When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Moon Palace Express
Why Moon Palace Express is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Moon Palace Express, located in the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown, offers a unique and convenient dining experience perfect for meeting up with friends. Known for over 50 years of serving authentic Chinese-American classics alongside traditional Shanghainese dishes, it provides a welcoming counter service setting focused on carryout and delivery options. The restaurant shares its space with Nine Bar, a chic cocktail bar, enhancing the overall atmosphere and nightlife appeal in Chinatown. Moon Palace Express is particularly famed for preserving family recipes handed down since the 1990s under the Wang family, who have deep roots in Chicago’s Chinese dining scene. Its menu highlights include savory Shanghai-style cuisine, vegetarian-friendly options, and an accessible price point that encourages casual gatherings. Customers appreciate the convenience of multiple delivery services such as Grubhub, Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Chowbus, making it an ideal choice for group meals or quick meetups. The location offers an inviting snapshot of Chinatown’s rich culinary tradition combined with a modern, takeout-centered business model, making it a fantastic place to reconnect with friends over flavorful dishes in a bustling yet relaxed environment.
Here's what people think of Moon Palace Express
As of recent, Moon Palace Express holds a 4.2-star rating based on 335 reviews.
Reviews of Moon Palace Express reflect a generally positive experience, with a strong rating of 4.2 based on over 330 reviews. Many visitors praise the restaurant for its authentic and consistent Chinese cuisine, appreciating especially its traditional Shanghainese dishes and the comfort food classics that evoke a nostalgic dining experience. Positive feedback highlights the convenience of the counter-service format, efficient delivery and takeout options, and the welcoming, family-operated atmosphere. Customers also enjoy the diverse menu choices, which accommodate vegetarian preferences, and the value offered at this price point. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention challenges adapting to the restaurant’s downsizing and counter service transition, noting that this change has affected the dining experience for some patrons who preferred a full-service restaurant setting. A few reviews also touch on occasional inconsistencies in service or food preparation. Despite these critiques, the vast majority of reviews commend Moon Palace Express for maintaining quality flavors and reliability through its longtime family ownership. Overall, customer sentiment largely favors the restaurant as a beloved staple in Chicago’s Chinatown, combining tradition with modern dining convenience, making it a solid choice for both locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lori A
Absolutely delicious! Everything is always good, I've been been disappointed with a meal there. The wide rice noodles are my favorite!!
John Howard
The key word is "express," so it has a small menu. Ordered Xiao long bao (soup dumplings), which were really good. The crab rangoons were not good at all. 100% will not get these again. Service was slow nothing fast about it
Rose C
Really bad food experience. Egg rolls were supposed to have shrimp/pork but they only only had mushy veggies. I ordered both kinds of egg rolls. I also ordered egg fried rice with veggies. NO eggs and the ONLY vegetables included were some tough green beans. I ordered schezwuan green beans and they were gritty like they had dirt on them. My sweet and sour chicken was really soggy but that is my fault for not eating the food for hours after buying it. Really bad food experience.
Dan R
I ordered the general jones' wings (not spicy), beef chow fun, shredded pork/chives/tofu, and pan fried pork buns. Everything tasted great as expected but the shredded pork was the all-star that I couldn't stop eating. I forgot to take pictures until I already started eating.
Gail Jones
Great food & wonderful service. Conveniently located in the main area of Chinatown. Many lunch specials include soup for $8-$9. Quite a good value. Street parking (metered) available for a couple hours or lots nearby as well.
How to reach Moon Palace Express
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Website: None
Why Moon Palace Express may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Moon Palace Express with your friends?
Moon Palace Express offers a unique opportunity to rally your friends in the vibrant heart of Chicago’s Chinatown, bringing together authentic Chinese flavors and an atmosphere designed for casual group enjoyment. Whether you and your friends are in the mood for a quick, delicious meal or a relaxed evening gathering, this spot balances convenience and culture in a way that few others do. Its location on bustling Cermak Road places it right amidst Chinatown’s array of shops and sights, making it easy to combine your meetup with cultural exploration or other social activities. The restaurant’s casual and cozy vibe is perfect for groups seeking a friendly, laid-back environment without the fuss of formal dining. With a 4.2 rating based on over 300 reviews, many patrons praise its tasty dishes, especially signature items like orange chicken and soup dumplings, which make sharing plates with friends both fun and flavorful. The welcoming ambiance also makes it an inclusive place suitable for families, diverse groups, and even those looking to support LGBTQ+ friendly venues. Whether your group is small or large, Moon Palace Express provides an accessible, lively backdrop to connect, eat, and enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine together.
What activities can you enjoy at Moon Palace Express with a group?
Moon Palace Express is predominantly a casual Chinese takeout spot, but its offerings extend beyond just food, making it ideal for group outings with a focus on social dining and cultural immersion. While it doesn’t have a large sit-down dining area or private event rooms, there are selected counter seats for those who want to enjoy their meals fresh and warm on site, fostering an intimate communal experience. For groups, the real activity lies in sharing and sampling a diverse menu with items that accommodate varied tastes—like shrimp wonton soup, dim sum, sesame chicken, beef with pea pods, and pork fried rice—which encourages interactive tasting sessions and conversation starters among friends. Coming together around these dishes allows groups to enjoy a range of textures and flavors that showcase authentic Chinese culinary traditions, from mild to robust, crunchy to savory. The restaurant also serves as a great launch pad for Chinatown explorations, so groups can easily plan activities post-meal, such as shopping in specialty stores, visiting cultural landmarks, or simply strolling the lively streets. Children and families find it especially convenient, given the kid-friendly menu options and family-friendly atmosphere, making Moon Palace Express a multi-generational meetup destination.
Why is Moon Palace Express perfect for group meetups?
Moon Palace Express stands out as a perfect venue for group meetups due to several key factors. First, its prime location in Chinatown is a major draw—situated near the Cermak-Chinatown Red Line station and multiple bus routes, it ensures easy accessibility for groups coming from across Chicago and suburbs alike. This ease of transport is crucial when rallying friends who might be traveling separately. Second, the menu variety is well-suited to groups with diverse preferences or dietary needs, offering everything from classic egg rolls and sweet and sour pork to more adventurous soup dumplings and flat noodles. Sharing food at Moon Palace Express naturally encourages group interaction and a lively dining atmosphere. Third, the casual nature of the spot removes pressure to adhere to formal dining etiquette, helping groups focus on catching up and relaxing. Additional amenities, like gender-neutral restrooms and a dog-friendly outdoor space, cater to inclusivity and comfort, enhancing the group experience. Lastly, the nearby bar space, Nine Bar, complements any meetup where some might want to transition to buying drinks or enjoying a speakeasy vibe, allowing groups flexibility in how their outing unfolds.
What kinds of food and drinks are best shared with friends at Moon Palace Express?
The best way to enjoy Moon Palace Express with friends is by sampling a variety of its most beloved dishes, which offer a panorama of flavors and textures perfectly suited for sharing. Start with classic appetizers like egg rolls and dumplings, crispy and stuffed with flavorful fillings that kick off any gathering. Soups like the shrimp wonton soup are a crowd-pleaser, warming up the palate and providing a comforting communal bowl experience. For mains, dishes such as sesame chicken, beef with pea pods, and the signature orange chicken are popular for their familiar yet satisfying tastes that appeal widely. The fried rice and flat noodles provide perfect carb-based dishes that complement the proteins and sauces, rounding out the meal while enabling everyone to pick and choose according to individual tastes. Drinks may not be a major feature of Moon Palace Express itself since it is focused on takeout, but the adjoining Nine Bar offers an excellent selection of cocktails in a trendy speakeasy ambiance, creating an ideal spot for friends who want to continue their evening with crafted beverages. Sharing these dishes and drinks makes the meal feel like a festive culinary experience built for connection.
How accessible and convenient is Moon Palace Express for group gatherings?
Moon Palace Express excels in accessibility and convenience, which are vital considerations when hosting group meetups. Located at 216 W Cermak Rd in Chicago’s Chinatown, the spot is easily reachable by public transit, including the CTA Red Line’s Cermak-Chinatown station, mere minutes away on foot, and multiple bus routes. This means groups don’t have to worry about coordinating complex travel arrangements or parking in a busy urban area. For those driving, there are paid street parking spaces and nearby lots to accommodate vehicles, though planning ahead may be wise given Chinatown’s popularity. The restaurant accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, streamlining transactions for groups who want to split bills effortlessly or avoid cash handling. Furthermore, the casual, cozy environment—with amenities like gender-neutral restrooms and a family-friendly atmosphere—helps visitors feel comfortable regardless of group type. This combination of location, payment options, and a relaxed vibe creates the backdrop for an easy, stress-free meetup focused on enjoyment and togetherness.
What makes Moon Palace Express an inclusive and family-friendly destination?
Moon Palace Express is notably welcoming to diverse groups, making it an excellent choice for families and friends looking for inclusive dining options. The establishment promotes a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals and is recognized as transgender-friendly, reflecting an ethos of respect and acceptance that is critical for modern group meetups. Families with children also find it accommodating; the menu includes kid-friendly dishes, and the general casual setup allows parents to relax while their children enjoy familiar, tasty Chinese food. The presence of gender-neutral restrooms adds another layer of inclusivity by providing comfort to all patrons. Additionally, the outdoor policy permitting dogs means pet owners don’t have to leave a beloved companion behind, which can be significant for group outings where everyone’s comfort matters. This embrace of diversity—alongside the cultural richness of Chinatown—means Moon Palace Express caters well to groups seeking a respectful, vibrant environment when gathering with friends or family.
How does the atmosphere at Moon Palace Express enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Moon Palace Express complements the communal nature of group dining by being both casual and cozy. Unlike formal dining spots where reservations and dress codes may impose constraints, this venue encourages an easygoing energy where friends can focus on conversation and interaction rather than protocol. The small number of counter seats allows some intimate seating, ideal for smaller groups eager to eat immediately, while takeout options give flexibility for larger parties to enjoy their food wherever they gather. The calm, unpretentious décor reflects the authenticity of the neighborhood’s cultural fabric and encourages diners to immerse themselves in a true Chinatown experience. Moreover, the nearby speakeasy bar Nine Bar offers a contrasting vibe for groups wishing to extend their time with a stylish nightcap, blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern nightlife. This balance of laid-back comfort and cultural charm makes Moon Palace Express a memorable and pleasant place for groups to come together.
What are common reviews and guests’ impressions about Moon Palace Express’s group suitability?
Reviews of Moon Palace Express consistently highlight its flavorful and authentic Chinese fare that appeals to groups seeking both quality and diversity in their meals. Guests often praise the shrimp wonton soup and dim sum as top recommendations for shared dishes, while crowd-pleasers like orange chicken and beef lo mein get repeated mentions for good reason. Many reviewers appreciate the attentive yet unobtrusive service, which allows groups to enjoy their meals without feeling rushed. The location within Chinatown receives particular commendation for its cultural vibrancy and accessibility, boosting the overall experience when meeting friends. However, a few critiques note occasional inconsistency in flavors or service speed, which can be typical in popular busy spots. Despite some mixed opinions, the majority affirm Moon Palace Express as a reliable and tasty option for groups. Families and diverse social groups find the place especially welcoming, and the cozy, casual atmosphere suits casual meetups well, making it a favored group dining destination overall.
What nearby attractions complement a meetup at Moon Palace Express?
When organizing a group meetup at Moon Palace Express, the surrounding Chinatown neighborhood offers multiple attractions that perfectly complement your dining plans. After enjoying your meal, groups can explore the vibrant streets packed with unique shops selling everything from traditional herbs and medicines to beautiful Chinese art and souvenirs. Cultural landmarks such as the Chinatown Gate and various temples provide excellent opportunities for sightseeing and photography, enriching the outing with both educational and aesthetic value. Additionally, the nearby Ping Tom Memorial Park offers a green space ideal for outdoor relaxation, group games, or a casual stroll, making it perfect for families or friends wanting to unwind after eating. For those interested in nightlife or a change of pace, the attached Nine Bar speakeasy delivers a trendy, intimate setting for drinks, providing a seamless transition from food to fun. These diverse attractions make Moon Palace Express more than just a meal stop—it’s a gateway to a delightful group experience steeped in culture and community.