When they say spicy, they mean spicy! Great for me, but definitely could be offputting for people that can't handle it. Located in the heart of Chinatown, with delicious food. Highly recommend the salted fried fish (it is spicy!) as well as any of the pork belly dishes. They are so savory and amazing. Also have a great selection of bubble teas! It might seem like a communist themed restaurant, but don't let that scare you away.
Lao Hunan affords a dining experience like no other in Chicago. Its kitschy, Mao-themed decor includes a banner that says, "Serving People" across one entire wall of the establishment (pretty funny, considering it's a restaurant). The other wall boasts a hall of fame of notable figures who came from Hunan province. The young, friendly waitstaff all sport chinese communist uniforms (not kidding) to match the decor.
Even people with no sense of humor will love Lao Hunan, because the food is absolutely delicious. Though strange animals like turtle and frog appear on the menu, my party decided on some chicken, beef and vegetable dishes. Everything was incredibly tasty--spicy but not too spicy. The dishes came out in under ten minutes. Also, the price is right! Rarely can you feast so well for so little.
Hop on the red line ASAP and head to Lao Hunan.
I lived in China for three years and the food here tastes just like I remember it. I ate my favorite dishes 口水鸡 (chicken served cold in spicy sauce) and 水煮牛肉 (shredded beef boiled and served in spicy sauce with cabbage and bean sprouts).
If you have never had authentic Chinese before you really should try it. It's totally different than the average takeout place.
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