Zaab-E-LEE Thai Street Food

“Zaab-E-weeee! So good. I live just around the corner and I'm so excited that this spot went in. The...”

Zaab-E-weeee! So good. I live just around the corner and I'm so excited that this spot went in. The first time I went, my husband and his brother and I dined in. We got a Chicken Pad Thai, Thai fried rice, and Pad Ka Prow Moo Krob, which was by far the stand out. Vibes were great, it's a small dining area, but cozy and inviting and the service was great. A big family came in at the same time we were there and I think they were maybe Thai because they seemed to know exactly what to order and the stuff on their table looked incred, I wanted them to adopt me. I've also ordered take out from here and it's just as good! I will say, I got the Pad Ka Prow Moo Krob again and even the spice level "mild" was pretty hot! And I'm no baby, but next time I think I'll go "no spice." DON'T FORGET THE RANGOONS!

Ariel Sinha

Feb 2026

“Best authentic Thai food I’ve had in the U.S.”

Best authentic Thai food I’ve had in the U.S. Everything was so good, and you can tell they use quality ingredients. The owner and kitchen staff really care and cook with passion. Definitely recommend this place.

Chocolate Lover

Jan 2026

“They’re serving delicious and authentic Thai street food, the portion was huge and staff was amazing!”

They’re serving delicious and authentic Thai street food, the portion was huge and staff was amazing!! Highly recommend the som thum Thai, Thai fried rice, and pad kee mao (drunken noodles)!

foodwithellie

Jan 2026

“Please give this place a try and support the owner, Jennie’s business.”

Please give this place a try and support the owner, Jennie’s business! The restaurant is new, and Jennie is new to Chicago. She cooked and served my entire party and a fully packed restaurant by HERSELF on a Friday night. Every dish we ordered - Pad Kra Pao, Pork Belly Laab, Khao Soi, and Moo Grob Pad Priao Waan was absolutely incredible and authentically Thai. If you ask for Thai spicy, she will deliver. 🌶️🔥 Thank you so much, Jennie. We can’t wait to be back! 😍

JP Maguate

Jan 2026

“Cozy, cute, and delicious.”

Cozy, cute, and delicious! This place has amazing food and an even more amazing atmosphere. The attention to detail is one of my favorite parts. I especially like the shoestring vegetable garnish served with the pad see ew I ordered. I’ll be coming back.

Michael Lane

Jan 2026

“Very delicious Thai recipes with fresh ingredients.”

Very delicious Thai recipes with fresh ingredients. The pork belly entrees are especially great.

Steve V

Jan 2026

“PROS: the food - I've tried a handful of dishes and they're all amazing.”

PROS: the food - I've tried a handful of dishes and they're all amazing. It's so cute inside! Also it's BYOB and they don't charge you a nickel for it. CONS: the same woman always waits on us and she's amazing you'll find yourself thinking about her for days after your visit 😭

Joseph McCusty

Dec 2025

“An Explosion of Flavor and Fun in Chicago.”

An Explosion of Flavor and Fun in Chicago! Zaab E Lee is not just a meal. It’s an experience! This is, without a doubt, an authentic and exciting Thai Street Food I've found in Chicago, earning a well-deserved 5/5 stars. From the moment you walk in and see the vibrant neon signs and colorful decor, you know you're in for a treat. The ambiance perfectly captures the energy of a bustling Thai night market. The seating is comfortable, and the deep purple neon glow makes the whole dining room feel electric and fun. Now, for the food, get ready for pure flavor! We ordered the platter (Tum Tad) which was an absolute masterpiece. Every corner of the dish offered a new, perfectly balanced bite. The Papaya Salad (Som Tum) at the center was spicy, sour, and savory, hitting all the right notes. The spread included succulent fried pork (like the Moo Krob or deep-fried marinated pork), tender shrimp, flavorful cured meats, and those gorgeous squiggly squid, all served with soft rice noodles (Khanom Jeen).We also indulged in the incredible Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers) with sticky rice, which were caramelized and perfectly smoky. Every dish here respects the traditional Thai principle of balancing the four fundamental tastes!sweet, sour, salty, and spicy in a way few other local spots manage. If you are craving real, uncompromised, and boldly flavored Northeastern Thai (Isaan) food, Zaab E Lee is the place to go. The service was prompt and friendly, and the presentation of every plate was beautiful. This restaurant is a true Chicago gem and a must-visit for anyone who loves Thai cuisine. Go hungry, leave happy!

Kanpichcha Hines

Nov 2025

“Hands down the best Thai food I’ve had in Chicago.”

Hands down the best Thai food I’ve had in Chicago. We got the three flavor fish and green curry and absolutely devoured it. Just the right amount of spice. Wonderful ambiance. This is my new spot

Caroline Pham

Nov 2025

“Chef TA's back and bringing the tears.”

Chef TA's back and bringing the tears! This Thai spicy queen's Thai dishes are so authentic, I'm pretty sure I just saw my taste buds flee in terror. Sweat dripping down to bud crack– 10/10 would recommend

SPICY

Nov 2025

“The food is absolutely delicious with great flavors, and the atmosphere is warm and cozy.”

Nattawoot Maneetorn

Oct 2025

“I was surprised at the atmosphere of the restaurant.”

I was surprised at the atmosphere of the restaurant. Dining in feels like a mini vacation away from home. I had a Pad See Eiw and Crab Rangoon and both were fresh and delicious, and Jennie the owner made sure we were satisfied with the meal. Such a great vibe. Will definitely be back, and looking forward to try the other dishes!

Phil Parcellano

Sep 2025