Arun’s Thai Restaurant

Opened in 1985, Arun's was the first high-end Thai restaurant in Chicago. Chef/owner Arun Sampanthavivat is credited for introducing Chicagoans to authentic Thai cuisine and his memorable, 12-course degustation feasts helped him attain a James Beard award.

While most Thai spots in Chicago lean toward the casual side, Arun’s serves a pre-fixe menu with 8 to12 course options. Each is elegantly presented and served in an equally adorned restaurant space filled with chef Arun Sampanthavitat’s Thai baubles. A dungeness crab cake and a poached lobster tail are a few menu highlights that exemplify his ornate take on Southeast Asian flavors. The cradled prawn—with red curry, kaffir lime leaf, sweet basil and a cucumber salad—is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It's a must-try experience for Thai food fanatics.

In addition, interestingly crafted cocktails that contain intriguing ingredients like pineapple and peach barbecue sauce purée make for a fascinating meal. If you opt for the full meal, prepare to take some food home–every course is delicious and you won’t want to waste any of it. While Arun’s remains open for dine-in service, customers can also order to-go online.

• Google rating: 4.5/5.0
• Opening hours: Thu to Sun 5:00 PM-9:00 PM
• Phone: +1 773-539-1909
• Website: https://www.arunsthai.com/
• Address: 4156 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618