Serai - Chicago

It was our first time dining out back on the patio — loved that and had terrific food and service.

TL;DR: Wrong order, poor service, long wait time, hidden 20% surcharge We used to love Serai and dined here frequently, and I usually do not post negative reviews. While the food was still delicious, our last experience at Serai was quite disappointing. 1) It took them 45 minutes after we placed our order to receive our food. Other tables that were seated after us received their food much more quickly. 2) Ordering food was a hassle. We ordered the sambal eggplant (one of our old favorites) and rendang shrimp. We received a shrimp dish which we thought was our rendang shrimp and after confirming with the server that it was rendang shrimp. But after eating it, we realized it was sambal shrimp. We sent it back with half a plate full so we could receive our sambal eggplant and the server said he would “fix it right away”. The eggplant never came, and we were charged for it. When we tried to get the charge removed, the server replied “well you ate it”. 3) Without telling you on their menu or website, they tack on a 20% service surcharge when you get your bill. With the long wait time, wrong food, getting charged for a dish we didn’t eat, and the 20% automatic surcharge, our favorite Malaysian restaurant sadly has now become a place we will not visit again.

Serai was closed for patio/outdoor dining. Disappointing given that we were not notified by OT/restaurant. A day earlier, I received a text to confirm my reservation. We opted for take out Crab Rangoon, Spicy Wonton, Tom Yum Soup, Roti Paratha, Shrimp Sambhal Nasi Goreng. It’s a hit or miss.

Serai was delicious! We were all happy with our dishes. I enjoyed the casual atmosphere and it definitely felt like a step up from your go to delivery spots. Service was timely but pretty casual, which is not a bad thing as long as you're not looking for an upscale spot. I would recommend for sure!

Friend gathering. They accommodated all 8 of us and helped us get enough food family style!