If you're looking for a spicy and flavorful Thai dish to satisfy your cravings, drunken noodles are a must-try.
These stir-fried noodles are a popular street food in Thailand and have become a staple in many Thai restaurants across the world. Chicago is no exception, with an abundance of restaurants that offer this delicious dish.
Drunken noodles, also known as Pad Kee Mao, are made with wide rice noodles, vegetables, meat, and a spicy sauce made with chili, garlic, and basil.
The dish gets its name from the belief that it helps cure hangovers, making it a popular choice for those who have had a little too much to drink the night before.
Chicago has a variety of Thai restaurants that serve up this dish, each with their own unique spin on the classic recipe. From traditional and authentic to modern and fusion, there's a place for everyone's taste buds.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch spot or a fancy dinner date, there's a restaurant in Chicago that has you covered. So, without further ado, let's explore some of the best places to get drunken noodles in the Windy City.
1. Sunda Chicago
Sunda Chicago offers a chic and modern atmosphere for those seeking a night out with Asian-inspired small plates and drinks.
The menu offers a wide variety of options, including vegan and vegetarian dishes.
While some dishes lacked in flavor, the sushi and noodles were standouts. The service was friendly and accommodating, and prices were reasonable for the location.
This is a great spot for a trendy night out, but may not compare to the top Asian restaurants in the city.
2. EaThai
EaThai is a Thai restaurant that offers a wide variety of flavorful dishes. Their drunken noodles are a must-try, as well as their Red Curry with Pumpkin and Khao Soi.
Customers can choose from a selection of protein options and spiciness levels to customize their dish.
The ingredients are fresh and the portions are just right. The service is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff.
The restaurant has a cool and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
3. Ghin Khao Eat Rice
Ghin Khao Eat Rice is a hidden gem that offers authentic Thai food. The menu is limited but the dishes are bursting with flavors.
Vegetarian options are available and the chef only uses Shrimp Paste and Fish Sauce in meat dishes.
The Drunken Noodles are a must-try and the mixed vegetables are cooked to perfection. The service is friendly and the ambiance is laid-back.
BYOB is allowed which makes it a great spot for a casual night out with friends or family. Don't miss out on the mango sweet rice for dessert.
4. Penny's Noodle Shop
Penny's Noodle Shop offers authentic Thai cuisine with a full menu. They have a cozy atmosphere and offer outdoor seating during the warmer months.
Their drunken noodles are a must-try, and their pad see ew is flavorful with a great texture.
They also offer leaner versions of some rich dishes, and their beef noodle soup has a clear and aromatic broth.
The service is fast and cordial, and the prices are reasonable. It's a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
5. Ben's Noodles & Rice
If you're looking for a cozy spot to grab some delicious Thai food, Ben's Noodles & Rice is a great option.
This small, unassuming joint offers a variety of Asian cuisine at reasonable prices.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the food is always fresh and flavorful.
Don't miss out on their tasty drunken noodles!
6. Same Same
Looking for some delicious Thai food with a modern twist and a funky atmosphere to enjoy it in, Same Same is the perfect place for you.
With a menu that includes Boneless Hat Yai and Phat Kee Mao (aka Drunken Noodles), you'll find yourself coming back for more.
The staff is friendly and the service is great, making it a great place for a night out with friends or a quick bite to eat.
Don't forget to try the Sriracha Spiced Fries and the signature cocktails while you're there. Same Same is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for some mouthwatering Thai cuisine.
7. Krung Thep Thai Cuisine
Krung Thep Thai Cuisine is a must-visit spot for lovers of Thai cuisine.
The restaurant offers a cozy and snug atmosphere where guests can enjoy traditional Thai curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes. The food is delicious, and the service is exceptionally friendly.
The menu offers a wide variety of Thai dishes, including their signature pad thai and crispy pork with Chinese broccoli.
The restaurant also has a BYOB policy, making it an affordable option for those looking for a night out. If you're in the area and craving Thai food, Krung Thep Thai Cuisine is definitely worth checking out.
8. Sweet Rice Chicago
Sweet Rice Chicago is a must-visit spot for anyone craving delicious drunken noodles.
The menu features a variety of Thai, Korean, and Japanese dishes, all of which are expertly prepared and bursting with flavor.
The portions are generous, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a cozy dinner for two.
The cozy BYOB atmosphere adds to the charm of the place. Don't forget to try the kimchi fried rice balls!
9. Noble Thai
Noble Thai is a brand new Thai restaurant that offers exceptional drunken noodles.
The interior design is beautiful and the service is friendly and quick. The food is delicious and the generous serving of veggies is much appreciated.
The chicken satay is tender and the green curry is creamy with a great balance of ingredients.
Though slightly expensive, the quality of the food is worth it. Noble Thai is definitely worth checking out for those in search of a great Thai restaurant.
10. Herb
Herb is a hidden gem Thai restaurant that serves up some of the best drunken noodles in town.
The chef, Patty, offers a prix fixe menu that is absolutely delicious, with each dish being more flavorful than the last.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the ambiance is casual yet cozy. It's a BYOB place, so don't forget to bring your own drinks.
If you're looking for a unique and tasty dining experience, Herb is definitely worth checking out.
11. Trike Thai Noodles
Trike Thai Noodles is a must-visit for anyone who loves delicious noodles. Their spicy udon noodles and drunken noodles are the perfect balance of flavors.
Vegetarian options are also available, including the trike veggie bowl, which is simple yet tasty. BYOB friendly, the restaurant offers fast service and a great atmosphere.
With a wide selection of Thai noodle dishes and sushi, Trike Thai Noodles is a great spot for a casual or nice dinner.
Prices are reasonable, but the portions are so good that leftovers are rare. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making it a great dining experience for all.
12. Cilantro Thai Kitchen
Cilantro Thai Kitchen is a great place for anyone looking for delicious drunken noodles.
The food is freshly prepared and the staff is friendly. They also offer a good variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
The prices are reasonable and the lunch specials are a great deal. The interior is clean and inviting, and the patio in the back is a nice touch.
If you're looking for authentic Thai food, Cilantro Thai Kitchen is definitely worth a visit.
13. Andy's Thai Kitchen
Andy's Thai Kitchen is a popular Thai restaurant that serves delicious drunken noodles.
The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and offers a comprehensive menu of Thai dishes. The portions are big, and the food is reasonably priced.
The service is fast and attentive, and the staff is friendly. However, the restaurant only accepts cash, so make sure to bring enough money.
Despite the cash-only policy, Andy's Thai Kitchen is worth a visit for anyone looking for authentic Thai food in town.
14. C'est Bien Thai
C'est Bien Thai is a must-visit for anyone looking to try some delicious drunken noodles.
The restaurant offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, great service, and a fantastic lunch special that is perfect for those on a budget.
The menu is full of authentic Thai dishes that are bursting with flavor, and the staff is always friendly and welcoming.
Whether you're dining in or taking out, C'est Bien Thai is a great spot to satisfy your cravings for some amazing Thai food.
