Jook Sing: A Celebration of Culinary Fusion in Noble Square

All photos via Jook Sing

In the heart of Noble Square, Jook Sing {1329 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago; 312.624.8029} has become a local gathering place for the neighborhood, offering a taste of Asia's vibrant street food culture in a way that welcomes diners of all palettes.

In its first year open in Chicago, this local restaurant has shown a deep dedication to bringing authentic, time-honored recipes straight from the street markets of Asia and onto your plate. And they’re just getting started! From the moment you walk through their doors, you’ll be embraced by the vibrant energy of Asian night market culture and smell the unique spices of their menu of shareable street food. From favorites you might recognize like Popcorn Chicken and Dan Dan Noodles to singular chef creations like Curry Fries and the Jook Sing Num Pang (braised Pork, pickled vegetables, cucumbers, yuzu aioli, cilantro, scallions & mint), their menu is meant to be shared by food-lovers gathered around a table in community and fun.

We spoke to Managing Partner and General Manager Josue Mancero to learn more about how Jook Sing has already become that gathering place in its inaugural year in Chicago…

DI4W: How did the concept of Jook Sing first come about?  

Mancero: The term "Jook Sing" itself refers to individuals of Asian descent who were born in Western countries, and it carries a sense of endearment and celebration of cultural fusion. In this context, Jook Sing the restaurant represents an immersive dining experience that blends the best Asian flavors with a Western touch. Whether you're looking for a quick meal, a refreshing cocktail, or a late-night indulgence, our team welcomes guests for any occasion!

How did you bring the atmosphere of an Asian street market into a Midwest city like Chicago? 

Guests can expect fresh ingredients and vibrant colors that perfectly complement the restaurant's atmosphere. From tropical drinks to mocktails, Thai Tea, Vietnamese Coffee, sake, and wine by the glass, the drink and food menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a vibrant and tropical libation or a flavorful noodle dish, our team strives to deliver an approachable and fun experience. Just like in any market, our menu changes frequently and based on availability - Some of our dishes will stay for a whole season and some will only be available for a week or two. This is the same with our cocktails.

You've been open for a year now - How has your space and team evolved since your first day?

Over the past year, we have gone on a journey with our culinary offerings, expanding our focus beyond traditional Asian market food. In an exciting new direction, we are proud to introduce a diverse menu inspired by Asian street food from around the world. We celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian culture, paying homage to regions where Asian culinary traditions flourish, including Peru, Ecuador, the Pacific Islands, and even the US.
Our innovative approach not only highlights the vibrant street food scenes in these areas, but also showcases the unique ways Asian culture has influenced local cuisines. 

This recent transition reflects our commitment to bringing a broader range of flavors and experiences to our customers. Each dish we make is crafted to honor the authentic tastes of these regions while incorporating the beloved elements of Asian street food.

You are certainly a neighborhood spot! How have you been welcomed by Noble Square?  

Being part of the neighborhood is of utmost importance to us. Building a strong sense of community is what drives our growth! We are fortunate to have received a warm welcome from the neighborhood in such a short time. This has allowed us to cultivate a loyal clientele that actively supports and engages with our mission.
We are committed to collaborating with other small vendors, restaurants, and businesses to foster mutual growth. The West Town and Noble Square communities have shown tremendous enthusiasm for this collaborative spirit, and we are excited to continue strengthening these relationships!

What have been some of the most memorable nights at Jook Sing in your inaugural year?

We have been fortunate to experience some incredible summer nights, and one of the most memorable was hosting Michael Aredes, the current bartender from Super Bueno NY, for our event "Noche Traviesa." This event celebrated queer Latino bartenders from Chicago and featured a vibrant drag show. The atmosphere was truly magical, with everyone in the industry coming together to create an unforgettable evening! The energy and camaraderie were exceptional, making it a night to remember!

What are some stand out menu items any first-time visitor can't miss? 

The crispy pork and popcorn chicken have become beloved staples on our menu and are likely to remain permanent fixtures. Our guests consistently rave about these dishes, making them essential to our culinary offerings.

You also have a great bar area! How does the beverage program support the food menu?  

Jorge, our bar manager, brings over 15 years of experience in the industry, having worked at some of the finest cocktail bars from New York to Chicago. He curates innovative and exciting concoctions that keep our menu fresh and distinctive. We focus on using unique, high-quality ingredients and maintain a seasonal approach to our offerings. The drinks are crafted to be simple yet elegant and enjoyable, ensuring a memorable experience for our guests.

You offer Happy Hour specials and industry nights. Why were those important to have on the menu?  

As a neighborhood bar, we prioritize being affordable, approachable, and inclusive for everyone! We strive to create a welcoming atmosphere without being polarizing. Our happy hours and special promotions allow us to offer a memorable experience without breaking the bank. We want everyone to feel at home with us!

What else should we know about Jook Sing? 

We have many exciting developments on the horizon! Be sure to follow us on social media for updates :) We’re planning to introduce world-class bar collaborations, partnerships with renowned chefs, an expanded lineup of DJs, and additional special happy hours. Stay tuned for all the amazing experiences we have in store and come visit us soon!

Interview by Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor