Introduction
The vibrant aromas of lemongrass, the spicy kick of chilies, and the delicate balance of sweet, sour, salty, and savory – Thai cuisine is a culinary adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and transports you to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Located in Chicago’s North Shore, Northbrook offers a mix of residential comfort and convenient amenities, making it a great place to live… and eat! When cravings for the exotic and flavorful strikes, where do you go? Fear not, because finding exceptional Thai food in Northbrook is easier than you think.
This guide is your key to unlocking the best culinary secrets Northbrook has to offer. Forget endless scrolling through generic restaurant listings; we’ve curated a list of the most beloved establishments, highlighting hidden gems and offering helpful tips for selecting the perfect Thai dish to satisfy your unique preferences. Get ready to discover a world of delectable curries, fragrant noodle dishes, and tantalizing appetizers. We’ll explore the most popular restaurants, highlight some hidden gems, and offer tips for choosing the perfect Thai dish for your taste. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey through the world of Thai food in Northbrook.
Top-Rated Thai Restaurants in Northbrook
Siam Marina
Siam Marina has been a Northbrook staple for years, consistently delighting diners with its fresh ingredients, artful presentation, and commitment to authentic Thai flavors. The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner. They are dedicated to using the freshest ingredients sourced daily, resulting in dishes that burst with flavor.
One of their signature dishes is the Pad Thai. This isn’t your average Pad Thai; it’s a perfectly balanced blend of rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, and peanuts, all tossed in a tangy tamarind sauce. The noodles are cooked al dente, and the sauce has a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. Another must-try is the Green Curry. Made with fresh green chilies, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and basil, it’s a fragrant and flavorful curry that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. You can choose your protein level, from chicken or beef to tofu or vegetables, to build your perfect meal. The price range at Siam Marina is generally mid-range, making it an affordable option for a delicious Thai food Northbrook experience.
Located on Dundee Road, Siam Marina is easily accessible and offers both dine-in and takeout options. Their friendly service, consistently excellent food, and cozy atmosphere make this a local favorite for authentic Thai food in Northbrook. Find them online or give them a call to make a reservation or place an order. This is a fantastic place to start your Northbrook Thai adventure.
Noodles Thai Kitchen
Noodles Thai Kitchen provides a more modern and contemporary dining experience. Their menu features both classic Thai dishes and innovative creations, appealing to both traditionalists and those seeking something new. The ambiance is sleek and stylish, making it a great place for a special occasion or a trendy night out.
Their signature dish is the Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao. These wide rice noodles are stir-fried with chili peppers, basil, tomatoes, onions, and your choice of protein in a spicy and savory sauce. The heat level is adjustable, so you can customize it to your liking. Another popular choice is their Pineapple Fried Rice, a delightful combination of rice, pineapple, cashews, raisins, and your choice of protein, all served in a hollowed-out pineapple. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory flavors of the rice, creating a truly unique and satisfying dish. Noodles Thai Kitchen generally falls in the moderate price range and is known for its generous portion sizes.
Noodles Thai Kitchen is located on Skokie Boulevard, making it a convenient option for those living or working in the area. They offer both dine-in and takeout options, as well as catering services. Its modern atmosphere, diverse menu, and delicious food make it a top choice for Thai food in Northbrook. Check out their website or call to order.
Thai Square
Thai Square offers a classic and unpretentious setting, focusing on delivering authentic Thai flavors at affordable prices. This family-run establishment has been serving up delicious Thai food in Northbrook for years. It’s a great place for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends and family.
The restaurant is particularly known for its lunch specials, which offer a great value for money. Their Pad See Ew is a classic, featuring wide rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein in a savory-sweet soy sauce. The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the sauce has a delightful caramelization. Their red curry is another favorite, a robustly flavored coconut milk-based curry with red bell peppers, bamboo shoots, and your choice of protein. Thai Square is a very affordable place to eat Thai food.
Located on Waukegan Road, Thai Square is easily accessible and offers ample parking. Their friendly service, generous portions, and authentic flavors make it a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying and affordable Thai food Northbrook experience. Visit the restaurant to see their menu.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
That Thai Spot
Tucked away in a small strip mall, That Thai Spot might not look like much from the outside, but don’t let appearances fool you. This unassuming spot serves up some of the most authentic Northern Thai dishes in the area. The emphasis here is on traditional flavors and techniques, resulting in dishes that are both flavorful and comforting.
Their Khao Soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup, is a must-try. The rich and flavorful broth is infused with spices, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. They also have a delicious papaya salad known as Som Tum. It’s a perfect example of bold Thai food. That Thai Spot represents a hidden gem of authentic Thai food in Northbrook.
Family Thai Restaurant
This family-run restaurant uses recipes passed down through generations, creating a truly authentic and heartwarming dining experience. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the service is warm and friendly. It’s like dining in someone’s home, where you’re treated like family.
They are known for their homemade sauces and spices. Their green curry is particularly special, made with a secret blend of herbs and spices that gives it a unique and unforgettable flavor. The care they put into their food translates directly into an unforgettable dining experience making it a unique take on Thai food in Northbrook.
A Guide to Thai Dishes
To fully appreciate the diverse range of Thai food Northbrook has to offer, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of some of the most popular dishes.
Popular Appetizers
- Spring Rolls: These crispy and refreshing rolls are filled with vegetables and often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Variations include fresh spring rolls, which are not fried and contain rice noodles and herbs.
- Satay: Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically chicken or beef, served with a creamy peanut sauce.
- Crab Rangoon: A North American-Thai fusion, these crispy wontons are filled with cream cheese and crab meat.
Must-Try Soups
- Tom Yum: A spicy and sour soup flavored with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies.
- Tom Kha: A creamy coconut milk-based soup with similar flavors to Tom Yum, but with a milder spice level.
Classic Main Courses
- Pad Thai: Perhaps the most famous Thai dish, Pad Thai consists of stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
- Pad See Ew: Wide rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein in a savory-sweet soy sauce.
- Green Curry: A fragrant and flavorful curry made with green chilies, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and basil.
- Red Curry: Similar to green curry, but made with red chilies, resulting in a slightly spicier flavor.
- Massaman Curry: A milder, peanut-based curry with potatoes, onions, and your choice of protein.
Rice Dishes
- Fried Rice: A classic comfort food dish, often made with egg, vegetables, and your choice of protein.
- Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and satisfying dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk.
Spice Levels
When ordering Thai food in Northbrook, it’s important to communicate your spice preference to the server. Most restaurants use a scale of “mild,” “medium,” “hot,” or a numerical scale of 1-5. Remember that Thai chilies can be quite potent, so it’s always best to start with a milder spice level and work your way up.
Tips for Choosing Your Thai Food Experience in Northbrook
Consider your Spice Tolerance: Be honest with yourself and the server!
Read Reviews: Check online reviews on Yelp, Google, etc. for recent experiences.
Check for Specials: Many restaurants offer lunch specials or daily specials that are a great value.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions: The servers are the best source of information and can guide you through the menu.
Dietary Restrictions: Most restaurants offer gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan options. Be sure to inquire about ingredients.
Conclusion
Northbrook offers a diverse range of Thai food Northbrook options to satisfy any craving, from authentic classics to innovative creations. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food aficionado or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, grab your appetite and embark on a culinary journey through the delicious world of Thai food in Northbrook. Explore the restaurants mentioned, discover your new favorite dishes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Thailand. Bon appétit… or as they say in Thailand, ทานให้อร่อยนะ! (taan hai a-roi na!)
