Chicago may be best known for deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, but the city also boasts a thriving Japanese restaurant scene. From traditional sushi bars to modern izakayas, there’s no shortage of delicious Japanese cuisine to be found. In this blog article, we’ll highlight some of the best Japanese restaurants in Chicago, each with their own unique specialties and flavors. Whether you’re a sushi lover or looking to try something new, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Earn up to 5% cashback on Restaurants!
Explore Best Credit Cards for Restaurants

Roka Akor – Chicago

Address: 456 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654-4517
Phone: +1 (312) 477-7652

Roka Akor – Chicago is a fine dining Japanese restaurant in the River North neighborhood of Chicago, known for its exceptional food, attentive staff, and trendy atmosphere. The restaurant offers a unique fusion of Asian-inspired cuisine with a focus on grilled meats and seafood. The menu includes a wide range of dishes, from sushi and sashimi to grilled lamb and wagyu filet, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and presented beautifully on the plate.

The restaurant’s ambiance is described as casual but smart, with a hip and happening vibe that adds to the overall dining experience. The staff are highly attentive, providing top-notch service that is friendly and accommodating. The Hospitality Manager, Elizabeth, and General Manager, Billy Pyroulis, are both highly praised for going above and beyond to ensure guests are comfortable and satisfied with their dining experience.

Guests of Roka Akor – Chicago highly recommend the restaurant for special occasions and group gatherings. The Chef’s signature menu and Omakase menu are both popular choices, providing guests with an array of delicious dishes to try. The food is described as bold, explicit, and packed with strong yet not overwhelming flavors. The portions are generous, and the quality of the food exceeds expectations. Overall, Roka Akor – Chicago is a must-visit destination for those looking for an unforgettable Japanese dining experience in Chicago.

RAMEN-SAN

Address: 59 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654-4603
Phone: +1 (312) 377-9950

Ramen-San is a popular Japanese restaurant located in the River North neighborhood of Chicago. The restaurant is known for its exceptional ramen dishes, flavorful broth, and beautiful presentation. Guests have raved about the delicious food, large portions, and reasonable prices. The menu also offers a variety of options for those with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free noodles and options for those with allergies.

The atmosphere at Ramen-San is described as urban and energetic, with open seating and fun music. The staff are highly praised for their helpfulness and patience in navigating dietary restrictions and making recommendations. The service is quick and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or late-night bite.

Get $25 off a bill of $50

Join inKind, dine at a participating venue
and pay your bill with inKind

Get $25 off

Overall, Ramen-San is a must-visit destination for anyone in Chicago looking for a delicious ramen experience. From the flavorful broth to the large portions and friendly staff, it’s clear that this restaurant has won over the hearts of many. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or by yourself, Ramen-San is a great choice for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Hot Woks Cool Sushi

Address: 30 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603-3211
Phone: +1 (312) 345-1234

Hot Woks Cool Sushi is a popular Japanese restaurant located in Chicago’s bustling Millennium Park area. The restaurant offers a wide range of Asian cuisine, including sushi, Japanese, Chinese, and Thai dishes. Guests have consistently praised the outstanding sushi, fresh ingredients, and amazing prices. The restaurant is also known for its quick service and friendly, attentive staff.

The atmosphere at Hot Woks Cool Sushi is described as “Asian vibe” and “adorable decor.” The restaurant is a great spot for people watching and has a fun, lively energy. Many guests enjoy dining in, but the restaurant also offers take-out and delivery options for those on-the-go. The menu features a variety of options, including bento boxes, specialty rolls, and traditional Japanese dishes.

Overall, Hot Woks Cool Sushi is a must-visit destination for anyone in Chicago looking for delicious and affordable Asian cuisine. From the fresh ingredients to the outstanding sushi and quick service, this restaurant has won over the hearts of many. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, Japanese, Chinese, or Thai food, Hot Woks Cool Sushi is definitely worth a visit.

Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar

Address: 230 W Erie St, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: +1 (312) 662-4888

Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar is a top-rated Japanese restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant is known for its outstanding sushi and imaginative, high-quality dishes. The menu features a wide variety of options, including black rice sushi, mushroom ramen, and beef short rib skewers. Guests have praised the freshness of the ingredients and the flavor of the dishes.

The atmosphere at Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar is described as “great ambiance,” with music and art adding to the experience. The restaurant offers a bustling and lively environment, perfect for a night out with friends or a special occasion. Guests can sit in front of the grill and watch their food being cooked right in front of them or sit at the sushi bar and marvel at the art form of sushi making.

The service at Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar is exceptional, with attentive and friendly staff. The restaurant also offers daily happy hour specials with half-price drinks and select appetizers, making it a great spot for after-work drinks or a quick bite. Overall, Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone in Chicago looking for outstanding sushi and imaginative Asian cuisine.

Rebar

Address: 401 N Wabash Ave Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, Mezzanine Level, Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: +1 (312) 588-8034

Rebar is one of downtown’s most luxurious bars located on the Mezzanine level of Trump International Hotel and Tower, with a view featuring unparalleled vistas of the Chicago River and the city’s famed Michigan Avenue Bridge. The restaurant offers an ever-evolving menu of Neo Japanese fare created by chef Kaz, known for perfecting the art of making sushi. Guests have praised the attentive and friendly staff, with one reviewer specifically mentioning the exceptional service from their waitress during a busy Saturday night.

The restaurant’s menu features vibrant Asian-inspired cuisine, accompanied by delectable wine, spirits, and whiskey offerings. Guests have raved about the quality of the food, with standout dishes including Truffle Tuna, Rebar sushi roll, and old fashioned drinks.

Rebar’s ambiance has been described as great, with a chic and dynamic environment that engages friends within a setting with the most stunning views. The restaurant offers live DJ entertainment, custom cocktails, and bottle service on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 pm to 1 am. One reviewer mentioned that they felt the restaurant was a bit too touristy for their liking, but overall, guests have praised the restaurant’s beautiful bar, reasonable prices, and attentive service.

Yoshi’s Cafe

Address: 3257 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657-3419
Phone: +1 (773) 248-6160

Yoshi’s Cafe is a French-Japanese fusion restaurant located in Chicago that offers a creative and innovative menu. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere that has been praised by multiple reviewers, with locals dining there frequently alongside first-time visitors. The staff has been commended for their attentive and friendly service, with the owner or hostess making solo diners feel welcome.

The menu at Yoshi’s Cafe features a variety of unique and delicious dishes that have been highly recommended by guests. Standout dishes include the flash-fried whole branzino, Green Bean Tempura, Onion Rings, Toast Points and Hummus, Ribs with sweet potatoes and corn, Chicken Breast with grilled vegetables, and the Skate Wing. Desserts have also been praised, with one reviewer mentioning a four-ingredient orange cake that melted in their mouth.

The restaurant offers a laid-back and unpretentious setting that makes diners feel at home, with white tablecloths on the tables and ample seating at the bar. The by-the-glass wine and sake selections have been noted as uninspiring, but the cocktails have been praised. Overall, Yoshi’s Cafe has been described as a little gem and a must-try for visitors to Chicago who want to experience a unique and delicious fusion of French and Japanese cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

Sushi Dokku

Address: 823 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607-2310
Phone: +1 (312) 455-8238

Sushi Dokku is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago that offers a unique and innovative menu. The atmosphere has been described as warm and cozy, with dark woods and a nice bar downstairs. The staff has been commended for their excellent service and hospitality, with one reviewer mentioning that the owner or manager went out of his way to help them find valet parking.

The menu at Sushi Dokku features traditional-style nigiri and rolls with creative and unique sauces. The food has been highly recommended by multiple reviewers, with standout dishes including the spicy maki, Umeboshi chicken, dragon roll, and crispy maguro. The sushi has been described as expertly prepared and delicious, with just enough ingredients to make it unique without being overwhelming. The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, including sake, Japanese whisky, and craft cocktails.

The restaurant has a fun and lively environment, making it a great spot for a girls’ night out, date night, or project kick-off dinner. The underground bar, called the Booze Box, has been praised for its unique atmosphere and excellent drink options. The restaurant also offers options for those who are not big fans of Japanese cuisine, with a variety of choices on the menu. Overall, Sushi Dokku has been described as a must-visit for those who want to experience innovative and delicious Japanese cuisine in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Ramen Wasabi

Address: 2101 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647-4014
Phone: +1 (773) 227-8180

Ramen Wasabi is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago that offers a deeply satisfying array of dishes, including hearty bowls of ramen, snacks, and appetizers. The restaurant has been highly praised for its rich and flavorful broths, homemade noodles, and intensely flavored starters such as pork belly bao and charred Brussels sprouts. The wine list is nothing special, but there is a good selection of sakes and local beers that match well with the food. The staff has been commended for their warm, informal, and professional service, with reviewers noting that they are very helpful with explaining the menu and providing suggestions.

The atmosphere at Ramen Wasabi is warm and cozy, with a minimalist decor that is in harmony with the menu and food. The restaurant has a comfortable and rather small space on Milwaukee Avenue that provides a friendly and welcoming environment for its customers. The service has been described as attentive and helpful, and the staff has been praised for being accommodating when customers want to order additional dishes.

The menu at Ramen Wasabi offers a wide range of ramens, from mild to spicy, with a few kinds of broth. The food has been described as sensational, with deep and rich flavors that are like nothing experienced at other ramen restaurants. The portions are small but priced correctly, and the quality of the food is excellent. The restaurant has been recommended for its Fire Bean Sprouts and Kimchi as a side dish while enjoying the soup. Overall, Ramen Wasabi has been described as a must-visit for those who want to experience deeply satisfying and flavorful Japanese cuisine in a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Kai Zan

Address: 2557 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622-4516
Phone: +1 (773) 278-5776

Kai Zan is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago that has been highly praised for its outstanding food and service. The restaurant offers a 10-course Omakase menu that is one of the best experiences customers have had, with deep and rich flavors that are value for money. The staff has been described as warm, friendly, informative, and patient, with Daniel being a standout server who makes the dining experience all the more enjoyable. The restaurant is highly recommended for sushi aficionados and those who enjoy Japanese food.

The atmosphere at Kai Zan is a haven of culinary luxury that transports customers to a restaurant that feels far away from the West Town neighborhood. The restaurant is small and fills up very quickly, so reservations are highly recommended. The service staff is brilliant and the sushi is possibly the best customers will ever have. The tables do not have soy sauce immediately available, but customers have been blown away by the delicious flavor combinations and beautiful presentations that make soy sauce completely unnecessary. The restaurant is highly recommended for those who want to experience an amazing dining experience.

The menu at Kai Zan is versatile and reasonably priced for the flavors and freshness customers receive. The chef’s tasting menu has been highly recommended and is everything customers will want and more, with the brothers who are the co-chefs being masters of sushi. The dishes are well-paced, and customers have enjoyed the cold-smoked hamachi, lobster, and wagyu courses, with the uni and toro being superb. The restaurant has been highly recommended for its excellent sushi, outstanding value, and perfection. In summary, Kai Zan is one of the best sushi restaurants in all of Chicago, and customers will not be disappointed with the food and service they receive.

SUSHI-SAN

Address: 63 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654-4801
Phone: +1 (312) 828-0575

Sushi-San is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago that has been highly praised for its outstanding food, service, and atmosphere. The restaurant offers a wonderful menu with the freshest seafood available, and the staff is knowledgeable and very helpful in putting together a fine sampling. The sushi and sashimi are of excellent quality, with a variety of tuna and salmon and premium cuts that are not typical of the usual tuna and California roll. The Aburi and Robata Beef are not to be missed either.

The atmosphere at Sushi-San is top-notch, with both indoor and outdoor dining available. The interior is tastefully designed with perfect lighting and a great setting. The staff is very welcoming to international guests and provides excellent customer service. The wait staff is attentive and takes time to explain the menu, making excellent suggestions that enhance the dining experience. The restaurant is highly recommended and has a very popular reputation.

The menu at Sushi-San is wonderful, with everything being delicious and scrumptious. The Chef is very skilled in proper slicing and preparation that highlights the quality of the seafood and does it honor. The appetizers are also amazing, and the Japanese cold beers are good. The restaurant is also very accommodating to those who do not eat sushi or fish but love the Beef and Bop and the chicken nuggets. During the pandemic, the restaurant asks guests to wear a mask when talking to the personnel, making guests feel safe when eating indoors. In summary, Sushi-San is a highly recommended restaurant that delivers delicious food, excellent customer service, and a wonderful atmosphere.

Tao Chicago

Address: 632 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654-3829
Phone: +1 (224) 888-0388

Tao Chicago is an Asian fusion restaurant that has received high praise for its delicious food, excellent service, and beautiful atmosphere. The restaurant offers a huge menu with a variety of dishes, including the dumpling sampler, shrimp maki, tuna on crispy rice, and lobster pad thai. The food is rated 10/10, with good portions that are very filling and tasted amazing. The house sake is also strong and delicious, paired so well with the meal.

The atmosphere at Tao Chicago is gorgeous, with a vibe that is both elegant and fun. The decor is on point, with comfortable seating and tables, and the lighting and decorations are beautiful. The music is good, and the restaurant has an elegant dress code, making it classy all around. The restaurant is also known for its nightclub, which unfortunately was closed on the day the reviewer visited. The front entrance is ornately carved, and inside the restaurant is dark with lots of candles and low lights. The main seating area is tiered down to a main floor, almost like a small theatre, and it looks like a movie set and a place to see and be seen.

The service at Tao Chicago is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who make great recommendations and periodically check in to ensure that the guests are enjoying their meals. The value for the food is also great, and the restaurant is considered one of the places to be in Chicago. The restaurant is highly recommended, and the sea bass is a must-try dish. Overall, Tao Chicago is a trendy and popular restaurant with a large and diverse menu and a party atmosphere. It is perfect for those who love Chinese Asian food and want to experience a beautiful and fun dining atmosphere.

Niu B

Address: 888 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605-2117
Phone: +1 (312) 922-1127

Niu B is a Japanese restaurant located in the heart of Chicago, offering a diverse menu with delicious and fresh food at reasonable prices. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere and is clean and cozy, with friendly and efficient service. The fish quality is exceptional, not only fresh but also the best meat of any served fish, and the sushi is great, with large serving sizes and great presentation. The menu is extensive, with an excellent selection of drinks, including a sake flight with three different sakes, which is a great way to decide which ones you like.

The restaurant is highly recommended for both lunch and dinner, and it is conveniently located near the Hilton on South Michigan Ave and Grant Park. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and offers free WiFi. The miso soup and tuna & avocado maki are delicious and highly recommended, and the steamed dumplings, chicken and broccoli wok stir-fry, Japanese fried rice, spicy miso ramen, and avocado rolls are all very fresh and flavorful. The Mongolian Beef is also great, and the Pad Thai is highly recommended.

The restaurant also offers a happy hour from 4 to 6 pm, with a very reasonable price, and the specialty cocktails are worth a splurge. The restaurant is a great choice for those who want a quick healthy lunch or a nice dinner in a trendy and cozy atmosphere. The service is polite and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the sake and the menu. Overall, Niu B is an excellent Japanese restaurant in Chicago that offers exceptional food quality, great service, and reasonable prices.

Oiistar

Address: 1385 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622-9114
Phone: +1 (773) 360-8791

Oiistar is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago, renowned for its authentic and delicious ramen. The restaurant offers a warm and intimate atmosphere, and the service is excellent. The pork belly in the Umani ramen is exquisite, and the spicy garlic ramen is a must-try. The restaurant is perfect for a cold winter day in Chicago, and the warm sake is a perfect addition to the meal. The prices for alcoholic drinks are also great.

The restaurant’s portions are massive, and the food quality is consistently excellent. The ramen broth is flavorful, and the pork belly falls apart and melts in your mouth. The fried chicken appetizer and the salad are also delicious. The restaurant is not your traditional ramen place, but it offers a fusion of traditional options and flavors. The pork stock is made fresh daily, and the house-made scratch noodles are exceptional. The restaurant is reasonably priced, and the staff is great.

The restaurant is perfect for a first-time ramen experience, and the classic ramen without the soft-boiled egg is amazing. The steamed bun with tempura shrimp is also a great appetizer, and the warm sake rounded out the meal. The music selection is great, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate. The sangria is also amazing, and the garlic chicken and mussels are worth trying. The food is incredibly flavorful, and the ramen is not overly salty, with a generous portion of pork belly. Overall, Oiistar is an excellent dining spot in Chicago, and it is definitely worth visiting.

Strings Ramen Shop

Address: 2141 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616-1513
Phone: +1 (312) 374-3450

Strings Ramen Shop is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago’s Chinatown, offering a variety of delicious ramen dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the service is excellent, with knowledgeable and attentive staff. The restaurant is BYOB, and there is a waiting area available for those who arrive early. The sriracha broccoli appetizer is a must-try, and the seafood is excellent.

The ramen is top-notch, with a variety of options, fresh ingredients, and amazing combinations. The tonkotsu ramen with pork belly is amaze-balls, and the hell ramen is a great choice for those who love spicy food. The soup is delicious, and the seafood is excellent. The portion sizes are great, and the prices are reasonable, although a little higher than expected for the location.

The restaurant is perfect for a cold and rainy day, and it is a great way to end a day of walking and tours. The turnover of tables is quick, and the waiter is helpful in explaining the types of ramen and broth and pointing out all the vegetarian options. The restaurant is small, but tables turn over quickly, and the food quality is consistently excellent. Strings Ramen Shop is an excellent choice for those who love ramen and want to experience authentic tonkotsu ramen in a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill

Address: 1751 W Chicago Ave Between Wood St & Hermitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60622-5009
Phone: +1 (312) 666-4100

Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill is a modern Japanese-style restaurant located in Chicago, offering a wide variety of delicious sushi dishes. The restaurant is BYOB, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The sushi is beautifully presented and generously portioned, making it an artful experience that is both delicious and visually stunning.

The restaurant has a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for dining with friends or for special occasions. The menu is eclectic, with a wide variety of rolls and unique presentations. The tater tot appetizer is a must-try, and the grilled meats and veggies are also delicious. The sushi rolls are large and come in big pieces, with each plate decorated and painted, making for a pretty awesome presentation.

Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill is a popular place, and reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. The prices are fair for Chicago sushi, and the location and vibe are fun. The sushi is the most delicious and beautiful pieces of art, and the fish is all super fresh and good. The restaurant is a great find with a wide variety of rolls and unique presentation, and the Hamachi Collar is a standout dish. The Yuzu Bomb is also a must-try.

Overall, Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill is an excellent choice for sushi lovers, with outstanding food and service. The restaurant is perfect for a first date or special occasions, with a variety of options that are both delicious and visually stunning. If you are looking for a creative experience without forfeiting delicious taste, Yuzu makes for a fun evening.

Bites

Address: 3313 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657-1603
Phone: +1 (773) 270-5972

Bites is an Asian fusion restaurant located in Chicago that offers creative and diverse food selections. The staff is friendly, polite, and attentive, making for a great dining experience. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from small bites to big bites and sandwiches. The prices are reasonable, and the portions range from tiny to very generous.

The restaurant has a great atmosphere, with a cozy fireplace in the middle that makes it feel warm and inviting. The restaurant has a lovely patio, which is perfect for those who want to enjoy their meal outside. The menu is diverse, giving customers a lot of options to choose from. The cocktail list is also exciting, with a lot of options from tropical-type drinks to different whiskeys and sake.

The food at Bites is excellent, with amazing flavors that are sure to please anyone’s palate. The squid ink fried rice and the Polynesian sandwich are standout dishes that are highly recommended. The ramen is also good, with the soup base just right and the pork perfectly cooked. The garlic edamame and shrimp dumplings are must-tries, and the banana wonton for dessert is also delicious. Overall, Bites is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a diverse and creative Asian fusion dining experience.

Tokyo Lunch Boxes and Catering

Address: 60 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604-2320
Phone: +1 (312) 263-9333

Tokyo Lunch Boxes and Catering is a Japanese restaurant located in Chicago that offers fresh and delicious food. The staff is friendly and provides great service, making for a pleasant experience. The restaurant has a fast and efficient service, perfect for those who are short on time. The menu offers a variety of foods, not just sushi, making it a complete meal place.

The restaurant is known for its great variety of foods, with decent quality for the price. The ramen is a standout dish and is considered one of the best in town. The pre-made sushi is also highly recommended, especially during the buy-one-get-one-free promotion after 3:30 PM on weekdays. The food is fresh, and the flavors are deep, making it a great lunch fix.

The atmosphere is not fancy, but it provides a great vibe and is set up well for take away. The restaurant has several locations in the downtown area, making it accessible to customers. The prices are reasonable, and the food is very decent, making it a great budget place to have a quick hot lunch without hurting your wallet. Overall, Tokyo Lunch Boxes and Catering is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a variety of authentic Japanese options in the loop.

Chicago’s Japanese restaurant scene offers an array of delectable dishes, from classic sushi to innovative fusion creations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the city, these restaurants are worth checking out for an unforgettable dining experience. From the upscale and sophisticated to the casual and cozy, there’s a Japanese restaurant in Chicago for every occasion and taste. So next time you’re craving Japanese cuisine, be sure to check out one of these top-rated restaurants. Your taste buds will thank you.