Arun’s Thai Restaurant has been a fine dining staple in Chicago for over 30 years. Upscale Thai is a rare find in Chicago, and Arun’s does it artistically and deliciously, and – more importantly – gluten-free. Head to Arun’s for a dining experience hard to find this side of the Pacific…
Innovative, beautiful, playful and delicious are all words that describe each of the six courses I tried at Arun’s. Food allergies – no problem! The inviting team was friendly and helpful to guarantee I had a safe dining experience. A lot of Thai cuisine is naturally gluten-free, not relying on soy sauce as much as Japanese, Chinese and Korean cooking. Even the cocktail list was marked with specific gluten-free and vegan selections!
I began with the gluten-free pineapple mezcal cocktail while awaiting my first course. With hints of smoke and sweet, it was made just right. They also have a well curated wine program and are more than happy to recommend a glass or bottle.
Arun’s is a fixed-priced, coursed menu. One can chose 10 or 12 courses, all including appetizers, seafood, meat and dessert. The menu is somewhat seasonal and does change frequently. Chef and owner, Arun, tries to keep fan favorites on the menu year round including the spring rolls, coconut siamese noodles and mango sticky rice.
My favorite dishes were the coconut siamese noodles with a rice battered prawn. Not only have I never had coconut noodles, I’ve never had pink noodles either! This was almost too pretty to eat, but I’m really glad I did. The Mussaman curry, served family style to the table, was finger-licking outstanding. Tender beef swimming in red curry coconut, herbs and spices at its finest.
Dessert is a must and mango sticky rice is very traditional end to a Thai meal, however this version included the rice in a pandan flavored crepe topped with mango cream and homemade sorbet. There wasn’t a bite left on my plate. This upscale version took my breath away in both appearance and in flavor.
Arun’s was a wonderful dining experience and fits it so well with all the fine-dining restaurants Chicago has to offer. Arun’s is the perfect spot for a celebratory dinner, an anniversary, a birthday, or a promotion! A memorable dining experience bursting with flavor and elegance.