Suda's — Restaurant in Lake View Township

I recently visited Souad's Lebanese Cuisine at 1524 W. Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, on September 5th. I had a wonderful dining experience, and here's a detailed summary of what made it so special. Atmosphere and Decor Upon arriving at 5:46 PM, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each table was adorned with two fresh-cut red roses, and the bathroom, which, for its cleanliness, featured a vase of fresh-cut roses in various colors. The restaurant also has a lower level for private parties, which was well-decorated and gave off a sophisticated yet straightforward vibe—a valid signature of the owner, Souad. The overall ambiance made me feel as if I was at home with family, and the calm, relaxing environment was a highlight of my visit. Exceptional Service The staff at Suda's went above and beyond to ensure I had a memorable evening. The waiter, Fahad, was attentive and checked on me multiple times to see if I needed anything and if the food met expectations. He also highly recommended the fried cauliflower with tahini sauce and fresh pomegranate, a dish I was initially hesitant to try. He promised me I would have a great experience, and he was right—it was a high-level, surprisingly delicious dish. The manager, Jina, showed her great hospitality by offering me a Turkish coffee, which I couldn't resist. It was so good that I ended up having three cups! Outstanding Food The quality of the food was a major standout. The Tabbouleh salad was fresh and perfectly balanced with grape molasses and pomegranate, and the lemon was blended in beautifully. The Kibbeh was particularly impressive; I could tell it was handmade, just as Chef Rina intended. She believes in feeding her customers as her mother feeds her family, and this dedication was evident in the dish. Unlike other restaurants that use frozen kibbeh, this was an outstandingly tasty, handcrafted meal that I highly praised. The fried cauliflower, recommended by Fahad, was also a huge hit. It was prepared in a way that truly elevated the vegetable, giving it a big-notch taste. A Heartfelt Farewell As I am leaving, Chef Rina came out and personally handed me a box of Baklava. I was delighted to find it was generously stuffed with crunchy nuts and had a perfect balance of sweetness. This thoughtful gesture truly showcased her commitment to her customers. Parking was easy to find on the street (paid street parking), making it convenient to walk to the restaurant. Overall, Suda's Lebanese Cuisine offers a unique and authentic dining experience, featuring handmade food, fresh ingredients, excellent hospitality, and a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. I would love to dine...

If I could give Suda’s 6 out of 5 stars, I would. Miss Suda and her team have built something truly special at this beautiful, welcoming gem in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. It was my first time being a guest at Suda’s, and it will surely not be the last.

My friend and I strolled in 15 minutes before the kitchen closed, and were warmly welcomed by the server, Mariam, and the rest of the kitchen staff. Not five minutes after sitting down and placing our drink order, Miss Suda (owner) came over to welcome us to her home. She educated us on her backstory, her and her daughter (the sous chef) love of cooking, and how their sauces, olive oils, hummus, and every dish is hand crafted with love.

She had Mariam send us some warm appetizers, as it was my first time dining, and walked me through the menu.

As Mariam was placing the order with the kitchen staff, Miss Suda shared that tonight was an extra special day for the team. It was Mariam’s 2-Year Anniversary of working at Suda’s. As we nibbled on warm pita with hummus, crunchy yet chewy falafel, and indulged in a few Lebanese beers, Miss Suda shared that she had a surprise lined up for Mariam.

After we finished our chicken shawarma sandwich and shish taouk with rice, grilled veggies, and garlic spread, Miss Suda planned the surprise. The meal was well balanced and full of flavor. You could taste the difference of the fresh pressed olive oil, house-seasoned roasted veggies, and fresh ingredient sauces.

Once the entree plates were wiped clean, Miss Suda told Mariam to bring out some dessert for us. Little did she know, it was to celebrate her two year anniversary. The rest of the kitchen, ownership, and wait staff joined in the dining room to sing Mariam a happy anniversary.

Mariam, surprised that Miss Suda even remembered her anniversary, broke down in emotion. Miss Suda shared that Mariam is the heart and soul of the restaurant, along with the rest of the staff, and the reason people continue to come again and again. She shared her favorite memories of Mariam, and the impact she has had on the restaurant. It was a moment filled with hugs, tears, and emotion.

It showed that Suda’s, along with the great food and environment, is a family. It is a place where people care for one another, and pour their hear and soul into their service, their food, and the restaurant. It was an honor to be a guest and share the evening with Miss Suda, Mariam, and the rest of the staff. Next time I’m in Chicago, I’ll be back for more...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 – A True Gem in Chicago

Dining at Suda’s Lebanese Cuisine was one of the most memorable restaurant experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment we walked in, we felt genuinely welcomed—not just as customers, but like guests in someone’s home. The highlight of our evening was meeting Rina, the daughter of the owner, who is truly the heart and soul of the restaurant.

Rina went above and beyond to make our visit special. She was incredibly sweet, generous, and genuine, checking in with us personally, sharing her passion for Lebanese cuisine, and making us feel right at home. Her warm personality and hospitality were unmatched. She even surprised us with several items on the house—including the grape leaves, baba ghanoush, fresh Lebanese bread, and Lebanese dessert —which speaks volumes about her generosity and the love she puts into her restaurant.

The food? Absolutely phenomenal. We ordered a spread that included soujuk, tabbouleh, hummus, garlic paste, tahini, and shish tawouk—and every single item was a hit. The shish tawouk plate looked like a masterpiece, a true work of art. As they say, people eat with their eyes first, and this food didn’t just look beautiful—it delivered on flavor in every bite. The balance of spices, the freshness of the ingredients, and the authenticity of each dish was incredible. You can tell this isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a labor of love.

Rina is an optimistic perfectionist—you can see it in every detail, from the plating to the way the staff moves around the dining room. Her passion for food and hospitality shines through everything she does. The entire staff was attentive, friendly, and professional, making the entire experience seamless and enjoyable.

Suda’s is not just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect, to experience culture, and to feel cared for. Whether you’re a fan of Lebanese cuisine or trying it for the first time, this is the place to go. I can’t recommend it enough, and I truly can’t...