Seemor
Yao YaoB+Worth Trying
230 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616
· Chinese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (345 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Chinatown spot known for huge, tangy-spicy pickled fish soups and solid Sichuan plates; great for groups, with some cleanliness and occasional inconsistency caveats.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Yao Yao delivers strong food quality anchored by its celebrated pickled fish stew and reliable service, earning solid standing among neighborhood Sichuan restaurants. However, inconsistent execution on fried rice and seasoning alongside isolated food safety incidents prevent grade A territory. The modern, bright setting and generous portions at fair prices make it a worthwhile destination for Sichuan cravings, particularly for the signature bowls, though diners should expect occasional off-nights.
Restaurant Summary
The dining room feels bright and modern with turquoise accents and an open kitchen, and the mood tilts lively as big bowls land on tables. One diner summed it up: "The broth was bold and the fish felt silky," while staff often guide spice levels and portion sizes. However, a few guests reported isolated cleanliness concerns and occasional long waits during rushes. The cooking leans Sichuan-forward comfort with a signature tangy-spicy pickled fish stew designed for sharing, backed by crowd-pleasers like spicy chicken, eggplant in garlic sauce, and dan dan noodles. Portions are massive, pricing lands fair when split, and spice is adjustable; just note the occasional miss on fried rice or seasoning. For families, there are kid-friendly standbys like fried rice, lo mein, and even a kids meal section. You can choose non-spicy versions of the soups and share across the table. If little ones avoid sour flavors or bones in fish, lean toward noodles, rice, and mild appetizers.
At a Glance
- Signature pickled fish bowls deliver bold flavor and huge portions
- Clean, modern space with friendly, informative service
- Intermittent cleanliness incidents reported over years
- Some inconsistency on fried rice, crawfish, and seasoning
- Portions are very large; solo diners may struggle to finish
What Sets It Apart
- signature_pickled_fish_bowls
- modern_clean_design
- group_share_format
What People Love
- Craveable tangy-spicy broth
- Silky fish texture
- Massive portions that feel like a deal
- Modern, spotless vibe with open kitchen
- Helpful spice and portion guidance
Points of Concern
- Intermittent foreign-object reports (paper/brush/bug/hair) are rare but serious; management apologizes but resolution satisfaction varies
- Occasional bland fried rice or overcooked seafood; spice impact can feel milder than expected at medium
- Oil levels can run high even when reduced on request
- Pricing of share bowls can surprise small parties; sides add to total
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$30-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If sensitive to sour flavors, choose Tomato Fish or non-spicy broth options.
- Vegetarians can build a meal from wood ear, enoki, tofu, and eggplant plates.
- Ask for higher spice if medium tastes tame; request rice to balance broth.
Perfect For
- Group dinners that love sharing
- Spice-seeking comfort food nights
- Casual celebrations in Chinatown
- Visitors chasing Bib Gourmand picks
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Chinatown corridor near Cermak; mix of destination diners and locals seeking regional Chinese flavors.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; typical urban environment with crowds, lighting, and active storefronts.
Nearby: Surrounded by Chinese shops, bakeries, and restaurants; close to Cermak-Chinatown Red Line and event venues.
ChinatownChinatown is a vibrant neighborhood centered around cultural heritage with numerous Asian restaurants, markets, and shops. The dining scene is authentic and diverse, attracting both locals and tourists looking for traditional Chinese and pan-Asian flavors in a lively, community-oriented atmosphere.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:30
Tuesday11:30–21:30
Wednesday11:30–21:30
Thursday11:30–21:30
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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