That craving for perfectly spiced Pad See Ew, aromatic green curry, or the fiery kick of Som Tum can strike at any moment. And when it does, you need it now. Luckily, Chicago’s Thai food scene is vibrant, diverse, and packed with hidden gems – if you know where to look. But navigating the endless options can be overwhelming. That’s where the collective wisdom of Reddit comes in.
Forget generic review sites. Reddit offers a treasure trove of authentic, unfiltered opinions from Chicagoans who really know their Thai food. Think of it as getting a recommendation from your discerning foodie friend, only multiplied by thousands. This article compiles the most frequently recommended and highly-rated Thai restaurants in Chicago, as suggested by Reddit users, as of October 2024. So, prepare your taste buds for an adventure – we’re diving into the Reddit-approved guide to the best Thai food in the Windy City.
How We Found These Gems: The Reddit Deep Dive
To uncover these culinary delights, we embarked on a thorough exploration of Reddit’s Chicago-centric communities. We scoured subreddits like r/Chicago, r/chicagofood, and r/AskChicago, using keywords like “best Thai Chicago,” “Thai food Chicago recommendations,” “Thai delivery Chicago,” and “Chicago Thai food best.” Our goal wasn’t just to find restaurants with a few mentions; we looked for places that consistently received glowing reviews and enthusiastic recommendations.
We paid close attention to the specific reasons Redditors loved each restaurant, noting which dishes stood out, what made the atmosphere special, and whether there were any insider tips or tricks to share (like ordering off-menu items!). Beyond Reddit, we cross-referenced our findings with Google Maps reviews and respected local food blogs to ensure a well-rounded and accurate assessment. This combination of community insight and external verification is what makes this guide truly trustworthy.
Delicious Destinations: Chicago’s Top Thai Restaurants According to Reddit
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff. Here are some of the highest-praised Thai establishments in Chicago, according to the discerning palates of Reddit users:
Sticky Rice Chicago: A Lakeview Staple
Located in the heart of Lakeview, Sticky Rice Chicago is a long-time favorite that consistently earns praise on Reddit. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and generous portions, this spot is a popular choice for both dine-in and delivery. Sticky Rice offers a wide range of classic Thai dishes, but Redditors particularly rave about their Pad See Ew (a steal) and the creamy, flavorful Massaman Curry (often around the fifteen dollar mark).
Why Reddit Loves It: “Sticky Rice never disappoints,” one Redditor wrote. “Their Pad See Ew is consistently perfect, and they don’t skimp on the protein. Plus, the service is always friendly.” Another commented, “I’ve been going to Sticky Rice for years, and it’s still my go-to for Thai. The Massaman Curry is incredible, especially on a cold Chicago night.” They offer takeout as well.
Vibe Check: Casual and bustling, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. It’s a great place to bring friends or family. The atmosphere is always energetic.
Sun Wah BBQ: Duck, Duck, and More Duck (with a Thai Twist!)
Okay, this might seem like a bit of a curveball. Sun Wah BBQ in Uptown is primarily known for its Cantonese-style roast duck (and rightly so!), but its Thai menu is a hidden gem that’s increasingly getting love on Reddit. Seriously, the Thai dishes here are surprisingly authentic and incredibly flavorful, especially if you’re already making a trip for the duck. People rave about their tom yum soup and fried rice.
Why Reddit Loves It: “I know it’s a BBQ place, but trust me on this – Sun Wah’s Thai food is legit,” one Redditor proclaimed. “Their Thai Basil Fried Rice is off the charts, and the Tom Yum soup will clear your sinuses right up.” Another added, “The duck is amazing, of course, but don’t sleep on the Thai dishes. It’s a hidden gem within a gem!”
Vibe Check: Busy and boisterous, with a communal dining atmosphere. Be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends. It’s all part of the experience.
Immm Rice & Beyond: Northern Thai Flavors in a Modern Setting
For a taste of Northern Thai cuisine, Immm Rice & Beyond in Edgewater is a must-visit. This stylish restaurant offers a modern take on traditional dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Redditors consistently praise their Khao Soi (a coconut curry noodle soup) and their Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage). The prices are mid-range, reflecting the quality of ingredients and presentation.
Why Reddit Loves It: “Immm Rice & Beyond is my favorite Thai restaurant in the city,” one Redditor declared. “Their Khao Soi is out of this world – creamy, spicy, and perfectly balanced. And the Sai Oua is so flavorful!” Another said, “If you’re looking for something beyond the usual Pad Thai, Immm Rice & Beyond is the place to go. Their Northern Thai dishes are unique and delicious.”
Vibe Check: Modern and chic, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.
TAC Quick: A Wilson Yard Institution
This is a classic. Nestled near the Wilson Red Line stop, TAC Quick serves up generous plates of Thai fare with a focus on authentic flavors at amazing prices. Be warned, TAC Quick is often slammed. With a line consistently out the door, it is worth getting your name on the list or ordering online. Redditors especially recommend the panang curry.
Why Reddit Loves It: “TAC Quick is the perfect balance of price and quality” one Redditor states, “for authentic Thai in Uptown, you cannot go wrong here”. Many people on reddit recommend ordering online to avoid waiting in the notoriously long lines.
Vibe Check: With a small dining space, TAC Quick is often busy with a line out the door. The food is consistently delicious and service is quick.
Star of Siam: River North’s Elegant Option
Located in the heart of River North, Star of Siam offers a more upscale Thai dining experience. With its elegant decor and refined menu, this restaurant is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Redditors often recommend their seafood dishes, especially the Pla Lard Prik (crispy whole fish with chili sauce).
Why Reddit Loves It: “Star of Siam is a great option if you’re looking for a fancier Thai meal,” one Redditor commented. “Their seafood is always fresh and perfectly cooked, and the Pla Lard Prik is a must-try.” Another added, “The atmosphere is sophisticated and romantic, making it a great place for a date.”
Vibe Check: Elegant and refined, with a romantic atmosphere. Perfect for a special occasion or a date night.
The Silver Spoon: Hidden Gem in Lincoln Square
Located in Lincoln Square, The Silver Spoon is often praised for their authentic flavors at incredible prices.
Why Reddit Loves It: Many users recommend the lunch specials because of the portion size and affordability. The Silver Spoon also accommodates dietary restrictions. The owners pride themselves on quality food at good prices.
Vibe Check: The Silver Spoon is a great spot for dine-in or pick-up with amazing lunch specials and dinner dishes.
Honorable Mentions: Worth Checking Out
While the restaurants listed above consistently receive the most Reddit love, there are a few other Thai spots in Chicago that deserve a mention:
- Andy’s Thai Kitchen (Lakeview): Known for its authentic and spicy dishes, Andy’s Thai Kitchen is a popular choice for those who like a bit of heat.
- Rosded Too (West Town): A great spot for cheap and cheerful Thai food, with a focus on street food-style dishes.
- Rainbow Thai (Rogers Park): Praised for its friendly service and generous portions, Rainbow Thai is a neighborhood favorite.
- Jin Thai Restaurant (Wicker Park): A long time classic of Wicker Park, they offer authentic Thai cuisine in a more upscale environment than some other spots in the neighborhood.
These restaurants may not have been mentioned as frequently as the top contenders, but they still offer delicious Thai food at reasonable prices and are definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area.
Your Chicago Thai Food Adventure Awaits
Chicago’s Thai food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and experiences. And thanks to the honest recommendations of Reddit users, navigating that scene has never been easier. From the Northern Thai delights of Immm Rice & Beyond to the Cantonese-Thai fusion at Sun Wah BBQ, there’s something for every palate and budget.
So, ditch the takeout menu and embark on your own culinary adventure. Try the restaurants on this list, explore different neighborhoods, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. And most importantly, share your own experiences! Which Thai restaurants in Chicago do you think deserve a shout-out? Let us know in the comments below – and happy eating! We hope to see you enjoying authentic Thai cuisine as much as we do.
