Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene is a treasure trove for food lovers, and among its many standout spots is See Thru Chinese Kitchen. Known for its innovative approach to traditional Chinese fare, this restaurant offers a menu that marries authenticity with contemporary flair.
Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, or just looking to explore something new, See Thru Chinese Kitchen’s offerings promise to delight and satisfy. The menu features a wide array of dishes, carefully crafted to highlight the rich diversity of Chinese cuisine while keeping a modern sensibility.
From small plates designed for sharing to hearty mains that satisfy every craving, the menu is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a broad audience. Each dish reflects a commitment to quality and presentation, making dining at See Thru a memorable experience.
The restaurant’s menu also reflects seasonal availability and local sourcing, ensuring freshness and a dynamic selection throughout the year.
Whether you are visiting for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, See Thru Chinese Kitchen Chicago offers a menu that is both accessible and exciting. The balance between traditional flavors and innovative cooking techniques invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates Chinese culture in a welcoming, stylish environment.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Beginning
The appetizer section at See Thru Chinese Kitchen is designed to provide a burst of flavor and set the tone for the meal ahead. These starters combine classic ingredients with unique preparations, inviting guests to sample a variety of tastes and textures.
Popular choices include crispy dumplings, fresh spring rolls, and tantalizing spicy peanuts. Each appetizer is crafted to be shareable, allowing diners to explore multiple options.
The kitchen prides itself on balancing traditional recipes with creative twists, ensuring that each bite is memorable.
Signature Starters
One of the highlights is the Chili Garlic Edamame, a dish that blends the subtle saltiness of edamame with a spicy, garlicky kick. It’s a perfect starter for those who enjoy a little heat without overwhelming the palate.
Another favorite is the Five-Spice Pork Dumplings which are steamed to perfection and served with a tangy soy dipping sauce.
- Crispy Vegetarian Spring Rolls – Light, crunchy, and filled with seasonal vegetables
- Spicy Szechuan Peanuts – Roasted peanuts tossed in a fiery Szechuan-inspired sauce
- Sesame Chicken Bites – Tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sesame glaze
“The appetizers here are a perfect introduction to the depth and complexity of Chinese flavors, with every dish offering a little surprise.” – Chicago Food Review
Soups and Salads: Fresh and Comforting Choices
The soups and salads at See Thru Chinese Kitchen provide a refreshing contrast to the more robust dishes. These options are perfect for those seeking lighter fare or a palate cleanser between courses.
The ingredients are fresh, and the preparations highlight the natural flavors and textures of each element.
Soups range from hearty broths to light, aromatic bowls that warm and invigorate. Salads feature crisp vegetables and thoughtfully paired dressings, often incorporating traditional Chinese ingredients for authenticity.
Popular Selections
The Hot and Sour Soup is a classic favorite, with a perfect balance of tangy vinegar and spicy pepper that awakens the senses. For a cooler option, the Mango Cucumber Salad combines sweet and tart mango with crunchy cucumbers, tossed in a lime and chili dressing for an unexpected but delightful combination.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavors |
| Hot and Sour Soup | Tofu, mushrooms, vinegar, pepper | Spicy, tangy, savory |
| Mango Cucumber Salad | Mango, cucumber, lime, chili | Sweet, tart, fresh |
| Seaweed and Tofu Salad | Seaweed, tofu, sesame oil, soy sauce | Umami, light, nutty |
Main Courses: Bold and Satisfying Entrees
Main courses at See Thru Chinese Kitchen are the heart of the menu, showcasing a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetarian options. These dishes are crafted with attention to detail, combining traditional Chinese cooking methods with contemporary presentation.
Each entree is thoughtfully seasoned and cooked to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. Whether you prefer something spicy, savory, or mild, the main courses provide a diverse range that caters to all tastes and preferences.
Chef’s Recommendations
The Kung Pao Chicken is a standout, featuring tender chicken pieces stir-fried with peanuts, peppers, and a perfectly balanced sauce that is both spicy and slightly sweet. Another popular dish is the Mapo Tofu, a spicy Sichuan specialty that combines creamy tofu with a bold, numbing peppercorn sauce.
- Beef and Broccoli – Classic pairing with a savory garlic soy sauce
- General Tso’s Cauliflower – Crispy, battered cauliflower tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce
- Steamed Whole Fish – Fresh catch with ginger, scallions, and light soy dressing
“The main courses at See Thru Chinese Kitchen perfectly balance authenticity and innovation, making each dish a celebration of Chinese culinary artistry.” – Local Dining Enthusiast
Noodles and Rice: Staples with a Twist
No Chinese meal is complete without noodles or rice, and See Thru’s menu offers a variety of options that elevate these staples through bold flavors and quality ingredients. From stir-fried noodles to fragrant rice dishes, each selection is crafted to complement the rest of the meal.
The noodles are cooked al dente and tossed with sauces and fresh vegetables, while the rice dishes are fluffy and aromatic, often infused with spices or mixed with savory add-ins.
Popular Dishes
The Dan Dan Noodles are a must-try, featuring spicy chili oil, minced pork, and crunchy peanuts. Another favorite, the Yangzhou Fried Rice, is a colorful medley of shrimp, eggs, vegetables, and ham, offering a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Key Flavors |
| Dan Dan Noodles | Wheat noodles, chili oil, pork, peanuts | Spicy, nutty, savory |
| Yangzhou Fried Rice | Rice, shrimp, eggs, vegetables, ham | Umami, savory, rich |
| Vegetable Chow Mein | Egg noodles, mixed vegetables, soy sauce | Savory, slightly sweet, crunchy |
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Inclusive and Flavorful
See Thru Chinese Kitchen prioritizes inclusivity, offering a diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that don’t compromise on flavor or creativity. These options appeal to those seeking plant-based meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.
The vegetarian and vegan dishes are thoughtfully prepared, often utilizing tofu, fresh vegetables, and bold sauces to create hearty meals. The kitchen uses traditional techniques to ensure these dishes are just as exciting as their meat-based counterparts.
Noteworthy Vegetarian Choices
The Ma Po Tofu (Vegan) is a spicy, flavorful dish that uses tofu and fermented bean paste to create a rich, satisfying entree. The Vegetable Spring Rolls are another popular option, featuring a crispy exterior and a savory vegetable filling.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy with Garlic – Simple, fresh, and lightly seasoned
- Vegan Kung Pao Cauliflower – Crispy cauliflower with a spicy, tangy sauce
- Cold Sesame Noodles – Chilled noodles tossed with a creamy sesame dressing
“The vegetarian menu at See Thru Chinese Kitchen proves that plant-based dining can be both delicious and authentic, with every dish crafted to please the palate.” – Vegan Chicago Magazine
Desserts: Sweet Endings with an Asian Twist
To conclude the meal, See Thru Chinese Kitchen offers a small but delightful selection of desserts. These sweet offerings provide a perfect balance to the savory dishes, often incorporating traditional Asian flavors with a modern presentation.
The desserts are designed to be light and satisfying, ensuring you leave the table with a pleasant final taste. Many feature ingredients like red bean, sesame, and tropical fruits, highlighting the depth of Asian dessert traditions.
Popular Dessert Items
The Black Sesame Ice Cream is a creamy, nutty treat that offers a unique flavor profile not often found in Western desserts. The Mango Sticky Rice is a classic Thai-inspired dish featuring sweet mangoes paired with sticky coconut rice and a drizzle of coconut milk.
- Red Bean Pancake – Crispy and sweet, filled with smooth red bean paste
- Fried Banana with Honey – Warm, crispy bananas drizzled with honey and sesame seeds
- Lychee Sorbet – Refreshing and light, perfect for cleansing the palate
“Desserts at See Thru Chinese Kitchen are a charming nod to Asian flavors, offering something unique and memorable to end your meal.” – Sweet Tooth Chicago
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
The beverage menu at See Thru Chinese Kitchen is curated to complement the flavors of the food perfectly. It includes traditional Chinese drinks, modern cocktails, and a selection of teas that provide a refreshing accompaniment to any dish.
Tea plays a central role in Chinese dining, and the restaurant offers several varieties such as jasmine, oolong, and pu-erh. For those who prefer something stronger, the cocktail list features creative drinks incorporating Asian ingredients like lychee, ginger, and sake.
Drink Selections
Signature cocktails include the Ginger Lychee Martini, which blends the sweetness of lychee with the warmth of ginger and premium vodka. Non-alcoholic options feature fresh juices and traditional Chinese sodas.
| Beverage | Description | Best Paired With |
| Jasmine Tea | Fragrant, light floral tea | Light appetizers, seafood |
| Ginger Lychee Martini | Sweet, spicy, and refreshing cocktail | Spicy dishes, main courses |
| Plum Wine | Smooth, sweet fruit wine | Desserts, light dishes |
Conclusion
See Thru Chinese Kitchen in Chicago offers a menu that is both a tribute to traditional Chinese cuisine and a celebration of contemporary culinary innovation. Each section of the menu has been thoughtfully crafted to bring out the best in bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and artistic presentation.
Whether you are indulging in flavorful appetizers, hearty main courses, or refreshing beverages, the dining experience is designed to be memorable and satisfying.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in every dish, making it an ideal destination for both longtime fans of Chinese food and those new to the cuisine. From vegetarian options to indulgent desserts, the menu caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.
Dining at See Thru Chinese Kitchen is more than just a meal; it is an exploration of the rich culinary heritage of China, presented with modern elegance and a welcoming atmosphere. For anyone seeking a dynamic, flavorful, and authentic Chinese dining experience in Chicago, this kitchen promises to deliver on every level.
