Unearth The Voyage
Craving steak frites that locals swear are the best in Chicago? Head to Aba, a Mediterranean gem with a lush rooftop vibe and dishes that balance bright flavors with serious comfort. From shawarma-spiced brunch plates to perfectly seared steak, every bite feels like a quick getaway without leaving the West Loop. Here is your guide to what to order, when to go, and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Aba’s Steak Frites Wins Chicago
Locals rave about the steak frites at Aba because it nails the essentials. The steak arrives at the exact temperature you request, with a caramelized crust and juicy center that stays tender to the last bite. Fries come crisp and salty, with a bright herb sauce that wakes everything up.
What sets it apart is how Mediterranean subtleties thread through the plate. You taste hints of citrus, garlic, and garden-fresh herbs that make the richness feel balanced. It is comfort food that stays light on its feet.
If you want to test the hype, order it alongside a glass of orange wine. The pairing adds texture and a little grip that flatters the beef. It is the kind of combo that turns first timers into regulars.
The Rooftop Patio Experience
Aba’s rooftop patio feels like a breezy escape above the West Loop. Soft lighting, potted citrus, and textured fabrics create a Mediterranean mood that invites you to linger. It is a rare spot where date night and group hangs both feel right.
You get city energy without the noise overload. Servers glide through with mezze and cocktails while the skyline shifts from golden hour to night. If you can, time your reservation to hit sunset and settle in.
When the weather cooperates, the patio is worth the planning. Bring a light layer and your appetite for grilled meats, dips, and crisp wines. It is the kind of rooftop you remember long after the bill is paid.
How to Book the Perfect Reservation
Aba stays busy, so reservations are your best friend. Fridays and Saturdays fill fast from late afternoon to evening, and brunch hours go quickly too. If your timing is flexible, try earlier weeknights for a calmer experience.
Pro tip: set an alert and check day-of cancellations. The bar area can be a lifesaver for walk-ins when you are feeling spontaneous. Just add your name and explore Green Street while you wait.
Make it easier by noting patio requests or dietary needs when you book. The team is responsive and does their best to accommodate. With a bit of planning, you will score that golden-hour table without stress.
What to Pair With Steak Frites
Pair the steak frites with a glass of orange wine for a textured, citrusy lift. The skin-contact tones add grip that complements the steak’s richness. If wine is not your thing, a bright herb-forward cocktail makes a sharp companion.
Round out the table with whipped feta or garlic hummus. Both offer creamy contrasts and warm pita that let you graze between bites. Charred eggplant brings smoke and depth that ties everything together.
Keep the sides simple and vibrant. A crisp salad or brussels sprouts offer freshness without overshadowing the main event. You walk away satisfied, not weighed down.
Brunch Highlights Worth the Wake-Up
Brunch at Aba is a full-on mood, especially with the shawarma-spiced skirt steak and eggs. The spices are bold but balanced, and the yolks tie it all together. It is hearty without feeling heavy.
Short rib shakshuka adds comfort with a little heat. The sauce is bright, the meat tender, and warm pita is ready for scooping. You will want extra napkins and maybe a second coffee.
Plan for at least four dishes if you are sharing. The portions are perfect for tasting across the menu. Brunch here turns a regular morning into something you celebrate.
Dips and Mezze to Start Strong
Kick things off with the dip trio. The garlic hummus is silky with just enough bite, whipped feta is tangy and lush, and the eggplant brings that essential char. Warm pita lands at the table fluffy and ready.
These small plates set the tone for everything that follows. They taste fresh and crafted, not filler. You can build a whole meal out of mezze and be happy.
Add a crisp salad or fries if you crave texture. Share liberally so everyone gets a taste. You will thank yourself for starting this way.
Seafood Stunners: Hamachi and Salmon
When seafood calls, Aba answers with finesse. The hamachi with charred avocado is bright and clean, with citrus and smoke in perfect step. Each bite feels intentional.
Truffled salmon leans rich but stays balanced. A whisper of truffle meets flaky fish and herb accents, avoiding overkill. It is indulgent in an elegant way.
Pair with a mineral white or a light cocktail. These plates reset your palate before moving to heartier mains. You leave feeling refreshed, not overwhelmed.
Lamb Lovers, Rejoice
If lamb is your love language, Aba speaks it fluently. The kitchen nails medium-rare, delivering tender slices with a savory crust. Every forkful hums with herbs and spice.
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a bright sauce. Think lemon, garlic, and a touch of smoke for balance. You get richness without fatigue.
Order it for a main or share among the table. Lamb often sells fast on busy nights, so claim it early. It is a standout on a menu full of hits.
Vegetable Wins: Brussels, Potatoes, Eggplant
Do not sleep on the vegetables. The brussels sprouts bring crunch and a touch of sweetness, which you can balance with a squeeze of lemon. Potatoes arrive crispy and seasoned with intent.
Charred eggplant might steal the show with deep smokiness. Spread it on pita and let the texture do the talking. It adds a grounding note to richer plates.
These sides make sharing fun. Mix them with steak frites or lamb to build contrast. You will end up with a table that feels complete.
Cocktails and Orange Wine Playbook
The bar at Aba is as thoughtful as the kitchen. You will find herb-forward cocktails that echo the menu’s flavors without overpowering them. Citrus, spice, and clean finishes are the theme.
Orange wine is a sleeper hit here. It provides gentle tannin and structure that link beautifully with grilled meats. Once you try it with steak frites, it clicks.
If you prefer classic picks, ask the bartender for a tailored pour. Service is friendly and tuned to your vibe. You will leave with a new favorite.
Service, Vibe, and Seating Tips
Service at Aba shines with warmth and pace. Hosts juggle a busy door while servers keep things moving without rush. You feel looked after even when the room is humming.
For intimacy, request a booth or quieter corner. If you like buzz, the bar area is lively and great for small plates. Patio seating is prime when the weather plays nice.
Let staff guide you through portions and pairings. Their menu knowledge is rock solid. Trust them and your night gets easier.
Navigating Price and Value
Aba sits in the $50 to $100 range, which matches the quality and care on the plate. Portions encourage sharing, so you can explore more without overordering. The value shows up in freshness and execution.
Choose a mix of mezze, a seafood plate, and one red-meat star like steak frites. Add a bottle that suits your group and you are set. It is a smart spend for a special night.
Keep an eye on happy hour if you want a lighter tab. Splitting a few dishes at the bar feels easy and celebratory. Good planning keeps costs aligned with expectations.
When to Go: Hours and Flow
Aba opens evenings Monday through Thursday, with longer hours on Friday and Saturday. Sunday winds down at 10 PM, which is perfect for a relaxed finish to the weekend. Brunch kicks in on weekends and draws a crowd.
For a smoother experience, aim for early dinners or late lunches when available. Peak hours mean a lively scene and longer waits. Decide what mood you want and time it accordingly.
Check for weather before committing to patio plans. If skies are clear, you are in for a treat. Either way, the room has charm to spare.
Getting There and Parking
You will find Aba at 302 N Green St on the third floor, right in the West Loop. The CTA Green Line puts you close, and rideshare drop-offs are smooth on busy nights. Street parking can be tight, so plan a cushion.
Arrive a few minutes early to navigate the elevator and check-in. If there is a wait, the neighborhood has plenty of places to sip nearby. It makes time fly.
For accessibility or large groups, call ahead. The team is accommodating and organized. A little prep goes a long way here.
Dessert to Close the Night
Save room for the creme brulee pie. The top cracks with a gentle tap and reveals a custard that is silky and fragrant. It is a sweet finish that feels light enough after a big meal.
If you prefer something fruit-forward, ask about seasonal options. The kitchen treats dessert with the same care as the savory courses. Nothing feels like an afterthought.
Share a slice and a digestif to linger a bit longer. The dining room glows softly and the night settles in. You leave satisfied and smiling.
Quick Facts: Contact and Essentials
Aba is a Mediterranean restaurant at 302 N Green St, 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607. It often runs 4 PM to 10 PM Monday through Thursday, 11 AM to 11 PM Friday, 10 AM to 11 PM Saturday, and 10 AM to 10 PM Sunday. Call +1 773-645-1400 or visit the website for details.
Expect a $50 to $100 spend depending on how you order. The rating hovers impressively high with thousands of reviews. It speaks to consistency and care.
Come for the steak frites and stay for the mezze and vibe. Whether it is a date or a group dinner, the team makes it easy. Book ahead and enjoy the ride.
