Galit
Chicago, USA
ā1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Its exterior is unassuming, but one step inside the hot spot and you'll be smitten by its lively vibe, warm hospitality and seductive aromas. Chef Zach Engel brings his experience to bear on this personal brand of modern Middle Eastern cuisine. His prix-fixe allows diners to make their own selections from a range of options. A generous first course kicks things off: Creamy hummus with brisket and salatim (spreads and pickles) accompanied by just-cooked, flame-kissed pita. Even familiar favorites like crackling-crisp falafel with mango labneh offer surprising depth. The teamās impressive intentionality extends to its beverage program, as esoteric wines from Armenia, Lebanon, Palestine, and Israel tell their own stories and make for beautiful pairings.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Here are three unique and unconventional aspects of the Michelin-starred restaurant Galit in Chicago:
1. Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Tasting Menu
Galit offers a distinctive four-course prix-fixe tasting menu where diners can customize their experience by selecting dishes from various options, allowing a personalized journey through modern Middle Eastern cuisine with a Midwest interpretation.
2. Focused and Rare Wine Program
The beverage program is intentionally curated to complement the cuisine, featuring an esoteric wine list predominantly from small producers in Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Armeniaāregions rarely highlighted in typical wine menus. This thoughtful pairing elevates the dining experience by telling stories through the wines as much as the food.
3. Unpretentious Ambiance Despite Michelin Status
Unlike many Michelin-starred establishments, Galit maintains a warm, lively, and somewhat casual atmosphere with rustic-chic decor, exposed brick walls, and an open kitchen. It feels approachable and welcoming rather than formal or stuffy, which is unusual for a restaurant of its caliber.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Galit in Chicago include:
Hummus: Various versions of hummus are a cornerstone of Galit's menu, including "Masabacha," "Trumpet Mushrooms," "Tehina," and notably "Bubbeās Brisket" hummus, which features brisket seasoned with smoked cinnamon. Hummus is served with accompaniments like salatim (spreads and pickles) and wood-fired pita, highlighting the restaurantās Middle Eastern roots and creative approach.
Brisket: Used in the signature "Bubbeās Brisket" hummus, the brisket is braised and seasoned with smoked cinnamon, adding a rich, savory depth to this classic dish reinterpreted with a modern twist.
Za'atar and Sumac: These traditional Middle Eastern spices are key to Galit's flavor profile, used to bring authentic regional tastes to dishes, reflecting the restaurantās commitment to Middle Eastern culinary heritage.
Zhoug: A Yemeni hot sauce that adds heat and complexity, often used as a condiment or ingredient to enhance dishes, showcasing the restaurantās use of diverse Middle Eastern flavors.
Wood-fired pita: The pita is fermented for 48 hours to develop flavor and gluten, then cooked in a wood-fired oven, serving as an essential accompaniment to many dishes, especially hummus, emphasizing artisanal preparation and texture.
These ingredients are significant as they embody Galit's mission to present a modern, Midwest interpretation of Middle Eastern cuisine with authenticity, creativity, and high culinary standards.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
No specific information available.
Signature Dishes with Prices
- Bubbe's Brisket: $16.00
- Lamb Chop: $32.00
- Steak: $29.00
- Balkan Stuffed Cabbage: $24.00
- Fried Fish Tunisian Style: $22.00
- Chicken Thigh: $18.00
- Fole Torchan: $18.00
- Shakshukah: $16.00