I came here with family when we visited the Chicago area. The reviews were great and we were all excited to try the food. I was disappointed by the lack of attention, how much time it took to make the food, and the taste/quality of the food.
We arrived at Tahoora at 0955 and were told that they are opening in five minutes and to come back at 10am. This was not a problem, my family was expecting them to let us be seated at least, but I didn't make it a big deal. We walked over to a Dunkin Donuts, had some coffee and walked back.
We got back to Tahoora at about 1040. There were three men that I could see behind the counter. One was sitting in a chair by the register, another was cleaning the dessert display, and the third was not facing us and on his phone talking to someone. I don't believe there is any way that they did not notice a large group if 18 people (14 adults, two kids, two babies).
After about two minutes of deciding what we want, we walked over to the counter as a group. The man sitting in the chair walked to the back of the restaurant where the kitchen was when he saw us approaching. The man cleaning the dessert display looked at us, then walked to the kitchen area as well. The only person left was the man on the phone. He acknowledged us and indicated that he will get to us in a minute. There were no other customers.
Another 10 minutes went by (not an exaggeration), someone suggests we go somewhere else but the parents insist we stay because they heard this place is good. Finally after almost 15 minutes we order our food.
I ordered a large gyro platter. My family ordered an assortment of food and drinks. My food came out about 40 minutes later and was not what I expected. It was all just chunks of gyro meat, no bread or veggies or sauce. We asked the man behind the counter and he said that I should have gotten the gyro sandwich. The menu didn't specify that the gyro platter does not come with anything. It cost $18 and was just gyro meat. I wasn't happy with that, but I was hungry so I just ate it. He told me that bread would be extra and asked if I wanted some, I said that ok as I didn't want to wait another 40 minutes for bread.
Everyone else's food and took between 50 minutes to one hour to be called. They forgot everyone's drinks so some of us waited again to make sure that the drinks are made (lassi, falooda, a few canned sodas). They forgot my wife's sprite, so I waited in line 12 minutes to get my sprite. I even asked one of the guys behind the counter if I can just get a sprite and he rolled his eyes at me and didn't say a word. I was behind another customer, but still, it's a sprite I paid for that was not given with my order. Some of my family didn't get their lassi and falooda until 1150, over an hour after we got there.
Now the food. Mine was not great. The gyro meat was dry. I've always had greasy gyro meat in the past and never knew it could be dry. I would have asked for something else but the service and attitude of the staff here was just going to disappoint me again and I did not want to wait another hour for my food. The parents said their food was ok, most of the younger adults agreed that we would not be back.
I rarely leave a bad review, this could be my first bad review in over a year. My experience may have just been a bad experience among all the good reviews I read. I gave it two stars instead of one star because the drinks were good. Unfortunately, I would not recommend Tahoora to anyone. There are much better places to eat in the Devon Street area with amazing service and a comfortable atmosphere. Don't waste your time...
Read moreTitle: A Disastrous Experience at Tahoora: Beware!
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
My recent visit to Tahoora on Devon Ave left me with a terrible impression and a nauseated stomach. From the moment I walked in, it was evident that this establishment had major issues that extended far beyond mere inconvenience. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this restaurant due to a plethora of concerns – from expired food to unsanitary conditions.
Firstly, the dahi vada, an essential element of any Indian restaurant, was both repulsive and inexcusably expired. The taste was overwhelmingly unpleasant, and it left me feeling sick for hours afterward. This type of neglect for food quality and customer safety is simply unacceptable.
Moreover, the cakes at Tahoora were shockingly old, so much so that I have no doubt they were past their expiration dates as well. The unappetizing appearance and stale taste were undeniable evidence that this bakery lacked any semblance of quality control.
Another alarming fact that came to my attention was the presence of a complaint line. It appeared as though numerous customers had encountered severe issues during their visits. Such a conspicuous feature is an indication of an establishment's repeated inability to meet customer expectations and resolve issues efficiently. The sheer multitude of complaints should give any potential diner pause.
The rumors surrounding Tahoora being haunted are indeed disconcerting, although their validity is difficult to ascertain. However, the mention of multiple deaths connected to this restaurant is deeply troubling. While I cannot independently verify such claims, it does little to instill confidence or create a pleasant dining atmosphere.
Lastly, the restroom facilities at Tahoora were truly disappointing. Dirty and run-down, they were a significant reflection of the general lack of cleanliness and maintenance throughout the establishment. It became apparent that a proper standard of hygiene was not observed, which is entirely unacceptable for any dining establishment.
In conclusion, my experience at Tahoora was nothing short of disastrous. With nauseating and expired food, questionable hygiene, a complaint line, and unsettling rumors, all signs indicate that this is not a place you want to dine at. Proceed with caution and consider exploring other options in the area with more reputable...
Read moreTahoora Sweets in Chicago is a hidden gem for anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for authentic Middle Eastern and South Asian treats. This unassuming little shop offers an extensive range of delectable delights that will transport your taste buds to exotic lands.
The first thing that strikes you upon entering Tahoora Sweets is the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked goods. From flaky baklavas to rich, nutty ma'amoul cookies, the selection is impressive and clearly made with care. Their baklavas, in particular, are a standout, boasting layers of delicate pastry generously filled with pistachios and walnuts, perfectly sweetened with fragrant syrup.
The variety of traditional sweets is complemented by an array of savory offerings. The savory pastries, such as spinach fatayer and cheese sambusak, are perfectly balanced with flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Not only are the treats at Tahoora Sweets delicious, but the friendly staff also adds to the warm ambiance of the shop. They are always ready to assist you in choosing the best treats to suit your preferences.
While the space itself is cozy, it's ideal for a quick snack or grabbing a box of goodies to take home. Whether you're familiar with Middle Eastern and South Asian sweets or new to the cuisine, Tahoora Sweets is a must-visit destination in Chicago for an authentic and delightful...
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