The Chicago Traveler

Joy’s Keeps Diners and Wallets Happy

by Matt B on May 20th, 2008

I’ll admit, I’ve only eaten at Joy’s Noodles and Rice a couple of times. I would go more often, but the fact is, this restaurant is incredibly popular and is often quite crowded. And for good reason. The open atmosphere and inexpensive food make this eatery a great option, especially now when so many of us are trying to manage our budgets responsibly.

Joy’s delivery area is only about 8 square miles (22 km²), so most of the diners here are Lakeview locals. The brick-walled dining room, while usually packed with hungry customers, is comfortable and airy. French doors at the front make window seats perfect for people-watching.

Start off your meal with baby egg rolls (so tiny!), chicken satay, or khanom jeeb—steamed shrimp Shu Mai served with special soy sauce. Simple Asian dishes are divided into noodle, curry, and rice items. There are traditional favorites like pad thai and pad see eiw, along with spicy options like chicken coconut curry and pad prik. Best of all, entrées average $7-8. You can even bring your own beer or wine, and there’s no corkage fee. Stop on by for lunch, and take advantage of their wallet-friendly lunch specials, which include an entrée and an appetizer sampler.

These low prices and great flavors will have you jumping for Joy’s.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) polomex

Joy’s Noodles and Rice ($): 3257 N Broadway St; 773-327-8330
Sun – Thurs: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Street parking difficult
Public trans: Bus # 36, 77
http://www.joysnoodlesandrice.com/

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POSTED IN: Restaurants