This cozy Thai spot serves up irresistible poached chicken and fragrant rice in a charmingly snug atmosphere that's perfect for a quick lunch.
"Walk into Eim Khao Mun Kai, and you’ll smell two things: chicken and rice. That’s because this place specializes in a Thai version of Hainanese chicken - and it’s the only thing on the menu. A single serving comes with a big mound of rice topped with some tender poached chicken that’s chopped to order. Along with rich, salty broth on the side, it’s a very substantial meal, and it’ll cost you slightly less than $10. Grab some quick takeout, or hang out at one of the big round tables in the little space and enjoy your overachieving casual weeknight meal." - Bryan Kim
"Walk into Eim Khao Mun Kai, and you’ll smell two things: chicken and rice. This place specializes in a Thai version of Hainanese chicken—and it’s the only thing on the menu. A single serving comes with a big mound of rice topped with some tender poached chicken that’s chopped to order. Along with rich, salty broth on the side, it’s a very substantial meal for slightly less than $13. Grab some quick takeout, or hang out at one of the big round tables in the little space to enjoy your overachieving weeknight meal." - will hartman, bryan kim, hannah albertine, neha talreja, willa moore
"Hainan, the island of China’s southernmost province, is famous for its chickens, which are poached in a gingery broth and served with soy sauce. This cafe specializes in the Thai take on the birds. The leftover broth is used to cook the rice that’s served with the sliced chicken — organs and all — along with some cucumber slices for contrast. A fortifying meal costs around $10." - Eater Staff
"It’s a tribute to Elmhurst as a Thai neighborhood that the large population of restaurants includes a couple that specialize in only one dish. In this case, that dish is Hainanese-style chicken from China’s southernmost region, offered from a Thai perspective. The bargain set meal includes a quarter chicken poached in an aromatic broth, rice cooked in broth, a dark consomme, and a few slices of cucumber. Chicken is halal." - Robert Sietsema
"Hainanese chicken, filtered through a Thai lens, is the star at Eim Khao Mun Kai in Elmhurst. The Queens restaurant is open for delivery and takeout all day, with additional locations on the way soon, according to the team." - Eater Staff