Alhambra Palace Restaurant
(312) 361-8434
1240 W Randolph St
(at Elizabeth Street)
Chicago,
IL
60607
41.8842
-87.6579
Neighborhoods: Near West Side, West Side
Hours:
Sun-Thu 11am-3pm, 5pm-1am
Fri-Sat 11am-3pm, 5pm-2am
Price:
$$$$
Last updated 7.01.09
What People Are Saying About Alhambra Palace Restaurant
The Owner
Alhambra Palace Restaurant
Owner
Dining at Alhambra Palace begins in Morocco and the Middle East, traveling through the Mediterranean in every sense of the word. The menu features the Moroccan tagine, the classic kebabs of Greece and the freshest seafood influence by the flavors of the Mediterranean that have the cuisine world famous. Meze platters of fresh-made hummus, crispy falafel and spicy shrimp chermoula set the state for an impressive beginning or happily satiated later evening craving. The menu is directed by Executive Chef Kher Albourine, who recently arrived in Chicago after launching his career at five-star resorts in Jordan. Dinner is served beginning a 5 p.m. and lunch is available as well as delivery. You'll also find live entertainment nightly, such as salsa, flamenco and belly dancing. Call 312-361-8434 and mention Citysearch regarding group events.
The Editor
Fred Schlatter
Citysearch
The Scene
Imposing curb appeal includes copper-clad turrets, glowing red letters and decorated doors--perfect for receiving the nightly phalanx of six-figure cars. The first two rooms are modest-marble arches, mosaics, fountains, arabesque detailing-in comparison with the breathtaking stage hall. Two floors accommodate nearly 1,000, every inch outfitted with Moroccan artifacts and crystal-laden chandeliers. Large groups gather around drinks, hunks of roasted meat and aromatic hookahs.
The Food
A familiar pan-Middle Eastern menu has few deviations despite the previous chef's French roots. Appetizers are traditional; thick, tahini-heavy hummus and zingy dolmeh are both delicious with baskets of warm pita. The one oddball, a grilled scallop plated with marmalade, is succulent and balanced. Kabobs come in chicken, filet, salmon and kefta (ground, seasoned lamb) and two tagines--chicken and lamb shank--both arrive steaming and fragrant with cinnamon. To finish, honeyed baklava stands out.
Photo courtesy of Alhambra Palace Restaurant
User Reviews
ylealuv
June 24, 2009
I had the most amazing time with my girlfriends here.i mean the place is like a museum it is GORGEOUS! I i dunno y ppl complain bout payin i mean im happy we didnt have to pay to get in. the flamenco dancers were soooooooo amazing and the belly dancer was absolutely fantastic!!! we took over the dance floor and had a blast!! definitely look forward to havin an event here. food was average...but i just had a great time for the entertainment, didnt care much.drinks were delish!
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Rschmidt
May 05, 2009
What an interesting place. We went there for the food and to watch the belly dancing. Well, let me start by saying, the food was nothing to write about, very expensive, service was ok, ordinary. This place lacks enthusiasm. The show was nice. I don't know, something about this place just turned me off. Can't shake it.
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Kesha
April 25, 2009
An experience was definitely one I wish we had never experienced. Commencing by waiting for our table for more that 30 minutes. We waited at the bar, the bartender was a total witch, not once did she smile,very rude, not a "what can I get for you, but a "what do you want" classy place huh ( mind you during all this she and I assume it was the mgr (tall husky young gentleman) were busy talking about plans after closing. Well we finally got our table,we ordered WOW , very small portions, the hummus for 5 of us was served on a coffee plate and only two pitas cut in half, we ask for more pitas , were brought one cut in half. OK, move on to the entre we order chicken kabob, tons of rice and only 4 tiny pcs of chicken. Lamb tangine, was all fat, very greasy. Mixed plattter was good I must admit, Then we asked for a glass of water, it smelled like eggs. We complained to our server, think her name was Asa (isha), she mumble" thats why I don't eat here" Way to go. I tried to complained to the mgr ( young guy), just as I started to tell him the problems he walked away. We have never felt so INSULTED, ROBBED. I will not say, not to go there, I say, if you feel you need to be screwed, go there, you definitely will be.
read full reviewThe Details on Alhambra Palace Restaurant
Where to Sit:
The best vantage points for the show are from the raised main floor level and the balcony. True VIPs can book private balconies that come equipped with unlimited food, drink and dedicated wait staff.
When to Go:
As if the hand-carved walls, imported tiles, balcony seats and gorgeous food wasn't enough of a feast for the eyes, bellydancers put on performances Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm to 10pm.
Private Rooms:
The entire second floor--with blood red drapes and tile mosaic walls--begs to be rented for your next party for 300 friends.
Parking:
Valet is a bit on the steep side at $10, but well worth it considering the neighborhood's tricky grid of one ways and shady side streets.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Late Night Dining, Romantic Dining, Special Occasion Dining, Fine Dining, Private Rooms, People Watching, Lunch Spot, Online Reservations, Date Spot, Group Dining, Live Music
General Info:
Cuisine:
Message from Alhambra Palace Restaurant
- Dining & Live Entertainment
- Weddings & corporat events
- Private & special occcasions
Dining at Alhambra Palace begins in Morocco and the Middle East, traveling through the Mediterranean in every sense of the word. The menu features the Moroccan tagine, the classic kebabs of Greece and the freshest seafood influence by the flavors of the Mediterranean that have the cuisine world famous. Meze platters of fresh-made hummus, crispy falafel and spicy shrimp chermoula set the state for an impressive beginning or happily satiated later evening craving. The menu is directed by Executive Chef Kher Albourine, who recently arrived in Chicago after launching his career at five-star resorts in Jordan. Dinner is served beginning a 5 p.m. and lunch is available as well as delivery. You'll also find live entertainment nightly, such as salsa, flamenco and belly dancing. Call 312-361-8434 and mention Citysearch regarding group events.
