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Little Palestine: Proof That Chicago Runs on More Than Just Deep Dish

posted on: Mar 19, 2025

Hello Shawarma in Little Palestine. Source: Nissrine Bedda

By: Nissrine Bedda / Arab America Contributing Writer

Do you ever get that feeling of nostalgia walking into an 3arabi restaurant taking you back to the balad? Maybe it was a certain smell or the gust of warm wind on a summers day that reminded you of walking around with your cousins at sunset? Maybe it was the sound of being surrounded by people speaking Arabic or the smell of fresh kanafeh? Being an Arab American can be tough when all you want to do is go back home and feel at peace with your friends and family, but Little Palestine in Illinois gives you the same, warm sensation when you visit!

We Arabs are Experts in Coffee Chats

Little Palestine, an area in Bridgeview, Illinois makes you feel immersed in Arab culture, as if you were back home. From Arab markets packed with spices, sweet treats, and ingredients used back home to sweet shops offering all delicacies like fresh Qatayef to Kanafeh (or Chanafeh) to basbousa; Little Palestine gives you all you need! Remember those nights back home when all you wanted to do was go out with some friends and get a coffee and chat, we Arabs are experts at this, get your group of friends and head on over to Qamaria Yemeni Coffee or Zmzm Sweets!

Zmzm Sweets

Address:  10511 S Harlem Ave, Chicago Ridge, IL 60415

Al Bawadi Grill

Maybe your feeling down for taking the family out for some good Palestinian food, check out Al Bawadi Grill! If you’re ever in Illinois, Al Bawadi is a MUST! Not only is the food delicious, but the experience takes you back to the balad from the way staff are dressed to the seating area to conversations all around, etc.

Address: 7216 W 87th St, Bridgeview, IL 60455

https://www.tiktok.com/@albawadigrill/video/7404140029536128298?lang=en

All Things Jewelry

Looking for all things jewelry! There’s a ton of shops located in various plazas around the Bridgeview Area. We Arabs love our gold jewelry and Little Palestine offers a variety with local businesses like Turmusaya Jewelry in Burbank, Illinois to

Turmusaya Jewelry

Address: 8527 S Harlem Ave, Burbank, IL 60459

Try the Manakeesh of your dreams!

Ever stuck day dreaming on more toppings you can add to your Manakeesh? Look no further because Al Manakeesh, a new hot spot, just opened and the toppings are endless. Create your own manakeesh with all toppings and coffee options like getting the authentic experience of feeling back home!

Al Manakeesh

Address: 8401 S Harlem Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455

https://www.tiktok.com/@almanakeesh/video/7454231169228426527

Ramadan Late Night Cravings…

We get it! The struggle is real when it comes to wanting that post-iftar sweet coffee, tea, refresher, etc. but don’t want to make a coffee at home; Check out AlHamawi Roastery and Cafe Bridgeview to satisfy all your cravings! Whether you’re in the mood for rich chocolates, a mix of savory nuts, a smooth latte, or a refreshing berry drink, they’ve got you covered. Not only is this spot perfect for snapping aesthetic photos with friends, but it’s also the ideal place to grab your coffee on the go. A must-visit destination you don’t want to miss!

Al Hamawi Roastery and Cafe

Address: 8417 S Harlem Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455

https://www.tiktok.com/@jamilaeats/video/7320428091438927150

Oh Little Palestine, how we Chicagoans love you so! We know we can depend on you on those days where being in the balad seem so far away, and we can’t wait to visit you on those lovely summer days with friends and family. If you’re ever in Chicago, be sure to visit Little Palestine in Bridgeview, Illinois! Support local businesses, enjoy authentic flavors, and experience a true home away from home.

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