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JJ Thai Street Food

1715 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
$$
Thai

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Master Critic Review

JJ Thai Street Food 8.4
Ukrainian Village
JJ Thai Street Food is a compact Ukrainian Village BYOB specializing in bold, Bangkok-style street dishes, curries, and noodle bowls. Locals crowd the small dining room for fried chicken, papaya salad, and crab fried rice that feel far more like a destination restaurant than a neighborhood spot.
Must-Try Dishes: Crab Fried Rice, Crispy Pork Belly with Basil, Braised Pork Noodle Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.7 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 8.5 Food Quality: 9 Atmosphere: 6.5 Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: BYOB Thai street-food specialist with a huge menu and serious spice.
Who should go: Thai fans craving regional dishes beyond standard takeout.
When to visit: Early weekend evenings before walk-in waits build.
What to order: Crab fried rice, crispy pork belly with basil, braised pork noodle soup.
Insider tip: Call ahead for weekend reservations or be ready to queue at peak times.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only in Ukrainian Village; usually manageable but can be tight during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — neighborhood-restaurant vibes. Jeans and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — lively and bustling but you can still hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins during peak hours, especially for groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Plenty of vegetarian curries, noodle dishes, and appetizers — substitutions available on many plates.
Vegan options: Several dishes can be made vegan if you request no fish sauce or egg — ask staff when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Some rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, but there is not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something casual, lively, and food-focused rather than quiet or formal. It works better for relaxed dates than candlelit occasions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, but expect a wait during peak weekend dinner hours. Arriving early or late helps, as does being flexible with seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids or adventurous eaters. The space is small, so strollers and large family setups may feel tight.
Best For
Better for: Bold, street-style Thai flavors, generous portions, and a lively neighborhood feel — especially great for sharing plates.
Skip if: You want upscale ambience, extremely mild spice, or a guaranteed quiet dining room.