Noodlebird Menu Overview
Nestled in the vibrant Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago, NoodleBird offers an enticing culinary journey that masterfully blends Asian fusion with distinct Chinese and Portuguese influences. This inviting restaurant is known for its rustic charm, communal tables, and an open kitchen that brings guests closer to the artistry behind every dish. The menu is a celebration of flavor, boasting a variety of noodles, dumplings, and unique desserts that cater to diverse palates, including vegetarians.
Starters
Begin your meal with bold flavors and satisfying textures from NoodleBird's starters. The Jalapeño Corn Fritters deliver a delightful crunch with a gentle kick, crafted from fresh corn and spicy jalapeños blended into a perfectly seasoned batter. For a taste of tradition, the Pork & Ginger Dumplings offer a juicy, aromatic filling wrapped in tender dumpling skins, blending pork and fragrant ginger. The Char Siu Bun is a steamed delight, filled with savory char siu pork that melts in your mouth. Meanwhile, the Spicy Cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast with their crisp, tangy, and lightly spiced profile.
Mains
NoodleBird's main courses are a tapestry of vibrant, comforting dishes. Dive into the Smoked Tofu Fried Rice, where smoky tofu elevates stir-fried rice and fresh vegetables seasoned with carefully balanced spices. The Char Siu BBQ Heritage Pork is a standout, featuring heritage pork marinated in a signature char siu sauce that infuses the meat with sweet and savory layers. Noodle lovers will appreciate the Steamed Chili Peanut Noodle, served with handmade rice noodles tossed in a smoky shiitake mushroom-chili crisp sauce, accented by crunchy peanuts and fresh greens.
For a taste of the sea, the Coconut Shrimp Noodle Soup offers a comforting bowl of mung bean vermicelli noodles swimming in a fragrant coconut broth with shrimp, jalapeño, cabbage, and a splash of lime and chili oil for a bright yet spicy finish. The Lu Special combines rice macaroni noodles with a savory mixture of minced soy sauce beef, jalapeños, peas, onions, and a creamy 'cheese' sauce for a fusion experience that surprises and delights. Soups enthusiasts can indulge in the Hearty Veg Macaroni Soup and Smoky Chicken Macaroni Soup, both comforting bowls brimming with fresh vegetables, delicate noodles, and rich broths — plant-based coconut veggie broth or smoky umami chicken bone broth respectively.
Desserts
Conclude your meal on a sweet note with NoodleBird's distinctive desserts. The Egg Custard Tart features a flaky pastry shell encasing a subtly sweet egg custard, offering a delicate Portuguese influence. For those seeking gluten-free options, the oatmeal cream pie is a must-try, delivering comforting flavors with a satisfying texture.
Drinks and Specials
NoodleBird's beverage offerings include thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic choices such as the Smoked Umami Chicken Bone Broth, enriched with scallions for a warming sip, and the Savory Coconut Veggie Broth, perfect for plant-based diners craving depth of flavor. The bar serves refreshing cocktails that are praised for their balanced sweetness, alongside a selection of beer and wine to complement the menu's rich flavors. Their specials emphasize fresh, authentic ingredients that cater to both adventurous eaters and those seeking comforting Asian fusion dishes.
- Vegetarian-friendly options are abundant, with dishes like the Smoked Tofu Fried Rice and Hearty Veg Macaroni Soup providing hearty plant-based choices.
