ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Loop
Best Greek in Loop
Master Critic Review
Taza Cafe
8.2
Taza Cafe is a long-running Loop counter-service spot for Palestinian-leaning Mediterranean plates, falafel, and shawarma that stay firmly in the affordable-lunch zone. Regulars lean on it for freshly cooked platters and wraps that feel homemade compared with the larger fast-casual chains nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma plate, Falafel platter with hummus, Lentil soup with warm pita
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A quietly enduring Franklin Street café serving Palestinian-style shawarma, falafel, and daily-cooked specials at true Loop-budget prices.
Who should go: Office workers wanting fresh, affordable Mediterranean plates.
When to visit: Arrive just before the weekday noon rush for faster lines.
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, falafel platter, lentil soup with pita.
Insider tip: Ask which items were cooked most recently; the staff will often steer you toward the freshest skewers or trays.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the Loop is limited and metered; most guests rely on nearby paid garages or employer parking access.
Dress code: Casual and office-friendly — work attire, jeans, and casual layers are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during the lunch rush; usually easy to hold a conversation once the line thins.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — this is primarily a weekday lunch operation and may not be open for weekend dinner service.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes at peak noon rush; little to no wait just before or after the rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several staples such as falafel, salads, hummus, and veggie platters.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, hummus, salads, and many sides are naturally vegan (confirm sauces and add-ons at the counter).
Gluten-free options: Limited but workable — rice plates and salads can be ordered without pita; cross-contact is possible in a small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual, grab-and-go lunches than a first-date setting — it’s counter-service, fast, and practical rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations are taken. Seating is first-come, first-served and most guests order to-go; arrive just before the lunch rush for best odds at a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for quick daytime meals, but there are no kids-specific amenities; seating is limited and works best for older kids who can handle counter-service dining.
Best For
Better for: Freshly cooked platters, friendly guidance from the staff on what was made most recently, and true budget-friendly Loop pricing compared with larger fast-casual chains.
Skip if: You want a sit-down dinner environment, evening hours, or a lingering meal with full-service ambiance — this is a daytime, efficiency-first lunch spot.
Hours
Monday10am - 8pm
Tuesday10am - 8pm
Wednesday10am - 8pm
Thursday10am - 8pm
Friday10am - 5pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed