Lunar New Year is a time for reunion, renewal, and celebration, and Urban Belly rises to the occasion with a thoughtfully crafted special menu. The five-course experience begins with three standout appetizers, followed by your choice of entrée, ending with a sweet, creamy finish, all designed to pair seamlessly with their suggested drinks: the Yvonna-Colada, a playful twist on the classic piña colada, or an ice-cold Kirin Ichiban Japanese lager. With 2026 ushering in the Year of the Horse—a symbol of bold energy and decisive action—the menu reflects that spirit beautifully, showcasing strong, vibrant, and spicy flavors that still manage to comfort, soothe, and warm the soul during the depths of this brutal winter.
The meal opens with a bento-style appetizer plate featuring Marinated Chinese Eggplant, Chicken Dumplings, and Korean Chicken Wings. The marinated eggplant is served cold, its tender bites fully infused with a fragrant Thai basil sauce that delivers a burst of flavor in every mouthful. The chicken dumplings, a Lunar New Year staple symbolizing wealth and prosperity, are filled with lemongrass chicken and paired with a soy ginger dipping sauce that feels light on the palate yet still satisfyingly filling. You will certainly feel rich devouring these tasty dumplings. Rounding out the trio are Korean chicken wings glazed in a spicy sesame gochujang sauce. These wings are juicy, meaty, and packed with just the right amount of heat. Together, these appetizers create a dynamic introduction to the meal, with flavors that shine individually while coming together in a cohesive, crave-worthy harmony.
The experience continues with the main course, where guests can choose from Urban Belly’s selection of ramen, udon, or fried rice, each customizable with proteins such as tofu, fried chicken, lemongrass chicken, or Korean beef bulgogi. The udon noodles stand out as pure comfort food—thick, chewy strands nestled in a deeply savory dressing with layers of ginger, garlic, and kimchi, creating a rich, satisfying depth that lingers long after that last bite. For those craving some heat, the Spicy Chicken Katsu Ramen is a must-have. Crispy chicken swimming in a hot, tangy broth that delivers the kind of slow-building warmth that cuts straight through this frigid Chicago February. Chef Bill clearly embraces spice, striking a confident balance that excites the palate without overwhelming it, making the dish approachable even for those with milder heat preferences.
The meal concludes on a high note with a deceptively simple yet elegant dessert: vanilla gelato drizzled with Vietnamese cinnamon caramel. Light, creamy, and silky smooth, the gelato offers a cooling contrast after the bold, spice-forward courses. The Vietnamese cinnamon caramel adds warmth and complexity, with subtle floral spice and deep sweetness that elevate the classic vanilla base. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a celebratory Lunar New Year feast.
Perhaps the most meaningful touch of the entire experience is the red envelope presented with the meal. Inside is a Japchae recipe from Chef Bill’s mother—a heartfelt nod to tradition—along with a surprise prize that may include complimentary dumplings or gelato, dining credits, or even the grand prize: a private party catered by Chef Bill himself. Lunar New Year is rooted in the importance of family, and whether yours is near or far, Chef Bill warmly invites diners to become part of the Urban Belly family through this special menu. It’s a deeply personal gesture that adds an extra layer of care and intention to an already memorable dining experience.
The five-course Lunar New Year prix fixe menu is available for both lunch and dinner from Monday, February 9, through Saturday, February 28, priced at $30 per person. Urban Belly is located in Wicker Park at 1542 N Damen Ave, and is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. Gather your family, whether by blood or by choice, and head to Urban Belly to celebrate the Lunar New Year together.
This coverage was made possible by a promotional invitation. Our opinions and editorial choices remain entirely our own.
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