Best Chinese Restaurants in Chicago for Families
As a parent, finding the perfect restaurant that satisfies both your cravings and your kids' needs can be a challenge. But when it comes to Chinese food in Chicago, there are several options that hit the mark for families. Whether you’re craving spicy Szechuan or comforting Cantonese, Chicago offers a variety of Chinese restaurants that will make everyone at the table happy.
1. MingHin Cuisine
One of the most popular choices for families in Chicago is MingHin Cuisine. Known for its large, diverse menu and spacious, modern setting, MingHin is perfect for family gatherings. The restaurant offers a range of dishes, from dim sum to flavorful noodle dishes. If you have picky eaters in your group, the dim sum menu is a great way to please everyone, as it features bite-sized portions of a variety of foods.
What makes MingHin stand out for families is not only its food but also its excellent service and relaxed atmosphere. The waitstaff is incredibly attentive, which makes dining with kids much easier. The restaurant is also known for its clean, family-friendly environment, making it a favorite spot for many Chicago families.
2. Lao Sze Chuan
If your family enjoys bold, spicy flavors, Lao Sze Chuan in Chinatown is a must-visit. Famous for its Szechuan cuisine, Lao Sze Chuan brings a fiery kick to traditional Chinese dishes. While some dishes can be on the spicy side, the restaurant does offer mild options that are perfect for younger children. The menu features everything from savory stir-fries to delicious noodle soups, and the portion sizes are generous, making it great for sharing.
For families, the key to enjoying a meal at Lao Sze Chuan is to customize the spice level to suit the whole group. The restaurant’s staff is always happy to adjust the seasoning, making it a flexible dining experience for families with different tastes. It’s a great choice for parents who want to introduce their kids to more adventurous flavors.
3. Joy Yee’s Noodle Shop
Joy Yee’s Noodle Shop in Chicago’s Chinatown is another fantastic option for families. This casual, bustling eatery is well-known for its extensive noodle and rice dish offerings, making it ideal for family dining. The menu features everything from noodle soups and stir-fried dishes to more elaborate meals like Mongolian beef and Peking duck.
One of the standout features of Joy Yee’s is its large portions, which are perfect for sharing with the whole family. Kids especially love the restaurant’s colorful bubble teas, which come in a variety of fruity flavors. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly spot with a casual vibe, Joy Yee’s should be on your list.
4. The Duck Inn
If you’re looking for a slightly more upscale Chinese dining experience with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, The Duck Inn in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood might be the perfect fit. Known for its creative take on Chinese comfort food, The Duck Inn offers a refined but approachable menu. The restaurant’s signature duck dishes are complemented by a variety of flavorful sides, including dumplings and vegetables.
The Duck Inn stands out for its ability to mix traditional Chinese flavors with a modern twist. It’s a great place for families who want to enjoy a high-quality meal without compromising on the comfort and warmth that makes dining with kids enjoyable. The friendly staff and welcoming ambiance make it a top choice for a special family outing.
5. China BBQ
For a casual, no-frills dining experience, China BBQ in Chicago’s Chinatown offers great value for families. Known for its BBQ dishes and roasted meats, China BBQ offers a variety of options that will appeal to both adults and kids. The restaurant is particularly famous for its crispy duck and roast pork, which are perfect for sharing.
What sets China BBQ apart for families is its affordability and relaxed atmosphere. This is the kind of place where you can enjoy a hearty meal without worrying about the kids getting too noisy. The staff is used to large families, and the portions are plentiful, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.
6. Shanghai Terrace
Shanghai Terrace offers a fine-dining experience with a view, making it an excellent option for families who want to enjoy a luxurious meal in Chicago. Located on the 16th floor of the Peninsula Hotel, this upscale restaurant serves a variety of traditional Chinese dishes with a contemporary flair. While it’s a more refined dining experience, Shanghai Terrace is still very welcoming to families, offering a variety of options that kids will enjoy.
The menu includes dishes like hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and fresh seafood. Parents will appreciate the sophisticated ambiance, while kids will enjoy the opportunity to try different types of Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is also known for its stunning views of the city skyline, adding an extra element of excitement to your dining experience.
7. Phoenix Restaurant
Located in the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown, Phoenix Restaurant is a family favorite that’s been serving delicious Chinese food for decades. The restaurant specializes in Cantonese-style dishes, with a large menu that includes everything from crispy spring rolls to sizzling seafood platters. Phoenix is also famous for its dim sum, which makes it a great spot for families looking for a variety of flavors and textures.
What makes Phoenix particularly attractive for families is its spacious dining area, which accommodates large groups comfortably. The restaurant’s efficient service ensures that your meal will come out quickly, making it ideal for families with hungry little ones. Whether you’re here for a special occasion or just a casual meal, Phoenix delivers great value and delicious food in a family-friendly setting.
8. Red Flower Chinese Restaurant
If you’re seeking a traditional Chinese restaurant with a focus on fresh ingredients and classic dishes, Red Flower Chinese Restaurant in the Lincoln Park area is worth a visit. The restaurant’s menu features a range of Chinese-American dishes, including favorites like General Tso’s chicken, sweet and sour pork, and egg rolls.
Red Flower is known for its friendly service and casual atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a low-key yet satisfying meal. The portion sizes are generous, and the restaurant’s pricing is reasonable, making it a go-to spot for families on a budget.
9. Sun Wah BBQ
Another popular spot in Chicago’s Chinatown is Sun Wah BBQ. This well-loved restaurant specializes in Beijing-style barbecue, including whole roasted ducks and other mouthwatering meats. The star of the show is the Peking duck, which is carved tableside and served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce – a dish that both adults and kids will enjoy.
Sun Wah BBQ is ideal for large families or groups, as the restaurant’s layout and hearty portion sizes make it easy to share. The casual, vibrant atmosphere also makes it a great choice for families with children, as there’s no pressure to maintain absolute quiet while you enjoy your meal.
10. Superdawg
While not strictly Chinese food, Superdawg is a unique dining experience that families with kids will appreciate. It’s a famous Chicago institution known for its hot dogs and casual atmosphere. For families who want something a little different and need a break from traditional Chinese cuisine, Superdawg is a fun choice. It offers an outdoor dining area and classic American fare, perfect for families on the go.
The lively environment and retro charm of Superdawg make it a memorable stop for families in Chicago. Plus, the food is satisfying and affordable, ensuring that everyone is happy at the table.
