Went with a group of friends (from this subreddit, actually!) to Yao Yao in Chinatown for their signature pickled fish, but don’t sleep on the sides either. Here’s what we got:
Yao Yao Pickled Fish and Fish in Sour Soup (half/half) – the fish was perfectly flaky and succulent, the broth full of flavor, and the pickled veg perfect. We may not have ordered it spicy enough though, so definitely be clear in how spicy you want it. I may try more of the extras in it next time too, just to experiment. Best in the city, though – even better than MCCB.
Golden Fried Crispy Pork – just absolutely incredible. Didn’t want to stop eating it. This is the best I’ve ever had. The batter was perfect, the pork still juicy and fatty inside, and the seasoning on point. 10/10.
Sesame Crispy Shrimp – standard dish but executed perfectly. Addictive, a sweet reprieve. Shrimp nice and plump. Sauce nice and creamy. Also didn’t want to stop eating.
Smashed Cucumber – pretty good. Perfect amount of garlic. Peanuts were a nice touch. Obviously nothing crazy here but no complaints.
Eggplant in Garlic Sauce – also pretty good. The texture was enjoyable; the eggplant was nice and cooked down without getting any weird textures. Garlic sauce was delicious without being too much.
Fried Dough – I know this is literally just fried dough, but I actually recommend ordering it. Not only was it done perfectly and simply, it was perfect for mopping up sauces!
I will be returning very, very soon!
by alexjewellalex
7 Comments
Thanks for the rec, adding to my list
Yao Yao has a Michelin Bib Gourmand and that pickled fish is specifically called out. It’s wild how often there are Chinese food recommendations on this sub yet I hardly ever see Yao Yao mentioned.
I don’t really like Sichuan cuisine. But this is an S tier, all-time top 5 dish for me. Like you said, best in the city, and to me it’s not even close.
Ohhh never had this at a restaurant in Chicago before, definitely want to check it out!
This place is legit and one of my all time favorites.
Man I wish Won-Kow didn’t close
the fried dough (photo #6) is called [youtiao](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Youtiao) for anyone interested and not in the know. It’s awesome
Yao Yao is where Chinese people eat.
I took my Chinese parents there. They are **not** easily impressed. But they said the Suancai fish was as good as anything they’ve had in China.
When I went there were also a ton of Chinese students in sweatpants. The elastic waistbands. That’s how you know they came to eat good.