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Little Wok
Master Critic Review
Little Wok
8.1
Owner-operated Chinese-Japanese hybrid with full bar delivering fresh preparations in a charming boutique setting. The hands-on approach shows in dishes like Malaysian chicken chow fun and crispy sushi rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
General Tso's Chicken, Malaysian Chicken Chow Fun, Dragon Roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Owner-operated boutique restaurant with both Chinese and Japanese expertise
Who should go: Solo diners and couples wanting quality without pretense
When to visit: Lunch specials weekdays offer great value
What to order: Pad Thai, Malaysian Chow Fun, Stone Pot dishes
Insider tip: Dog-friendly patio seating available; save room for dessert
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Halsted and residential side streets; boutique size means less competition than bigger spots nearby
Dress code: Relaxed casual - come as you are, whether that's post-yoga or a casual date night look
Noise level: Intimate and quiet - small room means you'll hear your conversation clearly, occasional kitchen sounds add warmth
Weekend wait: 15-25 min possible due to limited seating; calling ahead helps
Weekday lunch: No wait - lunch specials keep things moving
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - tofu options across both Chinese and Japanese sides of the menu, veggie rolls available
Vegan options: Moderate - vegetable stir-fries and some rolls work; owner can guide you through options
Gluten-free options: Limited but possible - rice dishes and some sushi work; ask about soy sauce alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Quietly perfect. The boutique setting feels personal without being stuffy, the menu gives you plenty to discuss, and the full bar means you can linger over drinks. Intimate enough to connect, casual enough to relax.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, but the small footprint means limited seats. Weeknights are safe bets; weekend dinners benefit from a quick call ahead. Patio seats in season go fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Works for well-behaved older kids who enjoy trying different foods. No dedicated kids menu, but teriyaki and fried rice options exist. The intimate vibe suits calmer family meals rather than toddler chaos.
Best For
Better for: When you want the care of an owner-operated kitchen with flexibility across Chinese and Japanese cravings - plus a dog-friendly patio that bigger spots can't match
Skip if: You need speedy large-group dining or want to stick to one cuisine lane - the hybrid menu rewards adventurous eaters over purists