Avaspi — Restaurant in Lake View Township

From the moment we walked in, the warm, inviting ambience set the tone for what turned out to be an unforgettable culinary experience.

We started with the Mixed Meze—a vibrant platter of ezme, hummus, baba ganoush, haydari, and muhammara. Each dip brought its own unique richness, from the smoky depth of the baba ganoush to the bold, spicy tang of the ezme. It was the perfect introduction to the meal.

Next up were the Stuffed Dates—a standout dish. These sweet bites packed with feta cheese, yogurt, herbs, and walnuts, swimming in a roasted red pepper sauce, were decadent and addictive. The Calamari Meze was another showstopper: tender baby calamari infused with garlic and herbs, paired beautifully with green olives and a fresh herb finish.

The Beets Meze—roasted beets over haydari—was earthy, creamy, and surprisingly refreshing. The Avaspi Potato Salad was a textural masterpiece—crispy potatoes tossed with arugula, dill, and an irresistible isot and sumac dressing. Who knew a potato salad could steal the spotlight?

For our main course, we shared the Avaspi Mixed Plate for 2, and it was a carnivore’s dream. Juicy chicken kebabs, flavorful beef and lamb delights, tender lamb chops, and perfectly seasoned sides made every bite count. The rice and fries were the ideal accompaniment, but the real surprise was how even the salad and dips added layers of richness to the plate.

And just when we thought we couldn’t be more impressed, we finished with the coconut cake and a pot of tea. The cake was light, moist, and not overly sweet—just the right touch to end a spice-filled, flavor-rich meal.

But what truly elevated our experience was the outstanding customer service. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the food they were serving.

This is more than just dinner—it’s a journey through Anatolia with every bite. I can’t wait to bring my friends and family back to Avaspi. Whether you’re a lover of Mediterranean cuisine or just looking for a unique dining experience in Chicago, Avaspi is an...

I don't know why I discovered this place late. Let me tell you about my wife's and my experience at this incredible restaurant that I just discovered. AvaSpi took us on a delightful journey into Mardin City cuisine that is sure to captivate both your palate and senses. As a connoisseur of Mediterranean flavors, I was thrilled to discover this gem.

Ambiance: The restaurant exudes a charming Mardin City ambiance with its décor. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for both intimate dinners and casual gatherings alike.

Service: From the moment we stepped in, the staff at AvaSpi provided impeccable service. They were knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations and ensuring all our needs were promptly met without being intrusive.

Food: Ah, the highlight of the evening! Each dish we sampled was a masterpiece in its own right. We started with the Mezze Platter, featuring baba ganoush, Pancar, Haydari, Calamari, and Mushroom Tava, which set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The flavors were fresh and authentic, transporting us to the mountains of Mardin City with every bite.

For mains, we indulged in the Lamb Delight and Pomegranate Salmon. The lamb was tender and perfectly seasoned, accompanied by fragrant rice and AvaSpi fries.

Dessert: We concluded our meal with Baklava and Kurdish Coffee. The baklava was delicate, layered with nuts and honey, while the Kurdish coffee provided a rich, aromatic finish to our culinary journey.

Overall Experience: AvaSpi surpassed our expectations with its impeccable service, inviting ambiance, and mouthwatering dishes that showcase the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to Mediterranean flavors, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of the Mediterranean right in the heart of the city.

Defiantly, I will try again and again. Thank you that you guys brought taste of Mardin...

Wow! What an amazing dining experience! Our server Emin (SP) was top notch! Front door staff were awesome too! Every staff member was amazing! Such quality and attentive staff both front and back house did an amazing job!

And!!! The food was unbelievably amazing. So much flavors and varieties of tastes and spices with each dish. Each food item was a journey of quality and tasty experiences. We had a couple of appetizers and the Avaspi meal for 2. Goat cheese was creamy and delicious. Meats perfectly cooked and seasoned and tender! A touch of flame char on the breads and meats just enhance the flavor experience into the realm of sublime. Location is great for making a night of food and entertainment. Parking is street only, so give yourself a bit of time to find close street paid parking. Tip: the on way streets north of the restaurant have a few paid parking spots available early at 5pm ish. I was able to park just West of the restaurant. A few steps from the front door! But you have to snake your way through the residential neighborhood. As the streets are one way.

Inside the restaurant, lighting was low and the mood was quality personal. Some Mediterranean/middle eastern themed music played softly to enhance the dining experience. We dressed to impress for business casual. Went to a local show just down the street, so dining here was amazing and convient.

Lastly: a fully stocked bar with quality spirits and options. Something you dont see too often nowadays. Even after dinner wines. Impressive...