Finding the perfect wonton in Chicago can feel like searching for a hidden gem. But fear not, fellow dumpling enthusiasts! This comprehensive guide dives deep into the city's best wonton offerings, exploring diverse styles, flavors, and culinary experiences. We've compiled a list of 19 exceptional spots, catering to every palate and preference. From classic Cantonese to innovative fusion, prepare for a wonton adventure!
Discovering Chicago's Wonton Wonders: A Culinary Journey
Chicago's diverse culinary scene extends far beyond deep-dish pizza. The city boasts a vibrant Asian food community, and within that, a thriving wonton culture. This isn't just about the filling; it's about the wrapper's texture, the broth's depth, and the overall harmony of flavors. This guide focuses on showcasing the variety and excellence found across Chicago's many restaurants. Whether you crave crispy fried wontons, delicate steamed ones, or a unique wonton-based dish, this list has something for you. Remember, the best wonton is subjective, so be sure to explore and find your own favorites!
Top 19 Wonton Destinations in the Windy City
This curated list represents a diverse range of restaurants and styles, ensuring a flavorful exploration of Chicago's wonton scene. We've prioritized quality, authenticity, and overall dining experience.
Note: Restaurant rankings are not indicative of a definitive "best" but rather a diverse representation of excellent options.
- Lao Sze Chuan: Known for its authentic Szechuan cuisine, Lao Sze Chuan's wontons often feature unique spice blends.
- Pequod's Pizza: While famous for its pizza, Pequod's also offers surprisingly delicious wonton appetizers.
- Sun Wah BBQ: A Chicago institution, Sun Wah delivers classic Cantonese-style wontons.
- Joy Yee: Their steamed and pan-fried wontons are consistently praised for freshness and flavor.
- Phoenix Restaurant: A hidden gem, Phoenix offers a unique take on wonton dishes, incorporating regional variations.
- MingHin Cuisine: This upscale restaurant offers elegantly prepared wonton dishes.
- Triple Crown Restaurant: Known for its extensive menu, Triple Crown has satisfying wonton choices.
- Wai Wai Restaurant: Offers a wide selection of wonton variations, including vegetarian options.
- Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: A tapas restaurant with a surprisingly good wonton-style appetizer.
- Ocean Seafood Restaurant: This seafood restaurant often features wontons as part of larger dishes.
- Hai Wo: A dependable option for consistently tasty wontons.
- Ruxbin: A modern gastropub that creatively incorporates wonton elements into its menu.
- Andros Taverna: A Greek restaurant that sometimes features wonton-inspired dishes.
- Tanta: A Peruvian restaurant that adds its own unique flair to wonton-style dishes.
- Monteverde: An Italian restaurant that offers creative, wonton-influenced pasta dishes.
- RPM Italian: Upscale Italian restaurant occasionally featuring wonton elements in its specials.
- Parachute: A modern Asian-inspired restaurant that offers creative wonton-based dishes.
- Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's renowned restaurant has featured wonton-inspired dishes in the past.
- Leghorn: This Italian restaurant occasionally offers creative dishes incorporating wonton-like pasta shapes.
Beyond the Wonton: Exploring Chicago's Asian Culinary Landscape
This list only scratches the surface of Chicago's rich Asian food scene. Many other restaurants offer creative takes on wontons or incorporate them into larger dishes. Exploring beyond this list will uncover even more culinary delights.
Finding Your Perfect Wonton: A Guide to Choosing
When selecting your wonton experience, consider these factors:
- Type of Wonton: Steamed, fried, pan-fried, or even incorporated into soup.
- Filling: Pork, shrimp, chicken, vegetarian options, or unique combinations.
- Sauce: Sweet and sour, soy-based, chili oil, or other variations.
- Ambiance: Casual, upscale, family-friendly, or a romantic setting.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Wonton Adventure!
Chicago's wonton scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. This comprehensive guide is just a starting point; use it to discover your personal favorites among these 19 exceptional restaurants. Remember to explore, experiment, and enjoy the delicious world of Chicago wontons! Happy eating!
