Nabala Cafe — Restaurant in Lake View Township

I don’t usually leave long reviews, but Nabala Café truly deserves it! This cozy little spot in Chicago completely won me over, from the warm hospitality to the beautifully prepared food that just feels like a hug from the inside out. ❤️

First off, the vibe is perfect. Nabala is small but so thoughtfully designed, with plants, warm lighting, and a clean, calming energy that immediately makes you feel welcome. Whether you're grabbing a solo coffee or meeting a friend for brunch, the atmosphere is both relaxed and intentional. There's no pretension here—just good people, good food, and a lot of love behind the counter.

Now, let’s talk about the menu: everything I’ve tried has been fantastic. Their dishes strike a beautiful balance between comforting and unique. The spices are warm and rich without being overpowering, and there’s a deep sense of care in how each dish is plated and prepared. Their breakfast wrap? 🔥 Flavorful, filling, and totally satisfying. I’ve also had their lentil soup on a chilly day, so simple, but so nourishing. And the house-made sauces? Don’t skip them. They add the perfect punch.

Oh and the coffee! Smooth, strong, and never bitter. You can tell they take pride in it. They have great non-dairy options, too (hello, oat milk lovers!), and everything is made fresh. I’ve had both hot and iced drinks here and loved each one. It’s the kind of place where you order a latte and want to sit down and stay a while.

The staff at Nabala are the heart of the whole experience. They’re not just friendly, they’re genuinely kind and attentive. It’s the kind of place where they remember your name after a couple visits and ask how your day is going, and you can tell they mean it. There's no rushed or transactional feeling here. Just community.

Prices are also very reasonable, especially for the quality you’re getting. They also have great vegan and vegetarian options, which I really appreciate. It feels good to support a small, locally-owned spot that clearly values both food and people.

In short: Nabala Café is a neighborhood treasure. Whether you’re a Chicago local or just passing through, make time to stop by. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel a little more grounded, a little more cared for and...

A Hidden Gem: Authentic Palestinian Flavors and More at Nabla Cafe

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Nabla Cafe, and it was an unforgettable experience! This Palestinian-owned gem offers an authentic taste of the Middle East that is hard to come by. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with warm hospitality that made me feel right at home.

The menu is a delightful journey through traditional Palestinian dishes, and their selection of sandwiches and coffee deserves special recognition. I tried their sandwich, and it was simply incredible—tender, flavorful, and wrapped in freshly baked bread that added the perfect texture.

And let’s talk about the coffee—Nabla Cafe serves some of the best I’ve had in a long time! Their Arabic coffee is brewed to perfection, with rich, earthy flavors and just the right hint of cardamom. If you’re a coffee lover, their espresso drinks are equally impressive, smooth, and aromatic.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or a relaxing coffee break, Nabla Cafe offers something for everyone. The atmosphere is inviting and cozy, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The decor, featuring beautiful Palestinian art, adds to the cultural experience.

The owner’s passion for their heritage shines through in every dish and interaction, making Nabla Cafe more than just a place to eat – it’s a place to connect with a rich culinary tradition. Whether you’re familiar with Palestinian cuisine or trying it for the first time, Nabla Cafe is a must-visit. I can’t wait to go back!

This version adds emphasis on their sandwiches and coffee, enhancing the...

5 stars simply because I want to support a Palestinian owned business, but I would like to offer the owner some insight on my experience.

I really enjoyed the cozy aesthetic inside the café, but I felt that the people I spoke with at the counter were cold and basically acted annoyed while I was ordering which was strange because I was extra nice and said thank you multiple times. There was a short wait for my chai, but that wasn’t too bad, but unfortunately the chai was pretty bland tasting and mostly tasted like oat milk. I also felt the price was exorbitant for the size.

I really wanted to sit down with my friend and have my drink at the café, but people seem to be hunkered down at the tables and chairs and not moving at all so there was no room for us and we had to go sit in her car outside instead.

I’m sad to leave this review because I was really looking forward to supporting this café, but unfortunately felt incredibly unwelcome and was underwhelmed by the food and drinks. Please try to be a little kinder to...