Craving that familiar comfort of crispy egg rolls, the savory punch of General Tso’s chicken, or the satisfying slurp of perfectly cooked noodles? If you find yourself on Chicago’s South Side, specifically around the bustling intersection of 87th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue, you’re in luck. This area boasts a surprising array of Chinese restaurants, each offering its own unique spin on classic dishes and hidden culinary gems. This guide is your passport to exploring the diverse and delicious world of Chinese food available right here in the heart of Chicago, helping you discover your new favorite spot for takeout or a satisfying dine-in experience. We’ll delve into the flavors, ambiance, and value each establishment offers, ensuring your next Chinese food craving is perfectly satisfied.
Golden Dragon: A Longstanding Neighborhood Favorite
Tucked away just a short walk from the corner of 87th and Cottage Grove, Golden Dragon has been a neighborhood institution for decades. Known for its generous portions, consistently flavorful dishes, and friendly service, it’s the kind of place where you’re likely to see families gathering for a weeknight dinner or hear regulars chatting with the staff. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a cozy atmosphere, a blend of traditional Chinese decor and comfortable, no-frills seating. While the ambiance might not be the flashiest, the food more than makes up for it.
Golden Dragon’s menu is a testament to classic Cantonese-American cuisine. Their signature dish, the Sweet and Sour Chicken, is a must-try. The chicken is perfectly fried, creating a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, juicy meat. The sweet and sour sauce strikes the ideal balance between tangy and sweet, coating each piece of chicken in a luscious glaze. It’s served with a side of fluffy white rice, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce. Another crowd-pleaser is their Shrimp Fried Rice. Unlike some places that skimp on the shrimp, Golden Dragon is generous with the portions, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The rice is perfectly cooked, not too dry and not too mushy, and the vegetables are crisp and fresh. If you are a fan of Lo Mein, be sure to give their version a try. The noodles are cooked just right, not overdone, and a subtle flavor in their sauce makes the experience unique.
The prices at Golden Dragon are incredibly reasonable, making it an excellent option for families and those on a budget. Most entrees are under fifteen dollars, and the portions are large enough to share or enjoy as leftovers. Whether you’re looking for a quick takeout meal or a relaxed dine-in experience, Golden Dragon offers consistently delicious Chinese food at a price that won’t break the bank. Golden Dragon is a perfect example of why Chicago’s South Side’s Chinese cuisine is something worth exploring.
House of Fortune: Modern Flair Meets Classic Flavors
A newer addition to the 87th and Cottage Grove culinary scene, House of Fortune brings a modern and stylish touch to traditional Chinese cuisine. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and contemporary, with clean lines, vibrant colors, and comfortable seating. The atmosphere is more upscale than Golden Dragon, making it a great option for a date night or a special occasion.
While House of Fortune offers many of the classic dishes you’d expect to find on a Chinese menu, they also feature some more innovative and contemporary options. Their Kung Pao Chicken is a standout dish. The chicken is stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy Kung Pao sauce that delivers a satisfying kick. The dish is perfectly balanced, with the heat of the peppers offset by the sweetness of the peanuts and the savory flavor of the chicken. Another popular choice is their Mongolian Beef. The beef is tender and flavorful, stir-fried with scallions and a sweet and savory Mongolian sauce. It’s served over a bed of crispy rice noodles, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. House of Fortune offers many vegetarian options as well, including mapo tofu, stir fried vegetables and several noodle dishes.
House of Fortune also boasts an impressive selection of appetizers and sides. Their crab rangoons are crispy and cheesy, and their egg rolls are packed with fresh vegetables. The restaurant also offers a variety of soups, including wonton soup and egg drop soup. The prices at House of Fortune are slightly higher than at Golden Dragon, but the quality of the food and the upscale ambiance make it worth the extra cost. House of Fortune is the perfect place to experience modern and contemporary South Side Chinese food.
Canton House Express: Quick, Convenient, and Budget-Friendly
For those seeking a quick and affordable Chinese food fix, Canton House Express, located right on 87th Street close to Cottage Grove, is the ideal choice. This no-frills establishment focuses on speed and convenience, offering a wide range of classic Chinese dishes at incredibly reasonable prices. While the atmosphere is more utilitarian than inviting, Canton House Express excels at providing a satisfying meal on the go.
The menu at Canton House Express is extensive, featuring everything from classic fried rice and lo mein to more adventurous dishes like Szechuan beef and General Tso’s chicken. Their General Tso’s chicken is a customer favorite, featuring bite-sized pieces of fried chicken coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. It is served with your choice of rice and is a filling and satisfying meal for a very affordable price. Another popular choice is their pepper steak, tender slices of beef stir fried with bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce. It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your craving for savory and comforting Chinese food.
Canton House Express is primarily a takeout restaurant, with limited seating available. However, their quick service and affordable prices make it a popular choice for lunch and dinner. Whether you’re running errands, heading home from work, or simply craving a quick and easy meal, Canton House Express is the perfect place to grab a delicious and affordable Chinese food fix. It is a great option if you are looking for a quality takeout option on the South Side of Chicago.
Takeout Treasures: A Shared Experience
Golden Dragon, House of Fortune, and Canton House Express all offer takeout options, though Canton House Express may be better suited as they offer an express option. The delivery apps, especially in a post-pandemic world, are an important element to many people’s dinning experience. Each of the restaurants offers delivery options, mostly through third-party apps. When people order through these options, they want fast, affordable, and tasty, and these three restaurants are poised to meet those needs. One can easily find several different dishes, giving a range of food variety that will meet anyone’s needs. No matter what you are looking for, these restaurants are ready to meet them.
Beyond the Plate: Considerations for Your Culinary Journey
When deciding where to satisfy your Chinese food cravings near 87th and Cottage Grove, several factors beyond just the food itself might influence your choice.
Delivery Dynamics
Each of the restaurants highlighted offers delivery, primarily through third-party platforms like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash. Delivery radiuses vary, so it’s best to check the specific platform for each restaurant to ensure they deliver to your location. Delivery times can also fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand.
Price Point Perspectives
Golden Dragon represents the most budget-friendly option, with entrees typically costing under fifteen dollars. Canton House Express offers even more affordable options, perfect for a quick and inexpensive meal. House of Fortune, with its upscale ambiance and more contemporary dishes, falls into a slightly higher price range, with entrees generally costing between fifteen and twenty-five dollars.
Dietary Diversification
While all three restaurants offer a range of classic Chinese dishes, dietary options vary. Golden Dragon and Canton House Express can often accommodate requests for vegetarian dishes, but their menus are not explicitly labeled with vegetarian or vegan options. House of Fortune is more accommodating for dietary restrictions, with several explicitly labeled vegetarian options and the ability to modify dishes to suit dietary needs. If you have specific dietary requirements, it’s always best to call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm they can accommodate your needs.
Accessibility Aspects
Canton House Express offers limited seating but excels in providing carryout, therefore accessibility is less of an issue. Golden Dragon has seating, therefore accessibility is a bit more important. House of Fortune has a wide array of seating and their access is important. No matter the case, you’ll want to call ahead of time to make sure they meet your physical needs.
A Taste of History (Optional)
Chicago’s South Side, like many urban areas, has a rich history of Chinese immigration and culinary traditions. While not as concentrated as the city’s official Chinatown, Chinese restaurants have long been a part of the South Side’s diverse food scene, often serving as community gathering places and providing affordable and flavorful meals. The dishes offered at restaurants like Golden Dragon and Canton House Express reflect the evolution of Chinese-American cuisine, adapting traditional flavors and techniques to suit local tastes and preferences.
Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of 87th & Cottage Grove
The area around 87th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue offers a surprisingly diverse and satisfying array of Chinese food options. Whether you’re craving the classic comfort of Golden Dragon’s Sweet and Sour Chicken, the modern flair of House of Fortune’s Kung Pao Chicken, or the quick and affordable convenience of Canton House Express, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds. Each restaurant offers its own unique atmosphere, price point, and culinary style, making it easy to find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
So, next time you’re looking for delicious Chinese food on Chicago’s South Side, explore the options around 87th and Cottage Grove. Discover the neighborhood favorites, sample the signature dishes, and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of these local establishments. Your journey into the world of Chinese food on the South Side is just a few steps away. Enjoy!
