Your Favorite Impersonators at Chef Shangri-La in North Riverside, IL

A beloved destination for tropical cocktails, delicious Cantonese and Polynesian dishes, and an entertainment lineup like no other, the Fong family has been serving up Chinese fusion creations in a quirky retro atmosphere at Chef Shangri-La in North Riverside for nearly 50 years.

Known for its rotating lineup of impersonators, Chef Shangri-La celebrates legends like Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and Freddie Mercury, bringing Vegas-style tribute performances just due west of Chicago.

Chef Shangri-La—affectionately known as “The Chef” by locals—has been a beloved family-owned gem in North Riverside since it opened in 1976. This unique dining experience blends classic tiki décor with Asian fusion flavors, but the Vegas-style entertainment lineup truly sets this local favorite apart.

Step inside, and you’re instantly transported to a tropical oasis featuring bamboo accents, Polynesian artifacts, and a tiki bar serving some of the most potent Mai Tais in the area. Every item on the extensive drink menu blends exotic fruits, premium spirits, and island-inspired flavors. Try the Shangri-La Mystery Bowl, Scorpion, or a delicious house creation called Dr. Fong. The recipe is a closely guarded family secret, but we can confirm that this delightful beverage is a rum-based drink bursting with flavors of citrus and peach.

It's no surprise that the menu of Fong family favorites at Chef Shangri-La is known for its wide variety and delicious selections, ranging from Cantonese dishes to sweet and savory Hawaiian creations. Start your meal with popular choices like creamy crab rangoon, dumplings, or pot stickers, and pair it with a family-style entrée that everyone at your table can enjoy. 

Try the Peruvian beef noodles if you're in the mood for something spicy. These fettuccini-like noodles are stir-fried with a mix of peppers and white onions in a slightly tangy, savory sauce. The seafood options are equally indulgent, like the Thai spicy shrimp, Hawaiian Bolo Opae, or the Tahitian mango passion shrimp, which is generously battered and coated in their famous house-made, mildly spicy-sweet mango sauce. Complete your entrée with egg rolls and fried rice as an added bonus.

Chef Shangri-La also offers classic American Chinese dishes, such as sesame chicken, orange chicken, and favorites like Mongolian beef, egg foo young, and chop suey. Don't eat meat? No problem! There are plenty of vegetarian options, including Mongolian tofu, which features crispy fried tofu, peapods, water chestnuts, mushrooms, and green scallions in a spicy, savory house-made sauce served on a bed of fried vermicelli noodles. 

Although the food is delicious and the tiki bar vibes are unmatched, Chef Shangri-La isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to be entertained in a way that has to be experienced to be believed. Every weekend, the dining room transforms into a throwback concert experience, featuring celebrity impersonators who bring legendary artists to life. Whether you're in the mood for rock ‘n’ roll, soulful ballads, or pop classics, Chef Shangri-La’s lineup of high-energy tribute performances delivers an unforgettable night out.

The entertainment roster rotates frequently, meaning no two visits are ever the same. Some of the incredible acts that have taken the stage include:

The Beatles Tribute Shows – A nostalgic journey through the Fab Four’s greatest hits, from their early mop-top days to their psychedelic Sgt. Pepper era.

Billy Joel & Elton John Tribute Nights – A powerhouse piano performance celebrating the timeless hits of two of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time.

Elvis Tribute Shows – A spot-on performance honoring the King of Rock 'n' Roll, from his early rockabilly days to his Vegas-era classics.

Frank Sinatra & Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Nights – A throwback to the golden era of Las Vegas, where guests can enjoy smooth, soulful renditions of "My Way" and other Rat Pack classics.

Jimmy Buffett Tribute Nights – A lively, tropical escape with island-inspired tunes that transport guests straight to Margaritaville.

Lionel Richie Tribute Shows – A soulful and energetic showcase featuring the smooth vocals and timeless love songs of this music legend.

Neil Diamond Tribute Performances – A heartfelt homage to one of music’s most iconic voices, with singalong favorites like "Sweet Caroline" and "America."

Rod Stewart Tribute Shows – A high-energy set filled with the raspy vocals and chart-topping hits of this rock and pop icon.

Taylor Swift Tribute Nights – A must-see for Swifties, this show celebrates the biggest anthems of Taylor’s career, from country roots to pop superstardom.

Tina Turner Tribute Performances – The Queen of Rock 'n' Roll comes to life with electrifying renditions of “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and more.

Whitney Houston Tribute Shows – A breathtaking vocal showcase honoring the one and only Whitney, featuring powerhouse hits like “I Will Always Love You.”

With such an incredible variety of entertainment, Chef Shangri-La gives guests a reason to come back again and again. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, Motown, pop legends, or island vibes, there’s always something exciting happening on stage. Grab a mai tai, sit back, and enjoy the show!

From Tiki Nights and themed events, like Hawaiian luaus, to happy hour specials and 50s & 60s Rock 'n' Roll tributes, there’s always something fun happening at Chef Shangri-La. Loyal customers have kept “The Chef” going for nearly 50 years.

Irv Abrams took over management of the restaurant from his in-laws, Susie and Paul Fong, who previously ran a Cantonese restaurant in Chinatown before opening their festive establishment in North Riverside. He loves making every guest 'feel like they are on vacation' and enjoys seeing longtime customers, some three generations deep, in the dining room at Chef Shangri-La. 

Whether you’re planning a date night, celebration, or a casual dinner with friends, the unforgettable blend of delicious tiki drinks, mouthwatering food, and unbeatable atmosphere, including live music that brings the past to life, makes Chef Shangri-La your go-to destination. Plan your visit soon and discover why locals have chosen Chef Shangri-La for generations.

Just 30 minutes from Chicago’s Loop via I-290 W, Chef Shangri-La at 7930 West 26th Street in North Riverside has been delighting guests with tiki drinks, an expansive menu of Chinese fusion creations, and live entertainment in a quirky retro atmosphere for nearly 50 years.

Live entertainment nights can get packed, so we recommend booking ahead for the best seats. Visit Chef Shangri-La online or follow them on social media for the latest show dates and lineup updates.