Skip to main content
0 Followers

Free analytics & customer insights

Thai Bowl

1049 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60607
$
Thai
📍 Directions

Vibe Check this spot

Rate this spot and tag the vibes that fit

Log In to Add Vibe Check

Master Critic Review

Thai Bowl 7.6
University Village / Little Italy
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Comfort Food Classics Quick Bites Champions Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Thai Bowl is a long-running counter-service stop near UIC serving fast, inexpensive Thai standards with outdoor seating when weather allows. Students and staff count on it for quick lunch combos and familiar noodle dishes between classes or shifts.
Must-Try Dishes: Pad Thai, Panang Curry, Pad See-Ew
Scores:
Value: 8.6 Service: 6.5 Consistency: 7.4 Food Quality: 7.8 Atmosphere: 6.2 Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: UIC-adjacent staple for very affordable Thai plates and noodles.
Who should go: Students, staff, and neighbors needing fast, filling meals.
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lulls avoid the peak lunch class rush.
What to order: Pad Thai, Panang Curry, Pad See-Ew with your protein.
Insider tip: Use lunch specials and outdoor tables on nicer days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking in the neighborhood; availability varies with UIC class schedules
Dress code: Very casual — campus-friendly attire is the norm
Noise level: Low to moderate — usually easy to hold a conversation
Weekend wait: Generally minimal wait; may back up slightly during peak takeout hours
Weekday lunch: Short line during class rush but usually moves quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — many stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes can be made vegetarian
Vegan options: Often possible — ask for no fish sauce or egg in certain dishes
Gluten-free options: Limited — some dishes may work, but many sauces contain soy and wheat
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic dates — it’s counter-service and focused on quick meals.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only and generally easy to find a seat outside peak lunch hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — informal service and familiar noodle dishes make it approachable for older kids, though space is limited for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive Thai staples near UIC when convenience matters most
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale ambiance, complex regional Thai cooking, or long sit-down meals