Best of 15 Japanese restaurants in Chicago
Japanese cuisine has gained immense popularity in Chicago, leading to a surge of Japanese restaurants throughout the city. From traditional sushi bars to modern izakayas, Chicago houses a diverse range of Japanese restaurants, each offering an authentic and unique dining experience. These establishments showcase the artistry of Japanese culinary techniques, serving up delicious dishes that delight food enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a date night or a lively atmosphere for a group gathering, Japanese restaurants in Chicago offer an array of options to satisfy every palate.
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- 1. Momotaro
- 2. Roka Akor - Chicago
- 3. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
- 4. Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill
- 5. Sushi-san
- 6. Niu Japanese Fusion Lounge
- 7. Arami
- 8. Cocoro Restaurant
- 9. TenGoku Aburiya
- 10. Umai
- 11. SUSHI DOKKU Japanese Restaurant ( see website for BOOZE BOX hours )
- 12. Ryo Sushi
- 13. Kamehachi
- 14. KAI ZAN
- 15. Midori Japanese Restaurant
1. Momotaro
Authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy and intimate setting
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The exploration of Japanese culinary styles is showcased across three floors, offering a variety of dining options centered around sushi, steak, and robata. The atmosphere is sophisticated and chic, embodying modern Japanese aesthetics. This establishment is ideal for those seeking a high-end dining experience.
Sushi is a particular favorite of many visitors, and this restaurant does not disappoint. The menu offers a wide selection of expertly prepared sushi dishes, making it impossible to make a poor choice. This venue stands out as a must-visit destination for sushi lovers and those looking to treat themselves to a memorable meal.
The exploration of Japanese culinary styles is showcased across three floors, offering a variety of dining options centered around sushi, steak, and robata. The atmosphere is sophisticated and chic, embodying modern Japanese aesthetics. This establishment is ideal for those seeking a high-end dining experience.
Sushi is a particular favorite of many visitors, and this restaurant does not disappoint. The menu offers a wide selection of expertly prepared sushi dishes, making it impossible to make a poor choice. This venue stands out as a must-visit destination for sushi lovers and those looking to treat themselves to a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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2. Roka Akor - Chicago
ABIMIKE (sushi chefs) directly from Japan, charcoal-grilled robata dishes
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The cost of the experience is a bit steep when considering the quality, but the overall elevated nature of the event makes it worthwhile. The sushi and sashimi options are enjoyable and offer a unique experience, but it is worth noting that many people tend to prefer the cooked items on the menu over the raw ones.
The sushi and sashimi courses are a highlight of the menu, providing a fresh and enjoyable dining experience. However, the cooked items have proven to be a popular choice among customers, with many opting for them over the raw options available. This suggests that while the raw dishes are enjoyed, the cooked items may be more broadly appealing to a wider range of palates.
The cost of the experience is a bit steep when considering the quality, but the overall elevated nature of the event makes it worthwhile. The sushi and sashimi options are enjoyable and offer a unique experience, but it is worth noting that many people tend to prefer the cooked items on the menu over the raw ones.
The sushi and sashimi courses are a highlight of the menu, providing a fresh and enjoyable dining experience. However, the cooked items have proven to be a popular choice among customers, with many opting for them over the raw options available. This suggests that while the raw dishes are enjoyed, the cooked items may be more broadly appealing to a wider range of palates.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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3. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Interactive cooking experience, Wide variety of Japanese sake
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The service at this establishment is a mixed bag. Some customers have described it as friendly and attentive, while others have reported slow service or poor customer service. Despite this, the food has received consistently positive reviews.
The Japanese/Korean BBQ is a standout, with customers raving about the tender and flavorful meat. The menu offers a variety of options, including a salad, rice, an appetizer, two BBQ items, and a S'more for dessert. Customers have enjoyed their meals at this establishment.
The service at this establishment is a mixed bag. Some customers have described it as friendly and attentive, while others have reported slow service or poor customer service. Despite this, the food has received consistently positive reviews.
The Japanese/Korean BBQ is a standout, with customers raving about the tender and flavorful meat. The menu offers a variety of options, including a salad, rice, an appetizer, two BBQ items, and a S'more for dessert. Customers have enjoyed their meals at this establishment.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
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4. Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill
Intimate Japanese dining experience with exceptional cocktails
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This sushi restaurant is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, serving fresh and delicious food with a creative twist. The restaurant's artistic flair is evident in the beautiful presentation of its dishes, making the dining experience not just enjoyable but also visually stunning.
While most patrons rave about the friendly, attentive, and fast service, some have reported subpar service or a lack of attention from the staff. Overall, the restaurant's service is generally positive and does not seem to detract from the overall positive experience of dining there.
This sushi restaurant is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, serving fresh and delicious food with a creative twist. The restaurant's artistic flair is evident in the beautiful presentation of its dishes, making the dining experience not just enjoyable but also visually stunning.
While most patrons rave about the friendly, attentive, and fast service, some have reported subpar service or a lack of attention from the staff. Overall, the restaurant's service is generally positive and does not seem to detract from the overall positive experience of dining there.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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5. Sushi-san
Authentic Japanese restaurant in the heart of Chicago with a wide variety of sushi and sashimi options, as well as hot dishes
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Customers have raved about the exceptional service at this establishment, describing it as kind, quick, and friendly. The overall experience has been evaluated positively, with the service being highlighted as a major strength.
The food at this establishment is generally regarded as delicious, with customers praising dishes such as the beef lettuce wraps, vegetable sushi box, crunchy avocado roll, and prime skirt steak. However, a few reviewers have criticized the portions as being stingy or the prices as being too high. Despite these occasional complaints, the majority of customers have enjoyed the food and the dining experience as a whole.
Customers have raved about the exceptional service at this establishment, describing it as kind, quick, and friendly. The overall experience has been evaluated positively, with the service being highlighted as a major strength.
The food at this establishment is generally regarded as delicious, with customers praising dishes such as the beef lettuce wraps, vegetable sushi box, crunchy avocado roll, and prime skirt steak. However, a few reviewers have criticized the portions as being stingy or the prices as being too high. Despite these occasional complaints, the majority of customers have enjoyed the food and the dining experience as a whole.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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6. Niu Japanese Fusion Lounge
Intimate ambience with live jazz music, extensive sake list
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Niu is an unsung gem that offers a wonderful outdoor seating space, ideal for enjoying cool summer days. The menu boasts an impressive variety of dishes, from top-notch sushi to comforting Ramens and Kung Pao. Their pepper salmon dish was surprisingly delicious, and their cocktails also received high praise.
The atmosphere at Niu is laid-back, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. The staff are attentive, ensuring that guests are well taken care of. Whether you're in the mood for Asian cuisine or just looking for a great place to unwind, Niu has got you covered with its diverse menu offerings and inviting ambiance.
Niu is an unsung gem that offers a wonderful outdoor seating space, ideal for enjoying cool summer days. The menu boasts an impressive variety of dishes, from top-notch sushi to comforting Ramens and Kung Pao. Their pepper salmon dish was surprisingly delicious, and their cocktails also received high praise.
The atmosphere at Niu is laid-back, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. The staff are attentive, ensuring that guests are well taken care of. Whether you're in the mood for Asian cuisine or just looking for a great place to unwind, Niu has got you covered with its diverse menu offerings and inviting ambiance.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
7. Arami
Authentic Japanese cuisine in a modern, upscale setting
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Arami is a highly-rated Japanese sushi bar that offers an urban, chic dining experience. The restaurant features a signature counter and soaring skylights, creating an inviting atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a variety of sushi, small plates, and Japanese-inspired cocktails. Arami has earned a 4.3-star rating based on 308 reviews, making it a popular destination for those seeking authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine.
Arami's menu boasts an impressive array of sushi offerings, from classic rolls to creative and contemporary options. The restaurant also offers vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences. Guests can complement their meal with a selection of specialty cocktails, crafted with Japanese spirits and ingredients. Overall, Arami provides a unique and elevated dining experience, merging tradition with innovation and setting the bar for modern Japanese cuisine.
Arami is a highly-rated Japanese sushi bar that offers an urban, chic dining experience. The restaurant features a signature counter and soaring skylights, creating an inviting atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a variety of sushi, small plates, and Japanese-inspired cocktails. Arami has earned a 4.3-star rating based on 308 reviews, making it a popular destination for those seeking authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine.
Arami's menu boasts an impressive array of sushi offerings, from classic rolls to creative and contemporary options. The restaurant also offers vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences. Guests can complement their meal with a selection of specialty cocktails, crafted with Japanese spirits and ingredients. Overall, Arami provides a unique and elevated dining experience, merging tradition with innovation and setting the bar for modern Japanese cuisine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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8. Cocoro Restaurant
Intimate dining experience, personalized menus, fresh seafood flown in from Japan
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Japanese cuisine is renowned for its authenticity and variety. The Japanese restaurants in my city, known for its multiculturalism, don't compare to the array of options available at Cocoro. On a recent visit to Cocoro, I had the opportunity to try sushi for the first time. Following the recommendation of my friends, we ordered the sashimi plate and a dragon roll to share.
Sashimi is a traditional Japanese dish that features thinly sliced raw fish. At Cocoro, the sashimi plate consisted of several types of fresh fish, each with its own unique flavor and texture. The dragon roll, on the other hand, is a type of sushi roll that is wrapped in thin slices of avocado and topped with eel. Both the sashimi and dragon roll were expertly prepared, with the flavors and textures of each ingredient complementing each other perfectly. I was impressed by the level of skill and attention to detail that went into creating these dishes. The meal was a culinary adventure, and I cannot wait to return to Cocoro to try more of their delicious offerings.
Japanese cuisine is renowned for its authenticity and variety. The Japanese restaurants in my city, known for its multiculturalism, don't compare to the array of options available at Cocoro. On a recent visit to Cocoro, I had the opportunity to try sushi for the first time. Following the recommendation of my friends, we ordered the sashimi plate and a dragon roll to share.
Sashimi is a traditional Japanese dish that features thinly sliced raw fish. At Cocoro, the sashimi plate consisted of several types of fresh fish, each with its own unique flavor and texture. The dragon roll, on the other hand, is a type of sushi roll that is wrapped in thin slices of avocado and topped with eel. Both the sashimi and dragon roll were expertly prepared, with the flavors and textures of each ingredient complementing each other perfectly. I was impressed by the level of skill and attention to detail that went into creating these dishes. The meal was a culinary adventure, and I cannot wait to return to Cocoro to try more of their delicious offerings.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
9. TenGoku Aburiya
Cooking over an open flame, fresh seafood flown in from Japan, and cozy atmosphere
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The restaurant offers a range of Japanese dishes at reasonable prices, including nigiri, sashimi, and maki. In addition, they have a good selection of kushiyaki, or grilled skewers, to complement your meal. The dining area is softly lit and can get busy, but the relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for a date night or a solo meal at the sushi bar.
The restaurant has a lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent place to spend a weekday or weekend night with friends and family. Each dish is bursting with flavor, but the Maze Soba and the skewers are must-tries. In particular, the beef tongue and any pork skewer options are highly recommended.
The restaurant offers a range of Japanese dishes at reasonable prices, including nigiri, sashimi, and maki. In addition, they have a good selection of kushiyaki, or grilled skewers, to complement your meal. The dining area is softly lit and can get busy, but the relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for a date night or a solo meal at the sushi bar.
The restaurant has a lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent place to spend a weekday or weekend night with friends and family. Each dish is bursting with flavor, but the Maze Soba and the skewers are must-tries. In particular, the beef tongue and any pork skewer options are highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Dinner
- Lunch
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10. Umai
Authentic Japanese cuisine, expertly trained chefs, beautiful plating
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I have enjoyed dining at Umai Japanese restaurant on two occasions, with fresh fish and generous portion sizes at reasonable prices. The restaurant, which is located in the South Loop, offers an authentic Japanese experience with its decor and menu. One recommended dish is the nama sake don, which features thick cuts of fresh salmon served on a bed of ginger, wasabi, pineapples, and sushi rice.
Umai is a charming Japanese eatery in the South Loop, known for its fresh fish and reasonable prices. The nama sake don is a standout dish, with fresh salmon served over ginger, two scoops of wasabi, pineapples, and sushi rice. The fish is always fresh, and the portion size is generous, making it a great value for the price. The atmosphere is cozy and authentic, providing an enjoyable dining experience.
I have enjoyed dining at Umai Japanese restaurant on two occasions, with fresh fish and generous portion sizes at reasonable prices. The restaurant, which is located in the South Loop, offers an authentic Japanese experience with its decor and menu. One recommended dish is the nama sake don, which features thick cuts of fresh salmon served on a bed of ginger, wasabi, pineapples, and sushi rice.
Umai is a charming Japanese eatery in the South Loop, known for its fresh fish and reasonable prices. The nama sake don is a standout dish, with fresh salmon served over ginger, two scoops of wasabi, pineapples, and sushi rice. The fish is always fresh, and the portion size is generous, making it a great value for the price. The atmosphere is cozy and authentic, providing an enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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11. SUSHI DOKKU Japanese Restaurant ( see website for BOOZE BOX hours )
Rotating menu featuring fresh seafood flown in from Japan, Offers a popular Booze Box experience
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Sushi Dokku is known for its high-quality food and drinks, making it an excellent choice for various occasions, such as a girls' night out or a romantic date night. The restaurant offers a unique and super chill vibe in their booze box lounge area, with dim lighting and ambient music, providing an intimate atmosphere for patrons.
The menu at Sushi Dokku features a variety of sashimi, nigiri, and specialty rolls, including unique combinations like hamachi nigiri with grapefruit and black lava sea salt. While their raw offerings are impressive, the cooked items on the menu are equally noteworthy and should not be overlooked. The restaurant aims to cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that all guests leave satisfied and fulfilled.
Sushi Dokku is known for its high-quality food and drinks, making it an excellent choice for various occasions, such as a girls' night out or a romantic date night. The restaurant offers a unique and super chill vibe in their booze box lounge area, with dim lighting and ambient music, providing an intimate atmosphere for patrons.
The menu at Sushi Dokku features a variety of sashimi, nigiri, and specialty rolls, including unique combinations like hamachi nigiri with grapefruit and black lava sea salt. While their raw offerings are impressive, the cooked items on the menu are equally noteworthy and should not be overlooked. The restaurant aims to cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that all guests leave satisfied and fulfilled.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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12. Ryo Sushi
Live fish tank, traditional Japanese seating
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Ryo is a restaurant that offers an impressive sashimi and sushi selection. The white tuna sashimi is a must-try, with its creamy and succulent texture that practically melts in your mouth. However, the udon falls short in comparison to the outstanding sashimi and sushi options. Despite the ordinary udon, Ryo is still worth visiting, especially if you are in the area and craving high-quality sashimi and sushi.
In summary, Ryo serves excellent sashimi and sushi, with the white tuna sashimi being a standout dish. Although the udon is unremarkable, the restaurant's strengths lie in its sashimi and sushi offerings. Therefore, it is recommended to visit Ryo for its quality sashimi and sushi, even if you are not particularly interested in udon.
Ryo is a restaurant that offers an impressive sashimi and sushi selection. The white tuna sashimi is a must-try, with its creamy and succulent texture that practically melts in your mouth. However, the udon falls short in comparison to the outstanding sashimi and sushi options. Despite the ordinary udon, Ryo is still worth visiting, especially if you are in the area and craving high-quality sashimi and sushi.
In summary, Ryo serves excellent sashimi and sushi, with the white tuna sashimi being a standout dish. Although the udon is unremarkable, the restaurant's strengths lie in its sashimi and sushi offerings. Therefore, it is recommended to visit Ryo for its quality sashimi and sushi, even if you are not particularly interested in udon.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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13. Kamehachi
Featuring a variety of traditional Japanese sake and a beautiful outdoor seating area
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Users reported varying wait times for drink orders, with some receiving them promptly and others having to wait. The quality of the drinks was a mixed bag, with some users expressing dissatisfaction about the high prices, while others enjoyed the selection of sake drinks and flights.
In terms of the drink experience, users had differing opinions. Some were disappointed with the prices, finding them too high, while others were pleased with the variety of drinks, especially the sake flights. However, there were inconsistencies in the time it took for users to receive their orders, with some having to wait longer than others. These differing experiences suggest potential issues with service efficiency and consistency.
Users reported varying wait times for drink orders, with some receiving them promptly and others having to wait. The quality of the drinks was a mixed bag, with some users expressing dissatisfaction about the high prices, while others enjoyed the selection of sake drinks and flights.
In terms of the drink experience, users had differing opinions. Some were disappointed with the prices, finding them too high, while others were pleased with the variety of drinks, especially the sake flights. However, there were inconsistencies in the time it took for users to receive their orders, with some having to wait longer than others. These differing experiences suggest potential issues with service efficiency and consistency.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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14. KAI ZAN
Michelin-starred restaurant, James Beard Award-winning chefs
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I have had the pleasure of dining in some wonderful restaurants, but one in particular stands out: a restaurant where my dining partner and I indulged in a 10-course Omakase meal. At $75 per person, I consider this not only an outstanding value but also an unforgettable experience.
During our meal, we savored fresh sushi with unique flavors and artistic presentations. Sushi lovers will be exceptionally satisfied with the quality and variety of offerings. The dishes were skillfully crafted, leaving us delighted with each bite. The restaurant's attention to detail and commitment to showcasing the best in sushi-making made this one of our most treasured culinary experiences.
I have had the pleasure of dining in some wonderful restaurants, but one in particular stands out: a restaurant where my dining partner and I indulged in a 10-course Omakase meal. At $75 per person, I consider this not only an outstanding value but also an unforgettable experience.
During our meal, we savored fresh sushi with unique flavors and artistic presentations. Sushi lovers will be exceptionally satisfied with the quality and variety of offerings. The dishes were skillfully crafted, leaving us delighted with each bite. The restaurant's attention to detail and commitment to showcasing the best in sushi-making made this one of our most treasured culinary experiences.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
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15. Midori Japanese Restaurant
Traditional tea ceremony, vegetarian and vegan options available
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This place is well-known for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Two dishes that stand out are the Teriyaki Chicken and Combination C. Both are highly recommended for their unique flavors and generous portions.
The service at this establishment is excellent, with a friendly and attentive staff. The food is delicious, ranging from appetizers to main courses. One standout item is the Dynamite Shrimp appetizer, which is fantastic and full of flavor. Additionally, the ambiance is wonderful, making it a great spot for both casual and special occasions.
This place is well-known for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Two dishes that stand out are the Teriyaki Chicken and Combination C. Both are highly recommended for their unique flavors and generous portions.
The service at this establishment is excellent, with a friendly and attentive staff. The food is delicious, ranging from appetizers to main courses. One standout item is the Dynamite Shrimp appetizer, which is fantastic and full of flavor. Additionally, the ambiance is wonderful, making it a great spot for both casual and special occasions.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
Relate link
