When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Joy Yee Plus
Why Joy Yee Plus is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Joy Yee Plus is a renowned dining destination celebrated for its distinctive fusion of Asian-inspired flavors, creating a joyful and memorable experience for all visitors. The restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring flavors from various Asian cuisines, ranging from savory noodle dishes to refreshing fruit smoothies and bubble teas. Its vibrant and sleek interior, a recent upgrade noted by regulars, complements the dynamic culinary experience. The large portion sizes and affordable prices make it an ideal spot for groups of friends seeking a fulfilling meal without compromising quality or authenticity. Whether you are craving classic Pad Thai, a curried chicken in coconut milk, or a creative smoothie blend, Joy Yee Plus consistently delivers with a welcoming atmosphere that invites conversation and connection. Its multiple locations, including the original in Chicago's Chinatown and branches elsewhere, cater to diverse tastes and bring together a community of food lovers who appreciate genuine Asian cuisine in a casual yet trendy environment. The combination of friendly service, authentic dishes, and creative beverage options makes Joy Yee Plus a perfect meetup spot for both casual lunches and lively dinners.
Here's what people think of Joy Yee Plus
As of recent, Joy Yee Plus holds a 4.3-star rating based on 833 reviews.
Visitors and reviewers consistently praise Joy Yee Plus for its authentic and diverse Asian menu offerings. Positive feedback frequently highlights the wide range of flavor options, including standout dishes like the cucumber salad, Pad Thai, and curried chicken in coconut milk, which customers find heavenly. The bubble tea and fruit smoothies have a loyal following, often described as some of the best available, with generous portion sizes at reasonable prices. Reviewers also appreciate the restaurant's recent remodeling, noting its sleek and inviting ambiance. Regular patrons value the friendly, efficient service and the great value for money, considering the generous servings. On the other hand, some reviews note that the expansive menu spanning many Asian cuisines may feel somewhat overwhelming, potentially diluting the focus on any single culinary tradition. A few customers find the service adequate but not exceptional, mentioning that it is sufficient without being overly attentive. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus is that Joy Yee Plus offers delicious, authentic food that justifies return visits, making it a highly recommended spot for both locals and visitors seeking genuine pan-Asian flavors in a casual setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Annabel McKee
This restaurant definitely seemed like it was more popular for the amount of milk tea options than for the food. We were very pleased with how quickly we got our food and some things tasted really good, however, my meal made me physically sick a few hours after we left, one other dish was pretty dry, and none of us finished the milk tea because it tasted a little off. We will eat at a different place next time we are in Chinatown.
BullionNotBits
My friend wanted us to dry durian flavored ice cream…. Stinky, yet delicious! The kids really enjoyed trying a few different things from the menu. On a hot day at his spot is a perfect stop. Will be revisiting next time we are in China town. Bussin!
arief lazuardy
Been there several times, but my last visit really disappointed me and my wife!! Food quality and taste are change in everything we normally ordered! Tasteless and in some food were too salty. Service was so so i think the old man busser way more attentive and friendly than our server..
Chicago IL
Super busy place, very packed!!! Come early!!! We came on a Friday evening around 9:00 p.m thinking that this place wouldn't be too busy but we were wrong. It was extremely packed like people didn't have any place to sit that's how busy and packed it was. I was walking around craving something really simple nothing too heavy and I saw a sign posted outside of Joyee plus promoting their new sandwiches (bahn mi) it looked really appetizing and light so I decided to try it. Good idea to post a sign outside their restaurant door promoting their sandwiches I wouldn't have stopped in if I hadn't seen the sign outside promoting them. But because I saw the sign and saw that it looked tasty I went into order. The woman that took my order was a little bit rude when I stated that I wanted to add avocado to my sandwich. She said that she would remove the carrots and the onions if I add avocado and I asked her why since it already comes with the sandwich. She said it will be extra for the avocado and I said that was fine. It was $1.50 for avocado which I didn't mind paying. I just don't like that she assumed that I didn't want to pay extra for toppings So she was going to sub the carrots and onions for the avocado. Not everyone is a cheapskate and I don't mind paying extra for an ingredient if that's what I want!! I didn't like her attitude saying that I couldn't have certain ingredients on my sandwich that already comes with the sandwich to begin with just bc I wanted to add an additional topping. It was rude and unprofessional. She shouldn't assume. She said it would take 15 minutes to get my sandwich and it took about 20 minutes. There was a really long wait because there was a really long line of people ordering drinks and dessert. So come early to avoid the long line! But it was definitely worth the wait! The sandwich was super warm the bun was warm and semi-crunchy and it had sweet and tangy pickled carrots and cucumber, sauteed onions, a little bit of bell pepper, cilantro and the avocado that I paid extra for. I got the lemongrass chicken and it was well seasoned. You can actually taste the lemongrass, the chicken thigh was chopped up into chunks, was warm and tender, perfectly cooked, not too chewy and it wasn't overly salty. It was perfectly seasoned! I really like the taste of the pickled veggies at the added to the sandwich as well. It was $13 with tax. I'm really glad I got the lemongrass chicken banh mi and it went excellent with the avocado I added! I will definitely be coming back to try the rest of their sandwiches. They have a steak and egg sandwich that looked really good and they also have a rib eye sandwich too. In terms of the ambience there, not much seating and the tables are wobbly and there were food particles on the floor. I know it's busy there but the staff should still come out and wipe the tables down and clear the food crumbs food off the floor. At least sweep it once, it's not a good look for the restaurant when chunks of food/crumbs are on the floor. Overall, the sandwiches look appetizing I'll be back to try the rest! 🥪
Kiki Addo
Lovely, friendly atmosphere. Relatively fast service. Wanted to try something new but I guess I’m not a big fan of matcha or red bean. But I loved the bubble waffle!
How to reach Joy Yee Plus
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Why Joy Yee Plus may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Joy Yee Plus with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing finds the perfect setting at Joy Yee Plus, a standout Asian dining destination boasting a solid 4.3-star rating from over 800 reviews. This establishes it not only as a popular but well-loved spot that guarantees quality and satisfaction. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere sets an engaging and comfortable backdrop, ideal for socializing and catching up. Whether seeking a casual dinner or a lively group celebration, Joy Yee Plus offers a welcoming space that fosters togetherness. The menu’s diverse offerings cater to varied tastes, making it easy for everyone in your group to find something they enjoy, from authentic noodles to specialty hot pot dishes. Its convenient location and accommodating hours mean it fits well into different schedules, making planning effortless. Altogether, the combination of delightful food, inviting ambiance, and excellent service makes Joy Yee Plus the go-to venue to rally with your friends for an unforgettable experience filled with great conversation and fantastic eats.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Joy Yee Plus?
Beyond just serving delicious meals, Joy Yee Plus encourages a communal dining experience perfect for groups through their specialty Shabu Shabu—a Japanese-style hot pot that invites diners to cook fresh ingredients together at the table. This interactive dining style transforms eating into an engaging activity, promoting conversation and shared moments as friends select meats, vegetables, and noodles to boil in savory broths. Additionally, the restaurant’s layout supports larger groups looking to celebrate or simply enjoy each other’s company in comfort. Patrons can partake in leisurely meals that stretch out amid the vibrant decor, enhanced by attentive and flexible service responsive to group needs. This makes Joy Yee Plus not only a place to eat but an immersive experience that deepens social bonds through the joy of food preparation and communal enjoyment. The hot pot interactive element adds a fun twist to traditional dining, ensuring groups stay entertained and connected throughout their visit.
Why is Joy Yee Plus perfect for group meetups?
Joy Yee Plus shines as a group meetup venue due to its generous seating capacities, energetic yet cozy atmosphere, and menu designed with variety and sharing in mind. Groups benefit from ample space and thoughtful table arrangements that encourage engagement without feeling cramped, allowing friends or family to interact freely. The menu is crafted to accommodate different preferences and dietary needs, including vegetarian and meat options, making it easy to please everyone in a group. Communal dishes like the Shabu Shabu hot pot promote a shared culinary adventure rather than isolated meals, further enhancing bonding over the dining experience. The restaurant’s consistent high rating reflects excellent service that sets a relaxed and welcoming tone. Plus, its central location in Chicago with convenient hours means it’s accessible for most schedules, adding a practical edge to its appeal. Hosting a celebration or casual gathering here transforms a simple meal into a lasting memory.
What kinds of food can you expect at Joy Yee Plus?
Joy Yee Plus features an extensive menu rooted in authentic Asian cuisine with a strong emphasis on Chinese and Japanese influences, particularly known for its noodle dishes and hot pots. You can expect a range of freshly prepared options, including fragrant noodle bowls, savory stir-fries, and their signature Shabu Shabu hot pot, where diners cook fresh ingredients in a simmering broth at the table. The menu’s diversity allows groups to sample different flavors and textures—ideal for sharing and trying new dishes together. Ingredients are typically fresh, and the cooking style focuses on bold, balanced tastes that appeal to a wide audience. Whether you prefer spicy, mild, or umami-rich flavors, the selections cater to all palates, including vegetarians. This variety not only satisfies but excites the taste buds, making dining at Joy Yee Plus a culinary journey worth experiencing with friends or family.
How does Joy Yee Plus accommodate different group sizes and needs?
The restaurant is well-equipped to host both small and large groups, thanks to its spacious interior layout and flexible seating arrangements. Whether you are arranging an intimate table for a handful of friends or a larger party celebrating a special occasion, Joy Yee Plus adapts effortlessly to your needs. The staff is accustomed to accommodating groups, providing attentive service that ensures everyone is attended to without feeling rushed. Reservations or walk-ins are welcome, making it easy to plan a spontaneous or organized gathering. Additionally, the menu’s shareable dishes and customizable hot pots are perfect for groups wishing to try multiple items without the challenge of ordering individual meals. Special requests related to dietary restrictions or meal preferences are also handled professionally, further enhancing the dining experience for diverse groups. In short, Joy Yee Plus offers a flexible, customer-focused environment ideal for all kinds of social meetups.
What makes the ambiance of Joy Yee Plus enjoyable for social gatherings?
Joy Yee Plus combines a lively yet comfortable ambiance that sets a positive mood for socializing. The interior is decorated with colorful accents and thoughtful touches that reflect Asian influences, creating an inviting and visually stimulating space. Lighting is warm and balanced, neither too dim nor harsh, helping guests feel relaxed and engaged. The restaurant buzzes with pleasant energy without overwhelming noise, striking a perfect balance for conversations to flow easily. This atmosphere supports both casual dinners and festive occasions, making it a versatile backdrop for various types of gatherings. Staff friendliness and attentiveness add to the welcoming vibe, ensuring guests feel valued and comfortable throughout their visit. The joyful energy of the place gives groups a sense of occasion, elevating the experience beyond just eating to strengthening friendships and family bonds.
What are the logistical advantages of choosing Joy Yee Plus for a meetup?
Located at 2159 South China Place in Chicago, Joy Yee Plus is centrally positioned to be easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Ample public transportation options and parking make reaching the restaurant straightforward, minimizing stress for group members. The establishment’s operating hours—from late morning through most of the evening—allow for flexible scheduling, whether you're planning a lunch, dinner, or weekend meetup. Its reputation, reflected in widespread positive reviews, guarantees a dependable experience, important when coordinating group plans. Additionally, online ordering and takeout options give an alternative for groups who might want to start with carry-out or extend the gathering elsewhere. These logistical conveniences simplify planning and contribute to an overall smooth and enjoyable group event.
How does the service enhance group dining at Joy Yee Plus?
Service at Joy Yee Plus is known for its attentiveness, friendliness, and efficiency, critical elements when dining with a group. Staff members understand the dynamics of group orders and work to ensure timely delivery of dishes, which keeps the meal flowing without long waits. They are accommodating in answering questions about the menu and providing recommendations tailored to group preferences, including sharing ideas to maximize the dining experience. The team also handles special dietary requests with care, ensuring all guests feel included and satisfied. This careful attention helps reduce potential stress or confusion common with larger tables and enhances the overall dining pleasure. Great service not only reinforces the welcoming atmosphere but ensures that your gathering runs smoothly from start to finish, allowing you and your friends to focus on enjoying each other’s company.
Why do reviews consistently rate Joy Yee Plus highly for group gatherings?
Customers frequently praise Joy Yee Plus for its excellent combination of delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and accommodating service. The consistent positive reviews highlight how the restaurant succeeds in making group dining enjoyable, from the diverse and flavorful menu to the engaging Shabu Shabu experience that encourages interaction. Many reviewers mention the friendly staff and comfortable setting as key reasons they choose to return with friends or family. The value for money and quality also receive accolades, reinforcing the restaurant as a dependable choice for social outings. This track record of satisfaction and repeat visits underscores the venue’s suitability for meetups, celebrations, and casual hangouts alike, elevating it beyond a typical restaurant to a preferred destination for shared experiences and memorable moments among groups.
What unique experiences does Joy Yee Plus offer that set it apart?
Joy Yee Plus stands out primarily due to its specialty Shabu Shabu hot pot, which is not just a meal but an immersive group activity. This interactive way of dining where guests cook their own ingredients fosters a unique participatory and social experience uncommon in many other Asian restaurants. Additionally, the restaurant blends traditional Asian flavors with modern dining comfort, appealing to diverse tastes and preferences. Their ability to accommodate large groups in a lively and festive setting further distinguishes it as a go-to spot for gatherings. The combination of great food, interactive dining, and a warm atmosphere makes every visit more than just eating—it’s an event that creates memories and strengthens bonds among diners. This distinction resonates well with those looking for both culinary excellence and a meaningful social outing.