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.
Hold onto your bibs folks, because Fat Willy's Rib Shack makes short order out of southern cooking with its finger lickin’, smoky fare! From the baby back ribs to the brisket and right down to the pecan pie, everyone within whiff shot of this artery-clogging rib joint is sure to start salivating - the name says it all!
Right across from the large cineplex, Fat Willy’s invites its guests to savor in its variety of traditional southern favorites, like baked macaroni and cheese, vinegar coleslaw and pulled pork sandwiches, on top of the best beef brisket in town and yes, let's not forget about those ribs and tips! Of course, the foundation of any good barbeque is its sauce, and Fat Willy’s own concoction is no exception. Bottles of two coldsore aching varieties are available, with the hot sauce contained in the pancake house-style syrup bottle. Sop it up with their steak fries and Texas toast!
Sides abound and compliment entrees, like baked sweet potatoes, home made corn bread and roasted corn on the cob. For those looking for something a little more on the light side of things, their Roasted Veggie salad is fresh, flavorful and otherwise top notch, justifying its $14 price tag. And be sure to wash it all down with one of their famous Hogaritas or southern sweet tea.
The ambiance can be jarring for those who require quiet, personal space, as most of the indoor, cow hide patterned tables are pushed snugly together. The outdoor patio is probably better suited, but can also get vocal, due to its proximity to the lines forming from the theater. Unless it’s early, the place is usually hopping with couples and even families, making the decibel level rather high. Therefore, it is highly advised for those making it a dinner and movie night to choose a later film, since the small dining area can become quite busy and staff can sometimes be short handed.
So for those who want a great place to go and offer enormous portions, Fat Willy’s proves to be the ideal spot for great food and lots of fun!
Clustered among several other Hispanic-inspired restaurants and take-out joints, both El Cid and El Cid II provide an oasis with a wide variety of filling and delicious Mexican fare, all at very reasonable prices.
Both restaurants offer an extensive list of authentic selections, from carne astada burritos to their popular chile rellenos, and many items can be made with as little or as much heat as desired. Their only contemporary facet is in their health-conscious cooking: vegetable oil is exchanged for lard, and only the choicest cuts and freshest ingredients make the cut. Even strict vegetarians will be pleasantly surprised to find plenty of items to choose from! A full bar is available, but the margaritas and Mojitos are by far some of the best in the city and tend to overshadow every other selection. Customers are also treated to a spread of warm, fresh chips and home made pico de gallo, verde salsa and pickled jalapenos, along with live music on Wednesday evenings.
While the original El Cid on Milwaukee offers plenty of parking and has a festive decor, it's the sister location that wins hands down for the overall experience! El Cid II has a charming, beautiful outdoor patio that begs couples to enjoy in warmer weather, and can sometimes become a bit packed, making reservations a recommendation. Their fabulous made to order margaritas are mixed with quality tequila, and their small but decadent choice of desserts should be sampled, if there's any room to spare! Also, the staff is knowledgeable, pleasant and courteous, even during rush periods.
Overall, both restaurants offer a fun and casual escape for an inexpensive evening out, ideal for couples new and old. They are truly the rare, hidden gems of Logan Square.
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.