Menu of Tai Ho Yee Food Co in Chicago, Illinois, USA

Menu Overview

Tai Ho Yee Food Co, nestled in the heart of Chicago's Chinatown at 2422 S Wentworth Ave, offers a true barbecue experience that transports you straight to old-school Cantonese flavors. This unassuming spot may look humble, even a bit confusing to enter, but once inside, the spotlight is on their masterful roasting techniques and rich, authentic taste profiles.

The standout dishes are their Roast Duck, Roast Pork, and the celebrated Peking Duck. The half roasted duck, priced at an astonishing $12, is a rare find in Chicagoland. Each bite delivers tender, flavorful meat with crisp skin that balances fat and seasoning perfectly. It’s no wonder diners return regularly—this dish embodies the art of traditional Chinese barbecue with a quality that appeals to both casual eaters and connoisseurs alike.

The honey BBQ pork, or Char Siu, is another highlight. Tender, slightly sweet, and expertly glazed, it strikes a perfect balance between lean and fatty cuts, avoiding any greasiness. At around $10 a pound, it represents excellent value without sacrificing flavor depth. This barbecued pork pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a versatile favorite.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere encapsulates Chinatown’s old-school charm: small, dimly lit, and buzzing with quiet energy. Service is friendly, albeit minimalistic, reflecting the sincerity and no-frills approach of the establishment. The owners may not speak much English, but their dishes communicate volumes. This authentic setting adds to the experience, making the meal feel more like a discovery of culinary heritage than a simple dinner.

If you’re venturing into Tai Ho Yee Food Co, bring cash and an appetite for bold, traditional flavors. Remember to appreciate the nuances of the roast—the caramelized skin, the juicy meat, the balance of spices—and savor the moments they craft with each dish. This is more than a meal; it’s a culinary snapshot of Chinatown’s rich barbecue legacy, preserved in every succulent slice.