Golden Bowl — Review by RainaisCrazy
Chicago, United States — Chinese
Golden Bowl in Chicago's Chinatown is a must-visit spot known for its exceptional crab sticky rice and other authentic Chinese dishes. Despite being small and easy to miss, the restaurant was packed and delivered aromatic, delicious food across multiple dishes. The reviewer highly recommends the restaurant for its beautiful atmosphere and high-quality cuisine.
What was great: Crab sticky rice with deep fried crab sauteed with ginger and scallions, aromatic and flavorful; sticky and chewy rice with Chinese sausages; Chinese sauteed vegetables with garlic; steak on sizzling platter with peppers and onions; herbal soup; roasted duck with crispy, perfect skin
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The star of the show is Golden Bowl's signature crab sticky rice, which did not disappoint. The crab was deep fried and then sauteed with ginger and scallions, creating an incredibly aromatic dish that lived up to its reputation. The sticky rice itself was perfectly chewy and studded with Chinese sausages, adding depth and savory richness to each bite.
Beyond the signature dish, the reviewer sampled several other highlights. Chinese sauteed vegetables arrived prepared with garlic, delivering an elite side dish that was both savory and well-executed. A steak dish came sizzling on a hot platter, complete with peppers and onions that caramelized during service. To complement the meal, a herbal soup was served to cleanse the palate between courses. The roasted duck rounded out the experience with its standout feature: perfectly crispy skin that complemented the tender meat underneath.
The Experience
Located in the heart of Chicago's Chinatown, Golden Bowl is a charming spot that deserves to be on any visitor's must-do list. Though described as fairly small and easy to overlook, the restaurant was completely packed during this visit, testament to its popularity and reputation. The atmosphere appears vibrant and welcoming, drawing crowds eager to experience the authentic cuisine.
The Verdict
Golden Bowl is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chicago or exploring the Chinatown neighborhood. The combination of signature dishes like the crab sticky rice alongside skillfully prepared sauteed vegetables, sizzling platters, and roasted duck makes this restaurant a standout choice for authentic Chinese cuisine. It's particularly recommended for those seeking high-quality, aromatic dishes in an atmospheric setting.