Dim sum, and then some, in Chicago's best Chinese restaurants

Jamie Bartosch

By , Local Expert, Chicago
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Sometimes, when the urge to have Chinese food strikes, nothing satisfies until you get it. When that happens, count on 10Best to point you in the direction of the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago. When we recommend popular eateries like Joy Yee Noodle Shop, or tell you that Lao Sze Chuan gets good reader feedback, you can believe it. We'll make sure you get - and eat - the best Chinese food the city has to offer.

A cluster of the city's best Chinese restaurants are in the Chinatown neighborhood, just south of downtown, but many other top-notch places exist across the city. Whether you prefer...  Read more »
  • 1

    Cai

    This is among the top places for dim sum in Chicago, and the large open, second-floor space overlooks Chinatown Square mall.

    Local Expert Tip: "Order the soft-on-the-outside, sweet-on-the-inside BBQ Pork Buns, and the addictive Fried Taro Root Balls which come with dipping sauces."

     
  • 2

    Phoenix

    Phoenix consistently ranks on the list of "Best Dim Sum in Chicago," and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

    Local Expert Tip: "When the dim sum carts roll by, don't ask to many questions about what's in it. Just eat it! "

     
  • 3

    Silver Seafood

    With fresh food and a huge, inexpensive menu, Silver Seafood is one of the best Chinese restaurants outside of Chinatown.

    Local Expert Tip: "Be adventurous, and get a half-sized order of their pricey-but-delicious shark fin soup."

     
  • 4

    Joy Yee's Noodle Shop

    With bright, modern decor and picture-filled menu, this is a good spot for people who want Chinese food, but nothing too exotic.

    Local Expert Tip: "If you like smoothies, order a fruity bubble tea filled with sweet tapioca balls."

     
  • 5

    Lao Sze Chuan

    This old favorite is one of the best restaurants in the group owned by Tony Hu, known as "the chieftain of Chinatown."

    Local Expert Tip: "Order one of their most raved-about dishes: the spicy three-chili chicken. "

     
  • 6

    Lee Wing Wah

    You'll definitely take home leftovers at this popular Cantonese restaurant, specializing in "salt and spice" flavored meats.

    Local Expert Tip: "When you order the pan-fried "salt and spice" shrimp, and ask for chili oil for dipping."

     
  • 7

    Dee's Mandarin

    Can't decide between Chinese food and sushi? You can enjoy both here. You also get ambiance, including comfy booths and live music.

    Local Expert Tip: "If you're looking for a more romantic spot to eat Chinese food, this is the place to go."

     
  • 8

    Lao Hunan

    The interior of Lao Hunan is a trip, with its celebration of Communist dictator Chairman Mao.

    Local Expert Tip: "With hot chili pepper flavoring in many dishes, this place is for spicy food lovers only!"

     
  • 9

    Ken Kee

    While many Chinatown restaurants offer dim sum and familiar Chinese dishes, this place has some of the most unique and exotic Chinese food.

    Local Expert Tip: "Some of the most exotic Chinese food dishes, such as duck chins and goose intestines, is served here."

     
  • 10

    Friendship Chinese Restaurant

    Fusion Chinese, by Chef Alan Yeun, makes this both a gourmet and ethnic meal.

    Local Expert Tip: "Go to the lakefront location on Friday and Saturday nights during the summer, and you'll enjoy not only a live jazz trio but the fireworks show from nearby Navy Pier. Or go for the Tuesday night $9.95 entrée special. "