Masada

Masada Restaurant Review:

At Masada, you’ll find all the things you’ve come to enjoy about Chicago’s longstanding Middle Eastern staple Sultan’s Market, which has the same proprietors, in a more upscale setting. With stained glass window-style ceilings, fish floating by serenely on big screens, and a disco stage downstairs for entertainment, the eclectic environs of this sprawling space only add to its charm. Start your meal with one of the drink concoctions (we suggest the Blood of the Sphinx, an unexpected mix of red wine, orange, raspberry and spices) before delving into the cuisine. Falafel have just the right consistency, not too crunchy and not too soft; and main dishes like the koshari (brown lentils, rice, gluten-free pasta, tomato sauce and caramelized onion, garnished with garlic, jalapeños and hot sauce) have the appropriate amount of kick. Also worth noting are the lamb chops, which are served with angel hair rice and Brussels sprouts with mint yogurt for dipping. Portions are quite generous, so be sure to anticipate dessert, as the chocolate and caramel lava cake is made to order.