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Dao Thai Restaurant and Noodle Palace
Master Critic Review
Dao Thai Restaurant and Noodle Palace
8.3
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Dao Thai Restaurant and Noodle Palace is a long-running Streeterville staple where platform seating, noodle bowls, and classic curries offer a sit-down Thai option a block off the Magnificent Mile. Portions are generous and pricing remains relatively gentle for the neighborhood, making it a practical choice for lunch, casual dinners, and group orders.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai, Massaman Curry, Tom Yum Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: One of Streeterville’s few dedicated Thai dining rooms with big portions and broad menu depth.
Who should go: Office workers and visitors wanting sit-down Thai near Michigan Avenue.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners for faster seating and smoother pacing.
What to order: Pad Thai, Massaman curry, Tom Yum soup.
Insider tip: Use the noodle bowls and curries for shareable, family-style ordering to stretch value even further.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly paid garage parking in nearby Streeterville decks; metered street parking is limited and competitive during weekday business hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual — office attire, jeans, and comfortable clothing are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is generally comfortable at most tables, though peak lunch periods can feel lively.
Weekend wait: Usually minimal to moderate — 10–25 minutes for walk-ins depending on convention and tourist traffic.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though popular mid-day windows can see brief queues.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — many noodle and curry dishes can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Partially — several dishes can be customized, but confirm sauces and fish sauce with the server.
Gluten-free options: Limited — rice-based dishes are safer options, but cross-contact is possible; ask for guidance when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re looking for a relaxed, low-pressure dinner — the room is comfortable and conversation is easy, but it feels more casual than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — walk-ins are commonly seated, especially outside peak convention and tourist rushes; calling ahead can help during busy evenings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — spacious seating, shareable portions, and mild customizable dishes make it suitable for families with school-age kids.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, approachable pricing for Streeterville, and a broad, familiar Thai menu that works well for groups and casual business lunches.
Skip if: You’re seeking trend-driven or ultra-spicy regional Thai cooking, an upscale date-night setting, or highly specialized dietary accommodations.