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April 2026

Chinatown Chicago Restaurants: 3 Spots You Can't Miss

If you are looking for the best Chinatown Chicago restaurants, you are in for a world-class culinary treat. Chicago’s Chinatown is a unique blend of old and new areas. While Old Chinatown holds the neighborhood's deep roots and the iconic Chinatown Gate, the newer Chinatown Square has raised the bar with modern Szechuan spots and trendy dessert shops.

Whether you’re craving traditional Dim Sum, spicy Szechuan, or the latest Bubble Tea craze, you are guaranteed to leave full. Here are our top recommendations for a complete Chinatown Chicago food exploration.

1. Triple Crown: The Dim Sum King

Dim sum from Triple Crown

Dim Sum is a Chinese staple, and the best place to experience it in the neighborhood is Triple Crown. Located right at the entry of the Chinatown Gate, it offers over 90 different items.

The highlight here is the traditional cart service, where you can select small plates as they are pushed past your table. For those looking for Chinatown Chicago restaurants that offer a true family-style experience, Triple Crown is an absolute must.

Our recommendations

  • The Taro Puff: A deep fried masterpiece of taro, shrimp, pork and mushrooms

2. Lao Sze Chuan: Bold & Spicy

Lao Sze Chuan in Chinatown Chicago

Lao Sze Chuan is the flagship of local celebrity chef Tony Hu. Its popularity has grown so much that it now has multiple locations, but the original spot in Chinatown Square remains a pilgrimage site for foodies.

Szechuan-style food is famous for its bold "mala" (numbingly spicy) flavor profile.

Our recommendations:

  • Dry Chili Chicken: Try this if you want a kick
  • Moo Shu Vegetables: Try this if you prefer something milder but still flavorful

Go Deeper: Want to taste the best of the neighborhood without the guesswork? Join us on the Chinatown Adventure Food Tour! Our expert guides from Chicago Food & City Tours will take you through the history and flavors of the area, visiting 5 different restaurants in just 3 hours.

3. Ice Point: Rolled Ice Cream & Bubble Tea

Ice Point in Chinatown Chicago

No food tour is complete without dessert. Ice Point is a fan favorite for its famous Thai-style rolled ice cream. Watching them craft your dessert on the frozen plate is half the fun!

Our recommendations:

  • Taro or Lavender Milk Tea paired with Green Tea or Strawberry rolled ice cream

Discover More with Chicago Food & City Tours

To truly experience the culture, history, and the very best Chinatown Chicago restaurants, leave the planning to the pros.

At Chicago Food & City Tours, our guides are full of fun knowledge and insider tips. On our tours in Chinatown, you’ll try authentic dishes from several distinct regions of China while learning how this vibrant neighborhood became the heart of Chicago’s Asian culture.

Why try to choose just one place when you can experience five? Book your tour today and see why we are the city's top-rated food tour experience!

Try One of Our Tours!

Savor the true heart of Chicago with our fun, expert guides. Visitors get a taste of the real deal, and locals discover new go-to favorites.