Where to Eat Chinese Food in Chicago

Top Chinese Restaurants in Chicago

Looking for the best places to eat Chinese food in Chicago? From traditional restaurants in Chinatown to modern fusion eateries, Chicago has a thriving Chinese food scene. Here are some of the top restaurants you should consider:

1. Lao Sze Chuan

Located in the heart of Chinatown, Lao Sze Chuan offers a bold menu filled with fiery Szechuan-style dishes. Known for its spicy mapo tofu and dry-hot chicken, it's a must-visit for those craving authentic Szechuan flavors.

2. Duck Duck Goat

Celebrity chef Stephanie Izard’s restaurant, Duck Duck Goat, blends traditional Chinese flavors with contemporary twists. Their dim sum menu is a hit, especially the crispy egg rolls and kung pao chicken.

3. MingHin Cuisine

If you're a fan of dim sum, MingHin Cuisine in Chinatown offers an extensive dim sum menu with everything from steamed buns to dumplings. It's the perfect spot for a group meal with a variety of options to share.

Authentic Chinese Dining Experiences in Chicago

Chicago's Chinese restaurants aren't just about food; they also offer an authentic dining experience. Here are some great places that showcase real Chinese culture:

Sichuan Cuisine at Lao Sze Chuan

If you're looking for an authentic Sichuan experience, Lao Sze Chuan is the place to go. Famous for its spicy dishes, including the classic hot and sour soup and fiery dry-hot chicken, it's a great spot for adventurous eaters.

Cantonese Cuisine at Phoenix Restaurant

For those who prefer milder flavors, Phoenix Restaurant serves Cantonese-style dishes. It's the go-to spot for roasted meats, especially the perfectly crispy Peking duck, which comes with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce.

Best Chinese Dishes to Try in Chicago

Chicago is home to a diverse range of Chinese dishes, many of which you can’t miss. From comfort food to fiery Szechuan spice, here are some of the best dishes to try:

1. Kung Pao Chicken

This popular dish is a combination of stir-fried chicken, peanuts, and spicy chili peppers. Many Chinese restaurants in Chicago, like Duck Duck Goat, serve this classic with a unique twist.

2. Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a showstopper, and you can find this crispy and flavorful dish at several high-end restaurants in Chicago, including Phoenix Restaurant and Duck Duck Goat. The duck is usually served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced vegetables.

3. Dim Sum

If you're in the mood for variety, dim sum is the way to go. At MingHin Cuisine, you can enjoy freshly made dumplings, buns, and spring rolls that make for a fun and satisfying meal.

Vegetarian and Vegan Chinese Options in Chicago

Chicago also offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options for those who prefer plant-based dishes. Many Chinese restaurants are becoming more accommodating to special diets. Here are a few favorites:

1. Vegetarian Dumplings

Many Chinese restaurants in Chicago, such as MingHin Cuisine, serve delicious vegetarian dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients like mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu.

2. Vegan Mapo Tofu

Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish, and you can easily find a vegan version in many Chicago eateries. The tofu is prepared with a rich, spicy sauce, often made with chili paste and fermented beans.

Where to Buy Chinese Ingredients in Chicago

If you want to try cooking Chinese food at home, Chicago has many markets that offer authentic ingredients. Here are a couple of the best places to find Chinese cooking essentials:

1. Chinatown Market

Chinatown Market offers a wide range of Chinese spices, sauces, and fresh produce. Whether you're looking for soy sauce, sesame oil, or fresh bok choy, this market has everything you need for your cooking adventures.

2. Super H Mart

Another excellent place to find Chinese ingredients is Super H Mart, where you can find a wide variety of Asian groceries, including specialty items like tofu, noodles, and pickled vegetables.