Top 10 Mouth-Watering Fried Rice Dishes To Try In Chicago - A Foodie's Guide

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Discover the best fried rice in Chicago! Deliciously seasoned, perfectly cooked, and bursting with flavor. Try it today!


Are you craving for some scrumptious fried rice in Chicago? Look no further as we have scoured the city to bring you the best fried rice places in town. Whether you prefer it spicy, with meat or veggies, there is a fried rice dish that will suit your taste buds. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to find the perfect spot. But worry not, we have got you covered!

First on our list is the Golden Bull Restaurant, a Chinese-American eatery located in the heart of Chinatown. Their Yangzhou fried rice is a must-try. It is loaded with shrimp, BBQ pork, egg, and vegetables that are all cooked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Plus, the portion size is generous, making it an excellent value for money.

If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, head over to Shanghai Terrace at The Peninsula Hotel. Their seafood fried rice is a standout dish that will leave you wanting more. The chef uses only the freshest ingredients, and the rice is cooked to perfection. The dish is served in a hot stone bowl, which keeps the rice warm and crispy.

For those who love Korean cuisine, Parachute is the go-to place for delicious kimchi fried rice. The dish is made with fermented cabbage, pork belly, and lots of spices. The flavors are bold and intense, making it a perfect comfort food during cold winter days.

If you're looking for something unique, try the Indonesian fried rice at Rickshaw Republic. The dish is made with jasmine rice, shrimp paste, and a variety of spices. It is also served with a fried egg on top, which adds a nice touch of creaminess to the dish. This restaurant is a great option for those who want to explore different Asian cuisines.

Another gem in Chicago is the Fat Rice restaurant. Their arroz gordo is a Portuguese-style fried rice dish that is a feast for the senses. It is loaded with different meats, seafood, and vegetables, and is served in a clay pot. The dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

If you're in the mood for some Thai food, head over to Aroy Thai. Their pineapple fried rice is a crowd-pleaser. It is made with jasmine rice, pineapple, cashews, and raisins. The dish is served in half of a hollowed-out pineapple, which adds a touch of tropical flair to your dining experience.

For those who are looking for halal options, I Dream Of Falafel has got you covered. Their lamb and vegetable fried rice is a must-try. The dish is made with basmati rice, lamb, and a mix of vegetables, and is seasoned with Middle Eastern spices. It's a hearty and flavorful meal that will leave you satisfied.

If you're on a budget, Joy's Noodles & Rice is an excellent option. Their fried rice dishes are affordable and delicious. Their chicken fried rice is a top pick, with tender chicken pieces, egg, and veggies mixed with perfectly cooked rice. It's a simple dish, but the flavors are spot-on.

For those who are health-conscious, Be Leaf offers a vegan option for fried rice. Their vegan tofu fried rice is made with brown rice, tofu, and a variety of vegetables. It's a great dish for those who want to enjoy the flavors of fried rice without the guilt.

In conclusion, Chicago is a city that boasts a diverse culinary scene, and the fried rice options are no exception. From Chinese-American to Portuguese-style, there is a fried rice dish that will suit your taste buds. The next time you're in the Windy City, make sure to try one of these amazing fried rice spots.


Introduction

Fried rice is a ubiquitous dish that can be found on almost every Chinese restaurant menu. While it may seem simple, there are many variations of fried rice that can make or break the dish. In Chicago, there are several restaurants that offer exceptional fried rice. In this article, we will explore some of the best fried rice in Chicago.

1. Fat Rice

Fat Rice is a Macanese restaurant located in Logan Square. They offer a unique take on fried rice with their Arroz Gordo. This dish is a layered rice casserole that includes a variety of meats and seafood, such as chicken, pork, sausage, clams, and prawns. The rice is cooked in a rich broth and topped with a crispy crust. It's a must-try for anyone who loves fried rice.

2. MingHin Cuisine

MingHin Cuisine is a popular dim sum restaurant with locations in Chinatown and the Loop. Their Yangzhou Fried Rice is a classic Cantonese-style fried rice made with egg, BBQ pork, shrimp, and peas. The rice is cooked to perfection and seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce. It's a simple yet delicious dish that satisfies anyone's craving for fried rice.

3. Duck Duck Goat

Duck Duck Goat is a Chinese restaurant located in the West Loop. Their Goat Fried Rice is a standout dish that features goat sausage, scrambled eggs, and scallions. The rice is cooked in duck fat, giving it a rich and savory flavor. It's a hearty dish that's perfect for a cold winter day.

4. Lao Sze Chuan

Lao Sze Chuan is a Szechuan restaurant with several locations in the Chicago area. Their Spicy Fried Rice with Shrimp is a popular dish that packs a punch of flavor. The rice is cooked with chili oil and Szechuan peppercorns, giving it a spicy and numbing sensation. The shrimp adds a sweet and savory element to the dish.

5. Sun Wah BBQ

Sun Wah BBQ is a Chinese restaurant located in Uptown. Their BBQ Pork Fried Rice is a simple yet delicious dish made with BBQ pork, peas, and egg. The rice is cooked to perfection and seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

6. Imperial Lamian

Imperial Lamian is a Chinese restaurant located in River North. Their Crab Fried Rice is a luxurious dish made with jumbo lump crab meat, egg, and scallions. The rice is cooked in a wok with garlic and ginger, giving it a fragrant aroma. It's a perfect dish for seafood lovers.

7. MingHin Cuisine

MingHin Cuisine makes a second appearance on this list with their Lobster Fried Rice. This dish is made with fresh lobster meat, egg, and scallions. The rice is cooked in a wok with garlic and ginger, giving it a flavorful kick. It's a must-try for anyone who loves lobster and fried rice.

8. Lao Ma La

Lao Ma La is a Szechuan restaurant located in Chinatown. Their Chongqing Fried Rice is a spicy dish made with ground pork, Szechuan peppercorns, and chili oil. The rice is cooked to perfection and has a smoky flavor from being cooked in a hot wok. It's a perfect dish for anyone who loves spicy food.

9. Joy Yee Noodle

Joy Yee Noodle is a pan-Asian restaurant with several locations in the Chicago area. Their Pineapple Fried Rice is a sweet and savory dish made with pineapple, BBQ pork, and egg. The rice is cooked to perfection and has a fruity aroma from the pineapple. It's a perfect dish for anyone who loves tropical flavors.

10. Duck Duck Goat

Duck Duck Goat makes a second appearance on this list with their Mushroom Fried Rice. This dish is a vegetarian option made with shiitake mushrooms, egg, and scallions. The rice is cooked in a wok with garlic and ginger, giving it a fragrant aroma. It's a perfect dish for anyone who loves mushrooms and fried rice.

Conclusion

There are many variations of fried rice that can be found in Chicago. From classic Cantonese-style fried rice to unique takes like Arroz Gordo, there is something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, these restaurants have got you covered. So next time you're craving fried rice, give one of these restaurants a try. You won't be disappointed.
Why Fried Rice is a Must-Try in ChicagoFried rice is a classic Asian dish that has become popular all over the world. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste, and it's perfect for those who love a good mix of flavors and textures. In Chicago, there are plenty of restaurants that serve delicious fried rice, and it's definitely a must-try when visiting the city.Top Restaurants in Chicago for Delicious Fried RiceThere are several restaurants in Chicago that are known for their amazing fried rice. One of the top restaurants is MingHin Cuisine. This restaurant serves authentic Cantonese cuisine, and their fried rice is a must-try. They have several varieties of fried rice on their menu, including seafood fried rice, chicken fried rice, and vegetable fried rice.Another great restaurant for fried rice is Lao Sze Chuan. This restaurant is known for its spicy Szechuan cuisine, and their fried rice is no exception. They have several different types of fried rice on their menu, including shrimp, chicken, and beef fried rice.The Best Ingredients for Perfect Fried RiceThe key to making perfect fried rice is using the right ingredients. The most important ingredient is the rice itself. It's best to use long-grain rice, as it doesn't become too sticky when cooked. Other essential ingredients include vegetables such as carrots, peas, and onions, as well as proteins like chicken, shrimp, and beef. Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil are also important for flavor.A Guide to Different Fried Rice VarietiesThere are several different types of fried rice, each with its own unique flavor and texture. One of the most popular varieties is Yangzhou fried rice, which is made with ham, shrimp, and egg. Another popular variety is pineapple fried rice, which has a sweet and savory flavor thanks to the addition of fresh pineapple.Chicago's Best Chinese Restaurants for Fried RiceChicago has a vibrant Chinese community, and there are plenty of great restaurants that serve delicious fried rice. In addition to MingHin Cuisine and Lao Sze Chuan, other top Chinese restaurants include Imperial Lamian, which serves a variety of hand-pulled noodles and fried rice dishes, and Three Happiness, which is known for its huge portions and affordable prices.Fusion Fried Rice: A Unique Twist on the Classic DishIn addition to traditional fried rice, there are also fusion versions of the dish that incorporate flavors and ingredients from other cuisines. For example, at Fat Rice, a popular restaurant in Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood, they serve a Portuguese-style fried rice that includes chorizo and olives. Another fusion option is the Korean-style fried rice at Parachute, which features kimchi and beef short ribs.Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Fried Rice Options in ChicagoFor those who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, there are plenty of delicious fried rice options in Chicago. At Urban Vegan, they serve a vegan fried rice made with tofu, mixed vegetables, and soy sauce. Another great option is the vegetable fried rice at Chi Cafe, which includes a mix of carrots, peas, and corn.How to Make Fried Rice at Home Like a ProMaking fried rice at home is easy once you know the basics. Start by cooking long-grain rice according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté your proteins and vegetables until they're cooked through. Then, add the rice to the pan and stir everything together, adding soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for flavor. For an extra bit of flair, you can add a beaten egg and scramble it with the rest of the ingredients.Where to Find the Most Flavorful Fried Rice in ChicagoWhile there are plenty of great restaurants in Chicago that serve delicious fried rice, some stand out for their exceptional flavor. One of the most flavorful options is the spicy fried rice at Lao Sze Chuan, which features plenty of chili oil and Szechuan peppercorns. Another great option is the seafood fried rice at MingHin Cuisine, which is made with shrimp, scallops, and crab meat.Uncovering Chicago's Hidden Gems for Fried RiceWhile there are plenty of well-known restaurants in Chicago that serve delicious fried rice, there are also some hidden gems that are worth seeking out. For example, Joy's Noodles & Rice in the Uptown neighborhood serves a delicious Thai-style fried rice that's packed with flavor. Another hidden gem is New Asia Market, a grocery store in Chinatown that also has a small food court with amazing fried rice dishes. In conclusion, fried rice is a must-try dish when visiting Chicago. With so many great restaurants serving up delicious options, it's easy to find a variety that suits your taste. Whether you prefer traditional fried rice or fusion versions, vegetarian or meat-based options, there's something for everyone in Chicago's vibrant food scene.

The Best Fried Rice in Chicago: A Personal Perspective

Overview

As a food lover and someone who has lived in Chicago for several years, I have had the pleasure of trying many different types of fried rice in the city. In my opinion, there are a few standout options that I would consider the best.

Pros and Cons of Best Fried Rice in Chicago

Here are some pros and cons of my top picks for the best fried rice in Chicago:

Pick 1: Duck Fried Rice from Fat Rice

  • Pros:
    • The duck is cooked to perfection and adds a unique flavor to the dish.
    • The rice is perfectly cooked and has a great texture.
    • The dish is overall very flavorful and satisfying.
  • Cons:
    • The dish is on the pricier side compared to other fried rice options in the city.
    • The restaurant can get crowded, so there may be a wait to get a table.

Pick 2: Yang Chow Fried Rice from MingHin Cuisine

  • Pros:
    • The dish is very affordable and filling.
    • The portion size is generous, making it great for sharing or taking home leftovers.
    • The flavor of the dish is well-balanced and satisfying.
  • Cons:
    • The dish is not as unique or flavorful as some other fried rice options in the city.
    • The restaurant can get busy, so service may be slow at times.

Pick 3: Kimchi Fried Rice from Del Seoul

  • Pros:
    • The dish has a great kick of spice from the kimchi.
    • The portion size is generous and can be customized with add-ons like pork belly or fried egg.
    • The restaurant has a fun, casual atmosphere.
  • Cons:
    • The rice can be a bit greasy at times.
    • The restaurant is small and can get crowded, so seating may be limited.

Comparison Table for Best Fried Rice in Chicago

Here is a table comparing my top picks for the best fried rice in Chicago:

Name of Dish Restaurant Price Portion Size Flavor Unique Features
Duck Fried Rice Fat Rice $$ Medium Very flavorful and unique, thanks to the duck Higher price point, can get crowded
Yang Chow Fried Rice MingHin Cuisine $ Large Well-balanced and satisfying Affordable, filling option
Kimchi Fried Rice Del Seoul $ Medium Spicy and flavorful Customizable with add-ons like pork belly or fried egg

Overall, these are my top picks for the best fried rice in Chicago. Whether you're in the mood for something unique and flavorful or just want a filling and affordable option, there are plenty of great choices in the city.


The Best Fried Rice in Chicago: A Culinary Adventure

Thank you for joining us on our exploration of the best fried rice in Chicago. We hope that you have enjoyed reading about our culinary adventures and that our recommendations have inspired you to try some new dishes. Before we wrap up, we want to leave you with some final thoughts on the topic.

First and foremost, we have to say that finding the best fried rice in Chicago was no easy task. There are so many amazing restaurants in this city, each with their own unique take on this classic dish. However, after much research and taste-testing, we are confident in our top picks.

If you are a fan of traditional Chinese-style fried rice, then you absolutely must check out MingHin Cuisine. Their egg fried rice is a standout, with perfectly cooked grains and just the right amount of seasoning. Plus, the restaurant offers a wide variety of other delicious dishes to try.

For those who prefer a more modern take on fried rice, we highly recommend checking out Fat Rice in Logan Square. Their arroz gordo is a fusion of Portuguese and Chinese flavors, resulting in a truly unique and delicious dish. It's definitely worth the trip!

Another great spot for fusion cuisine is BellyQ in West Loop. Their Korean Fried Rice is a must-try, with crispy bits of pork belly mixed in with the rice. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!

If you're on a budget but still want to indulge in some delicious fried rice, we suggest heading over to Chi Cafe. This casual spot in Chinatown serves up large portions of fried rice at incredibly affordable prices. You won't be disappointed!

Of course, these are just a few of our favorite spots for fried rice in Chicago. There are plenty of other restaurants worth checking out, and we encourage you to continue your own culinary adventure in this amazing city.

Before we sign off, we also want to give a shoutout to all of the amazing chefs and restaurant staff who work tirelessly to bring us delicious food every day. Thank you for your hard work and dedication!

And to all of our readers, thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope that you have learned something new and that you will continue to explore the diverse culinary scene here in Chicago. Until next time, happy eating!


People Also Ask About Best Fried Rice in Chicago

What Are the Best Restaurants in Chicago for Fried Rice?

Chicago is known for its diverse food scene, and when it comes to fried rice, there are many great options. Some of the best restaurants for fried rice in Chicago include:

  • MingHin Cuisine (multiple locations)
  • Dolo Restaurant and Bar (3122 W. Lake St.)
  • Furious Spoon (multiple locations)
  • Lao Sze Chuan (multiple locations)
  • Strings Ramen Shop (multiple locations)

What Are the Different Kinds of Fried Rice Available in Chicago?

Chicago offers a range of different kinds of fried rice, each with their own unique flavor and ingredients. Some of the most popular types of fried rice available in Chicago include:

  1. Classic fried rice - made with eggs, peas, carrots, onions, and soy sauce
  2. Shrimp fried rice - with shrimp as the main protein
  3. Vegetable fried rice - with a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, and zucchini
  4. Kimchi fried rice - with the addition of kimchi, a Korean fermented vegetable dish
  5. Pineapple fried rice - with chunks of pineapple mixed in for a sweet and savory flavor

What Makes the Best Fried Rice in Chicago?

The best fried rice in Chicago is made with high-quality ingredients, cooked to perfection, and packed with flavor. Some key factors that make for great fried rice include:

  • Using day-old rice, which helps to create a better texture and prevent the rice from becoming mushy
  • Adding plenty of vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor
  • Using a variety of sauces and seasonings to enhance the taste
  • Cooking with high heat to create a crispy texture and prevent the rice from sticking together

Conclusion

If you're looking for the best fried rice in Chicago, there are plenty of great options to choose from. By selecting a restaurant known for their delicious fried rice, trying different types of fried rice, and paying attention to key factors that make for great fried rice, you're sure to enjoy a satisfying and delicious meal.