Restaurant interior with wooden tables and chairs decorative plants and framed pictures on the walls

Sandy Noto
Chicago

Lao Peng You

  • Chinese
  • Casual
  • Takeout

Brothers Eric and Daniel Wat learned to make dumplings from their Chinese grandmother. Their childhood memories power Lao Peng You, a popular West Town spot known for its dumplings and noodles, made uber-popular by FX’s "The Bear." More on those dumplings: Offered in four different varieties (pork and dill, pork and chive, beef and green onion, and mushroom and chive), they arrive big, plump, and swimming in a steaming pool of spicy, sour broth. Most dishes are prepared with a chile oil that you can buy by the jar, and you can also snag a bag of frozen dumplings to cook at home. The kitchen can accommodate people with a lower spice tolerance, but they still suggest diners proceed with caution. Tables are first come, first served. If there’s a wait, put your name in and explore the Ukrainian Village neighborhood.

The chef-owners (brothers Daniel and Eric Wat) are just putting their whole heart and soul into this place. They’re doing what’s real to them, and that resonates with me.
Chef Danny Grant
Danny Grant

Danny's Perfect Order

A bowl of beef noodle dish with toppings on an outdoor table

Taylor Reave

Beef Sauce Noodle

While inspired by Taiwanese and Szechuan beef noodle soup, there’s no broth in this bowl. Bean and tomato paste join forces for a rich, stew-like sauce instead.

Cucumber Salad

Chopped cucumber gives this salad its crunch, while sesame oil, soy sauce, cilantro, and vinegar add depth. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the menu’s richer items.

Pork & Chive Dumplings

A dizzying amount of work goes into these steamed pork and chive dumplings. The complex broth is made with dried shrimp, chile oil, and zha cai (pickled mustard plant).

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