Crying Tiger Lives up to the Hype With Inventive Southeast Asian Flavors | Eater Chicago

"Led by HaiSous' Thai Dang and backed by Lettuce Entertain You, this 2025 buzz magnet quickly lives up to the hype with standout Southeast Asian cooking and a boisterous, shareable-plates vibe that’s great for groups. Kick things off with the roasted pork belly—crispy skin over succulent pork and rendered fat—brightened by a garlic herb nuoc cham that cuts through the richness. The pad Thai is first fired in a wok, then transferred to a clay pot for tableside mixing; it balances savory and sweet with smoky depth, made luxuriant by tender Maine lobster. For dessert, the playful namesake Crying Tiger arrives as a white-chocolate tiger head hiding velvety Thai banana, all lounging in a pool of bananas Foster sauce. The space is full of striking artwork, including pieces from managing partner Amarit Dulyapaibul’s family collection, and even the bathrooms command attention with large, majestic tiger murals." - Jeffy Mai