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Skewers of cooked beef sit on a pile of white rice garnished with herbs and other vegetables.
Street food aficionados around the world adore skewers.
Melissa Blackmon

Where to Find Scrumptious Skewers in Chicago

From souvlaki to kebabs, kushiyaki, and Sach Koh Ang

by Naomi Waxman and Ashok Selvam
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Street food aficionados around the world adore skewers.
| Melissa Blackmon
by Naomi Waxman and Ashok Selvam

Chicagoans are specifically attuned to appreciate the quick and unfussy appeal of street food, and much to the delight of hungry locals, the city is filled with excellent renditions of one the world’s most popular street food sub-genres: the skewer. Whether it’s tare-brushed kushiyaki, robust kebabs, peanut sauce-smothered satay, or juicy charred souvlaki, the central conceit of grilled skewers is consistently delightful. Make a selection or start a skewer crawl with these spots in Chicago and slightly beyond.

Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission.

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Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining

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A saga that began with a pandemic furlough from chef Mona Sang’s longtime position at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises has become one of Chicago’s most engaging culinary success stories of recent years with the 2022 debut of Khmai Fine Dining, a rare destination in the area for traditional Cambodian cuisine. Survivors of the Cambodian genocide, Sang and her mother Sarom Sieng (winners of Eater Chicago’s Chefs of the Year award) have brought the Southeast Asian country’s rich, deep, and complex flavors to the fore with dishes like Sach Koh Ang, tender beef skewers marinated in lemongrass, chilis, and Khmer spices.

2043 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60645
(312) 626-7710
(312) 626-7710
A small square wooden plate holds a pile of rice topped with two beef skewers.
Sach Koh Ang.
Jack X. Li/Eater Chicago

Psistaria Greek Taverna

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One of the best Greek restaurants around, this suburban landmark has a welcoming and large dining room good for groups and families. While everything here is memorable, kebob fans can treat themselves to a trio plate with chicken, pork, and beef. 

4711 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
(847) 676-9400
(847) 676-9400

Also featured in:

Sabri Nihari Restaurant

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Sabri Nihari is one of the best restaurants along Devon, with a dependable menu of Pakistani favorites. The Malai chicken boti is silky and tender, cooked over charcoal and marinated with yogurt and ginger. Lamb chops are also stellar.

2502 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
(773) 465-3272
(773) 465-3272
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Dancen

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This small, dark, self-described “claustrophobic” spot in Lincoln Square may not attract outsized attention from the uninitiated, but local skewer aficionados know the Korean pub fare at Dancen is anything but ordinary. Equipped with a built-in flattop grill, the venue draws throngs after dark for all kinds of sizzling, charred kabobs that range from beef, pork, and quail to mushroom, ginkgo nut, and grilled garlic.

5114 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 878-2400
(773) 878-2400

Also featured in:

Kabobi - Persian and Mediterranean Grill

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Spacious and unfussy, Kabobi delivers both on flavor and affordability (especially at lunch) with plentiful portions of freshly grilled meat. Kebab offerings include lamb, filet mignon, and ground beef, nicely complimented by crunchy and fresh vegetable side dishes.

4748 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 583-1400
(773) 583-1400

Also featured in:

Noon O Kabab

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An Albany Park restaurant institution for more than four decades, Noon O Kebab has tripled in size over the years to accommodate the kebab-seeking hoards that beat a path to the family-run restaurant. The large menu ranges from Persian classics to grilled skewers stacked with juicy cuts of beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon, and is well-suited to groups.

4701 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 279-8899
(773) 279-8899

Also featured in:

Mr D's Shish-Kabobs

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Widely seen as the purveyors of some of the most desirable shish kabobs in town, Northwest Side favorite Mr. D’s continues to be a force in Montclare. The charred, marinated, and grilled pork tenderloin reigns supreme on the menu, though patrons shouldn’t miss the opportunity to pair their meat with immaculately crispy fries.

6656 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60707
(773) 637-0042
(773) 637-0042

Also featured in:

KALA Modern Greek

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This tiny Lincoln Park fast-casual packs a punch thanks to high-quality meats from Slagel Family Farms. These skewers are a little more expensive than most are used to spending when ordering a rice or salad bowl. But the souvlaki (the pork, especially), is worth it. And customers can add extra meat.

2523 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 560-6412
(773) 560-6412

Kapitan

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Peranakan cuisine — a culinary genre created by the descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in Indonesia, Singapore, and surrounding regions — is hard to find in Chicago, save for the efforts of restaurateur Victor Low (also behind Serai), who unveiled Kapitan in late 2020. The menu leaves ample room for exploration, but the uninitiated can ease into the experience with succulent grilled satay (chicken, beef, or tofu) smothered in rich peanut sauce.

2142 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 661-2281
(773) 661-2281

Also featured in:

Taxim

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It may not be in Greektown, but Taxim has brought the spirit of Philoxenia — Greek hospitality — to Wicker Park with a hit-studded menu and delightful rooftop space that’s ideal for Chicago’s all-too-short summer. When it comes to skewers, diners should seriously consider the souvlakia, a wood-grilled pork shoulder with grilled tomatoes, mint yogurt sauce, and capers.

1558 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 252-1558
(773) 252-1558

Also featured in:

Cafe Istanbul

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This prized local hot spot has set a tough-to-beat standard for Turkish food, including wood-grilled lamb, beef, and chicken kebabs. Serious skewer fans may want to opt for the chefs’ mixed grill, a combination of chicken, beef medallions, scallop, shrimp, and doner.

2014 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-9487
(773) 661-9487

Also featured in:

Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill

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Elaborate and colorful sushi has a tendency to get top billing at this West Town favorite, but the robust robata selection is noteworthy too. Omnivores and vegetarians will find a menu of skewered delights like squid karaage, nasu (eggplant), beef short rib, and cauliflower.

1751 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 666-4100
(312) 666-4100

Also featured in:

Ema

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Skewers are by their nature an ideal street food, but that doesn’t mean everyone wants to chow down in humble digs. For an upscale take, there’s modern Mediterranean restaurant Ema from chef CJ Jacobson and Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, a breezy and beautiful spot in River North. A section of the menu is entirely dedicated to kebabs such as grilled halloumi, chicken kefta, lamb and beef kefta, and salmon with sweet peppers.

74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 527-5586
(312) 527-5586

Also featured in:

After

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Food was never going to be an afterthought at the lounge neighboring Michelin-starred Ever. Curtis Duffy’s staff can bring out curated caviar selections, but the chef has also developed some skewers that are presented beautifully. Everyone can enjoy this caliber of elegant bar food. There’s wagyu and chicken, but try the hiramasa.

1338 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607

Also featured in:

TenGoku Aburiya

Copy Link

As izakaya-style dining has taken measured steps toward prominence in Chicago, TenGoku Aburiya is showing locals and visitors comfortable and delicious take on the casual Japanese culinary genre. The menu lavishes special attention on kushiyaki with a plethora of choices, from tskune (meatballs) and unagi to shishito peppers and beef tongue.

651 W Washington Blvd Suite #101A, Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 846-6633
(312) 846-6633

Also featured in:

More in Maps

Bhoomi Modern Indian Grill

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Tucked inside the Loop’s Urbanspace Washington food hall lies Bhoomi, an ambitious upstart that aims to bring well-earned exposure to Indian street-style grilled meats. Despite India’s significant focus on vegetarian cooking, the country has a storied history of kebabs, brought to the country through the influence of the Mughal Empire. The stall features varieties like paneer, chicken, salmon, prawns, and more.

15 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 224-7866
(312) 224-7866

Also featured in:

Minahasa

Copy Link

Chef John Avila celebrates regional cuisine from his mother’s hometown of Tomohon, Indonesia, at his popular stall inside Revival Food Hall. There is no shortage of exciting choices on the menu, including Sate Ayam, grilled chicken skewers, and beef satay, both served with a side of peanut sauce.

125 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60603
(773) 770-6169
(773) 770-6169

Also featured in:

Gao's Kabob Chicago

Copy Link

Satisfy those pressing skewer cravings at this Chinese barbecue spot that features an assortment of lamb, beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and vegetarian kebabs. There’s something for nearly everyone, especially those who appreciate organ meats like tripe, heart, and tendon, as well as the carnival of textures they provide.

232 W 22nd Pl, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 526-3836
(312) 526-3836

Mrs Gu Skewers Hot Pot 顾大姐串串香火锅

Copy Link

A Chinese chain that debuted in 1987, Mrs. Gu has accumulated a loyal following over the years with the magical combination of skewers and hot pot. Patrons can select their own skewers from a station and bring them back to their table to cook in a pot of steaming broth. The customizable service style makes for a fun night out with a group of friends or family.

2407 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 291-9058
(312) 291-9058

Also featured in:

Al Bawadi Grill

Copy Link

Bridgeview is a competitive place when it comes to cuisine from Middle Eastern countries, but Al Bawadi has carved out a seemingly unshakable niche as an icon in the area. From the traditional decor and impressive menu with a selection of mesquite-grilled kebabs, there’s a reason city dwellers make the trip.

7216 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455
(708) 599-1999
(708) 599-1999

Also featured in:

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Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining

2043 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60645

A saga that began with a pandemic furlough from chef Mona Sang’s longtime position at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises has become one of Chicago’s most engaging culinary success stories of recent years with the 2022 debut of Khmai Fine Dining, a rare destination in the area for traditional Cambodian cuisine. Survivors of the Cambodian genocide, Sang and her mother Sarom Sieng (winners of Eater Chicago’s Chefs of the Year award) have brought the Southeast Asian country’s rich, deep, and complex flavors to the fore with dishes like Sach Koh Ang, tender beef skewers marinated in lemongrass, chilis, and Khmer spices.

2043 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60645
(312) 626-7710
(312) 626-7710
A small square wooden plate holds a pile of rice topped with two beef skewers.
Sach Koh Ang.
Jack X. Li/Eater Chicago

Psistaria Greek Taverna

4711 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712

One of the best Greek restaurants around, this suburban landmark has a welcoming and large dining room good for groups and families. While everything here is memorable, kebob fans can treat themselves to a trio plate with chicken, pork, and beef. 

4711 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
(847) 676-9400
(847) 676-9400

Sabri Nihari Restaurant

2502 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659

Sabri Nihari is one of the best restaurants along Devon, with a dependable menu of Pakistani favorites. The Malai chicken boti is silky and tender, cooked over charcoal and marinated with yogurt and ginger. Lamb chops are also stellar.

2502 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
(773) 465-3272
(773) 465-3272
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Dancen

5114 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

This small, dark, self-described “claustrophobic” spot in Lincoln Square may not attract outsized attention from the uninitiated, but local skewer aficionados know the Korean pub fare at Dancen is anything but ordinary. Equipped with a built-in flattop grill, the venue draws throngs after dark for all kinds of sizzling, charred kabobs that range from beef, pork, and quail to mushroom, ginkgo nut, and grilled garlic.

5114 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 878-2400
(773) 878-2400

Kabobi - Persian and Mediterranean Grill

4748 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Spacious and unfussy, Kabobi delivers both on flavor and affordability (especially at lunch) with plentiful portions of freshly grilled meat. Kebab offerings include lamb, filet mignon, and ground beef, nicely complimented by crunchy and fresh vegetable side dishes.

4748 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 583-1400
(773) 583-1400

Noon O Kabab

4701 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

An Albany Park restaurant institution for more than four decades, Noon O Kebab has tripled in size over the years to accommodate the kebab-seeking hoards that beat a path to the family-run restaurant. The large menu ranges from Persian classics to grilled skewers stacked with juicy cuts of beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon, and is well-suited to groups.

4701 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 279-8899
(773) 279-8899

Mr D's Shish-Kabobs

6656 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60707

Widely seen as the purveyors of some of the most desirable shish kabobs in town, Northwest Side favorite Mr. D’s continues to be a force in Montclare. The charred, marinated, and grilled pork tenderloin reigns supreme on the menu, though patrons shouldn’t miss the opportunity to pair their meat with immaculately crispy fries.

6656 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60707
(773) 637-0042
(773) 637-0042

KALA Modern Greek

2523 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

This tiny Lincoln Park fast-casual packs a punch thanks to high-quality meats from Slagel Family Farms. These skewers are a little more expensive than most are used to spending when ordering a rice or salad bowl. But the souvlaki (the pork, especially), is worth it. And customers can add extra meat.

2523 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 560-6412
(773) 560-6412

Kapitan

2142 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Peranakan cuisine — a culinary genre created by the descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in Indonesia, Singapore, and surrounding regions — is hard to find in Chicago, save for the efforts of restaurateur Victor Low (also behind Serai), who unveiled Kapitan in late 2020. The menu leaves ample room for exploration, but the uninitiated can ease into the experience with succulent grilled satay (chicken, beef, or tofu) smothered in rich peanut sauce.

2142 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 661-2281
(773) 661-2281

Taxim

1558 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

It may not be in Greektown, but Taxim has brought the spirit of Philoxenia — Greek hospitality — to Wicker Park with a hit-studded menu and delightful rooftop space that’s ideal for Chicago’s all-too-short summer. When it comes to skewers, diners should seriously consider the souvlakia, a wood-grilled pork shoulder with grilled tomatoes, mint yogurt sauce, and capers.

1558 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 252-1558
(773) 252-1558

Cafe Istanbul

2014 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

This prized local hot spot has set a tough-to-beat standard for Turkish food, including wood-grilled lamb, beef, and chicken kebabs. Serious skewer fans may want to opt for the chefs’ mixed grill, a combination of chicken, beef medallions, scallop, shrimp, and doner.

2014 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-9487
(773) 661-9487

Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill

1751 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Elaborate and colorful sushi has a tendency to get top billing at this West Town favorite, but the robust robata selection is noteworthy too. Omnivores and vegetarians will find a menu of skewered delights like squid karaage, nasu (eggplant), beef short rib, and cauliflower.

1751 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 666-4100
(312) 666-4100

Ema

74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654

Skewers are by their nature an ideal street food, but that doesn’t mean everyone wants to chow down in humble digs. For an upscale take, there’s modern Mediterranean restaurant Ema from chef CJ Jacobson and Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, a breezy and beautiful spot in River North. A section of the menu is entirely dedicated to kebabs such as grilled halloumi, chicken kefta, lamb and beef kefta, and salmon with sweet peppers.

74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 527-5586
(312) 527-5586

After

1338 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607

Food was never going to be an afterthought at the lounge neighboring Michelin-starred Ever. Curtis Duffy’s staff can bring out curated caviar selections, but the chef has also developed some skewers that are presented beautifully. Everyone can enjoy this caliber of elegant bar food. There’s wagyu and chicken, but try the hiramasa.

1338 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607

TenGoku Aburiya

651 W Washington Blvd Suite #101A, Chicago, IL 60661

As izakaya-style dining has taken measured steps toward prominence in Chicago, TenGoku Aburiya is showing locals and visitors comfortable and delicious take on the casual Japanese culinary genre. The menu lavishes special attention on kushiyaki with a plethora of choices, from tskune (meatballs) and unagi to shishito peppers and beef tongue.

651 W Washington Blvd Suite #101A, Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 846-6633
(312) 846-6633

Related Maps

Bhoomi Modern Indian Grill

15 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602

Tucked inside the Loop’s Urbanspace Washington food hall lies Bhoomi, an ambitious upstart that aims to bring well-earned exposure to Indian street-style grilled meats. Despite India’s significant focus on vegetarian cooking, the country has a storied history of kebabs, brought to the country through the influence of the Mughal Empire. The stall features varieties like paneer, chicken, salmon, prawns, and more.

15 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 224-7866
(312) 224-7866

Minahasa

125 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60603

Chef John Avila celebrates regional cuisine from his mother’s hometown of Tomohon, Indonesia, at his popular stall inside Revival Food Hall. There is no shortage of exciting choices on the menu, including Sate Ayam, grilled chicken skewers, and beef satay, both served with a side of peanut sauce.

125 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60603
(773) 770-6169
(773) 770-6169

Gao's Kabob Chicago

232 W 22nd Pl, Chicago, IL 60616

Satisfy those pressing skewer cravings at this Chinese barbecue spot that features an assortment of lamb, beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and vegetarian kebabs. There’s something for nearly everyone, especially those who appreciate organ meats like tripe, heart, and tendon, as well as the carnival of textures they provide.

232 W 22nd Pl, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 526-3836
(312) 526-3836

Mrs Gu Skewers Hot Pot 顾大姐串串香火锅

2407 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

A Chinese chain that debuted in 1987, Mrs. Gu has accumulated a loyal following over the years with the magical combination of skewers and hot pot. Patrons can select their own skewers from a station and bring them back to their table to cook in a pot of steaming broth. The customizable service style makes for a fun night out with a group of friends or family.

2407 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 291-9058
(312) 291-9058

Al Bawadi Grill

7216 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455

Bridgeview is a competitive place when it comes to cuisine from Middle Eastern countries, but Al Bawadi has carved out a seemingly unshakable niche as an icon in the area. From the traditional decor and impressive menu with a selection of mesquite-grilled kebabs, there’s a reason city dwellers make the trip.

7216 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455
(708) 599-1999
(708) 599-1999

Related Maps