Foragin in Carol Stream, Illinois
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Carol Stream: 10 Must-Try Dining Experiences**
Carol Stream, Illinois, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of culinary hotspots, but this unassuming suburb is packed with hidden gems serving everything from authentic Chinese and Filipino fare to mouthwatering Mexican street food and classic American diner bites. Whether you're craving spicy Szechuan noodles, a loaded burrito, or a perfectly grilled Filipino barbecue skewer, this guide will take you through the best dishes and dining experiences at 10 standout spots in town.
---
## **1. Chinar – A Taste of Authentic Chinese Cuisine**
? **632 E St Charles Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Chinar offers a robust menu of traditional Chinese dishes, from fiery Szechuan specialties to comforting Cantonese classics. The restaurant is a go-to for locals seeking bold flavors and generous portions.
### **What to Order:**
- **Kung Pao Chicken** – A must-try with tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a spicy-sweet glaze.
- **Beef Chow Fun** – Wide rice noodles stir-fried with beef, bean sprouts, and scallions in a smoky wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor.
- **Dan Dan Noodles** – A Szechuan favorite with minced pork, chili oil, and nutty sesame sauce.
- **Hot & Sour Soup** – Perfectly balanced with tofu, mushrooms, and a tangy-spicy broth.
**Pro Tip:** Ask for spice adjustments—some dishes pack serious heat!
---
## **2. Gary Burritos – Fresh, Flavorful Mexican Street Food**
? **381 N Gary Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Gary Burritos is a no-frills spot dishing out massive burritos, loaded nachos, and tacos that rival Chicago’s best taquerias.
### **What to Order:**
- **Super Burrito** – Stuffed with your choice of meat (al pastor is a winner), rice, beans, cheese, and fresh guac.
- **Carne Asada Fries** – Crispy fries topped with juicy steak, melted cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
- **Taco Trio** – Try one each of carne asada, carnitas, and chorizo for a perfect sampler.
**Pro Tip:** Their green salsa is addictive—ask for extra!
---
## **3. Ye’s Chinese Food – Classic American-Chinese Comfort**
? **934 Army Trail Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Ye’s serves up familiar favorites with consistent quality, making it a reliable spot for quick takeout or casual dining.
### **What to Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and slightly spicy—the gold standard.
- **Mongolian Beef** – Tender strips of beef in a savory-sweet garlic sauce.
- **Egg Foo Young** – A fluffy Chinese omelet with veggies and gravy.
**Pro Tip:** Their lunch specials are a steal—huge portions at great prices.
---
## **4. Hong Ning Filipino Restaurant & Grill – A Taste of the Philippines**
? **598 North Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
One of the few Filipino spots in the area, Hong Ning delivers homestyle flavors with hearty portions.
### **What to Order:**
- **Lechon Kawali** – Crispy fried pork belly with a side of liver sauce.
- **Pancit Bihon** – Stir-fried rice noodles with veggies and chicken.
- **BBQ Skewers (Pork or Chicken Inasal)** – Grilled to perfection with a tangy-sweet marinade.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip the **Halo-Halo**—a colorful shaved ice dessert with ube, beans, and flan!
---
## **5. Tasty House 1 – Chinese & Thai Fusion**
? **1042 Fountain View Dr, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
This spot blends Chinese and Thai flavors, offering everything from pad thai to Peking duck.
### **What to Order:**
- **Pad Thai** – A well-balanced mix of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
- **Szechuan Fish Fillet** – Spicy, tender fish in a bold chili broth.
- **Crispy Duck** – Perfectly roasted with a side of hoisin sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Their lunch combos are a great deal!
---
## **6. Empower Carol Stream – Healthy, Flavorful Bowls**
? **774 W Army Trail Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
For a fresh, healthy meal, Empower serves customizable grain bowls, smoothies, and wraps.
### **What to Order:**
- **Buddha Bowl** – Quinoa, roasted veggies, avocado, and tahini dressing.
- **Acai Bowl** – Topped with granola, berries, and honey.
**Pro Tip:** Add their house-made spicy cashew dressing for extra flavor.
---
## **7. Manny’s Café – Classic American Diner**
? **184 N Gary Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
A cozy diner with hearty breakfasts and classic burgers.
### **What to Order:**
- **Chili Cheese Omelet** – A breakfast beast.
- **Bacon Avocado Burger** – Juicy and loaded with toppings.
**Pro Tip:** Their homemade pies are a must for dessert!
---
## **8. Diana’s Red Hots – Chicago-Style Hot Dogs & More**
? **185 S Schmale Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
A no-nonsense hot dog stand serving Chicago classics.
### **What to Order:**
- **Chicago Dog** – All the classic toppings: neon relish, sport peppers, and celery salt.
- **Italian Beef** – Juicy, dipped, with giardiniera.
**Pro Tip:** Get a side of cheese fries—they’re legendary.
---
## **9. Jin 28 – Sushi & Japanese Comfort Food**
? **604 E N Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Solid sushi rolls and bento boxes in a relaxed setting.
### **What to Order:**
- **Dragon Roll** – Eel, avocado, and cucumber topped with eel sauce.
- **Tonkatsu Don** – Breaded pork cutlet over rice with egg.
**Pro Tip:** Their lunch specials include miso soup and salad.
---
### **Final Thoughts**
Carol Stream’s dining scene is full of surprises—whether you're in the mood for fiery Szechuan, a loaded burrito, or a classic Chicago dog, there’s something here for every craving. **Which spot will you try first?** ?️?
Carol Stream, Illinois, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of culinary hotspots, but this unassuming suburb is packed with hidden gems serving everything from authentic Chinese and Filipino fare to mouthwatering Mexican street food and classic American diner bites. Whether you're craving spicy Szechuan noodles, a loaded burrito, or a perfectly grilled Filipino barbecue skewer, this guide will take you through the best dishes and dining experiences at 10 standout spots in town.
---
## **1. Chinar – A Taste of Authentic Chinese Cuisine**
? **632 E St Charles Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Chinar offers a robust menu of traditional Chinese dishes, from fiery Szechuan specialties to comforting Cantonese classics. The restaurant is a go-to for locals seeking bold flavors and generous portions.
### **What to Order:**
- **Kung Pao Chicken** – A must-try with tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a spicy-sweet glaze.
- **Beef Chow Fun** – Wide rice noodles stir-fried with beef, bean sprouts, and scallions in a smoky wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor.
- **Dan Dan Noodles** – A Szechuan favorite with minced pork, chili oil, and nutty sesame sauce.
- **Hot & Sour Soup** – Perfectly balanced with tofu, mushrooms, and a tangy-spicy broth.
**Pro Tip:** Ask for spice adjustments—some dishes pack serious heat!
---
## **2. Gary Burritos – Fresh, Flavorful Mexican Street Food**
? **381 N Gary Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Gary Burritos is a no-frills spot dishing out massive burritos, loaded nachos, and tacos that rival Chicago’s best taquerias.
### **What to Order:**
- **Super Burrito** – Stuffed with your choice of meat (al pastor is a winner), rice, beans, cheese, and fresh guac.
- **Carne Asada Fries** – Crispy fries topped with juicy steak, melted cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
- **Taco Trio** – Try one each of carne asada, carnitas, and chorizo for a perfect sampler.
**Pro Tip:** Their green salsa is addictive—ask for extra!
---
## **3. Ye’s Chinese Food – Classic American-Chinese Comfort**
? **934 Army Trail Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Ye’s serves up familiar favorites with consistent quality, making it a reliable spot for quick takeout or casual dining.
### **What to Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and slightly spicy—the gold standard.
- **Mongolian Beef** – Tender strips of beef in a savory-sweet garlic sauce.
- **Egg Foo Young** – A fluffy Chinese omelet with veggies and gravy.
**Pro Tip:** Their lunch specials are a steal—huge portions at great prices.
---
## **4. Hong Ning Filipino Restaurant & Grill – A Taste of the Philippines**
? **598 North Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
One of the few Filipino spots in the area, Hong Ning delivers homestyle flavors with hearty portions.
### **What to Order:**
- **Lechon Kawali** – Crispy fried pork belly with a side of liver sauce.
- **Pancit Bihon** – Stir-fried rice noodles with veggies and chicken.
- **BBQ Skewers (Pork or Chicken Inasal)** – Grilled to perfection with a tangy-sweet marinade.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip the **Halo-Halo**—a colorful shaved ice dessert with ube, beans, and flan!
---
## **5. Tasty House 1 – Chinese & Thai Fusion**
? **1042 Fountain View Dr, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
This spot blends Chinese and Thai flavors, offering everything from pad thai to Peking duck.
### **What to Order:**
- **Pad Thai** – A well-balanced mix of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
- **Szechuan Fish Fillet** – Spicy, tender fish in a bold chili broth.
- **Crispy Duck** – Perfectly roasted with a side of hoisin sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Their lunch combos are a great deal!
---
## **6. Empower Carol Stream – Healthy, Flavorful Bowls**
? **774 W Army Trail Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
For a fresh, healthy meal, Empower serves customizable grain bowls, smoothies, and wraps.
### **What to Order:**
- **Buddha Bowl** – Quinoa, roasted veggies, avocado, and tahini dressing.
- **Acai Bowl** – Topped with granola, berries, and honey.
**Pro Tip:** Add their house-made spicy cashew dressing for extra flavor.
---
## **7. Manny’s Café – Classic American Diner**
? **184 N Gary Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
A cozy diner with hearty breakfasts and classic burgers.
### **What to Order:**
- **Chili Cheese Omelet** – A breakfast beast.
- **Bacon Avocado Burger** – Juicy and loaded with toppings.
**Pro Tip:** Their homemade pies are a must for dessert!
---
## **8. Diana’s Red Hots – Chicago-Style Hot Dogs & More**
? **185 S Schmale Rd, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
A no-nonsense hot dog stand serving Chicago classics.
### **What to Order:**
- **Chicago Dog** – All the classic toppings: neon relish, sport peppers, and celery salt.
- **Italian Beef** – Juicy, dipped, with giardiniera.
**Pro Tip:** Get a side of cheese fries—they’re legendary.
---
## **9. Jin 28 – Sushi & Japanese Comfort Food**
? **604 E N Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why Visit?**
Solid sushi rolls and bento boxes in a relaxed setting.
### **What to Order:**
- **Dragon Roll** – Eel, avocado, and cucumber topped with eel sauce.
- **Tonkatsu Don** – Breaded pork cutlet over rice with egg.
**Pro Tip:** Their lunch specials include miso soup and salad.
---
### **Final Thoughts**
Carol Stream’s dining scene is full of surprises—whether you're in the mood for fiery Szechuan, a loaded burrito, or a classic Chicago dog, there’s something here for every craving. **Which spot will you try first?** ?️?
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