Chicago is a city that prides itself on its diverse culinary scene. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs to Italian beef sandwiches, the Windy City has it all.
But there is one dish that has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike: sweet & sour chicken.
This classic Chinese dish has been adapted to suit American tastes, and Chicago is no exception. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the best sweet & sour chicken in the city.
That's why we've put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you're looking for a traditional version of the dish or something with a modern twist, there's a restaurant in Chicago that's sure to deliver.
From hole-in-the-wall spots to high-end establishments, the options are endless. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best places for sweet & sour chicken in Chicago.
1. BITES Asian Kitchen + Bar
BITES Asian Kitchen + Bar is a great spot for those craving sweet & sour chicken. The portions are big and the prices are affordable, making it a great option for a casual meal out.
The restaurant also offers a nice outdoor patio for those who enjoy dining al fresco.
While not everything on the menu is a hit, the honey bourbon sesame chicken and the double Bites burger are definitely worth trying.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for an overall enjoyable dining experience.
2. Shanghai Inn Restaurant
Shanghai Inn Restaurant is a Chinese restaurant that offers delicious sweet & sour chicken.
The food portions are large and the staff is friendly, making for a great dining experience.
The restaurant is a neighborhood standby that has been serving Chinese comfort food since 1960. The restaurant is also known for its homemade soups and fried rice.
If you're in the mood for some authentic Chinese cuisine, Shanghai Inn Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
3. P.F. Chang's To Go
P.F. Chang's To Go is a family-friendly restaurant that offers creative takes on Asian fare.
Their sweet & sour chicken is a must-try, and their fried rice is also highly recommended. The portions are plentiful, and the service is quick and friendly.
The atmosphere is clean and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a quick and delicious meal.
While the menu is limited as it is a to-go place, it is still quite extensive. P.F. Chang's To Go is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for some tasty Asian cuisine.
4. Lao Peng You
Lao Peng You is a must-visit spot for sweet & sour chicken lovers. Their chewy noodles and pork and chive dumplings are a hit.
The dishes are big enough for sharing or leftovers. The beef noodle soup is a standout with homemade noodles in a flavorful broth.
The staff is friendly and remembers returning customers. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for a quick bite, takeout, or date night.
Don't miss out on this authentic Chinese restaurant with top-notch ingredients and flavors.
5. Joy Yee
Joy Yee is a Pan-Asian restaurant that serves up ample portions of noodle and rice dishes.
With a massive menu that features a large variety of Pan-Asian dishes, this restaurant is a great option for those who love Asian cuisine.
While the service may not be the fastest, the food is well worth the wait. The sweet & sour chicken is a standout dish that is sure to satisfy any craving for something sweet and tangy.
With clean and comfortable seating, Joy Yee is a great place to dine with friends or family.
6. Chengdu Impression Restaurant
Chengdu Impression Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Sichuan cuisine.
The menu is packed with spicy and flavorful dishes, including their delicious sweet & sour chicken. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff who provide excellent service.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The hot and sour soup and pork pot stickers are highly recommended.
Chengdu Impression Restaurant is a hidden gem that is definitely worth checking out for anyone who loves Chinese food.
7. Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates
Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates is a great spot for those looking for tasty sweet & sour chicken. The portions are generous and the quality of the food is high.
The menu offers a wide selection of dishes, including vegetarian options, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the prices are reasonable.
Whether you're in the mood for noodles, small plates, or classic Chinese dishes, Shang Noodle & Asian Small Plates is definitely worth a visit.
8. Emperor's Choice
Emperor's Choice is a Cantonese restaurant that serves traditional dishes with a focus on seafood.
The restaurant has been around for many decades and has a reputation for exceptional service. The food is uniformly good, and the portions are generous.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and they make every effort to accommodate their customers' needs. The sweet & sour chicken is a standout dish that is flavorful and perfectly cooked.
The prices are fair, and the dining space is ample. Emperor's Choice is a great choice for anyone looking for authentic Cantonese cuisine.
9. D Cuisine
D Cuisine offers some of the best sweet and sour chicken in the city.
The restaurant's dim sums are also a must-try. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff is friendly.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served. Perfect for small groups or solo diners looking for a relaxing meal.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for authentic Cantonese cuisine.
10. Mo's Asian Bistro
Mo's Asian Bistro is an excellent place to try authentic Asian cuisine. They offer a variety of dishes from Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisines.
The sweet & sour chicken is a must-try dish, as it is cooked to perfection, with just the right balance of sweet and sour flavors.
The portions are generous, and the service is friendly and efficient. Mo's Asian Bistro is a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner, with a lively atmosphere and great deals on sushi rolls.
If you're looking for a tasty meal, Mo's Asian Bistro is definitely worth checking out.
