Spoon Thai: Family Restaurant in Lincoln Square

Keep your eyes peeled for this delightful little restaurant tucked away on the west side of Western Avenue in Lincoln Square. This gem is a worthy favorite among local Thais and Thai food lovers in Chicago. Husband and wife team Chai and Vanna Gumtrontip own and run Spoon Thai, offering their authentic Thai family recipes seven days a week.

Vanna worked in her sister's restaurant in Bangkok for 20 years before moving to Chicago where she and Chai have created their exceptionally tasty eatery. When you visit Spoon Thai, Chai will greet you in the front. Proud and passionate about his home country and the food his wife prepares, Chai makes eating at Spoon Thai an all-around delightful experience.

Spoon Thai has two menus--one in English, the other in Thai. The English menu includes well-known American dishes like curries, noodles, spring rolls, etc. But for varied and nuanced flavors typically not found outside of Thailand, be sure to request the Thai menu (translated into English). Here you will select from a list of lesser-known, exceptional (and mighty spicy) authentic dishes. The creations on this menu are simply outstanding.

Tastybeat highly recommends these Spoon Thai dishes, perfect light summer fare:

• Miang Kham (Thai menu) - Crispy shredded coconut, dried shrimp, red onion, ginger, lime and roasted peanuts all on a bed of lettuce and served with a traditional Thai dressing.
• Somtum Salad (English menu) - A very Spicy salad with green papaya, string beans, tomato, carrots, peanuts, chili pepper and lime juice.

And don't miss these two wonderful Spoon Thai specialties, available only upon request (not listed on either menu):

• Soft shell crab in curry sauce
• Thai noodles with Thai curry and fresh vegetables

Also, be sure to checkout tastybeat.com for a terrific fresh fruit vinegar.

Happy Dining,

Tastybeat

Spoon Thai
4608 N. Western Avenue (map)
Chicago, IL
P: 773.769.1173

Hours:
Monday-Sunday 11:00am-10:00pm