Ema Chicago: A Culinary Journey Through the Mediterranean

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Chicago at 74 W Illinois St, Ema invites you on an exquisite culinary journey. This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, a gem from Lettuce Entertain You, offers a warm and inviting ambience. Ema Chicago is open for lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for a midday meal or a special evening. You can reach them at (312) 527-5586 for reservations or inquiries. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a celebratory feast, Ema’s doors are open to welcome you. The restaurant’s popularity means you might want to book in advance. They are open from Monday to Thursday 11:30 AM to 10 PM, Friday 11:30 AM to 11 PM, Saturday 11 AM to 11 PM, and Sunday 11 AM to 9 PM. Before you dive into Ema’s delicious menu, figure out the calorie and protein intake you might need using our calculator.

Menu Highlights

Dips & Spreads

Whipped Feta with Dill: Creamy whipped feta, infused with fresh dill, served with warm pita.
Spicy Hummus: Classic hummus with a fiery kick, topped with chili oil, perfect for dipping.
Avocado Hummus: Smooth hummus blended with creamy avocado, a delightful and healthy choice.
Roasted Eggplant Dip: Smokey roasted eggplant dip, tahini, garlic, and lemon, incredibly flavorful.
Labneh with Za’atar: Thick, strained yogurt, sprinkled with fragrant za’atar, served with pita.
Tzatziki: Refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip, perfect for cooling down on a warm day.

Salads

Kale Salad: Fresh kale salad with shaved parmesan, lemon vinaigrette, and toasted almonds.
Chopped Salad: Finely chopped vegetables, herbs, chickpeas, with a lemon-herb dressing.
Watermelon and Feta Salad: Juicy watermelon, creamy feta, mint, and balsamic glaze, a summer classic.
Greek Salad: Traditional Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta, and oregano.
Beet Salad: Roasted beets, goat cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic reduction, colorful and delicious.
Mediterranean Salad: A mix of fresh greens, olives, feta, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.

Vegetables

Roasted Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower with tahini, herbs, and a hint of spice, amazing flavor.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Charred Broccoli: Crispy charred broccoli with chili flakes, garlic, and lemon, a flavorful side.
Spicy Potatoes: Crispy potatoes tossed in a spicy harissa sauce, a delightful kick.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and crispy pancetta, a treat.
Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini slices with herbs, a light and healthy option.

Small Plates

Lamb Meatballs: Flavorful lamb meatballs, cooked with a rich tomato sauce, a comfort dish.
Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers, marinated in herbs and spices, grilled to perfection.
Spicy Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp in a spicy tomato sauce, a delicious seafood option.
Grilled Octopus: Tender grilled octopus with lemon and herbs, a Mediterranean favorite.
Crispy Halloumi: Fried halloumi cheese, served with honey and oregano, savory and sweet.
Falafel: Crispy falafel balls served with tahini and pita bread, a vegetarian delight.
Spicy Beef Kefta: Grilled beef kefta skewers with a spicy kick, flavorful and aromatic.
Spanakopita: Flaky phyllo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, a classic taste.
Saganaki: Pan-fried cheese, often Kefalotyri, flambéed with brandy, a dramatic appetizer.
Fried Calamari: Crispy fried calamari with a lemon aioli dipping sauce, always enjoyable.

Pita Sandwiches

Chicken Shawarma Pita: Marinated chicken shawarma, wrapped in warm pita, with tahini sauce.
Lamb Shawarma Pita: Flavorful lamb shawarma, in a pita with tahini, perfect for lunch.
Falafel Pita: Crispy falafel balls, with hummus, in a warm pita, a vegetarian option.
Grilled Chicken Pita: Grilled chicken with vegetables and sauce in a pita, a healthy choice.

Large Plates

Roasted Chicken: Roasted chicken with herbs and lemon, served with roasted vegetables.
Grilled Swordfish: Grilled swordfish with lemon-herb sauce, served with a side dish.
Braised Short Ribs: Tender braised short ribs, slow-cooked with rich flavors and vegetables.
Whole Branzino: Whole roasted branzino with herbs and lemon, a delightful seafood dish.

Sides

French Fries: Crispy golden French fries, perfect for sharing or as a side dish.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs and spices, a flavorful accompaniment.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables, a healthy and flavorful option.
Pita Bread: Warm pita bread, perfect for dipping into spreads and enjoying everything.

Desserts

Baklava: Layers of flaky phyllo, filled with nuts, and drenched in sweet syrup.
Chocolate Cake: Rich chocolate cake, perfect for chocolate lovers and sweet cravings.
Rice Pudding: Creamy rice pudding, a comforting dessert with a touch of sweetness.
Lemon Tart: Zesty lemon tart, providing a refreshing and delightful taste.
Greek Yogurt with Honey: Greek yogurt drizzled with honey, a simple yet delicious treat.

Inside, Ema Chicago boasts a stylish interior with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The service is known to be attentive and friendly, enhancing the dining experience. Pricing is generally mid-range, making it an accessible option for various occasions. The vibe is lively yet relaxed, perfect for casual get-togethers or special dinners. The ambiance balances sophistication with comfort. It’s an ideal spot for a memorable meal.

Conclusion

If you’re seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Chicago, Ema is a must-try. With its famous whipped feta, flavorful lamb meatballs, and a whole array of delicious dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great spot for a date night, a fun dinner with friends, or even a solo dining experience. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a world of delicious flavors and warm hospitality. Ema Chicago gets a big thumbs up from me – it’s a fantastic dining experience, and I can’t wait to go back!

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