ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Elmhurst
Best Romantic Restaurants in Elmhurst
Best Thai in Elmhurst
Master Critic Review
Hug Esan
8.2
A women-owned Esan-focused kitchen where the right order leans grilled, spicy, and herb-heavy—more Laos/Northeast-Thai energy than generic takeout Thai. The room is small and can bottleneck at peak times, but the food’s identity comes through clearly when you stay in the papaya-salad-and-grilled lane.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled tilapia, Papaya salad, Crispy pork belly
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A true Esan-leaning menu that rewards grilled and herb-forward ordering.
Who should go: Spice-forward diners who love bold herbs
When to visit: Weekday dinner to avoid peak waits
What to order: Papaya salad, grilled tilapia, crispy pork belly
Insider tip: Order at least one grilled item—don’t make it a noodle-only meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Woodside Ave and nearby side streets; can be competitive during dinner hours. Metered spots are common, no valet.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed — jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is easy at off-peak times, louder when the room fills up.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — papaya salad variations, vegetable stir-fries, and tofu-based dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited but possible — stick to vegetable-forward salads and grilled items; confirm fish sauce substitutions when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes are naturally gluten-free, especially grilled meats and salads, but sauces should be confirmed with staff.
Best For
Better for: Esan-style Thai with real heat, grilled proteins, and herb-driven salads that feel more regional than standard Thai takeout spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for mild curries, pad-thai-first menus, or a spacious, quiet dining room — other Thai Town restaurants may suit that better.