Head to one of the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago to enjoy warm hospitality, regional flavors, and dishes ranging from comforting classics to modern showstoppers. There’s a sophisticated spot with a playful Chinese American menu in the West Loop. Sample charcoal-grilled skewers and Cajun seafood boil at a late-night favorite in Chinatown. Escape to Lincoln Park to for Chengdu street food dishes.
Whether you’re after hand-pulled noodles, crispy duck, or steaming baskets of dim sum, Chicago’s best Chinese restaurants deliver bold flavors and time-honored traditions.
Secure your spot today at one of the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago by booking a table on OpenTable.
Read on to discover the 8 best Chinese restaurants in Chicago.
For upscale Chinese cuisine in an Instagram-worthy spot — reserve a table at Duck Duck Goat (West Loop)
Mega-award-winning chef Stephanie Izards’s Chinese-inspired hotspot, Duck Duck Goat, has personality galore—think stunning jade accents, exposed brick, and a bar area with a lively street-market atmosphere. Dig into shrimp and bacon moo shu served with mandarin pancakes as you catch up with friends or your date. The weekend dim sum brunch gets rave reviews for its playful dishes like Hong Kong French toast with peanut butter and pickled kumquats.
For modern Asian dishes and cocktails — check out BITES Asian Kitchen & Bar (Lakeview/East Lakeview)
BITES Asian Kitchen & Bar is a top-notch spot to celebrate a special occasion with modern Asian cuisine along with whimsical cocktails served in pink flamingo floaties. The colorful, tropical-infused interior sets the scene for a festive meal of pork bao buns and honey-bourbon sesame chicken with steamed rice. For a memorable touch, pre-order a sushi cake made with signature rolls, decorated with avocado flowers, and complete with a sparkler set.
For one of the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago with a seasonal terrace — book a table at Shanghai Terrace (Gold Coast/Streeterville)
Located within the five-star The Peninsula Chicago hotel, Shanghai Terrace channels a swanky, 1930s Shanghai vibe, complete with warm accents and Chinese art. A seasonal, outdoor terrace with sculptures and skyline views is an added plus. Dine on chef Elmo Han’s menu of Chinese classics with a twist with standouts like wonton soup and slow-roasted Peking duck, best paired with one of the restaurant’s stellar red wines.
For traditional Szechuan flavors in a relaxed atmosphere — grab a table at Lao Sze Chuan (River North)
Lao Sze Chuan is where you go to experience one of the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago. The restaurant has been a Chicago Chinatown favorite since 1998—and a top-rated Chinese restaurant nationwide. The stylish two-floor dining room is decked out with warm red hues, sleek glass accents, and tables for solo diners, couples, and groups. Feast on traditional Szechuan dishes like the chef’s special dry chili chicken or go for the classic Mongolian beef tenderloin.
For Chinese BBQ at one of the best restaurants in Chinatown, Chicago — make a reservation at Gao’s BBQ & Crab (Chinatown)
Escape to Gao’s BBQ & Crab for a late-night feast of charcoal-grilled skewers and Cajun seafood boil at one of the best restaurants in Chinatown, Chicago. Neon lights and laid-back vibes make it a go-to destination for casual dates and group outings. Start with the skewers, then move on to dishes like spicy chicken with handmade flat noodles. Wash it all down with the refreshing jasmine and passion fruit tea.
For an interactive dining experience of Chinese hotpot — ensure your table awaits at Qiao Lin Hotpot (Chinatown and Downtown)
Head to Qiao Lin Hotpot in Chinatown and Downtown, where a fresh take on the traditional Chinese hotpot awaits you. Step into sleek and modern settings as you sample broths infused with a blend of 32 aromatic spices and top-tier ingredients like American Kobe beef, jumbo scallops, enoki mushrooms, and udon noodles. Customize your dipping sauces, cook your favorites tableside, and savor the interactive, communal joy of a hotpot in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For Chengdu street food — visit Royal Highness Zhu (Lincoln Park)
Check out Royal Highness Zhu for a hip spot that serves up knockout small plates of Chengdu street food. You’re here for the pork wontons in volcano broth. For a one-of-a-kind dish, try the spicy barbecue rabbit shreds. Don’t skip out on the handmade sweet water noodle, an ultimate comfort food. Bonus points for the many vegetarian-friendly options.
For ace Pan-Asian cuisine in a scene-stealing atmosphere — head to TAO Asian Bistro (River North)
With its swanky multiple levels, dynamic spaces, and 20-foot-tall Quan Yin statue, TAO Asian Bistro is where you go for a night out at one of the best Asian restaurants in Chicago. Enjoy the tableside king crab when the 6-pound centerpiece is presented live and prepared your way with bold sauces like Cantonese ginger scallion, Singapore red chili, or black pepper. Order a giant fortune cookie dessert for a sweet finale.
Secure your spot at the best Chinese restaurants in Chicago by booking ahead on OpenTable today.
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