ZipPicks Awards
Best Thai in River North
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in River North
Master Critic Review
Crying Tiger
8.8
Led by James Beard finalist Thai Dang, Crying Tiger brings a high-design River North room and a menu of khao soi, lobster pad Thai, and charcoal-grilled meats that lean into bold Southeast Asian flavors. It’s already one of the toughest reservations in the neighborhood, used for date nights and small-group dinners where guests want serious cocktails and layered heat.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Pad Thai in Clay Pot, Khao Soi with Roti, Prawn Toast
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A 2025-opened, design-forward Southeast Asian spot from chef Thai Dang with lobster pad Thai and khao soi leading the menu.
Who should go: Date-night couples and small groups chasing buzzy Southeast Asian flavors.
When to visit: Prime evening seatings; weekdays for reservations, weekends for full energy.
What to order: Lobster Pad Thai in clay pot, khao soi with roti, prawn toast.
Insider tip: Set calendar reminders for when reservations release about a month out; bar seats sometimes open up day-of for flexible diners.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot; closest option is nearby paid garages and limited metered street parking — expect difficulty during peak evening hours.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; polished denim is fine, but most guests trend fashionable.
Noise level: Lively and energetic; conversation is possible at smaller tables but bar area can run loud during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar and counter seats may open up closer to 9pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — dinner-focused restaurant; early weekday evenings typically have the shortest waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-forward curries, noodles, and small plates can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Limited — some dishes can be adapted, but sauces and pastes may contain fish products; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-leaning options; modifications are possible, but there is no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the design-forward space, strong cocktails, and shareable plates make it a high-impact first-date setting, especially for guests who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly — bar and late-evening tables sometimes release day-of, but prime weekend times are usually booked; flexibility and smaller parties have better odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — it skews adult, cocktail-driven, and busy during peak hours; older teens may be fine, but it’s not ideal for young children or strollers.
Best For
Better for: Design-driven ambience, layered spice profiles, and statement dishes like khao soi and lobster pad Thai that feel celebratory and occasion-worthy.
Skip if: You prefer very quiet dining rooms, mild flavors, or last-minute walk-ins — a more casual Thai spot will be easier and better suited.