with counter-ordering and lively energy; excellent flavors and value, but service consistency, add-on fees, and valet issues can frustrate.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Kabobi delivers solid neighborhood dining built on strong food quality—tender kebabs and fragrant saffron rice draw loyal repeat visitors and favorable comparisons to nearby competitors. However, inconsistent execution and isolated food safety concerns prevent a higher grade, while warm service touches and generous portions at fair prices make it competitive with respected local favorites. Best suited for those prioritizing hearty, traditional Persian comfort over refinement.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and bustling, with trays of saffron rice and charred tomatoes streaming to tables as staff offer refills of bergamot tea. Diners rave about tender lamb shanks and platters big enough for leftovers, though a few call the clearing pace and cashier interactions a bit pushy. Overall, value and generosity shine, but expect a lively crowd rather than quiet corners. The cooking leans classic and hearty rather than showy. Kebabs, stews, and biryanis lead the way; dill and saffron basmati are the canvas. The culinary approach leans traditional and portion-driven: familiar Persian staples executed with confidence, best for those who prize flavor and abundance over experimentation. Big mixed grills and Sultani combos deliver crowd-pleasing comfort. Families do well here thanks to simple, kid-friendly options like chicken kebabs, tomato lentil soup, and rice. The menu also lists many vegan items (falafel, hummus, Persian salad, Ash Reshteh), though one diner reported a mislabeled vegetarian dish containing meat—confirm details when ordering. Portions are huge, so sharing works great with kids.

At a Glance

Huge portions with reliable leftovers
Tender kebabs and fragrant saffron/dill rice
Friendly touches like complimentary tea or dessert on busy nights
Counter-ordering flow and add-on fees can confuse first-timers
Valet service received multiple negative reports

What Sets It Apart

huge_family_platters
late_night_capacity
broad_vegan_and_vegetarian_selection

What People Love

Tender lamb shank that falls off the bone
Generous mixed grills and Sultani combos
Aromatic saffron and dill rice
Surprise tea or sweets when busy

Points of Concern

Counter-service flow can feel chaotic during rushes
Some reports of unexpected service fees and extra charges for rice variations
Inconsistent problem resolution when orders are wrong or items missing
Valet complaints include rudeness and alleged mishandling; consider self-parking

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost$34-$52 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For a balanced plate: Beef Koubideh ($19.95) plus Persian Salad ($7.95)
For seafood lovers: Salmon Kabob ($25.95) with baba ghannouj ($8.95)
Vegetarians: Ash Reshteh (LG $9.95) and Vegetarian Sampler ($15.95)

Perfect For

Casual group dinners with sharing platters
Late-night post-event meals
Families seeking straightforward, tasty kebabs
Value-seekers who prioritize portion size

Location Insights

Area: Diverse, lively Albany Park corridor with Persian/Middle Eastern dining, families, students, late-night crowd.

Safety: Generally safe with active foot traffic; typical urban vigilance needed, some valet-related complaints.

Nearby: Near Lawrence Ave strip dining; close to other Persian spots; busy nights after events noted.

Albany ParkAlbany Park is one of Chicago's most ethnically diverse neighborhoods, reflected in its wide range of international restaurants and casual dining spots. The dining scene is eclectic, featuring Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines, often in informal, family-run establishments. The area has a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere with a mix of longtime residents and newcomers.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday10:30–01:00 Tuesday10:30–01:00 Wednesday10:30–01:00 Thursday10:30–01:00 Friday10:30–01:00 Saturday10:30–01:00 Sunday10:30–01:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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