Best Chinese Food Chicago — My Personal Recommendations

Living in Chicago, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot regarding Chinese food. There’s a unique mix of tradition and innovation here that seems almost unfair. On the one hand, you’ve got the classics—time-honored dishes served in bustling immigrant communities like Chinatown or Uptown. Then, there are the bold newcomers, where you’ll find unexpected creations like Mapo tofu waffle fries or salt-and-pepper chicken sandwiches. Whatever mood strikes, you’re bound to find something satisfying.

Top Chinese Food Restaurants in Chicago

I think it’s important to clarify one thing before diving in. This isn’t just a roundup of the best Chinese food. Instead, these are the best Chinese restaurants in the city—spots where you’ll find not just one good dish but a whole menu worth exploring. Let’s dig in.

1. Chengdu Bistro

• Location: 2211 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
• Perfect for: Casual Meals.

The first time I went to Chengdu Bistro in Wicker Park, it was for the dumplings. They didn’t disappoint. This cozy spot, part of the Chengdu Impression family, is where Sichuan heat takes center stage. You can feel it in the air—literally, your nose tingles from the spice when you walk in. The flaming noodles were aptly named, their heat balanced by a deep, savory flavor that’s impossible to describe. Even if you’re not a fan of spice, their lamb and chive dumplings are worth a try. I like to sit in the middle of the action, surrounded by other diners equally enamored with their food.

2. Potsticker House

• Location: 3139 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608
• Excellent for: Walk-ins, Casual Meals, Takeout, etc.

Bridgeport’s Potsticker House is where I go when dumplings are the only thing on my mind. Long, crispy potstickers are the star here—each bite feels like a small celebration. The chili wontons? Spicy, silky, and absolutely perfect. But this spot isn’t just about dumplings. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their cumin lamb or scallion pancakes. End the meal with tang yuan, glutinous rice balls filled with black sesame paste, floating in a broth that’s subtly sweet and herbal.

3. Ken Kee Restaurant

• Location: 2129 S China Pl, Chicago, IL 60616
• Ideal for: Date Nights, Casual Meals, etc.

Ken Kee is a Chinatown institution, but it feels like it’s in the middle of a second act. Under new ownership, the interior got a retro-neon makeover that’s almost cinematic. The menu reflects this new energy. Their chow mein and salt-and-pepper pork chops are staples, but the real fun is their afternoon tea menu. Ever tried Ovaltine-dusted creamy toast? Or pineapple buns stuffed with truffle butter? It’s unexpected and delightful, like rediscovering something you thought you already knew. It’s definitely one of the things to do in Chinatown if you’re looking for unique food experiences.

4. Three Little Pigs (3LP)

• Location: 964 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608
• Suited for: Takeout, walk-in customers, and lunchtime service.

When the pandemic hit, Henry Cai launched 3 Little Pigs as a takeout-only spot. It’s now evolved into a celebration of Chinese-American comfort food. The pork fried rice feels like home in a bowl, and the barbecue pork is melt-in-your-mouth good. If you’re in Bridgeport, stop by their current location near Maria’s Community Bar, or check out their River West ghost kitchen.

5. Yao Yao – One of the Best Chinese Food Chicago

• Location: 230 W Cermak Rd Chicago, IL 60616
• Ideal for: Casual Meals, Walk-Ins, etc.

Yao Yao made waves when it earned a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list in 2023. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Sichuan restaurant. Their seafood dishes are served in broths infused with pickled vegetables, a combination that’s both briny and tangy. Every spoonful feels carefully crafted like it was meant to stand out even in a city full of competition. For seafood lovers, this seafood restaurant is a must-try.

6. Xi’an Cuisine

• Location: 225 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616
• Excellent for: Cheap Eats, Lunch, Walk-Ins, etc.

There’s a consistency at Xi’an Cuisine that’s rare. Whether you’re at their Chinatown or West Loop location, you can count on perfectly cooked noodles and crispy fried dishes. Their Moshe beef stir-fry is a must-try. Named after a local Facebook group moderator, this sweet-savory dish is worth the few extra bucks it costs.

7. MCCB Chicago

• Location: 2138 S Archer Ave Chicago, IL 60616
• Ideal For: Large Groups, Casual Meals, etc.

MCCB—short for Modern Chinese Cookbook—delivers exactly what its name promises. Their menu spans Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine, with modern twists sprinkled throughout. The dry chili fantail shrimp, served in a fryer basket, stands out. But their signature dish? A whole fish soaked in chili broth grilled tableside until it’s smoky, spicy perfection. This is some of the most eaten food in the area, and it’s certainly delicious.

8. Sun Wah BBQ Restaurant

• Location: 5039 N Broadway St Chicago, IL 60640
• Suitable For: Large Groups

Sun Wah is unassuming from the outside, but step inside, and you’re greeted with the aroma of lacquered roast duck. Their menu doesn’t overcomplicate things. Smoked BBQ pork, beef chow fun, and Chinese broccoli are executed simply but impeccably. My advice? Overorder. This is the kind of food that tastes even better reheated the next day.

9. Da Mao Jia – One of the Best Chinese Food Chicago

• Location: 4131 North Rockwell St, Chicago IL 60618
• Ideal For: Casual Dinners, Groups, etc.

Formerly known as A Place by Damão, this restaurant specializes in the bold, fiery flavors of Chengdu. Almost every dish I tasted here is laced with Sichuan peppercorns, from their spicy duck wings to their fries. By the end of the meal, your tongue might be tingling, but that’s what the warm water jelly cake is for—its gentle sweetness provides a perfect counterpoint.

10. Qiao Lin Hotpot

• Location: 2105 S Jefferson St Suite A, Chicago, IL 60616 Chicago, IL 60616
• Excellent for: Casual meals and romantic dates.

If hot pot is your thing, Qiao Lin is where you need to be. Located near 88 Marketplace, this spot is all about customization. You can choose up to three broths, then load up your pot with everything from Kobe beef to jumbo scallops. The sauce bar is a playground of flavors, and the matcha cake dessert feels like a reward for surviving the spice.

11. Shanghai Terrace – One of the Best Chinese Food Chicago

• Location: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
• Suitable for: Birthdays, Date Nights, etc.

Shanghai Terrace inside the Peninsula Hotel is an experience. From the golden chopstick holders to the monogrammed towels, every detail feels luxurious. Their Peking duck, with its crispy skin and array of accompaniments, is worth every penny. If the weather cooperates, dining on their terrace is an unforgettable experience. This is an example of an expensive restaurant in Chicago, located within an expensive hotel in Chicago, offering some truly expensive food.

12. Wagyu House by the X Pot

• Location: 1147 S Delano Ct East, Chicago, IL 60605
• Ideal For: Special Occasions, Date Nights, Groups seeking a high-end dining experience, etc.

Hot pot here is next-level. Wagyu beef, foie gras, and Otoro are just a few of the premium ingredients you can add to your meal. The sleek South Loop restaurant even has robot servers, a fun touch that doesn’t overshadow the quality of the food. By the end of the meal, you’ll feel like royalty. If you’re looking for expensive food and a unique dining experience, this is the place to be. It’s not just delicious food, it’s an experience.

Closing Thoughts: Best Chinese Food Chicago

Chicago’s Chinese food scene is more than just a collection of good meals—it’s a reflection of the city’s diversity and creativity. From the comforting classics of Chinatown to the inventive dishes in trendy neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re craving dumplings, BBQ duck, or something completely unexpected, these restaurants deliver every time.

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