Combination
Hong Kong

Hong Kong

206 West US Highway 290, Elgin, 78621, United States Of America

Asian • Lunch • Cheese • Chinese


"My first impression when sitting down was that everything seemed rather expensive, especially compared 1:1 to another place like Pho Yes just down the road that offers basically all the same food, but I hoped the cost would be counter-balanced by quality and/or quantity. Unfortunately, neither was the case. The first two things we tried to order off the menu were out of stock. Great start. We ordered other food, and while it came out at a reasonable speed, my wife and I both agreed that everything tasted exceptionally bland and tasteless. And on all orders, they really skimped out on meat, clearly cutting costs by plating as little meat as possible to reasonably get away with. Again, compared to another very similar place like Pho Yes (which we had just visited the other week so it was fresh in our minds), the lack of taste and especially lack of meat was very apparent. The spring rolls were an obvious example, where we're used to meat being wrapped around the interior of the roll with thick cuts, but here it was two small pieces of meat on a single side per roll, so little that we couldn't even taste the meat, the spring rolls tasting just like the vegetable filling (so basically just the bland taste of water/air). The entrées didn't fair much better, with little meat, little sauce, and little flavor. Neither of us could finish our meals just because they tasted so empty and hollow. We took them home and tried to revive the meals later by adding more homecooked meat so the ratios were somewhat correct, and adding much-needed seasoning and sauce. But the base we were working with was still rather mediocre, and at that rate we might as well just stayed home. Very disappointing experience. Waste of time, a drive, and especially money (I spent like $75 on this crap), when we have gotten the exact same meal elsewhere at a much higher quality for half the cost."

Bab Alsalam

Bab Alsalam

5050 N Cumberland Ave, 60706, Norridge, US, United States

Halal • Steak • Casual • Middle Eastern


"An Exceptional Dining Experience at Bab Al Salam – Five Stars Across the Board! I recently had the pleasure of dining at Bab Al Salam, and I am delighted to share my enthusiastic five-star review of this culinary treasure. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the tantalizing scents of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff immediately made me feel at ease. The menu at Bab Al Salam offers a wide range of Middle Eastern dishes, from traditional shawarma to flavorful kebabs and crispy falafel wraps, catering to every taste. The selection of vegetarian and meat options was impressive, ensuring there was something for everyone in our group. Now, let's talk about the food – it was absolutely fantastic. The quality of the ingredients shone through in every bite. The shawarma was tender and packed with spices, the falafel was perfectly crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, and the kebabs were grilled to perfection. The mezzes and sides were equally delicious. The hummus was creamy, the tabbouleh was zesty, and the baba ghanoush had a delightful smoky flavor. The warm, freshly baked pita bread was the perfect accompaniment to these mouthwatering dishes. The attention to detail in the presentation of the food was truly impressive, with each dish beautifully plated and full of vibrant colors. The service at Bab Al Salam was top-notch. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and happy to offer recommendations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that added to our dining experience. The restaurant's dedication to cleanliness and hygiene was evident, with a tidy dining area and implemented safety measures that made us feel comfortable and secure throughout our visit. In summary, Bab Al Salam stands out as a standout in the world of fast-casual dining. Their commitment to authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and exceptional service make it a must-visit for anyone who loves Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you're a fan of this cuisine or trying it for the first time, you will not be disappointed. I look forward to returning to sample more of their delectable dishes. Five stars without a doubt! Service: Dine-in Meal Type: Lunch Price Range: $1-10 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Recommended dishes: Hummus, Beef Shawarma, Jerusalem Salad, Lentil Soup, Combination Plate, Falafel"