Armenian dining in Wheeling

This is NOT a review. Since this new “eatery” has just opened its doors, I will wait until they have had time to work out the kinks that every new business encounters.

Going back in time, let’s look at the 1970’2- Milwaukee Avenue in Wheeling was known as Restaurant Row. From Willow Road North to Lake Cook Road, one dining spot after another. From ethnic food to steaks and plenty of burgers and pizzas and of course Le Francais and Billy’s ( Myron & Phil spin-off), they were all lined up.

Times have changed and so have the restaurants. For the past few months as I drive south on Milwaukee Avenue, every Sunday from bowling to the radio station ( WCPT for Around The Town at 2 p.m.) I have driven past a sign that said coming soon-ARMO GRILL!

Tonight, Jane and I decided to drop in and see what this was all about. We met our granddaughter Caitlin ( a graduate of culinary school, who loves Mediterranean dining) for dinner.

FYI- The location is 516 N. Milwaukee Avenue ( on the West side of the street south of where Wolf Road merges with Milwaukee Ave.

The system is an order at the counter, where you also pay, they give you a number and you go to your table. You get real silverware and paper napkins and a server will come and bring your meal. They have drinks thta you can select from their cooler, but also a soda machine for you to fill ( and refill) at your leisure.

The menu is divided into PROTEIN, GARNISH, SALAD and APPETIZER.

You can do a combo plate with up to three proteins, a garnish, a salad and an appetizer. Or you can just do the protein you want.

I did the Combo plate with steak kabob, pork kabob and Chicken kabob. I added potatoes (fresh cut prepared with oil and spices), the Jerusalem Salad and tabuleh (cracked wheat, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, chopped green onions, parsley, oil, lemon juice and spices.

The presentation was beautiful and the food very tasty. In fact, it would have easily been shareable as I took home half the potatoes and meat which we will mix with eggs for tomorrow’s breakfast.

I am anxious to go back and try other menu items. They also are prepared to do catering and the prices are quite affordable for dine in, carry out or a big party.

They are open: Monday thru Saturday from 11:00 am- 8:00 p.m.

Sunday    11:00 am thru 7:30 p.m.                          phone number is 630-650-8001 and website www.armogrill.com

They have a sister restaurant in Glenview at 1707 Chestnut ( at Waukegan Rd) that is called Siunik Armenian Grill. Same menu- different location!