Oct 6, 2024

Here at Classic, we consider ourselves somewhat of an aficionado in local eats!  Today, we’re thinking about lunching at these incredible restaurants for National Noodle Day, sampling some delicious noodle bowls and stir-fry noodle options.  Whether you’re looking for traditional Japanese Ramen, Chinese Dan Dan Noodles, Drunken Thai Noodles, Korean Japchae, or some other noodle dish that strikes your fancy, we’ve got you covered! Check out our recommendations and celebrate with us.

Thai Noodles Cafe in Libertyville offers a full menu of options including plenty of Vegan and Vegetarian entrees. While it has a rather unassuming atmosphere, folks love the lunch portions and specifically recommend the spicy Pad Thai and Pad See Ew.

Amarit Thai and Sushi in Chicago caters to just about everyone including vegan, vegetarian, and even gluten free entree choices.  The menu features a fusion of both modern trendy and traditional Thai dish options, making it a great option for the enthusiastic foodie.  They also have a full bar. Locals recommend the Chicken Pad Thai, Northern Curry Noodles, Singapore Noodles with seafood, and chicken noodle soup.

Chicago Ramen in Mundelein offers top-notch options in noodle dishes, with lunchtime hours being the highlight if you’re in the area.  Locals love the vegetarian ramen with egg for a light, savory meal, the classic Chicken Ramen, Tsukemen (a ramen for dipping) and great options for kids ramen bowls.

RamenDoBo Noodle Bar in Cary specializes in Yokohama-style ramen, but offers Asian Fusion menu options including Thai, French, Mexican, and Mediterranean crossover dishes for an eclectic experience.  Locals recommend the Chicken and Pork spicy Ramen, Garlic Bomb Ramen, Miso Porky Miso, and Tonkotsu Ramen entrees.

Nomu Ramen and Izakaya in Glenview is an Asian Fusion Ramen restaurant and bar for Chicago level eats without the metropolitan price tag.  Reservations are recommended on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays as they’re the most popular days!  Locals recommend the Tori Patian Ramen with creamy broth, Tonkotsu Shio Ramen, Summer Yuzu Udon (a seasonal special), as well as appetizers like Gyoza, Fried Mini Octopus, and Chicken Karaage.

Chef Xiong’s Taste of Szechuan in Chicago was once a favorite of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, and if that’s not enough to sell you? Well, allow the tastes and smells to set you straight when you walk in. Locals recommend the Cold Sesame Noodle appetizer, Chinese Jajangmyeon NOodles, Wontons in Chili Sauce, Mapo Tofu, Chongqing Chicken, and the Spicy Szechuan Skewers.

Paik’s Noodle in Glenview has some of the best Korean noodles around! Visitors recommend trying out the Jampong Noodle Soup, Jaengban Jajang (feeds 2), Bokkeummyeon, Spicy Seafood Noodle Soup and Black Bean Noodles. Locals also rave about the Tangsuyuk, a pork dish with special dipping sauce.  We bet you’ll also be raving about those homestyle traditional noodles with their chewy texture and immensely flavorful sauces..

Basu Vietnamese in Northbrook offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese options with reasonable price points. Recommendations include the veggie spring rolls, Steak Pho, Pork Noodle Bowl, Crispy Tofu Pho, Honey Pork Banh Mi, Spicy Wings, and the Ribeye Noodle Bowl.

Lao Sze Chuan in Highland Park is serving up some serious spice and flavor in the form of traditional Sichuan Chinese fare. Highlights on the menu include traditional Dan Dan Noodles, Spicy & Sour Crystal Noodles, Szechuan Style Beef Brisket Noodle Soup, Boiled Beef in Spicy Szechuan Sauce, Mongolian Beef Tenderloin, and Three Cups Chicken.

Ni’s Kitchen in Wilmette is another favorite Vietnamese hot spot offering traditional Pho and Banh Mi options from a family-owned and operated team.  Locals recommend the Grilled Pork and Egg Roll Vermicelli, Pho Dac Biet, Chicken Pho, Pho Ga. Be on the lookout for plenty of specials, and additional menu items based on customer feedback.

Han Bat Restaurant in Chicago is a mom and pop shop that really brings the heat when it comes to traditional Korean food.  Locals recommend the Beef Brisket Noodle Soup, Oxtail Soup, Kimchi side dishes, and the Combination SooYook plate. This is very traditional, homestyle meals without the flashy decor of modern dining, allowing for a truly authentic eating experience.

Got a favorite noodle hot spot we’ve left off the list? Give us a shout in the comments on our social media, and we might just include your suggestions in a future update on the blog!