Skokie Shawarma Fave Pita Inn Opens New Restaurant Concept Inside Original Location

When hyper-popular Pita Inn opened a new restaurant last year, moving into a larger location just west of their original restaurant on Skokie, ownership pondered what to do with their newly-vacated space. Earlier this year, they unveiled signage for Zad By Pita Inn. While they didn’t disclosed what they planned for the new concept, ownership did promise fans an entirely new menu. The new offerings are on display this week as Zad By Pita Inn has finally opened.

The food from Jordanian immigrant Falah Tabahi and his family is still Mediterranean, but there are more entrees at Zad, going beyond the Pita Inn’s beloved kebobs and shawarma. There’s braised lamb, Atlantic salmon and more. Vegetarians will especially enjoy the new menu which include foul (sometimes spelled ful). That’s fava beans roasted and blended with garlic, olive oil and lemon.

Pita Inn, with suburban locations in Skokie, Glenview, Mundelein and Wheeling, have developed a loyal following since the Skokie restaurant opened in 1982. Their falafel and kebobs are among the best in the Chicago area. Zad (not to be confused with the shuttered Mediterranean restaurant in Lakeview), represents a departure from Pita Inn’s established strengths. The concept should be a welcome addition to the suburbs.

Zad By Pita Inn, 3910 Dempster St., Skokie, (847) 410-7999, open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily