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Tizi Melloul - CLOSED
Categories: Restaurants Mediterranean Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Mediterranean, Venues & Event Spaces [Edit]
531 N Wells StChicago, IL 60654
Neighborhoods: Near North Side, River North
(312) 670-4338
- Nearest Transit:
-
Merchandise Mart (Brown Line, Purple Line)
Grand-Red (Red Line)
Chicago-Brown (Brown Line, Purple Line)
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Parking:
- Street, Valet
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
159 reviews for Tizi Melloul
Review Highlights
"...courses were the fire-roasted prince edward island mussels."
(in 8 reviews)
"For dessert we shared the chocolate fondue."
(in 19 reviews)
"Plus, the belly dancing deal on Sunday is good too."
(in 10 reviews)
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159 reviews in English
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Review from Jessica B.
Chicago, IL
7/6/2010
5 STARS for the Mussels...I celebrated my birthday there last year with a bunch of girlfriends in the crescent room. The best time ever! Waiter and service? Amazing., food? awesome! Mussels? Orgasmic!
Ok, I have a true story. I was bummed last year because the one picture that I had taken with Stacey London when she came to promote Anne Taylor didn't come out because her security guard didn't know how to operate a camera..so my husband said what will cheer you up? and I said Tizi Melloul's Mussels!!!! Why did this happen? Not good... -
Review from Mihir S.
Chicago, IL
9/13/2010
I walked by and saw you were closed. Oh Tizi, what happened? I tried to help you!
I asked if I could bring in 75 people for drinks on a Thursday (not on a weekend night). Even though you were suffering, you wanted a minimum of $2500. I explained to you that we are a non-profit and we can make no promises but that we average about 75 people/event.
You still would have made money and got plenty of exposure. -
Review from Tricia L.
2/25/2009 ROTD 4/28/2009
I read in a magazine recently that when you're dining with people that you like, you will eat 30% more food than you would normally consume.
So... I either really liked the company of my dining companion tonight or Tizi Melloul does Mediterranean right because I definitely consumed more than 30% of what I usually do. Or both.
Service was stellar. The red interior is calming, fierce, and exotic all at the same time. Red chairs, pillows lining the booths, and bead curtain = great ambiance. Never mind that the space is dim and tables rather tightly packed.
A Restaurant Week 5 course meal for $32? Can we say awesome deal? I snarfed everything from the flatbread starter with hummus and baba ghanouj to the fresh feta salad and mussel appetizer. Might I add I don't even really like feta or mussels? The salmon skewer-veggie medley-lamb stew entree was delicious. The lamb was gamey, but that's lamb for you. And who needs the Melting Pot when you can get a plate of pumpkin poundcake and fruit dippers with chocolate fondue here?
I am in dire need of my stretchy pants now. That is all. -
Review from Thamara D.
Des Plaines, IL
4/30/2009
I could live on Fire roasted mussels from here, the best I have ever tasted. Spicy and cooked to perfection and served with warm Harissa butter, heavenly !!!!!
I was here for a group event a few months ago and was very impressed and wanted to try the place in a more intimate occasion before I wrote this.
This has become one of very favorite places to dine and I highly recommend it.
First, the room...
Just breathtakingly beautiful. Perfect fusion of traditional Moroccan decor with modern touches of designer Suhail. Love the Moroccan Crescent Room, perfect room for a intimate special occasion gathering.
Second, the food and drinks...
During my first visit I was able to taste a sampling of their small plates, just delicious. My second visit included 2 servings of their fire roasted prince Edward mussels and bacon wrapped dates, again truly impressed. My friends loved their food as well. The cocktails are just right....
Third, the service
Exceptional. They do not miss anything yet never intrusive or pushy. I loved being here during the large event and my evening with the girls.
Check out their recession proof Monday nights for $3 Martinis and a $6 Tapas.
So just in case if you were wondering where you should take me on that romantic date, keep this place in mind :-)
A beautiful romantic venue, looking forward to going back soon.Listed in: The places that I crave to go…, Be Mine
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Review from Stacy Y.
3/27/2009
Like many other reviewers I also attended a recent Yelp event here. Like Julee M. my friend and I accidently sat in the dining room thinking we could partake in the $3 martinis and $6 tapas. That was not the case. We decided to make the best of our evening and enjoy some appetizers! I am SO happy that we did!
After enjoying various passed appetizers during the party I was ready for more! Steven, the owner, was a doll and bragged that their mussels were the best...ever and we had to try them. So we did.
OMG!!!!!!!! Hello foodgasm! Is it wrong that I wanted to lick the shells? These bad boys are in some secret combination of approximately 30 different spices and were just heavenly. At this point I was ready to have a cigarette, roll over and go to sleep. *sigh*
In addition to most glorious mussels that ever passed my lips we enjoyed the scallops and dick** sausage. The scallops were just divine and perfectly cooked. The dUck sausage was very rich and equally delicious.
My dining companion and I were ooohing and ahhhing through our dinner. The flavors, textures, freshness - a definite delight to the senses.
I had no idea this gem of a place existed and I am so glad that I know now. I will be back soon and often!
**This type-o is too funny to fix! ;) "i" and "u" are right next to each other in the keyboard!! -
Review from Aurore L.
5/10/2009
Tizi,
(now that we met we are on a first name basis. It's how it rolls in my world)
I was looking forward to our date all week. It was set and printed on Open Table ink: Friday at 8:30.
4 of us and you, the star of the night.
Meeting you was the little light that kept me through my mono misery. (Don't get me started on how ridiculous I feel for getting mono when I am way beyond my 30th birthday)
I was excited and salivating (moderately though to keep my virus for myself - I may be sick but still have manners) and thinking about which dress I was going to seduce you with.
Almost butterflies in my stomach...
I should have known that romance was not supposed to happen that night.
The sure sign of failure: I did not have time to prepare. Left home with my cutie dress but without even trying to camouflage the facial ravages of two weeks of non-stop cough, sniff and watering eyes.
Ouch.
We were already out onto a bad start.
I felt inappropriate at first on my arrival and you delighted me with your clingy decor, subdued atmosphere and dim lighting.
Then you deployed some pieces of your arsenal I couldn't resist: baba ganoush and hummus galore, rich and pungent cheeses, tapenade, dried sausage and warm bread - you put all your Mediterranean charm out there, right on the table. For all to see and savor.
The oh-so-awaited mussels then arrived: a sizzling platter of dry-rubbed treasures that were only waiting to be dipped in a warm and fragrant clarified harissa butter.............a nice and unusual surprise.
Things were getting real hot.
I was almost conquered.
And then you lost it: the salad was overdressed and insignificant, the main dishes plain and forgettable and the dessert....oh the dessert.... you teased me with your semi-sweet chocolate fondue, made me drool at the delicious thought of sweet pleasures just to leave me wanting more...........
1 slice of banana, a quarter of a strawberry, a cube of pound cake, half a marshmallow and a dried apricot was all you gave me.
Skimpiness is unforgivable, in lovers and friends alike.
End of deal for me.Listed in: Mussels in Chi-Brussels
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Review from Jay K.
Spokane, WA
12/12/2007
THIS WAS ONE OF THE WORST DINING EXPERIENCES I'VE HAD IN CHICAGO.
Recently attended a function here and received THE WORST perfunctory service ever. We held a dinner function for 50+ individuals here and received absolutely horrible, inexperienced and inattentive service. Management was inept and clearly their plan was simply to milk us for all the profit they could get and give us the least that they could serve.
I have never heard of a restaurant who forgot more than one entree on a prix-fixe at the same table - especially when things were served family style. That meant a table of eight went hungry AND to top it off, the management was notified and did not send the dishes out from the kitchen. It was simply, "Oh I'll make it up to you next time."
WTF!?!?!
Now, let it be known that we've scheduled multiple dinners at this location during the interview season, and they're still willing to pull stunts like that?
In addition, portions were stingy and insufficient. One meatball per person? 1 plate of gnocchi for 4? 1 plate of salad for 4? 1 strawberry, 1/4 of a banana and 4 pieces of marshmallow to split as dessert for 4? Ridiculous! This gives tapas-style dining a bad name.
Shame on them for being so greedy, stingy, inept and ridiculous. Do they realize they're offending a room of 50+ physicians who could potentially be repeat customers?
Idiots. -
Review from Carolyn S.
Chicago, IL
7/13/2008
I had a fantastic night a Tizi Melloul last night! The decor of the place is awesome and I love that even though it is fine dining they still have the floor cushions. It adds such a cozy and comfortable feeling to your dining experience. My boyfriend and I were relaxed and snuggled up in the Crescent room and enjoyed a very delicious dinner.
My boyfriend is Lebanese and isn't very forgiving when it comes to poorly done or unauthentic middle eastern cuisine. Everything we had, he happily reported, was spot on. The most memorable part of the dinner was the seared scallop appetizer. Although, my dijon and herb crusted lamb loin was a close second. (just writing about each of these dishes is making me hungry!!)
Highly recommended! It will likely be one of my new favorites!! -
Review from Nilda R.
Chicago, IL
5/29/2007
I confess, I cannot stay out of Tizi Melloul.
There's a combination of service and ambiance here that calls me back nearly every time I try to walk past without caving.
Their spacious lounge area remains intimate and while you're settling in, there are a number of house cocktails worth tasting. The cucumber-mint number makes a fine starter.
Tizi serves the richest hummos I've ever tasted, and it's always available. The falafel (which hasn't been on the menu in a while) was quite unique and I'm sorry that it's not returned. The tofu steak with ratatouille is something everyone without a soy allergy should taste, since it's simply phenomenal.
I'll not gush about the decor since the photos on the website show it off so nicely. My sole complaint is that no one has been able to get that Thievery Corp. album out of rotation. You know the one-- from '98? It must be stuck in the disc player or something.Listed in: Fave Veg Joints
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Review from Erika G.
Updated - 10/14/2008 1 photo
Friends that know me, know that I am the queen of Stylish Frugality. Which is why you'll find me here now on Monday nights for $3 Martinis. Myself and my frugal protege also enjoyed a chicken skewer/pesto rice appetizer for $3 (one of three $3 appetizers available). Our check was $18. with tip - that's third world-esque!
What a value before heading up to Big Chicks for $1 burgers.Listed in: Middle Eastern food in Chicago
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/16/2006
"I've loved this restaurant for years. The food is great, and while the food is not 100%… Read more »
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Review from Crystal L.
Chicago, IL
6/10/2008
I will admit I was a little skeptical about going to Tizi. Mediterranean food isn't exactly on my top 5 fav list. I am happy I did though b/c its now in my top 5 =) The happy hour specials here are absolutely amazing! I have not found a place that can beat this!
$3 martinis
$3 steamed mussels
$3 hummus/pita bread
and possibly more..
The martinis are not watered down or diluted in any way. The steamed mussels are pretty good by itself but the key my friend told me is to order the mussels that are not on special (Fire-roasted Prince Edward Island Mussels), keep the dip and continue ordering the steamed mussels for $3. Isn't she a genius? -
Review from Y M.
Chicago, IL
6/29/2008
The best thing about Tizi Melloul is it's atmosphere. Vibrant colors, exotic decor... this is the place where even a t-shirt & jeans girl like me wants to get dressed up. There are 3 different sections to this restaurant - the main dining room, the Crescent room, and the bar/lounge.
The main dining room is perfect for larger parties. We enjoyed food from the a la carte menu. The Crescent room is smaller, more intimate, with its own 5-course menu. Great for smaller groups and couples. The bar/lounge is also very cool. I've had cocktails and appetizers at the bar. I recommend getting the Rockin Moroccan (vodka, lime, mint, & soda) and the Fizi Tizi (sparkling wine & pomegranate juice).
If Sex & the City was based in Chicago, the gals would probably go here :) -
Review from Andre W.
9/27/2009
Me and my entourage decided to select this place to celebrate a friend's birthday last night. Tizi Melloul and I had actually met before thanks to a Yelp party back in the early part of the spring.
As we walked in, we were greeted by the host and we found out our online reservation did not go through, but he accomodated our party of 8 anyway. We were escorted to the very attractive, middle eastern inspired dining room. We started with 3 appetizers: Seared Scallops (really good), Cured Meat & Cheese Platters (mixed feelings) and the Two Way Calamari (delicious). The bread with sun dried tomatoes was really good and actually as good as all of the appetizers.
To drink I went with the Rockin Moroccan which is basically a mojito, but it is one of the best mojitos I have ever had. I had two of them before my entree arrived and three total. They really went down fast if you know what I mean.
For my entree, I went with a Tangines for Two which was Lamb, Braised Shoulder, Dates, Apples, Celery, Onion, Saffron Cous-Cous . I actually shared that dish (the first time I shared a meal with a man, LOL!) It was more than enough for the both of us. The lamb was very tender and the onions really enhanced the flavor (yumfest)! The service was great as our server helped us with all of our questions about the menu and she was very attentive as well.
Tizi you now have a new fan in the AW!!!!Listed in: Gone Too Soon
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Review from Rabiya K.
Chicago, IL
4/23/2010
This is your standard trendy place with overpriced mediocre food.
Service- Halfway through our meal, I discreetly took our waiter aside to order a few desserts and explained that it was a surprise for a birthday dinner. An hour later, our dinner plates were cleared, and we then waited 30-40 minutes for the desserts to arrive. I actually went over to the waiter during this time to explain that we were trying to surprise the birthday girl, which was getting progressively harder. She kept trying to order, so we kept trying to make excuses why she couldnt. We finally just had to tell her. Not okay.
One star upgrade for their ability to make a steak prepared medium well actually taste alright (my friend ordered hers this way and i scolded her, then my own words when it tasted better than my medium rare steak). -
Review from Peter G.
Chicago, IL
1/8/2009
Maybe I'm lame, but I tend to end up at places that have no flavor.
Tizi Melloul is like what you'd expect from a really good restaurant with a lot of flavor, but it's just much more fun and reasonable than you'd expect! Even when your date is late, sit back on a pillow and drink some gin and know you're gonna have a great meal.
Wait, let me rephrase... -
Review from Andrea H.
11/20/2008
I had been wanting to eat at Tizi Melloul for quite some time. We ate in the main dining room. The atmosphere is very warm and inviting and good people watching if you are seated by the floor to ceiling windows.
I was hoping that the menu would match the unique and exotic ambiance, but sadly, I found it uninspired. We started with the Tizi Mezze, which was delicious, but unfortunately, the highlight of the meal for me. I ordered the Traditional Moroccan Pie because it seemed to be the only dish on the menu that I couldn't order at any number of restaurants in the area. The presentation was not at all like the photo on yelp. It was sliced up chicken and a separate little dish of the components of the "pie". I found it to be kind of bland. Good, but not a standout. The ice cream selection was unique and good, but I tried three different kinds and they all had a very similar taste.
The experience was good, but not great, and I couldn't help but think of the other places I've been to that have done it much better.Listed in: Hype???
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Review from Jess C.
5/6/2009
Seems like I'm the only one who's missing something....
The good:
Service was great, venue was beautiful.
The bad:
The food. Unfortunately, it was overly salty, and considering the quantity and caliber, on the expensive side.
My order:
The Beet Salad: Disappointment. Small, stingy on the beets, nothing special.
The Mussels: Generous, but bland. Maybe only worthwhile during Happy Hour.
The Polenta Dessert: Bleh.
I'd maybe give it another shot, but only for Happy Hour. -
Review from Andrea R.
Updated - 8/25/2009
I've enjoyed myself at Tizi at many cocktail parties in the past, but I finally just got around to enjoying the full dining experience. I came here with 7 of my friends to ring in the big 2-9 bday last week! I had requested dining in the beautiful Crescent Room, which may just be the coolest private dining room in our Windy City.
Tizi's fabulous manager Michael and his incredible staff took care of us from the minute we walked in. They even printed "Happy Birthday Andrea" on my menu, which put a smile on my face...even if the big 3-0 is rapidly approaching! And my smile got even bigger when they brought out some complimentary dips with pita chips- yum.
The menu here isn't very big, but I still had trouble deciding between a few delicious looking items. Fortunately, my friend Ali A helped me out and we decided to share the mussels and the bass. The mussels should be renamed on the menu "messy mussels" because we soon had mussel juice all over our hands, napkins, and even clothes! But the drycleaning bill was well worth it because these were SO good...especially when tipped in the unhealthy, but I don't care cause it's my bday sauce that came with them. The bass was great too, even though my mouth was on fire from the spiciness of it after just a few bites.
After this delicious meal this bday girl was about to call it a night, but my friends insisted on dessert...and so we ordered the fondue! Bananas, cake, marshmallows....oh my! And all dipped in chocolate! And the folks at Tizi were sweet enough to bring a round of shots and champagne to our table. I had to remind them it wasn't my 21st bday, but a gal can still have fun at 29...right?Listed in: My favorite restaurants in…, Best Place to Throw a Party in…, Private party rooms
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/29/2007
Full Disclosure: I haven't actually eaten at Tizi Melloul (YET), but did attend a recent private… Read more »
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Review from Jillian G.
Austin, TX
9/29/2008
You know how people always say how your probably really good at things you haven't tried? Like, "You might be the worlds best sky diver Jill, you just have to try it", or "What if your really amazing at snowboarding, you have no idea!"
I am probably really shitty at sky diving, as well as snowboarding. HOWEVER, it turns out after visiting Tizi Melloul and trying something new.... am amazing at drinking Cucumber Martinis. I had no idea! If they add this to the XGames I am pretty much guaranteed to win. Delicious! -
Review from Carol J.
Chicago, IL
6/26/2008
I've been going to Tizi for years and have always been a fan of the stylish decor, gracious service and wonderful food. The mussels here are absolutely to die for. And I've had delightful mussels all over the world. Hummus, well delish, and they do have great specials.
I am a big fan of the vibe and the atmosphere. I am a big fan of Terry Alexander. I have loved everything I have ever tried here, with one minor exception.
I ordered a pork chop once and the server said the chef's preperation called for medium. Having had an issue once with undercooked pork I requested it to be cooked through and through. No big, right? Different strokes. It came out way below medium, as if to taunt me. And the server rolled his eyes at me.
So the next time I go, if I can get my meat cooked to preference and no eye rolling, you'll get the fifth. I swear. -
Review from Kim P.
Sunnyvale, CA
2/15/2009
Well with all the reviews already posted they hardly need my accolades. However... aside from the insanely amazing smoked mussels with super yummy crack laced sauce that we will ALWAYS order upon return, we had a fantastic waiter. It was crappy out and it was early (for dinner - like 5ish). Our server (Alex) was so fab. He made sure we didn't feel like we were hanging out alone - we want for nothing. Drink refreshment, food recommendations, whatever we needed he was on point. A fantastic reminder of why eating out is so nice once in a while. You get waited on, you eat really well and in the end you aren't stuck with the dishes.
I have to add this is a great place to take a date. The decor is very dark with red hues and exotic music soft in the background. You can eat at a table or curl up on cushions somewhere. It comes off (IMHO) as upscale and pricey, but we thought the menu was totally reasonable.
Topping it all off we a $10 off card from a program we joined called "A La Card". It's a deck of cards (52 cards) each one is $10 off a meal at a different place every week. The deck costs $30 but in three nights its paid for itself and the rest of the year is fun and free. Who doesn't like free?
We'll be back. I'd even call ahead to see if Alex is working to ensure another great dining experience. -
Review from James G.
Chicago, IL
7/21/2008
Paprika spiced mussels were excellent with the butter sauce. I had the steak which was perfectly cooked with some nice asparagus. Chocolate fondu was a nice touch with bananas, raspberries, marshmallows and cream w/mint.
This was a pretty cool date spot and the decor was interesting, although I'm not sure how authentic it was. -
Review from Aimee M.
Chicago, IL
10/11/2006
I love everything about Tizi Melloul, from the entrance way of mosiac tiles to the hip and spacey looking bar to the warm cozy dining room with the dark/dim lighting from above lanterns and candles on the table..
The food is notable, the exquisite combinations... Each time I try something different and walk away with a new favorite dish.
Mondays: $3 martinis in the bar... SOLD!Listed in: Sex and Chicago
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Review from Jessica M.
Chicago, IL
6/19/2008
My experience here was just okay. For one, it was super hot in there. I think it was because the AC was broken because the bus boys were Johnny on the spot with refilling our water glasses. I just think it would have been nice if, when we came in, the hostess would have given us a heads up about the AC issue, because honestly, who wants to try to enjoy a dinner out with friends trying to hurry through your meal because you are so uncomfortable.
Okay, two, the food was over salted. We had the scallops and the tilapia and both were very salty. But minus the extra salt, the food would have been very good.
Three, dessert. I am a huge fan of dessert. We had the ice cream sandwiches. They were pedestrian, at best. The chocolate "cookie" part was so hard when you went to cut it with your fork, the ice cream completely squished out. Obviously you could not pick them up and take a bite or the ice cream would be all over your shirt. Not a fan.
It was pretty loud, crowded and dark, too.
On the plus side, the sundried tomato and oil they serve with the bread is outstanding.
Overall, it was just okay for me. -
Review from Karl H.
Milwaukee, WI
3/23/2009
Big thank you to Tizi Meloul for having the yelp community out and I look forward to having dinner here in the very near future.
Drinks were potent and creative. Sangria had a slight chocolate hint to it that at first caught everyone off guard and then we couldn't get enough of them. Well enough about our group alcohol problem.
Hors d'œuvre were very unique so it you where there looking for you favorites you prob lost out to the people who were loving something new. By the look of the menu that also is what you would get from your main course.
I personally can't wait to get back there and get away from the ordinary..
Thanks again -
Review from Sony P.
Austin, TX
10/21/2006
My god, food was really good. I would say they are a bit of a fusion place but in a satisfying way. The mussels were quite good. Subtle flavors and spices that kicks when you lick your fingers. Also the quail was delicious and prepared just right.
I had the Crunch Pork Belly (I think). It was quite good but tad on the salty side. Good flavor from the meat but I would have gone with something subdued for the sauce. Definitely less salty. :)
I had a big party with me. The waiter accomadated us without any issues and service was on mark. The ambience is dark and open dinining hall makes this bit noisy but not annoying. The decor was fantastic and reminded me of a russian era communist hideout in an alien ship, if that makes sense.
Overall, great place to dine and be with friends.Licked four times out of five. -
Review from Carol K.
3/4/2007
Tizi Melloul is a memorable experience each time I go. This place is a combination of modern chic with traditional Mediterranean.
The bar is trendy and cool with these white, half moon style stools. It's a fun place to sit and talk and enjoy one of their signature cocktails like the Fizi Tizi. Or if you are adventurous- try their hookah pipe with flavors that change monthly.
The main dining room is dark, with copper topped tables and hypnotic sitar music playing in the background. They have an inventive list of appetizers-try the baba gnanoush, the grilled calamari or the fire roasted mussels- all delicious!
For dinner- we usually order a variety of entrees and split them so that we can all taste a wider range of the menu. The last time we were there- the winners were the grilled lamb with artichokes, the scallops with fava beans and the tuna.
The service is consistently good. The servers are familiar with the menu and do a good job answering questions. They are attentive without being overbearing.
On Sundays- there is belly dancing which is entertaining in itself.
If you are driving- there is valet parking out front as street parking is tough in that area. There is also a public parking garage a couple of blocks down Wells.
If you are looking for a unique dining experience with an opportunity to try unusual flavor combinations, set in a colorful environment, then this place is for you. -
Review from Bess R.
5/7/2008
I pretty much enjoyed everything about Tizi. Friends took me here for my birthday in early April and it was an excellent choice. Very cool restaurant. Did get a little loud, but that was probably my fault:)
Cocktails were very yum - wish I could have tried some more, but couldn't handle my booze. We had the mussels (to die for) and the hummus plate for apps. I had the pork belly entree with olives. It was pretty big, and very crispy. I think my manfriend had the prawns, also delicious.
Our server was a lot of fun, and very attentive. My friend brought a b-day cake for me, and they took care of candles, presentation and cut and served the cake for us. Very nice! Can't wait to go back! -
Review from Amanda C.
Chicago, IL
3/5/2009
My experience with this restaurant is only limited, as my boyfriend and I went on Valentine's Day to enjoy their special four-course V-Day meal. So keep that in mind as I write the review.
The good: Amazing ambiance. Beautiful, luscious decorations that provide a decadent yet sensual atmosphere. Low-lit candles. This is the perfect place to take a date and feel "in the mood" just by your surroundings. The hostess and maitre were professional and courteous. Valet drivers efficient and non-evasive. Creative cocktails (the cucumber martini was delicious) and good, albeit small, beer selection (try the Turkish Pilsner).
The bad: The V-Day dinner consisted of a four course meal, one version with meat and one for vegans. I am a vegetarian, not vegan, but I was more than happy to try the fare. My disappointment: This 'vegan' menu was not thoroughly thought-out and mostly consisted of regular menu items sans meat and cheese. This is not filling, nutritious, nor pleasing to the palette, and I especially don't appreciate paying the same $50 that my boyfriend paid for lamb and seafood for greens on a plate. I appreciate the attempt, but I think doing some homework about vegan diets (i.e. including a proper protein) would have been greatly appreciated. On another note, the 'coat check' could use some improvement.
Overall conclusion: This is an excellent date place and would definitely recommend it for omnivores. My boyfriend said he had one of the best meals of his life. Vegans/vegetarians may want to look elsewhere, for the price. -
Review from Kathleen C.
Chicago, IL
1/7/2007
We went here on New Year's eve and had a great time. We had an 8pm reservation and were seated about 10 minutes after arriving, during which time we were able to sit at the bar and order drinks (try the Rockin' Moroccan - it was delicious!).
The prix fixe menu had a lot of options and everything was great - I had the tuna tartare, mixed green salad, tuna, and blueberry tart, all of which I loved, especially the tuna dishes. My husband had Kobe beef and quail which he also loved.
The decor is gorgeous, very Moroccan influenced but also with some rich, modern touches. An added bonus if you can go when there is belly dancing, although be warned that she does attempt to create audience participation! -
Review from Jasbir S.
Chicago, IL
12/18/2006
Tizi is simply amazing. I've gone there on multiple ocassions with different crowds and everyone has loved it.
The decor is incredible - as far as extremely decorated restaurants go, this is the best one I've been to so far. Very sexy vibe.
The service is impeccable - everyone is friendly, tables are far enough from the next group that you're not hearing about someone else's conversation.
The food is very good - the Prince Edward Island Mussels are a must. This is their signature dish and you can't leave without trying it. I don't usually like Mussels but their preparation is wonderful. The appetizers are excellent. The main entrees themselves are very good but leave a little to be desired. The desserts are out of this world and this is from someone who doesn't eat many desserts (you'll notice a trend with me, a lot of my compliments are based on convincing me to do things or like things I don't usually like).Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Jim W.
Chicago, IL
5/25/2008
Cool place - guess you have to be when you are competing with Sushi Samba down the street. Interesting blend of futuristic, full bar/lounge area mixed with, surprisingly small dining space. The layout of this place is definitely geared towards the bar. That said, the food here rocks.
Not really your typical Middle Eastern place I'd say...I didn't have much on the menu, but everyone seemed to enjoy their meals. The lamb tenderloin appetizers were lovely, and my pork tenderloin - oh, the crunchy pork belly! Cooked just right, with a very unique (I'm assuming Middle Eastern) blend of spices.
Service was prompt and polite, although unfortunately they did screw up a friend's order and sent it to another table. They apologized by sending a flute of champagne. They were quite accommodating - our full party didn't arrive for the 730p reservation until 810p. One downer is that they don't do separate checks, and the menu wasn't really too extensive, but at least they do what they do right, which is a lot more than other places...
Update (6/3/08): Had a private party in the Crescent Room - apparently you either leave a 2k deposit or everyone has to order the prix fixe. Food was still good, but the portions were pretty small. It is a pretty cool private room though, albeit a bit tight for our party of 23. -
Review from Emily C.
Chicago, IL
6/15/2008
Tizi was good. Not great. But good.
First and foremost, it was hotter than a Kathy Lee sweat shop in there. I'm not sure if their air was not working but they had, get ready for this, fans set up in the corner. Ooookay. Interesting. To boot, it was so crowded. Yes the place was packed, but they really pack the tables in there. This bordered on tacky. Quite loud, dark yet nice decor.
Our waiter was not great. I got the feeling this was one of his first nights because the manager was watching him. Which brings me to the manager. This guy is great. He hustled all night, visiting tables and making sure all of his customers were happy.
Now on to the food. The menu isn't quite as extensive as I would have liked. Not being very well versed in traditional Mediterranean food, I was not sure what to expect. We started with the seared scallops which were nice. Small-medium sized scallops, seared nicely, with a potato pave and sprout salad. This mixture of texture and taste was a nice balance. The scallops were on the salty side which I'm not sure if they were over salted or if that is the Mediterranean preparation.
For entree, I had the tilapia minus the mascarpone. The tilapia was prepared beautifully. They modified it perfectly (due to lactose intolerance) and were very accommodating with an amazing roasted yellow pepper sauce on the side and gnocchi. The gnocchi was prepared perfectly with a nice crust on the outside. Soooo good. Again the tilapia was slightly over salted. For desert, my girlfriends split the ice cream sandwiches which they loved.
Nice evening and I'm glad I went but nothing about this place is amazing or would inspire a returned visit, yet good enough to recommend for a nice evening with friends (probably not great for a date due to the lighting and noise level). -
Review from Lauren K.
2/17/2010
I love Tizi, not just because my beautiful belly dance instructor performs there on some Sundays, but because they really know how to accommodate. I love when a restaurant values customer service. Tizi does just that and more.
My friends and I come here for the Sunday special they often have-- $25 for belly dancing, three courses of appetizers, and unlimited wine. That's right, they just keep pouring.
The belly dancers come out at 7pm and 8pm, in the crescent room. They usually dance to 3 or 4 songs each time, and encourage audience participation, if you so desire! The unlimited wine will help your stage fright (:
I'm vegetarian, so I always ask for a meat free appetizer option. Not only do they make something fabulous for me, they always ask if I want vegan or gluten-free as well. It's the little things like that which matter most I think!
Get the chocolate fondue for dessert...it's a crowd pleaser! -
Review from Mari K.
Chicago, IL
2/11/2008
I've walked past this restaurant dozens of times, but never really cared to check it out.. big mistake. Luckily, my friend had her going away party there last weekend... and it rocked! From the moment I walked in the door, the manager took my coat, escorted me to the lounge (where the rest of the party was waiting), and even checked in with me while I was on my way to the restroom to ask how our dinner was going. Talk about service!
For appetizers, we had a sizzling pile of seasoned mussels, which was served on a rock-like platter. They were probably the best mussels I've ever had. However, they were a bit small (maybe because they weren't cooked in a broth). I chose to order the pork belly, which matched its description perfectly. It was crispy, served on a bed of sauteed cabbage with sundried tomatoes and potato wedges, and very flavorful. Highly recommended. Others ordered the duck, salmon, and tilapia.. I think I had the best dish. The tilapia did, however, come with taro gnocchi... something I've never tried before.
Wonderful restaurant... will definitely be returning sometime soon. -
Review from Tiffany S.
Chicago, IL
12/14/2009
I came here for a friend's birthday dinner, and I found it to be a very pleasant experience. We were all in a party mood, and shared a couple apps with each other. The hommos was awesome, and so was this little goat cheese pastry thing.
Tizi's would have gotten a 4 if they had cooked my salmon all the way through. I got it, and it was raw in the middle. Maybe it's me, but if you serve me something potentially hazardous to my health, bring me a new dish, and don't charge me. I'm pretty chill about that kind of thing, so I didn't say anything despite being charged for my semi-raw fish, but I also think had I been in a worse mood or a more evil person, I could have made a big deal about it.
I'd go back to Tizi's, but only if someone else was willing to pay. -
Review from Tania D.
Los Angeles, CA
7/15/2008
Tizi Melloul has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. First, the design is impecable, it's beautiful!!!
Second, the service is excellent, I can't complain about the Manager- Charles and Alex the bartender, they always take care of us!!!
Third, the food is VERY VERY good, yummy, healthy, clean and fresh.
I'm not going to say more because I want to keep some secrets, but check this place out! It's very nice. -
Review from O O.
Chicago, IL
10/17/2008
Great drink specials on Monday and Tuesday and the mussels are amazing. I love bringing guests here and sitting in the Cresent Room (some people will have to sit on the floor). The decor is amazing and I think the people who decorated the Real World Chicago place decorated this place.
Minus one star for slow service on a happy hour, but other than that, this place is great. -
Review from Nicole Rynee B.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2007
The decor and setting of Tizi was fabulous - very ornate, designed with a very liberal flare and fun vibe. From what I've heard, they sunk $1M into the redecoration of this restaurant - that's a lot of money put into this very intimate restaurant.
Overall our food was yummy. My dining companions got the pork loin, which I would say was far better than my Kobe beef filet. The pork loin was accompanied by a balsamic reduction sauce that added a terrific flavor to the dish. I'm no prestigious baker; however, I think even I could do a better job with a dessert. We ordered the ice cream cookie tower (ok and a bit difficult to eat) and the oatmeal cake (i thought was tasty, but according to my other friend at the table tasted like a "Starbucks muffin".
I must say that I wish they had a more extensive cocktail list - I seem to recall somewhere in the number of 8 unique drinks offered. A restaurant of this theme and decor would benefit from more unique cocktails.
Overall a unique dining experience - I didn't walk away in love with the place, but I wasn't bummed I spent an evening there either. Bottom line: give it a try. -
Review from Mike K.
6/28/2008
I've been to Tizi Malloul a few times now, and every visit is a pleasure.
To sit down and have a meal here is a delight. They cook cous cous the right way, none of that just add boiling water business. The fish is dynamite as well. But the real standout, the signature dish at this place, it has to be the mussels. They're covered in a reddish mix of spices, of which the dominant ones are, I believe, Cayenne and Hungarian paprika. They serve the mussels with a little cup of melted butter, which, as you can imagine, just puts the taste over the top. I've never seen mussels prepared in this manner anywhere else. You can tell from other reviews on Yelp that people are crazy about these mussels!
Apart from the dining room, Tizi has a really nice little bar and lounge area where you can order from their main menu or just sit and have a drink. On Mondays and Tuesdays, they have great all-night specials: three dollar bar menu items and three dollar martinis. The three dollar menu items are: (i) a tasty flatbread topped with goat cheese and a spicy tomato sauce, (ii) hummus (never had it there), and (iii) a small bowl of steamed mussels (NOT the famous mussels!). Get the bar menu food if you like, but I think you do yourself a disservice if you don't get the spicy mussels.
The staff are all very friendly, and the decor is fantastic. This restaurant looks very chic, and you might assume that the staff - or for that matter, the clientele - would be snotty, but that's not the case, they're quite friendly and accommodating.
Great place.
