Beautiful Food That Actually Survives the Drive Who would've thought a place with a menu this small could make such a massive statement? Usually, when a menu is limited, you expect the kitchen to be coasting, but these guys are doing the absolute most. The food quality is amazing. Period. The presentation is so beautiful it's almost a crime to eat it. Even with takeout--which usually arrives looking like it's been through a spin cycle--this stuff showed up looking incredible. It's rare to find a spot that treats a to-go container with that much respect. This Thai food is really, really good, and it's clear they actually care about the craft instead of just "processing" orders for profitability. They do a few things, and they do them better than anyone else. If you want a meal that looks as good as it tastes even after a 20-minute drive, this is the one. read more

Kanlaya Thai Restaurant - Pad Thai - Thai Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Stand outs: - Truffles of Thailand curry (aka popping mushroom) was a unique ingredient I haven't tried before and it was very pleasant. It has a nice crunchy bite, burst of juices when bit into and curry was flavorful, bit on the sweeter side than I'd like. Nonetheless, would totally order again - Postickers were boiled or steamed which is contrary to how many Chinese restaurants prepare it (i.e., pan fried). Despite the difference, the wrapper was nicely done, thin and delicate. The meat inside was soft and juicy. This is good enough for two people to share. So we probably should've ordered another one. - Pork neck / jowel was tender, juicy and full of pork flavor. Wish the portions were larger though! We also tried a few other curries and khao soi, but was disappointed they're all the same red curry sauce basically. Khao soi soup was like a thick curry rather than thinner soup like how I experienced in Bangkok... perhaps it's a different style here. Next time, I plan on trying the green curries to mix it up a bit. Mocktails were not bad. BYO shots of alcohol to boost the effects... read more

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We have ordered from here twice. First time was phenomenal and second time was good but not great. We ordered the chicken pad thai, crying tiger (beef), chicken basil stirfry, and dumplings. Again, first time everything was great. The second time most things were good but the beef was tough and overcooked. With tax, tip and delivery, it all came to a lil over $100 which is a lot but I'd still say it's definitely worth checking out - esp since delivery can be unpredictable. read more

Great service- very passionate about customer's comfort and needs. We had the Shrimp Pad Thai, Panang Chicken and Shrimp Tom Yam. Each dish/entree had its own flavor and aroma. We really enjoyed our dinner. We also had dessert - taro pudding. Lovely way to end dinner with a warm dessert and not cold. Reasonable prices for each dish. Full house! Best to make reservations ahead of time. Tiny storefront restaurant; cozy! read more

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Whatever you do, PLEASE do not sleep on this amazing little gastronomic gem!! The authenticity and hospitality here are seriously unmatched to any other Thai restaurant I've been to. All the following criteria for proper Thai cuisine are met here: fresh, simple, presentable and vibrant. Started off with the pork potstickers, which were so incredibly juicy and well-sauced. Then onto the seafood balls that were like a symphony of various shapes and textures in my mouth, pairing perfectly with their signature green sauce (sporting very piquant and acidic notes). The tiger cry was also incredible, with steak cooked perfectly rare and the red/green sauces to complement it. Now, forget about any panang curry you've had before in Chicago, because this one is the real deal!! No filler ingredients present here (such as peppers, onions, carrots, mushrooms, etc.) as the flavors shine through in the curry base, where the shrimp adds just the right amounts of protein and substance to the dish. I would say this item left the most lasting impressions out of everything I ordered. The grapefruit paloma (non-alcoholic) and pink drink were both fantastic and had the absolute cutest presentations to them!! The flower desserts were fun, as I really enjoyed the firm jelly-like textures, and the taro custard was delicious as well. It was not evenly warm in the center, although the flavors were most certainly on-point. I really appreciated the subtle vanilla-y zing to the custard. Regardless of how familiar you are with Thai cuisine, you definitely will tell the authenticity speaks for itself, which is reflected by Kanlaya's humble atmosphere. I am excited to try their green curry, pad Thai, and phat dog next time. Do visit for the true Thai hawker experience without having to leave Chicago!! read more

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Food was great, but the service ruined everything. We won't be back. There was one server in the tiny restaurant when we came in. Initially, she was fine but she became progressively more indifferent and then even rude. I tried signaling her--she was behind the counter and we were almost directly in front of her--and didn't want to raise my voice so looked and she glared and mouthed "what?" rolling her eyes. When I told her we wanted to order some takeout as well, then her attitude changed. We were not demanding. She was nice to everyone else. But she was markedly different with us, not even providing us with after meal treats (mints or cookies I think) as she did for the table next to us. The only thing I can figure is that I was with my brother who is disabled. She did give us eye. Incredibly disappointing. It was also overpriced, especially considering the service. read more

There are a lot of Thai restaurants in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. Kanlaya is a new one that opened about six or seven months ago. They already seem to have to their stuff down pat. I recently visited the restaurant for lunch. First, the restaurant has bright and fun atmosphere. It's a small restaurant that has maybe a total of six or seven tables. I think that in the summer that there is outdoor seating. The restaurant gets good sunlight at midday and it makes the restaurant bright. The decor is colorful and fun. They have a green fake plant ivy signature wall. They also have many fun figurines and toys that liven up the restaurant. Second, their food is delicious. I ordered a number of dishes and drinks. Of all of the dishes I tried, my favorite was the Panang curry chicken with rice. The curry was flavorful and delicious. The chicken was cooked perfectly and was not dry at all. They also make a good pad Thai. They have a number of great drinks and mocktails. Each drink I tied was color or served in a fun cup. The Thai iced tea was particularly good and the naughty monkey is a must order. Third, the service is excellent. The staff was friendly and my food came out quickly. This is a must visit Thai restaurant in Chicago. read more

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Picked up a carry out order right before they closed for their break between lunch and dinner. The panang curry with chicken was DELICIOUS! Can't wait to try this spot again to try another dish! read more

First time their and enjoyed my drunken noodles, Vegan green curry and potstickers. Very friendly and clean will return.

Ultra cute ambiance, super clean, excellent quality food, a total gem! Had the green curry and pot stickers.

What we ordered: Chicken Potstickers, Phat Dog with Chips, and Panang Chicken with Rice The Panang Chicken was my favorite dish of the night! It was sweet and spicy and the rice gave it a good balance. The Phat Dog was not bad but it didn't really wow me because it tasted like your regular shmegular Italian beef with spicy mayo. The sauce that the chicken potstickers came with was really light and yummy. I would come back here again. Thank you for the food! read more

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This adorable storefront has some of the most flavorful, well-balanced Thai food I've ever had the pleasure of eating - and I've eaten a LOT of Thai food around this town. The cozy and bright space is fun and welcoming, and the service is attentive and kind. Chicken dumplings are tender and delicate, swimming in a light and tasty broth dipping sauce. Just perfect. The panang curry isn't one I normally order as it is usually too cloyingly rich at other places, but at Kanlaya the balance is absolutely perfect. We also ordered a classic Pad Thai, which was excellent. The prices of the dishes skew a bit higher than other places in the neighborhood, but having had it, I firmly believe the quality is worth every penny. Given that you can BYO without a corkage fee this gem is the perfect place for a special night out with fantastic food that will not break the bank. read more

To say the food was extraordinary would be an understatement. Presentation is beautiful, only surpassed by the flavors of the impressive food which is clearly created with much love and the experience that comes from Chef Bella's ancestors. I came to learn that Bella's mother has a series of restaurants in Japan. Time to also travel to Japan to experience these as well! read more

I had the pleasure visiting Kanlaya this weekend, an elegant authentic Thai restaurant located in Lincoln Square, and loved it. I have been looking for a Thai restaurant that has authentic recipes and this is the real deal. The place was cheerful and the host made you feel at home right away. I had Kanlaya's Potstickers to start and the sesame sauce was amazing complimenting the tasty pork filling. I also had one of their mocktails, the Mojito, a fun fresh drink that made me feel I was at the beaches of Thailand again. For my main course we had the Shrimp Pad Thai and the Vegan Panang Curry. Both were very exceptional and good portions. I left full. The Pad Thai was the best I had in the city thus far bringing me memories of Thailand. The Shrimp was cooked to perfection. The curry dish was refreshing and has a homemade taste. The dining experienced ended with the Kanom More Kaeng coconut custard for dessert. Good portion for two and was delicious. I highly recommend Kanlaya if you are looking for a exceptional, authentic and personable Thai dining experience. I will be back with friends to visit again! read more

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I've ordered from Kanlaya Thai a few times now, and it's always a smooth experience. The service is impressively fast, and the food consistently hits the spot. Everything I've tried has been fresh and flavorful. Perfect for a reliable takeout night. read more

Dishes were served with noodles from ramen packets that were like still hard? One dish didn't even have a sauce and the cabbage was raw. I ordered the phat dog and they came to tell me 30 minutes (exactly) later that they were out of it. So overpriced too. We ordered veggie potstickers and it was pork meat then they were showing us the bag (frozen store bought) to prove they were veggie when they were in fact pork. Why would anyone eat here when we have Aroy? read more

Highly recommend for takeout -- the food is DELICIOUS. The space however is TINY - if eating in, be prepared to get to know your fellow diners and the family that runs the place VERY FAST. :) We swung in spontaneously on Saturday of St. Patrick's weekend and it was a trip -- again, mouth watering food but a little rushed because of the lack of tables and very little privacy. Bella (the owner, server, hostess, all the things!) is very sweet and kind. Can't wait to see how this place fares in such a bustling Lincoln Square dining scene! read more

Amazing food you can taste the quality Best dish I've had was the Panang curry Owner was amazing read more

You should go here STAT! Get the Khao Soi. EXCELLENT! And the owner Bella is SO friendly, welcoming and happy. I left feeling like I had a new best friend! Have her tell you the story of her logo. So sweet! Oh and the mocktail mojito was Yum! I will 1000% be back! (PS...you may find yourself ordering some extra food to take home.) read more

Kanlaya Thai Restaurant - Khao Soi. I ordered an extra thai rice at the end to eat up all that Curry! - Thai Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is one of the best tasting Thai food I found in chicago, easy to get to and lovely customer service. The ambiance is welcoming and clean. read more

I just enjoyed a lovely meal with my family. The food was delicious, with fresh ingredients and prepared with care. I had the pork potstickers and green curry chicken- both of which were excellent. The ambiance was very welcoming and the restaurant had great decorations. I would highly recommend. The owner Bella was very welcoming and attentive to all patrons. read more

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I just enjoyed a very lovely dinner at Kanlaya with my girlfriends on a Thursday evening at Kanlaya and will definitely be coming back. Here are the highlights: 1) intimate, clean and welcoming dine in space. Could have used a little music to set some ambiance but my friends and I were yapping so much that it wasn't really missed. Emphasis on CLEAN though! 2) EXCELLENT Panang chicken, pad thai and larb salad (also chicken). These are always my go-to for Thai restaurants and I'm so so glad Kanlaya does these well. The panang curry was my favorite, and hit the right amount of coconut I always crave. You can tell they are using really fresh and handpicked ingredients; not just cutting corners to turn out a dish. TRY THE POTSTICKERS. They do these really well! 3) service--fantastic. We were so well attended to and it's always a bonus when you can BYOB! As we neared the end of our bottle of wine, one of our group ordered a mocktail and it was SO CUTE! I absolutely love that they serve a variety of n/a beverages and that they put lots of care into crafting them to feel special! 4) prices-- SO FAIR. We had 3 dishes, 2 appetizers, and two specialty drinks and barely scratched $100 with leftovers to spare. The owner also shared with us some snacks she had bought from Thailand which is just the sweetest way to welcome new diners to restaurant! Overall, a welcome addition to a beloved location. I cannot wait to order or dine in again! read more

Some of the best Thai food my husband and I have had and the owner, Bella, is so kind. Top notch ingredients and such a flavorful and fresh meal. Highly recommend!! read more

EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED!! Made a reservation for Friday night dinner and restaurant was closed - no sign on door or answer to phone call. Absolutely will not try this place again. read more

I got takeout from Kanlaya Thai Restaurant. The woman working at the front was very hospitable. It's a small, cozy place. Probably not big enough for groups, but could be a good option for parties less than four people. I got the green curry chicken, and it tasted very flavorful. I do wish there had been more rice or chicken, but otherwise it tasted great. One thing I noticed was that the advertised price on the menu on the window facing the street did not at all match the final price even considering tax. It was a few dollars higher plus tax. My experience was good other than that. read more

I've been coming to this cute Thai restaurant with a great atmosphere since it opened, the food is so authentic and fresh. Love the Pad Thai, the Larbs, Tiger Cry and Chicken curry, Soo Good! The owner who is either cooking or waiting on you makes this a great place to visit. read more

Kanlaya Thai Restaurant - Thai Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Kanlaya Thai restaurant is a gem of a restaurant. Get food amazing service with a cozy atmosphere.

They were so nice and gave huge portions! Loved the Sangria mocktails!! They have a lot of vegan options too!!

I've been here twice and both times had a great experience. The chicken basil is amazing. We also loved the pad Thai and pork pot stickers. This is a cute, friendly place and I hope it does well in the 'hood! read more

The food is amazing!! Outstanding service . You have to try the shrimp with green curry and the desserts

I am big on Curry and Pad Thai, and decided to pay Kanlaya a visit. I tried the Panang Curry and Pad Thai Shrimp. There are few Thai restaurants in Chicago that get those absolutely right and Kanlaya is one of them. They also have Mocktails. I tried their Spicy Elephant and that was really good. It is BYOB btw. Other than that, the service is very good and I like the ambiance. I will definitely go back when I am in a mood for authentic Thai food. read more

New place still finding its footing. I enjoyed the phat dog and Thai iced tea. Excellent service and immaculately clean dining area.

Wanted to try the new Thai place in the neighborhood. My coworker and I were really looking forward to our lunch today. What a huge letdown. Portion was large and hot but Chicken Pad Thai was inedible. Both of us tossed it in the trashed after a couple of bites. Rainbow Thai and Green Leaf, both within walking distance of this place are 100 times better. Never again. read more

Many of the good thai places in lincoln square have fallen off in recent years. This place is a welcome entry into the neighborhood it is just well executed, delicious thai with fresh ingredients. I got the pad thai and vegan green curry and they are both excellent. Very friendly staff. Definitely worth a try! read more

Lovely little spot, bright white and graced with fresh flowers. Had a wonderful meal of pot stickers and pagnan curry. Also had a yummy fruity mocktail. Would definitely go back. The service was excellent read more