Red Light

(312) 733-8880

820 W Randolph St
Chicago, IL 60607 41.8846 -87.6482

Neighborhoods: Near West Side, West Side

What People Are Saying About Red Light

The Editor

Contributor

Citysearch

The Scene
Like a surreal Asian circus: Glowing red stalactites hang from the ceiling, giant ferns loom over tables, and there's wrought iron everywhere--on railings, chairs, even the curvy windows. A trendy crowd piles up at the bar waiting for a table in the bi-level space, where a bright open kitchen buzzes and a funky staff delivers smart service.

The Food
Spice freaks will love the adventurous pan-Asian menu, which boasts plenty of plates that turn up the heat in a delicious way. Seared ahi tuna gets things started with potent wasabi sauce; noodle salad kissed with spicy peanut sauce is ringed with cool fresh cucumber slices. More delicate palates can opt for pad thai or black tie sesame shrimp with pineapple relish. The most impressive plate is the huge (two pounds-plus), crisp Shanghai-style whole catfish, filleted at table by your server and enough for two people. For dessert, look into Chef Jackie Shen's specialty, a chocolate bag filled with white chocolate mousse.

High Marks
"If you're looking for ambiance this place is a must--and as the name implies, there are red lights everywhere." (Machiave11i, Citysearch user)

"If you have the cash, Red Light offers up fantastic food, attentive service and an unpretentious, inviting atmosphere." (jmprimus, Citysearch user)

"
For a superb meal, order the Chef's tasting. You will literally get 10 courses of food, each of which are out of this world." (diane02, Citysearch user)

Low Marks
"
Everything is just a bit more expensive than it should be...and portion sizes are not consistent." (Diner44, Citysearch user)

"It was very expensive and the flavors were pretty bland and flat tasting." (prettyhot, Citysearch user)

"The service was short and a bit rude." (bdjk, Citysearch user)

nachavez

October 15, 2008

Red light is an excellent restaurant with wonderful service and cuisine. I have been there several times, and it has been an extraordinary experience every time. It may be a bit pricey, but it is well worth it. If you want to try them out on a budget try to go in the afternoon during the week when they feature several lunch specials. My must haves from Red light are the sweet potato fries with dipping sauce appetizer, and the chocolate bag desert..

Diner44

August 17, 2008

We had dinner at Red Light Saturday night. The service was good and the atmosphere was great. We were seated promptly and the service was timed in a comfortable manner. What makes Red Light miss a 4 or 5 star rating is primarily price. Everything is just a bit more expensive than it should be. Further, while the menu is very interesting, the print is way too small for such a dark atmosphere. Portion sizes are not consistent. We ordered 2 appetizers both of which were small. One of our main courses was average and the other was huge. We ordered a side of green beans and were stunned! There were enough green beans for a table of 6 or more people. (It would have been nice if our server had mentioned the massive amount of green beans when we ordered.) We had a nice evening and enjoyed the food. The food was very good. While we might return to Red Light in the future, it won't be often or soon. For the same price we have had better dining experiences.

daffodilps

April 27, 2008

This place serves the best pan-Asian food in Chicago.They have a good number of vegetarian options (I love the eggplant dumplings.)The atmosphere is great,our waitress was very warm and friendly .Its quite relaxed,no need to dress up.Though everything was marvelous once we sat down,things weren't quite nice until that point. The Valet service is 'Atrocious' .It was pathetic and the guys were pompous,if you dont drive a BMW ,they dont look at you.We waited for ever and ever and had to scream to get noticed. The guy asked us if we are ok to him parking in front and giving us the keys (for $10),parked our car came in and threw the keys on our table.It kind of spoilt the start for us,that and being seated next to the front door on a chillly night.I know someone has to sit there,but still... So...'d def go back (will take a cab this time) without expecting anything until iam at my table.

The Details on Red Light

Where to Sit:

Ask for a table in the dark, funky back lounge, where gothic accents and an oversized Seussian lamp make for a surreal, sexy atmosphere.

The Extras:

Guests dining Sunday through Thursday from June 1 to September 30 receive a $50 gift certificate to sister restaurant Marche.

As Seen In…

Best of Citysearch

Best Chicago Restaurants

Pan Asian Food

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Red Light

820 W Randolph St
Chicago, IL 60607

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