Taboun Grill

I have eaten here at least 30+ times since the owner opened up his first restaurant in Chicago (now closed).  While I respect everyone's views several of the negative reviews are IMHO just plain wrong.  Of all the Israeli restaurants in Chicago this is by far the best bar none - now on to the food.

My personal favorite is a tie between the Beef Shish Kebob and Chicken Thigh Kebob.  Each come with two sides (of your choice) Israeli salad and rice mix well.  My kids cannot get enough of the fries.  I was there just the other day for a business meeting and someone ordered the Moroccan Fish - very spicy and enjoyable.  When my father-in-law visits from Israel he always goes with the same - Falafel to start and Shwarma Plate for the main.  He always enjoys the food that reminds him of the his little place he eats back home.  If you are looking for other starter choices I would go with the Kubeh or a large plate (to avoid the fights) of Hummus.  The wait staff is consistent and they always make sure my water glass is full.  If you are not stuffed yet, finish the meal with some Baklava and Turkish Coffee; however my wife prefers Tea with Nana (an Israeli staple).

They do planned take-out meals (you need to order in advance) every Friday afternoon.  It is a completely different menu, one that I would highly recommend exploring.

Now the $1000 question - is the food authentic?  I say yes based on my personal experiences visiting and living in Israel for the last 30+ years.  The owner is Israeli and (as stated above) my father-in-law who lives in Israel agrees 100% it is a small slice of home.

Very authentic Israeli food - reminded me of getting a falafel from a stand on Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem. The falafel was perfectly fried, the fries were nice and crispy on the outside, and the Jerusalem salad was on point. Only downside is the cost, but considering that everything is kosher, it's understandable.

We walked in @ 9:23 PM on a Sunday night. The hours posted on the door clearly say they close @ 10 PM on Sunday. We were told there grill was closed and there were no longer serving food. What the f#@$#????