Chicago is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. With its diverse population and rich history, it's no wonder that the city is home to some of the best Asian restaurants in the country.
From delicious dim sum to savory ramen bowls, there's something for every taste bud in the Windy City.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, exploring the city's Asian food scene is a must. The best Asian restaurants in Chicago offer a glimpse into the city's vibrant food culture and provide a unique dining experience.
From trendy fusion spots to traditional mom-and-pop shops, there's no shortage of options to choose from.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best Asian restaurants in Chicago. We'll cover a wide range of cuisines, from Japanese sushi to Thai curries.
We'll also highlight some of the city's hidden gems and lesser-known spots that are worth a visit. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Chicago's Asian food scene.
1. Duck Duck Goat
Duck Duck Goat is a must-visit Asian restaurant for anyone looking for elevated Chinese cuisine.
The menu features creative and flavorful dishes meant for sharing, such as the duck fried rice and goat noodles. The atmosphere is trendy and ornate, making for a memorable dining experience.
The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience.
Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a table at this popular spot. Duck Duck Goat is perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
2. NoodleBird at Fat Rice
NoodleBird at Fat Rice is a must-visit for those who love Asian cuisine. The restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. The atmosphere is cozy, with picnic-style tables perfect for sharing dishes with friends and family.
The service is impeccable, with friendly staff always ready to assist you. The rotating specials on the menu ensure that you have a new experience each time you visit.
The portions may be small, but the quality of the food more than makes up for it. The prices are reasonable, making it a great place for a special occasion or a quick lunch.
Don't forget to try their famous iced tea with fresh mint leaves and lemon wedge. NoodleBird at Fat Rice is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for delicious and creative Asian cuisine.
3. MCCB Chicago
MCCB Chicago serves up delicious and authentic Asian cuisine.
With a wide variety of dishes to choose from, including traditional Chinese seafood and Sichuan and Canton fare, there's something for everyone.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is prompt. The menu is extensive and reasonably priced.
MCCB Chicago is a must-visit for anyone looking for great Asian cuisine in the area.
4. Mott St
Mott St offers a delicious Asian fusion dining experience with excellent service.
Highlights include the whole fish, crab rice, and Mott Burger.
Cocktails are also well-crafted. The atmosphere is cozy and eclectic with communal tables.
Reservations are recommended for weekend dining.
5. Sunda Chicago
Sunda Chicago is a hip Asian fusion restaurant that serves up creative dishes and sushi in a chic and modern space.
With a great selection of vegetarian options and clearly labeled dishes, there's something for everyone.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the cocktails are expertly crafted. The Brussel sprout salad and Tuna Truffle Pizza are must-tries, and the Poke Bowl and Dragon sushi are personal favorites.
For a high-end dining experience in the Windy City, Sunda Chicago is a top choice.
6. Saucy Porka South Loop
Saucy Porka South Loop offers a delightful blend of Latin and Asian cuisine. With a menu that offers a variety of options, there is something for everyone.
The food is delicious and well-prepared, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
The staff are friendly and attentive, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience. While the restaurant lacks in ambiance, the food more than makes up for it.
It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the mood for some creative Latin-Asian fusion fare.
7. AO Hawaiian Hideout
AO Hawaiian Hideout is a colorful eatery that offers a mix of Asian cuisines and cocktails.
The restaurant has a tropical vibe and features live music. The menu is extensive and includes sushi, ramen, fried rice, and other Hawaiian dishes.
The portions are large and the presentation is lovely. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable.
AO Hawaiian Hideout is a great place to have a fun night out with friends or family.
8. BITES Asian Kitchen + Bar
BITES Asian Kitchen + Bar is a rustic-chic restaurant that serves up creative Asian tapas and cocktails.
The food is high-quality and the portions are large, making it an affordable option for diners. The restaurant has a great ambiance and outdoor patio seating with heat lamps for chilly nights.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and the bubble tea menu is worth trying.
The service can be lacking due to understaffing, but the friendly staff make up for it. Parking can be a challenge, but it's worth the effort to try the unique menu items.
9. Take a Bao Eats
Take a Bao Eats is an Asian fusion restaurant that serves delicious food. The menu is focused, and the dishes are prepared perfectly.
The dumplings are a must-try and are filled with perfectly consistent filling. The portions are generous, and the staff is kind and friendly.
The cinnamon sugar bao-nut is a free treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The food is packaged neatly, and the delivery service is quick and efficient. Take a Bao Eats is a great place to satisfy your Asian food cravings.
10. Golden Bull Restaurant
Golden Bull Restaurant is a top-notch Asian restaurant that offers delicious and authentic cuisine. The restaurant is known for its excellent service and clean atmosphere.
Customers rave about the sweet and sour porkchops, steamed clams, salt and pepper squid, and farmer's chicken claypot rice.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and remembers what customers usually order.
The egg rolls and tea are also highly recommended. Golden Bull Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine.
11. Shanghai Terrace
Shanghai Terrace is a high-end Asian restaurant with a fantastic atmosphere and top-quality service. The concise menu features delicious and well-prepared dishes, with a focus on quality over quantity.
While the portions may be modest, the flavors are exceptional and truly in another realm from typical Asian cuisine.
Don't miss the Peking Duck salad and Kung Pao chicken, both of which pack a flavorful punch. The terrace seating provides lovely views and is perfect for a summer evening.
Prices are high, but the elegant gourmet Chinese cooking is worth every penny. If you're looking for an upscale dining experience with authentic Asian flavors, Shanghai Terrace won't disappoint.
12. Go 4 Food
Go 4 Food is a hidden gem that serves some of the best Asian fusion dishes in the city. The menu is extensive, with seafood dishes being the standout.
The restaurant has a simple setup and casual atmosphere, but the quality of the food is exceptional.
Prices are reasonable, and portions are generous. The hot and sour soup is a must-try, and the short rib and soups are also highly recommended.
Go 4 Food is a great place to experience authentic Chinese cuisine that caters to western taste buds.
13. Han 202 Restaurant
Han 202 Restaurant is a hidden gem in the bustling city. This Asian-fusion restaurant offers a four-course prix fixe menu that is a delight for the taste buds.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making sure that each dish is served with perfect timing. The dishes are beautifully presented and burst with unique flavors that are sure to impress.
The ambiance is cozy and intimate, making it a great place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The BYOB policy is an added bonus, allowing guests to bring their favorite drinks to complement the meal. If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, Han 202 Restaurant is a must-visit.
14. YATAI Asian Street Food
Looking for a delicious and affordable Asian meal in the city of Chicago, look no further than YATAI Asian Street Food.
This restaurant offers an extensive menu of Pan-Asian cuisine, including sushi, ramen, and rice dishes.
The food is always fresh and flavorful, and the service is friendly and attentive.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or casual dinner. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of the city.
15. Lao Peng You
Lao Peng You is a must-visit Asian restaurant for anyone looking for authentic and flavorful Chinese cuisine. This small and cozy eatery serves up some of the best Dan Dan noodles, pork dumplings, and xian bing bread in the city.
The homemade texture of their dumplings and noodles is a testament to their commitment to traditional Chinese cooking.
The cucumber cold salad is a refreshing and zesty accompaniment to any meal.
Although the dining room may be small and hot, the food is top-notch and worth the wait. Lao Peng You is definitely a hidden gem that any foodie should check out.
16. Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates
Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Asian cuisine. With a fusion of Chinese and Japanese flavors, the menu offers a wide range of dishes for all tastes.
The portions are generous, and the ingredients are fresh, making for a fantastic dining experience.
The service is top-notch, with attentive and friendly staff.
The ambiance is perfect, making it a great place for a cozy dinner with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant!
17. D Cuisine
D Cuisine is a trendy Asian restaurant that serves creative dim sums and larger plates.
The menu includes a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the interior is cozy and stylish.
The food is excellent and authentic, making it a great option for those looking for an Asian dining experience.
The restaurant also offers takeout options for those on the go.
18. Pingpong
Looking for delicious Asian fusion cuisine and strong drinks in a hip and stylish setting with outdoor seating options available in the warmer months, look no further than Pingpong.
With a menu featuring varied Thai, Chinese, and Japanese dishes, including sushi, there is something for everyone.
The food is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, and the staff is welcoming and attentive. Highly recommended for a fantastic evening out with friends or family.
19. Chengdu Impression Restaurant
Chengdu Impression Restaurant is a must-visit for those looking for authentic Sichuan cuisine.
Their dishes are packed with flavor and spice, making each bite an experience.
The staff are friendly and efficient, making the dining experience even better.
The restaurant is a bit small, but it's definitely worth the visit.
20. Nine Nines Asian Bistro
Nine Nines Asian Bistro is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Chinese cuisine. This family-run restaurant offers delicious dishes that are freshly made and bursting with flavor.
The menu may be small, but every item is executed to perfection. From the Orange Chicken to the Mongolian Beef, everything is cooked to perfection and served piping hot.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making every dining experience feel like a home-cooked meal. The restaurant is BYOB, which is a plus.
With ample parking and a great view of the river, Nine Nines Asian Bistro is a hidden gem that is worth discovering.
