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Local picks in Illinois

Japanese food spots

Japanese cuisine that captures the depth of the tradition without feeling like a museum exhibit.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Blowfish Sushi & Ramen Northfield image 1
Blowfish Sushi & Ramen Northfield image 2
Blowfish Sushi & Ramen Northfield image 3
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Sushi and ramen shine with exceptional quality and bold flavors. Sleek modern decor and a large outdoor patio create a calm, chic vibe. Enjoy a relaxed dining experience with understated elegance and a quiet atmosphere.

Sushi and ramen stand out with exceptional quality and flavor. The beef brisket ramen and Kara-age chicken receive strong praise for taste and preparation.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"I believed this ramen was the best I had ever had."

"The calamari is lightly crispy, tender, and dangerously snackable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

02
Akiro Hand Roll Bar image 1
Japanese restaurant

Counter seating offers a lively, social vibe with chefs crafting fresh sushi in full view. Chic decor adds an elegant downtown feel. Dishes like salmon truffle nigiri and wagyu handrolls highlight high-quality ingredients and skillful prep.

Sushi here features phenomenal nigiri and Nikkei-style dishes like salmon truffle nigiri and wagyu handrolls. Every piece shows high-quality ingredients and careful preparation.

People are saying

"The sushi chefs here are amazing and give great recommendations."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the sushi chefs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights like New Year's Eve.

2

The restaurant specializes in Nikkei cuisine, blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

3

Expect tight seating arrangements, which may affect dining comfort.

03
ARI Sushi Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and a notable sake selection. Cozy, bright space feels intimate and welcoming. Perfect for solo diners or small groups seeking quality and comfort.

Sushi here stands out for its exceptional freshness and fantastic flavor. Every meal delivers a consistently amazing experience that feels welcoming and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I've ever tasted."

"The ginger salad here is the best I've ever eaten."

"I thought the Japanese food here was the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials that are very good.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

Quality fish and consistent service are hallmarks of the restaurant.

04
Sushi Yoru image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny, family-run sushi spot offers a cozy, quiet vibe with fish aquarium adding charm. Menu shines with fresh sushi and creative dishes like sushi pizza and tempura ramen. Prices stay reasonable, making it a comforting choice for Japanese food lovers.

Freshness stands out with incredible sushi and massive rolls like salmon dragon and tuna dragon. The menu shows creativity with items like sushi pizza and sushi burrito, alongside fantastic ramen including tempura ramen.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious and fresh."

"I thought the miso soup was delicious and incredible."

"I've never tasted better sushi anywhere; it's top-notch."

Good to know

1

Prices for basic rolls range from $6-7, while special rolls cost $7-11.

2

Free miso soup and gyoza are included with orders over $30.

3

The restaurant is small and can get crowded, so plan accordingly.

05
One More Sushi Express image 1
Sushi restaurant

Bright, playful interior with anime murals sets a fun mood. Sushi is fresh and affordable, with a Spicy Tuna roll that shines. Open kitchen and tidy space create a relaxed dining vibe amid lively music.

Sushi here is consistently fresh, delicious, and affordable. The Spicy Tuna roll stands out as especially flavorful, and the ramen complements the sushi well.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh, flavorful, and honestly the best I've ever had."

"I found the food to be fresh and affordable."

"I loved the boba milk tea; it was perfectly sweetened."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street with a pickup zone.

2

The portions are large, so come with a big appetite.

3

They allow customers to bring their own beverages.

06
Master Sushi & drive thru image 1

Sushi stays consistently fresh with many options in a clean, cozy atmosphere. Modern design blends Japanese and South Korean styles, while a drive-thru option adds convenience. Good music enhances the welcoming vibe for groups and solo diners.

Sushi here stays consistently fresh with a variety of options to choose from. The place keeps a clean and friendly atmosphere that pairs well with the great service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and high quality."

"I thought the sushi here was the best I had ever tasted."

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a drive-thru for quick takeout orders.

2

Prices are affordable, typically under $15 for a quick lunch.

3

The establishment maintains a high level of cleanliness throughout.

07
U Sushi Club Rotary image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Rotary sushi bar offers fresh scallop nigiri and a colorful conveyor belt that delivers orders right to your table. Bright decor and a cozy atmosphere make it great for families with kids. Enjoy an interactive dining experience that feels fun and laid back.

Sushi here is super fresh and affordable with a variety of rolls and nigiris. Scallop nigiri stands out as a top-notch quality item.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The automated train delivered food, making it a fun, interactive experience."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on sushi and drinks.

2

Parking is available at a nearby garage if the lot is full.

3

You can order fresh sushi from the iPad at your table.

08
Paku Paku Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy, modern spot with fresh sushi and a BYOB policy offers great value. Miso soup is light and pairs well with teriyaki salmon. Quiet, intimate vibe with hip Japanese pop music makes it a hidden gem.

Sushi features fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced flavor with bite-sized nigiri. Miso soup is made from scratch daily, light on salt, and pairs well with dishes like teriyaki salmon and takoyaki with a crisp exterior.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"These Date Spots have amazing, fresh fish and perfect rice."

"I had the best miso soup Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its grand opening with special deals.

2

It's BYOB, and they provide wine glasses.

3

Expect generous portions of sushi.

09
Mimi Katsu image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian market spot serves crispy pork katsu and rich curry fast, with big portions. Casual vibe suits quick meals but seating fills up fast. Cheese pork katsu shines with sauces and fresh cabbage salad, making it a hearty choice for Japanese food lovers.

Pork katsu with cheese offers a rich flavor and great texture, paired well with sauces and cabbage salad. Large portions include standout dishes like chicken katsu and a flavorful curry that complements the pork cutlet and udon.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the crispy katsu."

"I found the tonkatsu here to be the best I've ever had."

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu, is unbelievably good."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with plenty of spots available.

2

The restaurant is located inside a food court within Joong Boo Market.

3

Expect food to be served quickly, usually within 5-10 minutes.

10
Lucky Trendy Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Bright, modern space with 90s hip-hop music sets a lively mood. Sushi is super fresh with unique rolls like Shinjuku featuring deep-fried salmon. BYOB policy adds casual charm, making it a unique sushi experience with reasonable prices.

Sushi here is super fresh and offers unique options like the Shinjuku roll with deep-fried salmon and tempura onion. Prices stay reasonable, especially on favorites like the seared salmon roll and Unagi Kakiage, with service that matches the quality.

People are saying

"The sushi here is really great and delicious."

"The fish here is super fresh and quality."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They have a happy hour every day from noon until 3 pm.

2

Reservations are recommended due to a limited number of tables.

3

The restaurant is BYOB with a small cork fee.

11
Mesaku Sushi (Carry Out Only) image 1

Sushi spot serves fresh fish in large portions with affordable prices. Carry-out only with a lively atmosphere and easy text ordering makes it a top choice for quick, tasty Japanese food.

Sushi here offers very fresh fish and comes in large portions, often about 10 pieces per roll. Prices stay reasonable while delivering great value and quick preparation.

People are saying

"The takeout sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The owners are so kind and friendly."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Mesaku Sushi is carry-out only, with no dine-in service available.

2

The ordering process is smooth; you can text your order for convenience.

3

Prices are very reasonable, with large rolls costing around $25 for four.

12
Rudy's Ramen image 1
Restaurant

Open kitchen and bar create a first-row view of cooking in a cozy space with minimalist decor and an Asian feel. Ramen features a rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles, offering authentic Japanese flavors. Seating is varied and thoughtful, enhancing comfort and convenience.

Ramen here stands out with its rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles. The flavors balance deeply, making it a favorite for those seeking authentic Japanese taste outside Japan.

People are saying

"The ramen noodles here are fantastic and have a great bite."

"The vegetarian ramen broth is so flavorful and well-made."

"The Japanese food here has fantastic, chewy noodles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour runs from Tuesday to Thursday, 5-6pm, with discounted drinks and bites.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during busy dinner hours.

13
Tekka Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior with well-designed decor creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Sushi offers exceptional freshness and delicious flavors, paired with perfectly crafted cocktails. Private alcoves provide quiet dining in an elegant setting.

Sushi stands out with amazing quality and delicious flavors. The menu also includes ramen, tea, and cocktails served with hospitable service.

People are saying

"The sushi and ramen here are delicious and fresh."

"I thought the steak ramen was spectacular."

"The tempura here is so light and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted for large groups, but it's best to call ahead.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

3

Prices for sushi and other dishes are considered reasonable and affordable.

14
Gorilla Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot with affordable sushi and fresh quality keeps fans returning. Cozy but cramped space mixes quiet dining with loud disco music. Simple decor with paper umbrellas adds charm to relaxed vibe.

Sushi here offers affordable prices without sacrificing quality. The menu features delicious, well-crafted sushi that keeps people coming back for years.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, creative, and absolutely delicious."

"The sushi here is so fresh and tasty."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Gorilla Sushi offers affordable sushi with a variety of traditional and fusion rolls.

2

Dine-in and carry-out options are available for convenience.

3

Parking can be an issue, so plan accordingly.

15
DaiFuku Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen house offers consistent flavor and comforting richness in its broth and noodles. Traditional Japanese style blends with a sleek, clean atmosphere and lively music by Nujabes. Seating ranges from well-cushioned booths to alley chairs, mixing comfort levels.

Ramen here stands out for its consistent flavor and comforting richness. The broth and noodles deliver a satisfying experience that many find memorable and reliable.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a delicious, flavorful, umami broth."

"The ramen and gyoza here are delicious and kid friendly."

"The Takoyaki here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Get there early to avoid long wait times, especially after 4:30 pm.

2

The restaurant does not accept reservations, so expect to wait.

3

DaiFuku Ramen is a small place, which can lead to crowded conditions.

16
Big Bird Sushi Bar & Thai image 1

Sushi spot shines with fresh rolls like Summer Deluxe and the best miso soup. Cozy, quiet space fits groups or solo visits, enhanced by soft 2000s R&B and pop tunes creating a relaxing vibe. Thai noodles add a unique fusion twist to classic Japanese flavors.

Sushi here is super fresh with standout rolls like the Summer Deluxe featuring cilantro and truffle oil. Miso soup ranks as the best ever and Thai noodle dishes offer a perfect fusion with sushi flavors.

People are saying

"The sushi here is phenomenal, with amazing textures and depths of flavor."

"I found the Pad Thai here to be hot and delicious."

"It's a cozy little spot with a welcoming atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

There was no parking available at the restaurant.

3

Prices average about $20 per person for a meal.

17
Mira Sushi evanston image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant blends fresh sushi with a modern cozy vibe and soft music for a peaceful meal. Creative rolls and light tempura shine alongside convenient tablet ordering. Perfect for casual outings or dates with comfortable seating and cute decor.

Sushi here is fresh and high quality with creative, perfectly balanced rolls like the eel and avocado roll. Tempura vegetables and shrimp come out light and crispy, and prices stay reasonable for all-you-can-eat options.

People are saying

"I found the sushi to be amazing and really fresh."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat sushi deal; it was a great value."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat lunch special costs $25, offering great value.

2

Weekend lunch prices increase to $31.99, but the menu remains the same.

3

Parking is easily accessible near the restaurant.

18
Maru Sushi & Poke Bowl image 1
Sushi restaurant

Bright, modern space features an open kitchen and a cozy vibe perfect for quiet chats. Sushi shines with fresh sushi rice and quick service, while poke bowls impress with custom fresh ingredients. Family-friendly atmosphere makes it great for all ages.

Sushi here uses sushi rice and stays fresh with quick, efficient service. Poke bowls come loaded with fresh ingredients and offer custom options like vegetarian sushi.

People are saying

"The poke here is amazing, with super fresh ingredients."

"I found this sushi and poke spot to be a hidden gem."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

You can pick a total of three types of fish for your bowl.

2

The lunch special offers a poke bowl, roll, and salad for a good value.

3

Ordering is done via a self-serve kiosk, which is easy to use.

19
Sushi Pink image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with intricate Lego art and modern decor creates a cozy vibe. Sushi offers super fresh fish and creative flavors, with dinner sets for two at good prices. Seating by the sushi bar or cozy areas suits quiet meals or casual nights.

Sushi features super fresh fish and creative flavors that make each bite unique. The menu includes dinner sets for two that offer a variety of sushi at a good price, and dishes like Takoyaki are presented in a distinctive way.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The miso soup was a satisfying part of my sushi lunch."

"I enjoyed the great Beef Udon here."

Good to know

1

Currently, they are BYOB, so feel free to bring your own drinks.

2

Sushi Pink offers a 15% off deal on certain days.

3

Street and garage parking are available nearby for convenience.

20
Neta Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot shines with fresh sashimi and value lunch specials. Cozy vibe and clean decor make it perfect for relaxed meals. Chill music keeps the mood easy and welcoming.

Sushi here stands out for its exceptional quality and careful preparation, especially in the Sashimi and Maki rolls. Lunch specials offer great value without sacrificing flavor or freshness.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and high-quality."

"The Japanese food here is fantastic and incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Street parking can be tough; there's a big parking lot right across.

2

The soft shell crab Maki rolls cost only $16.

3

Lunch specials are available and offer great value.

21
Musashiya Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Cozy spot offers rich tonkotsu broth ramen with customizable options and flavorful pork chashu. Unique Katsu curry and impressive takoyaki add variety. Quiet, intimate setting suits solo diners and dates perfectly.

Ramen here stands out with its rich tonkotsu broth and flavorful pork chashu. The Katsu curry offers a unique taste not found elsewhere in the city, and the takoyaki is notably impressive.

People are saying

"I found the Katsu curry here to be the best in Chicago."

"It's a cute, cozy little spot, just like places in Japan."

"The ramen here is stellar, especially the tonkotsu with pork."

Good to know

1

The ordering process is simple; fill out a paper form for customization.

2

Musashiya Ramen is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

3

Expect a wait during busy times due to limited seating.

22
Omakase by Kanemaru image 1
Japanese restaurant

Intimate 8-10 seat counter creates a serene setting perfect for savoring a 16-course traditional omakase featuring fresh sea urchin and tuna. Skilled chef crafts authentic edomae sushi with exceptional quality in a quiet, cozy atmosphere paired with excellent sake.

A 16-course traditional omakase offers stunning dishes with sea urchin and tuna as standout highlights. The sushi serves authentic edomae style with incredible quality and presentation.

People are saying

"The Japanese food preparation by the chef was so entertaining and skillful."

"This is authentic omakase with fish flown from Japan."

"It's an intimate space with a warm, personal touch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through OpenTable.

2

The 16-course omakase menu is priced at $195 and features fresh, seasonal ingredients.

3

Omakase by Kanemaru has only 8 seats, creating an intimate dining experience.

23
Noriteo(LOE) Fox Valley Mall image 1

Cozy spot with a built-in ramen station offers a huge ramen selection full of rich, flavorful dishes. Stylish vibe with K-pop music and colorful items makes shopping fun. Photo booth with props adds a playful touch to the welcoming space.

Ramen here offers a huge selection with many fun and diverse flavors. The dishes are rich and flavorful, making the ramen very satisfying.

People are saying

"The ramen here is super good."

"I thought the vibe and atmosphere here were really cool."

"The ramen here is so rich, flavorful, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating, especially during busy hours.

2

Vegan and halal options are available for dietary restrictions.

3

Noriteo offers a wide variety of Korean noodles with countless flavors.

24
Sushi Miroku image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy, stylish space welcomes families with beautiful decor and good music. Enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi with fresh fish and quick service. Spacious, clean setting offers fantastic sides like salad and edamame for a relaxed meal.

All-you-can-eat sushi costs about 33 dollars and features fresh, high-quality fish. Service stays consistently amazing, with quick seating and fantastic sides like salad and edamame.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing."

"The sushi here is fresh and delicious."

"I recommend this Japanese food; it's one of the best."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great drink deals from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The all-you-can-eat dinner is priced at $39 on Sundays.

3

Expect a 40-minute wait for sushi orders during peak hours.

25
Kurumaya Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers crispy tonkatsu and rich curry in a cozy, traditional setting. Tight seating and quiet space create a homey atmosphere perfect for soft talks. Authentic dishes and warm hospitality make every visit relaxing and satisfying.

Tonkatsu stands out with a perfectly crispy yet light texture paired with a rich, savory curry. The udon soup and katsu curry offer authentic, comforting flavors, while the sushi and salmon teriyaki provide ample, satisfying portions.

People are saying

"The lunch spot here is an amazing deal for the price."

"I found the authentic Japanese food here to be delicious and expertly prepared."

"I found the Japanese food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The bento costs only $13, offering good value for lunch.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

3

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours, especially on weekends.

26
Ryota image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy flavorful ramen and fresh sushi in a chic, cozy space with modern decor. Sip on standout matcha martinis while soaking in lively, ambient vibes. Tight seating adds to the intimate, bustling atmosphere.

Ramen features a flavorful broth and satisfying taste. Sushi and sashimi come fresh and well-prepared, with highlights like Tan Tan spicy ramen and salted truffle edamame.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The Japanese food here, especially the ramen, is perfectly balanced and tasty."

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Ryota is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

3

Fish is shipped fresh daily from Japan, ensuring high quality.

27
Sushi Tatsu image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers fresh sushi with excellent fish quality in a quiet, mom-and-pop vibe. Cozy booths create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying traditional Japanese food. Service is fast and the space feels clean despite some outdated decor.

Sushi here features fresh, beautifully decorated pieces packed full for good value. The menu offers consistently delicious sushi with a quiet, mom-and-pop vibe.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be amazing."

"The sushi here is amazing, perfect for date spots."

"It's a quiet spot, perfect for relaxing and talking comfortably."

Good to know

1

Sushi Tatsu is located a bit back from N. Illinois Street, also known as Rt 159.

2

Use GPS or Maps to find Sushi Tatsu easily.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

28
Tsukiji Sushi Sake Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi shines with fresh, flavorful options paired perfectly with classic sake. Warm patio seating and gorgeous landscaping create a cozy vibe. Latin beats add a friendly, lively energy that makes dining here unique.

Sushi stands out with fresh, flavorful options that impress every visit. The combination of sake and sushi creates a classic pairing that complements the dining experience well.

People are saying

"The owners are so sweet and made me feel at home with their kindness."

"The food here is amazing and thoughtfully presented."

"You have to try the unique Latin Japanese fusion rolls."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM daily, offering great drink deals.

2

Halal chicken and beef options are available on the menu.

3

Free parking is available four blocks away from the restaurant.

29
Ton-Ichi Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with calm atmosphere and modern vibe offers rich ramen broth and standout fried scallops. Vegan ramen packs strong flavor without excess salt. Warm lighting and music create an inviting spot for Japanese food lovers.

Ramen features a rich and flavorful broth with options like kimchi ramen and spicy chicken ramen. Appetizers such as fried scallops stand out, and vegan ramen offers strong flavor without excess salt.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the portions are big."

"I considered this the best ramen I ever had."

"I considered the Japanese food here the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large portion sizes that fill you up.

2

Expect minimal wait time as food is prepared quickly.

3

Parking is generally not a problem near the restaurant.

30
Osaka Sushi Cafe image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Korean sushi with excellent quality and fresh flavors. Family-friendly vibe shines in a calm atmosphere and immaculately clean setting. Friendly staff and carry-out service add ease and value.

Sushi stands out with excellent quality and absolutely delicious flavors. Friendly staff make ordering quick and easy, and the place stays very clean.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be the best I ever had."

"You have to try the fried crab rangoon; it's amazing."

"It's a cute hidden gem, even if it doesn't look like much from the outside."

Good to know

1

They offer a special buy 4 rolls, get one free deal.

2

Online ordering is available for easy pickup.

3

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

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