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Rumi Middle Eastern Grill Joins Wicker Park's Falafel Scene

By Alisa Hauser | June 20, 2016 2:33pm
 Rumi Middle Eastern Grill at 1534 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Rumi Middle Eastern Grill at 1534 N. Milwaukee Ave.
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DNAinfo/Alisa Hauser

WICKER PARK — A fast casual Middle Eastern eatery serving shawarma, hummus, falafel and many gluten-free dishes plans to open on Saturday, according to a storefront sign along a prime stretch of Wicker Park's Milwaukee Avenue.

Just south of the neighborhood's main hub, the 60-seat Rumi Middle Eastern Grill, at 1534 N. Milwaukee Ave., is owned by Rashid Mahmoud, who hatched the plan to open the restaurant in March 2015.

View the menu.

The storefront has been vacant for three years, since Kids Rule, a toy store that was also owned by Rashid, closed in spring 2013.

"At Rumi, our goal is simple: to bring you delicious, healthy, and wholesome food–that you love. Have all of your Mediterranean favorites the way you want them. Whether you need something quick or want to savor a hearty meal and enjoy a good time with friends, we are here for you," the website says.

Rumi's entry joins many other newer Middle Eastern joints in the area, including Tarboush Mediterranean Grill at 1608 W. North Ave., which opened last year along with Pita Cafe, at the northwest corner of Damen Avenue and Division Street. and Shawarma Garden at 1951 W. Division St.

Some longer-established eateries include Sultan's Market at 2057 W. North Ave., which has been open since the 1990s, and Falafel & Grill at 1317 N. Milwaukee. Ave., which opened in 2011.

Rumi Middle Eastern Grill, 1532 N. Milwaukee Ave. Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Mon.-Thursday; 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday-Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Ph: 773-666-5119.

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