Habibi

This place has been getting kind of a bad rap on Yelp, but I am in love with their chicken kabobs and the zucchini salad. Plus most of their stuff is really reasonably priced. The hummus has been different every single time and delivery takes a really long time, but those are the only problems I have with it. Has anyone else tried this place?

Habibi
1225 W Devon Ave
Chicago, IL 60660
(773) 465-9318
http://habibichicago.com/

I have resisted commenting on Habibi, but since you asked... Although one would assume the place is Egyptian by the decor, it is actually Palestinian. The menu has several dishes that are not often seen on typical "middle-eastern" menus around town. Because of that, and the friendliness of the management and staff, I would like to see them succeed. However, that is precisely why I have resisted posting on the place.

I have been to Habibi twice. After the first time, I swore I would be back soon. After the second time, I swore I would never be back again. In other words, I had two wildly divergent experiences there. The first time I was there, the food was fresh and flavorful, the second time, the food was overcooked and bland. It was apparent the meals were prepared by a different set of cooks. Unfortunately, the second visit was with a Palestinian friend from out of town, who politely choked down some of the worst kufta kebabs I have ever (not) tasted (the texture was soggy and weird). My lamb was overcooked and overpriced. Eventhough the servings were extremely plentiful (with the exception of the lamb), I thought the prices were much higher than other similar establishments. I hope Habibi can iron out the consistency issues, because they do prepare some interesting dishes that cannot be found elsewhere in town.