When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong
Why Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ken Kee Restaurant, located in the heart of Chicago's Chinatown, is an exceptional gathering place that offers an authentic taste of Hong Kong’s vibrant street food and traditional Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance pays homage to the retro vibe of 1950s-60s Hong Kong, featuring neon accents and pop art that create a lively and nostalgic atmosphere across its spacious two-story layout. It stands out as the first dedicated Hong Kong Cart Noodle shop in Chicago, inviting guests to build their own noodle bowls from a selection of broths, noodles, and toppings, reflecting an iconic street food culture deeply rooted in Hong Kong's history. Beyond the customizable noodle dishes, Ken Kee presents an extensive menu with crowd-pleasing staples such as tender short ribs in savory XO sauce, fish in black bean sauce, and a beloved selection of appetizers like crispy deep-fried oysters and the Hong Kong Street Food Platter, which includes curry fish balls and satay pork skin. Whether visiting for lunch, dinner, or a casual night out, Ken Kee’s mix of authentic flavors and nostalgic décor makes it an excellent place to meet friends and enjoy a memorable meal in a warm, inviting setting. Their hours are generous, typically open until late, accommodating varied dining occasions.
Here's what people think of Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong
As of recent, Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong holds a 4.1-star rating based on 1197 reviews.
Ken Kee Restaurant holds a solid rating of 4.1 out of 5, reflecting generally positive feedback from over a thousand reviewers. Many patrons appreciate Ken Kee for its versatility, describing it as a reliable local spot suitable for casual dining, date nights, or group gatherings. Positive reviews frequently highlight the consistently flavorful dishes, especially the standout cart noodles and iconic Hong Kong-style appetizers. The quality and authenticity of the food, paired with the restaurant’s vibrant and nostalgic ambiance, often receive praise. Reviewers also commend the attentive service and the wide menu variety, which caters well to different tastes and dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional inconsistencies with dish preparation or wait times during peak hours. A few diners noted that some dishes could be improved in terms of seasoning or texture, but such concerns appear sporadic rather than systemic. Overall, the positive aspects of Ken Kee strongly outweigh the negatives, making it a favored Chinatown destination for those seeking genuine Hong Kong flavors and a lively dining environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Patrick Finn
We were looking for a spot to grab lunch when my friend recommended this restaurant. At first, I was a little hesitant—the menu is huge, and places with large menus can sometimes be hit or miss. But to our surprise, everything we ordered was absolutely delicious, and the portions were incredibly generous for the price. We got two mains and a small egg drop soup, which ended up being more than enough food. We didn’t have any leftovers—not because the portions were small, but because everything was so good we couldn’t stop eating. The standout for us was the egg drop soup. It felt like an elevated take on the version you'd find at similar spots—rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Next time I’m in Chinatown, I’m definitely coming back to try more dishes. Everything we saw on the menu sounded tempting, and the flavors were impressively complex—not just compared to other spots in the neighborhood, but to Chinese food I’ve had elsewhere in the city. Plus, at around $35 for two mains and a side, it’s a deal that’s hard to beat in Chicago.
Isaiah Tong
okay I just came back from HK recently so I'm holding this to a bit of an unfairly high standard but: -HK style milk tea was great!! amazing!! just like in HK, no notes! -BBQ pork & Chicken rice bowl (叉雞飯) was also amazing! I've never been able to find this style of chicken (cold chicken in ginger oil) in a restaurant in America before, so that was super cool. BBQ pork was also amazing, some of the best I've had in Chinatown. -my friend got the Seafood Laksa risotto, it was good! very full of seafood & seafood flavor, but a bit too spicy for my canto palate. -my biggest criticism is the curry fish balls, which is why I docked a star from this review. 咖哩魚蛋 is a HK street food STAPLE, but this one didn't cut it. not NEARLY enough curry sauce or flavor, and the fish balls themselves were a bit too hard, not as soft as they should be. overall, a very good place that I'll definitely be coming back to, but they gotta up their game on some HK classics if they wanna be the very best.
Manja Petrov
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ken Kee is a refreshingly solid spot for Hong Kong-style Cantonese food—definitely better than most in its category. We were seated within 5 minutes, and the place is clean, well-organized, and has a welcoming vibe. Chinese/Cantonese spots can sometimes go overboard with sweetness, salt, or soy sauce, but Ken Kee strikes a really nice balance. We ordered the Singapore Style Rice Vermicelli and the Cantonese Combination Chow Mein. The vermicelli could’ve used more meat, and the texture wasn’t quite my favorite, but flavor-wise it held up well. I switched to lo mein and while I wish the noodles had been a bit thicker, the dish was still very satisfying. We also tried the pork dumplings, which looked steamed but were actually pan-fried and delicious—crispy outside, juicy inside. Their milk tea was excellent: creamy, strong, and just the right amount of sweet. One of the best parts is the sheer variety—tons of options to explore, which makes this place feel like a real win for curious diners. Will definitely be back to try more!
Sunny Park
We came here on a busy day when everywhere else had super long waits time but this place had no wait at all. The menu is simple and has pictures which helped a lot. There’s a good amount of seating, maybe for around 20 people max. We ordered the pork rolls, shumai, corn dish, fried chive dumplings, and sticky rice. The pork rolls and shumai especially were solid and I would get again! The sticky rice looked really good in the photo but was actually dry, hard, and completely had no flavor. I would skip that next time. Service was good and efficient. you can even watch them chop up the meats right in front of you in the front of the restaurant. I’d definitely come back to try the pork or duck next time.
Sammi Chan
I miss Hong Kong food and this spot is the perfect spot. The nostalgic bold neon signs along with building your own cart noodles, it’s the perfect way to be back in HK without being there. The service is quick and efficient.
How to reach Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong
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Why Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong is an excellent choice for many reasons. This establishment is celebrated not only for its authentic Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine but also for its welcoming atmosphere that encourages socializing and shared experiences. Rated 4.1 from nearly 1,200 reviews, Ken Kee maintains a strong reputation for delivering delicious food prepared with care and tradition, making it a reliable spot for meaningful get-togethers. It offers a spacious yet cozy environment conducive to conversation and camaraderie, ideal for both casual outings and special occasions. Additionally, Ken Kee's convenient location in Chicago's Chinatown and its accessibility via public transit simplify planning and attendance for groups, removing common logistical hurdles. This combination of great food, inviting vibe, and strategic placement creates a perfect backdrop for reconnecting with friends, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying a lively meal together. The variety of dishes available ensures there’s something to satisfy diverse tastes, fostering a truly inclusive group dining experience that enhances social bonds and creates lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong?
Ken Kee offers more than just a meal; it provides a culinary journey that serves as a shared activity for groups. One of the primary activities here is exploring the extensive menu, which ranges from classic Cantonese staples to flavorful Sichuan specialties, providing a chance for friends to engage in communal dining traditions such as sharing multiple dishes. This practice encourages interaction as diners can discuss preferences and recommend their favorites, turning the meal into a collaborative experience. Moreover, the restaurant’s focus on freshness and quality means guests can savor each dish as it arrives, often in staggered courses that promote lingering conversations and a relaxed pace. For those interested in culinary exploration, sampling unusual dishes like fish maw with young pea tips adds an element of adventure and discovery to the gathering. Additionally, enjoying traditional items like Man Tao (fried bread with condensed milk) for dessert gives groups a sweet, nostalgic finish that enhances bonding. Ken Kee also accommodates dietary preferences and offers vegetarian options, making it inclusive for all group members. Overall, dining here is as much about the shared experience as it is about the food, making it a perfect venue for social activity.
Why is Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong perfect for group meetups?
Ken Kee excels as a venue for group meetups because it balances casual comfort with a touch of special occasion ambiance. The restaurant is known for its spacious seating that adapts well to groups, ensuring that friends or families can sit together comfortably without feeling cramped. This physical space advantage is complemented by service that, while occasionally busy, strives to be attentive and accommodating, helping groups feel valued. The long menu caters to diverse palates, which is crucial when assembling different personalities and taste preferences in one place. Accessibility is another major factor; located near the Chicago Red Line and central to Chinatown attractions, it allows groups to combine dining with other activities seamlessly, such as visiting nearby parks or cultural sites before or after the meal. Additionally, Ken Kee features wheelchair accessibility and a welcoming attitude towards reservations, which facilitates planning for larger parties or guests with specific needs. The overall casual yet polished atmosphere means groups can celebrate with ease, whether for a birthday, reunion, or just a spontaneous night out. This versatility and attention to group needs make Ken Kee a standout choice for social dining experiences.
What should groups expect regarding food quality and service at Ken Kee?
Groups visiting Ken Kee can expect consistent quality in the food, which is a significant reason for the restaurant’s enduring popularity. The kitchen serves authentic and expertly prepared dishes that capture the essence of Hong Kong-style Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines. Customers commonly praise the freshness of the ingredients and the bold yet balanced flavors, which provide a satisfying and memorable dining experience. Signature dishes like the tender short ribs in XO sauce or fish in black bean sauce highlight the chef’s skill and attention to traditional culinary methods. Service, while generally good, may experience delays during peak times due to popularity and volume, so groups are advised to allow some extra time for their meals. However, the staff is known for being friendly and helpful, making adjustments as needed for group dynamics and special requests. Cleanliness is maintained with reasonable standards, though some reviews note occasional busy ambiance, which is typical in lively group settings. Overall, diners can expect a dependable and enjoyable meal that complements the convivial atmosphere, making food and service reliable pillars in the group meetup experience.
How does Ken Kee’s location and ambiance enhance the group dining experience?
Situated in the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown, Ken Kee benefits from a location that is both culturally rich and logistically convenient for groups. Being close to a variety of attractions such as Chinatown Square and Ping Tom Memorial Park, it offers groups the possibility to combine dining with sightseeing, making a full day or evening event out of the visit. Its location near public transport lines like the Red Line makes it easy for all members of the group to arrive without hassle, reducing the typical stress associated with group outings. The ambiance inside Ken Kee fosters a comfortable, informal setting that suits different types of social interactions, whether a lively conversation or intimate celebration. The decor and layout are designed to accommodate groups without sacrificing privacy or comfort, thus enhancing the quality of time spent together. The energy of Chinatown itself adds a distinctive cultural flavor to the experience, enriching the meetup beyond just food. This blend of location, accessibility, and atmosphere creates an ideal environment where groups can relax, connect, and enjoy each other’s company in a unique urban setting.
What kind of group events can Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong accommodate?
Ken Kee is versatile enough to host a variety of group events, from casual meetups and family dinners to small celebrations and cultural gatherings. Its flexible space and reservable seating arrangements enable groups to plan ahead for occasions like birthday parties, reunion dinners, or after-work gatherings. The restaurant’s menu diversity makes it easy to cater to mixed dietary requirements or preferences, which is essential for groups with varying tastes. The informal yet attentive service style creates an ambiance where guests feel comfortable to engage fully in the social aspect of the event without the pressure of formal dining. Additionally, Ken Kee’s operating hours—open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:45 PM—allow groups to schedule gatherings at nearly any time of day, supporting brunches, lunches, dinners, or late-evening meals. The wheelchair accessibility further broadens its appeal for inclusive group events. Whether it’s a traditional celebration or just an excuse to connect, Ken Kee provides the facilities and atmosphere that support a successful and enjoyable group event.
How does Ken Kee cater to different tastes within a diverse group?
With a menu encompassing a wide array of Cantonese and Sichuan dishes, Ken Kee is particularly adept at satisfying groups with diverse culinary preferences. The extensive options include everything from mildly flavored classics to bold, spicy specialties, allowing picky eaters and adventurous food lovers alike to find something to enjoy. Vegetarian and lighter dishes are also available, ensuring that dietary restrictions or health-conscious choices can be accommodated without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. This variety means group members can order multiple shared plates, facilitating a communal dining style popular in Chinese cuisine where everyone samples a range of flavors. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and can guide groups toward dishes that complement each other and suit the group’s overall palate. This personalized assistance helps reduce decision fatigue in larger groups and enhances the enjoyment of the meal. By embracing diversity in its menu, Ken Kee creates a dining experience that respects individual tastes while promoting collective enjoyment.
What is the overall value proposition of Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong for meetups?
Ken Kee Restaurant Hong Kong offers an excellent value proposition for group meetups by combining quality, variety, atmosphere, and location at reasonable prices. Groups benefit from a restaurant that understands the dynamics of shared dining and provides accordingly—both in terms of portion sizes and menu flexibility. Many reviewers note that the pricing is reasonable given the standard of food and size of portions, making it an economical choice for groups wanting to enjoy a substantial meal without overspending. The welcoming, casual environment reduces the pressure and formality that can sometimes hinder relaxed socializing. Moreover, Ken Kee’s consistent delivery of authentic Hong Kong-style dishes establishes it as a trusted venue where groups can reconnect over familiar favorites or exciting new flavors. The restaurant’s central location in Chinatown enhances accessibility while offering cultural enrichment, adding further value to group outings. When balancing all these factors, Ken Kee stands out as a top contender for anyone looking to host a friendly, enjoyable, and memorable group dining experience.