2024-03-03
Embark on a culinary adventure through Chicago with this curated guide to the top five Vietnamese restaurants, where authenticity meets affordability for an unforgettable dining experience.
Nestled in Skokie, Beyond Thai is a pristine white-tablecloth venue that offers a fusion of traditional Thai, sushi, and Pan-Asian cuisine. The standout dishes, ensuring a flavor-packed escapade, range from the rich Pad Thai to the delectable Chicken Satay, completed by their exquisite Egg Rolls. While the timing of dish arrivals occasionally falters, the warm and accommodating staff overcompensates, gilding the dining experience for night-time patrons. Vegetarians have a cause for celebration with an extensive menu crafted for their delight. Parking is a breeze, and with prices that are gentle on the wallet, dining at Beyond Thai provides value that surpasses the expense, catering equally to the dine-in connoisseur and the take-out aficionado.
Location: 4654 Church St, Skokie, IL 60076
Phở Son Ha, situated in Palatine, is a homely establishment that champions the art of Vietnamese cuisine with an emphasis on the traditional favorite, pho. Its genuine charm and heartwarming service amplify the ambiance, making every meal feel like a private performance. Regulars extol the pho as the 'best near me,' while the vermicelli dishes hold their ground in gastronomic excellence. This eatery masters the recipe for satisfaction with its laid-back atmosphere, hearty portions, and prices that feel like a steal. Complimented by hassle-free parking, Phở Son Ha secures its reputation as the go-to destination for those after an authentic taste of Vietnam, quite literally offering a spoonful of happiness in each bowl of soup.
Location: 1316 N Rand Rd, Palatine, IL 60074
Hidden within the streets of Bryn Mawr Ave lies Saigon Phở, a place that sends ripples through the neighborhood with its Vietnamese staples. While the pho may spark debate among purists, their crunchy noodles and spring rolls dipped in an ambrosial peanut sauce enjoy unanimous praise. Swirl it down with their Thai iced tea for an exploratory delight, but be advised to dodge the peak times to avoid a less pleasant smoky atmosphere. Service is thoughtful and present without crowding, and their unconventional karaoke setup offers a unique twist that might just be ideal for an offbeat gathering. Expect a gamble with parking, but take the plunge if your palate yearns for adventure — karaoke enthusiasts might just discover their new culinary singalong spot.
Location: 3222 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
Phở 777, a culinary mainstay on Argyle Street, invites diners to immerse themselves in the soul of Vietnam sans flight. A taste of their pho reveals a complex broth bursting with flavor and the perfect balance of noodles and meats to satisfy serious cravings. The condiments, particularly hoisin and sriracha, create a vibrant sweet and spicy medley on the palate. Despite a lapse in the form of a stray hair incident, which calls for improved diligence, dishes like the vermicelli and beef tendon promise a return visit. The casual authenticity blended with spot-on service provides a dining experience that resonates with both locals and visiting food aficionados. With price points as appealing as the menu, Phở 777 stands resolved to redeem itself as your next noodle haven.
Location: 1104 W Argyle St, Chicago, IL 60640
Amid the urban pulse of downtown Chicago, Green Apple PHOever is like a quiet revolution in the food scene. Here, the pho is a bowl of rapid comfort, welcomed as the city's chill sets in, inviting palates to a meal that combines Vietnamese cuisine's best with a touch of Korean essence. The Pho Special and the Beef Bulgogi are merely starting points in a menu that offers speed without sacrificing satisfaction, all within the convenience of a $20 bill. Though vegetarians might find options limited, the menu's honesty is commendable. Admittedly, not everyone will groove to the K-Pop tunes and minimalistic ambience, but don't be misled – it's the taste that triumphs here. For those exploring the city center, a halt at Green Apple PHOever is a divergent path worth taking for the epicurean explorer.
Location: 105 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60602
