Address: 2852 N Clark
Neighborhood: Lake View
Cuisine: Thai
Website: https://www.tuktukthai-isan.com/
Our take: Bright floral tablecloths, a loud little room, and food that comes with a dare: charcoal-grilled meats, crispy fish and papaya salad that bites back. Order the heat you can handle, then ask yourself if you meant it.
Wine Pairing: Isan food brings serious heat, so go for off-dry and cold: Riesling, Gewürztraminer or a sparkling rosé. A bright Vinho Verde works if you want something lighter on its feet.
Beer Pairing: A crisp Thai-style lager, a Pilsner or a Witbier is the safest move. Whatever you bring, bring it very cold.
Spirits Pairing: A gin and soda with lime and a slice of cucumber, or a rum highball with ginger beer, keeps pace with the chilies without fighting the herbs.