When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅
Why Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Yep Kitchen (AYCE Sushi & Hotpot) 源记茶餐厅 is a vibrant and welcoming spot in Chicago that offers a unique blend of traditional Cantonese cuisine with modern dining experiences. Specializing in all-you-can-eat hot pot and sushi, this restaurant invites guests to enjoy a personalized dining experience with individual hot pot servings, fresh sushi selections, and an array of Cantonese dishes such as silky cheong fun and flavorful congees. The menu highlights a commitment to quality with fresh, high-grade ingredients and authentic recipes crafted by chefs experienced in Cantonese culinary traditions. The comfortable and stylish ambiance makes Yep Kitchen an ideal place for friends to gather, savor a sharing meal, and explore both trendy and classic dishes in a relaxed setting. With an all-day hot pot service priced reasonably and child-friendly options, it caters well to groups and families seeking flavorful and interactive dining.
Here's what people think of Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅
As of recent, Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅 holds a 4-star rating based on 232 reviews.
Customer reviews of Yep Kitchen reveal generally positive feedback, praising the restaurant's diverse menu and the quality of its food, especially the fresh ingredients used in hot pots and sushi. Many visitors appreciate the authentic Cantonese flavors combined with modern twists, as well as the attentive service and comfortable dining environment. Positive reviews often highlight the value of the all-you-can-eat format and the variety available, making it a great spot for social dining occasions. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews mention occasional issues like slower service during peak hours and inconsistencies in food temperature or seasoning. A few customers note that the ambiance could be improved in terms of noise levels during busy times. Overall, the reviews suggest that Yep Kitchen remains a popular choice in Chicago for those looking to enjoy Cantonese hotpot and sushi with friends or family, with the positives outweighing the negatives and room for minor improvements.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eunice Li
I live in the mid-West now. This place reminds me of home… The best/authentic 布拉腸粉 (a type of noodle roll I ate when I was a kid ) that I can find! Very thin and smooth! I also ordered wonton but did not take photo. It was also very good!! 有咬口～ 可以食得出肉餡打左好耐～ Service was quick and nice. Overall, recommend!
Payton
I have never left a restaurant feeling so disgusted and upset. At first, everything seemed fine. We were seated quickly, and the staff answered our menu questions. We decided on the all-you-can-eat sushi and hot pot. The sushi, however, was a huge red flag. The entire roll was served at room temperature. I understand that sushi rice can be slightly warm, but when the cream cheese and fish toppings are also warm, that’s completely unacceptable. We switched to focusing on the hot pot, but that wasn’t any better. Both broth options we tried were bland and disappointing. On top of that, I had to send my water back three or four times because there was black gunk floating in it, the same kind of residue you’d find inside old bath toys. Eventually, they managed to bring me a clean glass, but the problems didn’t stop there. While eating, both my husband and I found short black hairs in two separate dishes, one in the lettuce and another in the fried dough. Since neither of us has this type of length, this was someone else’s. That was the breaking point for me. I told my husband I wanted to leave immediately and didn’t care about the ridiculous “waste” charge they impose. To make matters worse, I’m convinced the sushi upset my stomach, as I ended up nauseous and throwing up the next morning, right before my flight. The only saving grace of the entire experience was our server, the waiter with short hair who doesn’t wear glasses. He was kind, attentive, and helped us wrap up quickly after the hair incident. I didn't have the normal menu items so I cannot say to much about it, but I wouldnt recommend the all you can eat options for either of the two.
John
‼️ SCAMMERS, dishonest and unprofessional ‼️ I normally don’t leave reviews because this internet stuff is confusing to me, but this experience really stuck with me. While the food was decent, the service was uncomfortable and unprofessional. Everything was going fine until, I noticed a taller Asian male employee with medium length black hair, glasses, and a goatee pressuring a younger couple at another table to leave their change after paying in cash. I could clearly see how awkward it made them feel, and it was honestly both uncomfortable and infuriating to watch. The only way to describe this kind of behavior is entitled. This grown man was definitely old enough to know better, and it didn’t seem like he knew the customers personally either. Then when it was my turn to pay, the exact same thing happened. I paid in cash, and he asked me to leave the change. When I said no, he had the audacity to say, “Well, when dining in, isn’t tipping normal?” The whole interaction felt pushy, inappropriate, and disrespectful. I just wanted to pay and leave without causing a scene. Later, I checked Google reviews and realized I wasn’t the only one who had experienced this kind of behavior. I even saw a complaint stating that when paying by card, employees here would ADD A 15% TIP TO THE CHECK WITHOUT THE CUSTOMERS KNOWLEDGE. And instead of denying that accusation, the restaurant’s only response was, “We have taken note of customer feedback, but isn't it normal to tip when dining in? And we only charge 15% which is lower than normal.” That is appalling. Admitting to adding tips without consent no matter the amount it isn’t just unethical, it’s ILLEGAL. To make matters worse, in another review from a customer who complained about the exact same employee who served me, the owner responded by saying, “Our restaurant don’t have the service with long black hair. Our restaurant is Yep Kitchen. You review wrong place?” That level of dishonesty is unbelievable. I was served by that exact same individual a taller Asian male with medium-length black hair, glasses, and a goatee and I experienced the same uncomfortable, entitled behavior. They don’t even care enough to use a translator or make a real effort to respond in proper English to customer complaints, despite us being the ones keeping their restaurant running. That’s truly appalling. The denial, lack of accountability, and outright shady attitude from ownership are more than enough reason for me never to return or recommend this place to anyone. If this is how they treat paying customers and handle legitimate concerns, it’s definitely not a business worth supporting. I wish I could say I would give this place another chance, but after everything, I refuse to.
Christine Lu
I’m glad we finally have more Cantonese style food in Chinatown. The variety of congees and chiong fan are much better than other eateries. You order using the electronic pad at the table. For stir fry dishes, you can select to have less oil or salt which is a really nice touch. We order 3 breakfast dishes and each came with selection of free drinks (which includes my favorite tea-coffee mix called ying yong). Will definitely visit again. Free kettle of tea on the table as well. Also, you can get free validation of parking for the Chinatown Parking lots, 3 hours parking for $2.
Eugenia Silva
If there was a minus 0, they would get it from me. My family of four waited 40 minutes for a simple meal. A shy apology was given in our way out. It makes me and my family very uncomfortable. Do not recommend it if you aren't Asian. Answer: Apologies not accepted. The table beside us with about 10 person, arrived after us, was served and about leaving, when our order was placed, after talking to the management team.
How to reach Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅
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Why Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Yep Kitchen with your friends?
When choosing a place to host a meetup with friends or family, atmosphere, food variety, and group-friendly amenities are paramount, and Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅 delivers all these in a casual yet lively setting. The moment you step inside, the striking bright orange booths pop visually, creating an energetic and inviting environment that immediately sparks conversation and conviviality. This restaurant is intentionally designed for groups, with no tables for two, only large ones equipped with lazy susans in the second dining room, encouraging shared dining and easy access to the sumptuous dishes placed at the center. The dining experience is interactive and fun, as orders are placed through convenient tablets, allowing everyone to explore the extensive menu and send their orders directly to the kitchen at their own pace. The combination of all-you-can-eat sushi and hotpot means your group can indulge in endless varieties of flavorful dishes, catering to different tastes within the same outing. Plus, with operating hours extending until 1 am, Yep Kitchen is perfect for late-night gatherings, providing not just a meal but a memorable social experience where everyone can eat, chat, and celebrate without feeling rushed.
What makes Yep Kitchen ideal for group dining and social activities?
Yep Kitchen tailors its entire dining environment and service towards groups looking to have a relaxed yet engaging gathering. The absence of small tables and the presence of exclusively large tables fitted with lazy susans naturally foster interaction, letting everyone at the table easily share and sample dishes without awkwardness or reaching too far. This communal style is great for catching up with friends or family, as diners can enjoy a rotating selection of sushi and hotpot items, passing plates around and experiencing a bit of everything together. The ordering system via tablets adds a modern, efficient layer to group dining; instead of waiting for a server to take orders, everyone can peruse the menu at their leisure, tailor their choices, and submit orders simultaneously, significantly reducing wait times. Such a system also removes potential ordering conflicts and lets guests try new items risk-free, perfect for groups with diverse preferences. The casual ambiance, eye-catching interior design, and the variety of Asian cuisine options—from fresh wonton noodle soups to steamed dumplings—make Yep Kitchen not just a restaurant but a venue for lively shared moments. For larger celebrations or simple get-togethers, the seating and menu offer a stress-free way to relax, eat, and engage socially throughout the evening.
How does the menu at Yep Kitchen cater to different tastes in a group?
Yep Kitchen offers an extensive menu that satisfies a wide spectrum of culinary preferences, making it perfect for groups where tastes can vary widely. Its all-you-can-eat format includes a diverse selection of sushi varieties, fresh hotpot ingredients, and traditional Chinese comfort foods such as bowls of wonton noodle soup and steamed dumplings. This broad range ensures that even the pickiest eaters or adventurous foodies find something to enjoy. Sushi lovers can experiment with different rolls and sashimi, while hotpot fans can customize their broths and ingredients to their liking, allowing for a personalized dining experience within the group context. The quality is consistently praised, with food items perceived as fresh and well-prepared, which is vital to keep everyone satisfied throughout the meal. With each dish arriving piping hot and flavorful, guests can enjoy a taste journey through various Asian cuisines in one place. Moreover, the all-you-can-eat pricing removes the pressure to choose conservatively, encouraging guests to indulge and share favorite dishes, creating a communal feast where everyone contributes to the variety on the table.
What activities at Yep Kitchen create a memorable meetup experience?
Beyond just dining, Yep Kitchen offers activities inherent in the nature of its shared meal style that enhance the meetup experience. The social interaction sparked by tables with lazy susans naturally leads to more participation in conversation and collective enjoyment of food. Sharing dishes becomes an event in itself, as guests can taste everything from delicate sushi to rich hotpot broths, compare flavors, and suggest their favorites, turning eating into a lively group activity. The tablet ordering system adds an element of interactivity; guests can explore the infinite menu, suggest new orders, and follow incoming dishes, creating anticipation and engagement. The casual, colorful dining environment infused with the chatter and laughter of groups makes it easy to celebrate special occasions or just enjoy a night out. Since Yep Kitchen stays open until late, there’s also the opportunity to extend the fun well into the night without feeling hurried by closing times. Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or spontaneous get-together, the combination of shared food, group-focused seating, and interactive ordering ensures that every meetup becomes both comfortable and festive.
Why do customers rate Yep Kitchen highly as a meetup destination?
With a solid 4.0-star rating from over 230 reviews, Yep Kitchen has proven itself a favorite spot for groups seeking value, variety, and atmosphere. Users consistently praise the restaurant for its extensive menu that caters to all tastes and its affordable pricing, making it accessible for larger parties. Another major highlight mentioned is the attentive and prompt service during busy hours, which is crucial for group dining where multiple orders can quickly become overwhelming. The unique interior design with eye-catching orange booths and the practical layout enhances comfort and encourages spending time socially without feeling cramped. Despite some isolated critiques regarding wait times at peak hours, the general consensus emphasizes satisfaction with food freshness and flavor balance, particularly the dumplings and noodle soups that are crowd-pleasers. Open late hours also add to the positive experience by accommodating late plans or extending celebrations. Overall, customers appreciate Yep Kitchen’s balance of good food, friendly service, and a group-oriented vibe that transforms each visit into a memorable social event.
How can Yep Kitchen accommodate specific group needs during meetups?
Yep Kitchen’s thoughtful design and service approach make it highly accommodating for groups with diverse needs. Its exclusively large seating arrangements ensure no one feels left out, and the lazy susans provide practical accessibility to shared dishes, which is ideal for groups with members who may have different eating styles or physical limitations. The tablet ordering system allows individuals to customize orders discreetly without the need for group consensus or lengthy negotiations, which helps maintain harmony and speed in the dining experience. This flexibility is beneficial for groups with dietary restrictions or food preferences, as everyone can order exactly what suits them. Staff are generally attentive and able to help with any special accommodations, further supporting a smooth meetup. Additionally, the spacious layout reduces noise congestion even when groups are large, enabling comfortable conversation. Yep Kitchen, therefore, not only serves as a place to eat but also as a facilitator of enjoyable, seamless social gatherings tailored to the unique makeup of each party.
What should you expect when planning your meetup at Yep Kitchen?
When planning a gathering at Yep Kitchen, you can expect a lively, comfortable environment designed to encourage sharing and group interaction. Booking in advance might be advisable, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating availability given that the restaurant has no smaller tables and focuses primarily on group dining. Expect to spend time exploring the extensive digital menu; it’s quite lengthy, so giving your group time to choose helps speed up the order process once seated. The food arrives freshly prepared, and while certain items like sushi can experience slight wait times due to chef capacity, the hotpot and other dishes generally come promptly. Be prepared for a casual, bustling atmosphere where the focus is on enjoying a communal Asian dining experience rather than fine dining refinement. Lastly, expect accommodating staff who understand the dynamics of large groups and will assist in making your meetup smooth. Ending your gathering late is also an option as the restaurant closes only at 1 am, providing great flexibility for extended socializing.
In summary, Yep Kitchen （AYCE Sushi & Hotpot ）源记茶餐厅 is an excellent venue to rally friends or family for a meetup due to its group-centric dining experience, diverse all-you-can-eat menu, interactive ordering system, and inviting atmosphere. With features tailored for social dining, it transforms a meal into a shared event, making each visit memorable and enjoyable for all participants.