Experience exceptional Balkan cuisine in Chicago with a 4.8-star rating. Discover generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere. Reserve your table today!
Small plates menu of traditional Balkan dishes, plus regional spirits, offered in rustic-chic digs.
This vibrant eatery, situated in the heart of Chicago, has quickly garnered a loyal following, boasting an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars. Diners consistently praise the authentic and flavorful Balkan cuisine, highlighting the generous portions and the delightful experience of sampling a variety of beloved dishes. The atmosphere is described as warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings or a memorable meal with friends. With its reasonable $$ pricing and a reputation for delicious food that leaves patrons feeling satisfied and happy, it's a highly recommended destination for those seeking a truly special culinary adventure in the city.
Restaurant Analysis
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Had brunch here with my family and it was amazing! The best Balkan food I’ve had in Chicago. Everything was super tasty and the portions were generous and we got to enjoy our favorite dishes a few times! Left feeling full and happy. Totally recommend this spot if you want to try something special in Chicago! Amazing unlimited lunch spot – totally worth it, especially at lunch prices! Things we tried & verdicts: • Pita bread with sauces – Great start. Every dip is different and worth trying; sets the tone for the whole meal. • Vitamin salad – Light, fresh, and perfect if you’re trying to balance out all the indulgence. • Roasted tomato soup – Loved this. Right amount of spice and tang, comforting without being heavy. • Chicken skewers – One of the standouts. Juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked just right. A must-order. • Mac ’n’ cheese with bacon – Absolute must try. The charred top and crunchy bacon bits take it to another level. • Fried chicken – Crispy and tasty, solid option, though not in our personal “top 3.” • Crispy cheese sliders – Fun and indulgent, good flavor, but again more of a “nice to have” than a must. • Mushroom pilav – Pleasant surprise. Looks simple but tastes like a creamy mushroom risotto – definitely better than it looks. • Balkan kebab – Another must try. Tender, juicy, and perfectly spiced. • Waffles (strawberry & caramel apple) – Fantastic finish. The caramel apple waffle tasted like apple pie on a waffle, and the strawberry one was fresh and delicious. • $15 unlimited cocktails & mimosas – Great value. Loved trying different mimosas from the menu alongside the food. Ambience & service: The ambience feels like an upscale restaurant but still relaxed and comfortable. Service was quick, attentive, and very friendly throughout – plates cleared on time, refills and skewers kept coming without us having to flag anyone down. Conclusion: Overall, this is an excellent unlimited food concept spot, and going for lunch is a smart move since it’s cheaper than dinner for basically the same experience. Great variety, several true standout dishes, fun cocktails, and a polished atmosphere. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend i Had a great dining experience here! The food was flavorful and beautifully presented, with a nice variety of dishes to choose from. The atmosphere was warm and stylish, perfect for a relaxed evening. The staff was attentive and made sure everything was perfect throughout the meal.
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November 11, 2025
Had brunch here with my family and it was amazing! The best Balkan food I’ve had in Chicago. Everything was super tasty and the portions were generous and we got to enjoy our favorite dishes a few times! Left feeling full and happy. Totally recommend this spot if you want to try something special in Chicago!
November 7, 2025
Amazing unlimited lunch spot – totally worth it, especially at lunch prices! Things we tried & verdicts: • Pita bread with sauces – Great start. Every dip is different and worth trying; sets the tone for the whole meal. • Vitamin salad – Light, fresh, and perfect if you’re trying to balance out all the indulgence. • Roasted tomato soup – Loved this. Right amount of spice and tang, comforting without being heavy. • Chicken skewers – One of the standouts. Juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked just right. A must-order. • Mac ’n’ cheese with bacon – Absolute must try. The charred top and crunchy bacon bits take it to another level. • Fried chicken – Crispy and tasty, solid option, though not in our personal “top 3.” • Crispy cheese sliders – Fun and indulgent, good flavor, but again more of a “nice to have” than a must. • Mushroom pilav – Pleasant surprise. Looks simple but tastes like a creamy mushroom risotto – definitely better than it looks. • Balkan kebab – Another must try. Tender, juicy, and perfectly spiced. • Waffles (strawberry & caramel apple) – Fantastic finish. The caramel apple waffle tasted like apple pie on a waffle, and the strawberry one was fresh and delicious. • $15 unlimited cocktails & mimosas – Great value. Loved trying different mimosas from the menu alongside the food. Ambience & service: The ambience feels like an upscale restaurant but still relaxed and comfortable. Service was quick, attentive, and very friendly throughout – plates cleared on time, refills and skewers kept coming without us having to flag anyone down. Conclusion: Overall, this is an excellent unlimited food concept spot, and going for lunch is a smart move since it’s cheaper than dinner for basically the same experience. Great variety, several true standout dishes, fun cocktails, and a polished atmosphere. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend i
October 27, 2025
Had a great dining experience here! The food was flavorful and beautifully presented, with a nice variety of dishes to choose from. The atmosphere was warm and stylish, perfect for a relaxed evening. The staff was attentive and made sure everything was perfect throughout the meal.
August 24, 2025
6 Stars if I could give them. Amazing staff, amazing food and lovely environment. No one there neither staff or patrons looked like they weren’t enjoying life. We had several lovely small plates of food from the buffet menu. All of them were flavorful and fresh. Clearly quality produce. We also tried some of their Brut and wines. Which we liked a lot. Our server was Bojana and she was super friendly, helpful and attentive. Her and the manager remembered it was our anniversary from my reservation and did everything to make it special. Thank you and we can’t wait to come back next time we are in Chicago!
September 21, 2025
Really incredible experience. Absolutely delicious, and I love the way the service was given. They bring out everything in small plates for sharing with the table and everyone gets to try everything! Definitely recommend bringing 3-4 people to get a well rounded experience! This would be a cool date. If you're into trying different cuisines and are a foodie, this one won't disappoint. The flavors were huge and so so good.
Features and amenities that make AMBAR Restaurant, special
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Everything you need to know before you visit
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View RestaurantFrom transportation to stays, we help you build a complete itinerary around this must-visit restaurant in Chicago.
Excellent public transportation with L trains, buses, and Metra. Walking is perfect for exploring downtown, and ride-sharing services are widely available.
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