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The Best Dishes Eater Chicago Editors Ate This Week: July 25 | Eater Chicago
"A Northern-Suburbs South Indian spot with a Keralan-leaning menu that balances playful items (fish fries, an array of Indian coffees) with comfort dishes from the reviewer’s upbringing. The reviewer says “'homestyle' is kind of dismissive, but the rasam served hit all the right notes; it’s a healing vegetarian elixir full of tamarind and tomatoes that helped power me through a number of bitter Chicago winters,” which they ate mixed with a little basmati rice. Service includes a small gravy boat, a ladle, and cups; you can slurp it down with a spoon or sip it slow with a utensil. The writer also emphasizes regional variety: “Remember: South India is no monolith. We like both dosa AND idily, thank you,” and notes that a reliable signal of good carb-forward cooking is “the sweet sound of a glucose monitor alarm.” —Ashok Selvam, lead editor, Eater Midwest" - Ashok Selvam
Sas R.
Google
loved the restaurant’s décor, colors, and cleanless. While we’re familiar with some popular Indian dishes, this was our first time trying South Indian cuisine, so we didn’t know what to expect. The menu offered a nice variety of options, and we decided to try a few new dishes. Overall, I’d rate the experience a 7 out of 10.
We had the Kongunadu lamb curry, the flavor was unexpected for something cooked with cocunut and the meat was a bit chewy, so I wont recommned it. We also tried their special biryani, which featured two types of rice with fried chicken underneath. The portion size was good; I really enjoyed the rice, though I wasn’t quite sure about the fried chicken. The highlight for me was the chicken pepper fry, it was fantastic, especially if you enjoy bold black pepper flavor and a bit of heat. We also had the Chicken both Parotta which was tasted. However, for $17.99 you will get only 4 small pieces of chicekn. I would go back but not going to risk and try new dishes :D
Nikhil K.
Google
Great location, amazing ambience and the food was beyond anything. We ordered their Veg Thali and it reminded me of our time back in India. They even served us fresh ghee to go with our rice. Every curry was tasty and the sweet was top notch. We will stop by here for sure when we visit Chicago again.
Naveen D.
Google
A Taste of Kongu Nadu in the U.S.
Thalaiva’s Indian Kitchen brings a refreshingly authentic and culturally rich experience, rooted deeply in the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu. It’s rare to find such a specific regional representation in the U.S., and this place embraces it fully—from flavors to presentation.
The menu is simple with options that cater to different preferences while staying true to Kongu traditions. We found some truly unique dishes that are rarely seen outside Tamil Nadu. The Arisi Parupu Sadham (lentil rice) is a must-try—comforting, and well-presented Another highlight was the Kambukool (pearl millet porridge)—nutritious and cooling, and though a bit pricey, it’s the first time I’ve seen it on a U.S. menu.
Another must-try is the Road Kadai Kaalaan, a street-style mushroom dish bursting with bold flavors, just like the classic stalls back home.
Drinks suggestions: Start your meal with Nanari Sarbath or Rose Milk—both are classic, refreshing drinks.
Appetizers were bit salty for my pallet. To wash down the hearty flavors, try the buttermilk, which is refreshing and authentic. For dessert, the strawberry milkshake stood out—perfectly sweetened with a clear, natural strawberry taste.
The restaurant recently moved to a larger space, making it much more open and suitable for families or groups. Watch out for low hanging vintage dipti lantern lights. However, service during busy times can feel a bit off track—we received dishes before plates, and it was difficult to catch a server’s attention when the restaurant was crowded.
The entrance faces southeast, and the ambiance reflects the roots of the cuisine in a humble way.
The uniqueness and authenticity of the food make it worth visiting. I recommend this place and will return to explore more from their Kongu-style offerings.
Rakesh R.
Google
Different menu compared to other indian restaurants in Chicago. They have some new and different varieties of dosas available. They have some different options in curries too. We ordered Kadai Paneer, Fried Egg Rice, Garlic Naan and Mango Lassi. All of them tasted really good. Will recommend this place for anybody looking for good indian food. Prices are little higher compared to other indian restaurants.
Mohan R.
Google
Visited the new Thalaivas Indian Kitchen in Park Ridge and it’s a gem. Loved the cozy vibe with traditional art, spacious seating, and a bar that adds a nice touch. The banana leaf thali, Thalapakattu Mutton Biryani, millet dishes, and the signature sprouted greengram lentils were full of flavor and felt like home. Thalaivas specials stood out, but the real highlight was the warm and friendly customer service. Will definitely be back.
Sukhvinder S.
Google
Great good taste and great atmosphere with phenomenal food taste both for veg and non veg. The restaurant is really nice and good to visit some improvement required on service which I am sure will happen.
Swetha V.
Google
Everything in their menu is a must try.
From Thali to veg kothu parotta, all items tasted super good.
Definitely give Curry leaf margarita a try!!
(Skip pomegranate raita though)
Heather B.
Google
amazing food! we came here for the dosai and the first bite brought me right back to my trip to Southern India. The spicy tamarind cocktail was also delicious! Very cute decor.