Category: Sushi

I don't know about the rest of yas, but I sure do love a good maki roll, but I hate breaking the bank when it comes to fixing that hankerin’! Fortunately, there are quite a few places in Chicago that can satiate that craving for lunch or dinner, and on any day of the week! And no, “cheap sushi” does not always mean fishy, so be brave! Go ahead and indulge – it’s good for ya, too!

Under 55 – 55 E Monroe, Lower Level: Folks who work in the center of the Loop have probably ventured down to this high end food court at one time or another, especially when in groups. However, I know of so many people who are wary of giving the sushi cart the time of day, because they’re leery the food is going to be a complete disappointment… or worse! Have no fear – eat here! I’ve had their maki rolls and miso soup specials a number of times, and I can assure you it’s always fresh and delicious! Not too many options, but you really can’t beat the price or the service. And yes, great place to go with your co-workers!

House of Sushi and Noodles: Ding! Ding! Ding! We have a winner here, folks! Go to this Bucktown location hungry!!! If you go as a couple, you can get in on their $13.95 per person all you can eat buffet! Just be sure to go here early, because a lot of other people have been getting a clue about this place as well!

Kanok - Not only do they prepare a decent roll and also offer buffet specials, but it’s BYOB with NO corkage fee! This place is kind of smallish but modern and dimly lit, and fortunately not nearly as crowded as its more pretentious counterparts. This place serves as a nice Lakeview location to tap for an inexpensive (not cheap!) date.

Green Tea - Again small and no corkage, but what’s interesting about this restaurant is its location and it’s delivery service! Imagine this – a couple can dine on some of the freshest sushi in the area for under $30, and it’s not a buffet special! They also have some pretty large portions, and the presentations are very nice. And, because the bulk of their business is from delivery, you get to witness so many dishes being prepared while you decide on what to order. Only bad thing her is the delivery service – when they say an hour, they mean it!

Forget the other trendy sushi places in the loop. Come to Sushi Loop, a restaurant that’s all about the food, not about the glitz and glamour. Located, strangely enough, in the heart of Greektown, this unassuming sushi house serves your favorites in a pleasing, casual environment.

Step inside and you won’t necessarily be impressed by the decor. But you’ll be seated quickly by a friendly waitress, and before you even have a chance to look at the menu, the waitress will bring you a couple of hot, soothing towels to wipe your hands. Once you get settled, you’ll notice the restaurant’s calming vibe, where patrons have intimate conversations in lowered voices. Like other sushi places, you’ll hear the steady beat of electronic music being piped throughout the place, giving it the modern edge its competitors are known for.

Start with a hot green tea and a cup of miso soup and the warmth will travel from your head to your toes. But beware: if you’re a fan of miso with big chunks of tofu and seaweed, Sushi Loop can’t help you there. All you’ll get is a cup of hot, steaming miso broth, which is still quite delicious.

It’s always a good idea to start any meal with an appetizer. The only problem is picking one from their extensive list. For that matter, choosing your entrée will be hard, as Sushi Loop boasts a large selection by any sushi fanatic’s standards. If you want to take the easy route, choose a variety of delectable maki rolls. On their menu you’ll find uncommon creations like Kanpyo, a combination of marinated gourd and sesame seed. For the daring, they have Loopy, which they describe as whole deep fried tuna and jalapeno. Of course, you’ll find more conservative choices like California and Avocado. On this particular visit I tried the Negi White Tuna and was pleasantly surprised.

But by all means, don’t skip out on the main course menu if that’s your thing. You’ll find awesome dishes like the Korean Barbecue, a rib eye seasoned in Korean marinade served with a side of potatoes and vegetables, and favorites like Terayaki and Tempura dishes.

Rice and noodle dishes round out this awesome menu, which has a little something for everyone, whether or not you’re into raw fish. And before you head out the door, try the red bean mochi, a delicious ball of sugary dough filled with creamy red bean ice cream (it’s a lot better than it sounds!)

Try Sushi Loop next time you’re in Greektown and have a taste for something that isn’t…Greek. I highly recommend it.

Hachi's Kitchen is more than just a place to pick up some great rolls (or get them delivered); it is a complete dining experience that warrants repeat visits. Contemporary Japanese decor compliment Chef Jim Bee’s sushi innovation, through elegance, ambiance, presentation and overall dedication to detail. This Bee spin-off from his Lincoln Park establishment, Sai Cafe proves to be a wonderful asset to the beautiful Logan Square neighborhood.

Of course, it is the delicate creations themselves that warrant Bee’s colony of faithful patrons. From the popular Maki rolls to the eye pleasing Chirashi and everything in between, fresh and colorful ingredients make every dish an adventure unto itself. Bee also shows off his ingenuity by creating special menus around the seasons and holidays, though is happy to oblige to those who would rather stick to the regular menu.

The inventive use of just about every creature under the sea is apparent right off the menu, featuring fan favorites like the Volcano Maki and the mouth watering Spicy White Tuna Crunch. Be daring! Ask about the day’s recommendations on top of the standards and see if Bee is up to whipping up something fabulous just for you!

If there must be a point of contention, it lies in the parking issue, since no valet is currently available. However, the immediate area is quiet and safe and street parking is not anywhere near as cumbersome as it‘s Lincoln Park counterpart. Therefore, making a one or even two block hike is well worth the trek to Hachi’s. Reservations are accepted, though couples should not find an issue with immediate seating.

Overall, this is a posh little nook that is just off the boulevard and is deserving of visits by Japanese dignitaries and sushi novices alike. It proves to be an excellent place to celebrate milestones as well as for taming that everyday craving.