Aba is a rooftop Mediterranean restaurant and cocktail lounge at 302 N Green St, 3rd Floor, in Chicago‘s Fulton Market district of the West Loop. It opened in 2018 from Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and Chef CJ Jacobson. The name means father in Hebrew, and the menu filters Israeli, Lebanese, Turkish and Greek flavors through a California lens. Travelers come for shareable plates, a lush terrace and a wine list focused on lesser-known Mediterranean regions.
What to Expect at Aba
Jacobson’s menu is built for sharing. Meals usually open with spreads and warm pita, then move to wood-grilled skewers, seafood and larger plates. The hummus topped with crispy short rib is the dish regulars order on every visit. Lamb kefta, chicken shawarma and grilled octopus are other common picks. Many dishes are naturally vegetarian or gluten-free, and servers handle dietary requests readily.
The third-floor dining room feels breezy, with olive trees, warm wood and soft lighting. The real draw is the rooftop patio, a lounge-style terrace with fire features and greenery that buzzes from spring through early fall. The bar mixes herb- and citrus-driven cocktails and pours spirits and rare wines from regions such as Lebanon, Greece and Sardinia.
- Crispy Short Rib Hummus: The signature spread, topped with tender, crisp-edged beef.
- Skewers and Grill: Lamb kefta, chicken and seafood cooked over open flame.
- Rooftop Patio: Lounge seating with fire pits and city views in warm months.
- Mediterranean Wine List: Bottles from lesser-known regions along the sea.
- Weekend Brunch: Saturday and Sunday service from 10AM.
Aba at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 302 N Green St, 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Fulton Market, West Loop |
| Operating Hours | Mon 4-10PM; Tue Closed; Wed 6:45-10PM; Thu 4-10PM; Fri 4-11PM; Sat 10AM-11PM; Sun 10AM-10PM |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$; about $60-$90 per person with drinks |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1.5 to 2.5 hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | CTA Green/Pink Line Morgan station (about 5 min walk); valet and nearby garages |
| Official Website & Phone | abarestaurants.com; +1 773-645-1400 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Book ahead through Aba’s official reservation page, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings or patio seating in summer. Prime 7-8:30PM slots go weeks out. Early tables at 4PM, or weekend brunch, are easier to get. Dress is smart casual.
The CTA Green and Pink Lines stop at Morgan station on Lake Street, a short walk away. Rideshare drop-offs are simple on Green Street, and valet is common in the area. Elevator access serves the third floor and rooftop, so the venue is wheelchair and stroller friendly. Afterward, stroll Randolph Street’s Restaurant Row, browse Fulton Market’s galleries and boutiques, or walk to Mary Bartelme Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Aba open, and when should I go?
Aba is closed Tuesdays and serves dinner the other nights, plus brunch from 10AM on weekends. Sunset on the patio between May and September is the most sought-after time.
Do I need a reservation, and what does it cost?
Reservations are strongly recommended, though bar seats may open up for walk-ins. Expect $$$ pricing, roughly $60-$90 per person with cocktails.
How long should I budget?
Plan on 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a full shared meal with drinks.
Is Aba accessible and family friendly?
Elevators reach the dining room and rooftop. Children are welcome at brunch and early dinner, though evenings take on a lively lounge feel.
When planning your Chicago travel guide or comparing verified nightlife and mediterranean restaurant in Chicago, pair this stop with standout local spots including The Peninsula Chicago, Tanta Chicago, Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton, and The Publican (nearby).
