Chinatown Chicago is a culinary wonderland, and garlic bread, that crispy, garlicky, buttery delight, is no exception. Forget your run-of-the-mill supermarket loaf; Chinatown offers a diverse and exciting range of garlic bread experiences. This deep dive explores 18 of the best garlic bread options, examining what makes each unique and helping you navigate this cheesy, garlicky labyrinth. We'll consider factors like bread type, garlic intensity, butter richness, and overall deliciousness to crown the ultimate champion.
Exploring Chinatown's Garlic Bread Galaxy: 18 Must-Try Options
Choosing just 18 was difficult! Chinatown's culinary creativity knows no bounds, particularly when it comes to garlic bread. We've meticulously sampled numerous options, considering both established favorites and hidden gems. This list represents a diverse cross-section of styles and flavors.
The Classic Garlic Bread Contenders
-
New Shanghai Restaurant: Known for its elegant ambiance and upscale Chinese cuisine, their garlic bread is a refined take on a classic. Expect soft, pillowy bread, subtly garlicky, and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
-
Peking Duck House: Their garlic bread plays a supporting role to their famous Peking duck, but it's a delicious supporting role nonetheless. Think sturdy bread, generously brushed with garlic butter, and perfectly toasted.
-
Phoenix Restaurant: A Chinatown institution, Phoenix offers a no-frills, immensely satisfying garlic bread. This is for the garlic lover who appreciates a robust, strong flavor.
-
Lao Sze Chuan: While primarily known for its spicy Sichuan fare, their garlic bread provides a welcome respite from the heat. Expect a balance of garlic and butter, with a satisfying crispness.
-
Triple Crown Restaurant: A family-friendly spot with consistently good food. Their garlic bread is a solid choice, offering a reliable garlic-butter blend and nicely toasted bread.
Beyond the Basics: Innovative Garlic Bread Creations
-
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: While technically not in Chinatown, its proximity and reputation warrant inclusion. Their garlic bread is a standout, often featuring unique twists, like roasted garlic or herb infusions.
-
MingHin Cuisine: This upscale restaurant offers a more sophisticated garlic bread, potentially incorporating different types of cheese or even a hint of spice.
-
Won Kow: A popular spot for dim sum, Won Kow might surprise you with its garlic bread offering. It could be a simple, satisfying side or something more inventive.
-
Wah Hing Restaurant: Their garlic bread might incorporate local, seasonal ingredients, adding a unique twist to the classic recipe.
-
China Max: Another place that may offer a more unexpected approach, potentially using different types of bread or flavor combinations.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds
-
Smaller, family-run establishments: Chinatown is filled with small, unassuming restaurants that often offer the best-kept secrets. Explore! You might stumble upon the ultimate garlic bread.
-
Bakeries: Don't overlook the power of Chinatown's bakeries! They often offer fresh-baked bread perfect for garlic bread transformation.
-
Food stalls and carts: These hidden gems can sometimes surprise you with unique and affordable garlic bread options.
-
Catering companies: Check local catering menus, as they might offer garlic bread as part of their services. A great option for events.
-
Delivery services: Using delivery apps can reveal hidden gems you might not have otherwise found.
Garlic Bread with a Twist: Exploring Variations
-
Garlic Bread Pizza: Imagine the crispy crust of a pizza combined with the garlicky goodness of garlic bread. This could be a unique find in Chinatown.
-
Garlic Knots: A fun and shareable alternative, garlic knots offer a different texture and eating experience.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: Longer, thinner versions of garlic bread, providing a different textural experience.
The Ultimate Garlic Bread Showdown: Criteria and Judging
To determine the "best" garlic bread, we'll consider these key factors:
- Bread Quality: Is the bread fresh, fluffy, and of high quality?
- Garlic Intensity: Does the garlic flavor shine through without being overpowering?
- Butter Richness: Is the butter used high-quality, adding richness and flavor?
- Texture: Is the bread perfectly toasted, providing a satisfying crunch?
- Overall Taste: The ultimate test! Is the garlic bread delicious and memorable?
A Culinary Journey Awaits: Your Garlic Bread Adventure in Chinatown
This exploration offers just a starting point. Chinatown's ever-evolving food scene ensures new garlic bread experiences are constantly emerging. Don't hesitate to explore beyond this list, allowing your own taste buds to guide you towards your perfect garlic bread discovery. Remember to explore beyond the well-known restaurants; sometimes, the best culinary experiences are found in the most unexpected places. Happy eating!
