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Sake bars in Chicago

You want a bar that prioritizes a thoughtful sake list. You aren't interested in places that treat it as an afterthought.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Konbini & Kanpai Wrigleyville image 1
Konbini & Kanpai Wrigleyville image 2
Konbini & Kanpai Wrigleyville image 3
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Sake bar with a quiet, chill atmosphere and a lovely back patio overlooking the Red Line. The space feels warm and inviting, attracting those who appreciate thoughtful drink pairings and a relaxed vibe. Unique sake selections and carefully curated menu set it apart from typical bars.

A well curated sake bar offers a unique selection including the Rice Rice Baby sake flight paired with bites. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, encouraging questions and helping find sakes to enjoy.

A quiet sake bar with a well curated selection and reasonable prices offers a charming spot to enjoy drinks. Bar snacks complement the beverages well, making it a great place to catch up with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The bar's sake selection is divine and pairs well with the food."

"The sake from Hiroshima was delicious."

Good to know

1

Sake tasting events occur regularly, offering a variety of options.

2

World Sake Day tasting provides great value for the price.

3

Prices for drinks and food are very reasonable.

02
Wang's image 1

Cozy cocktail lounge with dark, atmospheric ambiance and vibrant, lively vibe. Small space fills with a stylish crowd enjoying instrumental house music and unique, fun cocktails. Decor blends vintage China kitsch with an upscale dive bar feel.

Hot sake stands out with its warmth and flavor. Cheap options make it easy to enjoy multiple servings alongside cocktails.

Dark and cozy vibes with Asian influence shape the bar's atmosphere. It offers table service and interesting decor that create a stylish, intimate lounge experience.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"This bar has a dark, chic, and atmospheric vibe."

"You have to try the hot Sake here."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating at Wang's, so arrive early.

2

Expect to wait during peak hours as it's a popular spot.

3

Wang's does not accept reservations, so plan accordingly.

03
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Sake Southside stands out with its really good flavors and delicious taste. It ranks alongside the espresso martini as a favorite drink here.

Creative drinks and dishes draw from Brazilian cuisine. The bar offers an intimate vibe like an upscale steakhouse with a white table cloth feel.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"The bar menu's creative Brazilian-inspired dishes were a delightful surprise."

"The Sake here is outstanding; I tried a bit of everything and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

04
Hiro Bar Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Hip and funky interior with house music and a huge bar sets a lively tone. Atmosphere suits dates and groups seeking vibrant energy, though noise and warmth can be intense. Signature cocktails feature unique presentations, enhancing the overall experience.

Plum Sake stands out with its light, complex flavor and notes of black cherry. Cocktails include a gold & black sake and an espresso martini with sweet potato for extra kick.

Bar offers varied seating including the bar and high stools with a friendly bartender providing attentive service. Signature cocktails and unique bar snacks like the Al pastor handroll stand out on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty with unique, rich flavors."

"The bar snacks, like the al pastor hand roll, are amazing."

"The sake here is packed with rich flavor, unlike any I've tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are easy to get on Wednesday nights with plenty of space available.

2

Happy hour food portions are smaller but priced the same as regular menu items.

3

Expect higher prices for small portions, like $17 for two chicken robata skewers.

05
Best Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with space-themed decor and beautiful lighting creates a relaxed, chill atmosphere. Music plays well, adding to the funky and fun vibe. The place draws a low-key crowd enjoying artful cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists.

Small menu offers a great variety of sakes suitable for non-connoisseurs. Drinks and sake consistently come out outstanding, including options like Sapporo.

An atmospheric cocktail bar offers immaculate drinks including delicious margaritas and spirit-free cocktails. Bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, creating a great vibe without karaoke.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super talented and make amazing cocktails."

"The bartenders here make delicious cocktails and are so fun to chat with."

"The Sake and all the drinks were outstanding."

Good to know

1

The bar adds a 3.5% surcharge to all checks before tax.

2

A 20% tip is automatically included in the bill for service.

3

Happy hour offers $4 off cocktails priced at $16.

06
CH Distillery | Jōtō Sushi image 1

Two-room sushi restaurant combines speakeasy-style back lounge with a modern cocktail bar front, offering views into a working distillery. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and chill in the back to more vibrant and upbeat in the front. Known for dry-aged fish and an intimate omakase experience, it draws those seeking high-quality, uniquely flavored sushi.

Sake options come with a well curated and diverse menu featuring light, fragrant varieties. The Snow Maiden sake stands out for its creamy texture, and happy hour offers great deals on sake and rolls.

A two-room layout separates a cocktail bar in front from a sushi lounge in back. The bar area stays clean and well kept, with bartenders like Elliot crafting custom drinks.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the sake selection; it was well curated and diverse."

"I had the best sushi experience here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted sake and rolls from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

07
Yokocho Handrolls and Omakase Bar image 1

Intimate space inspired by Japanese alleys offers cozy, dimly lit atmosphere with live chef preparation visible from excellent bar seating. The vibe blends American-Japanese bar energy with a quaint, sultry setting suited for small groups or quiet evenings.

Excellent sake options come with generous pours. Each sake tastes distinct and uniquely delicious, paired with well-prepared cocktails.

Bar seating offers a lively, dimly lit vibe with views of chefs preparing fresh, authentic Japanese food. The space feels comfortable for couples and serves well-priced curated bites.

People are saying

"The bar seating offers amazing omakase and thoughtful, fresh Japanese food."

"The omakase at this Bar was creative, surprising, and phenomenal."

"The sake recommendations were superb and the staff were knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, but not required.

2

The omakase experience costs $175 per person and is unique.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM Tuesday to Friday with $6 handrolls.

08
Sushi by Bou- Gold Coast Chicago @ Claridge House image 1

Dark, moody decor channels a Roaring 20s speakeasy vibe with intricate, classy details. Atmosphere stays chill and friendly, suited for serious sushi lovers and date nights. Sushi quality is consistently high-end and creative, paired with well-crafted cocktails and sake.

Sake flights cost $44 and offer a solid variety compared to cocktails. Complimentary sake starts the experience, with options like junmai daiginjo available for those who prefer something refined.

Chelsea and Madde behind the bar pick drinks that match your taste perfectly. Sitting at the bar lets you chat with the staff and get dish explanations from the chef.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is phenomenal, thanks to the phenomenal team."

"The sake here is high-quality, like the fatty tuna and bbq eel."

"The bar staff here make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the omakase experience, especially on weekends.

2

The 12-course omakase meal costs $65 per person and lasts about 40 minutes.

3

The 17-course upgrade is available for $100, providing a more balanced experience.

09
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Chicago image 1

Hidden behind a secret coded door in a speakeasy setting, the space offers an intimate dining bar where guests interact closely with chefs. The atmosphere blends moody, cozy vibes with bursts of energetic engagement, creating a unique omakase experience. Seating is limited to small groups, enhancing the personal and exclusive feel.

Sake pairing offers a well-matched selection that complements appetizers and main courses. Even those not into sake find the beverage pairing enjoyable and satisfying.

A speakeasy entrance leads into a bar with a dining area where chefs interact directly during the meal. The setup feels like a sushi bar with a lively atmosphere and jokes, not a traditional omakase.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is a carefully crafted omakase journey."

"The sake here is superb, with each sip an adventure."

"The bar is interactive, with chefs making the experience fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to access the restaurant, with a code sent after booking.

2

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tips, for the omakase experience.

3

The restaurant has a speakeasy entrance through a black door with a numbered lock.

10
Omakase Shoji & Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small omakase bar with intimate counter seating and a classical Japanese style creates a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere. Chefs prepare dishes in front of guests, enhancing the authentic omakase experience. Space includes a hidden room with natural ambiance and elegant decor featuring brick walls and a liquor display.

Offers rare, high-end sake and thoughtful pairings with omakase. The sommelier explains each sake and provides extra refills, enhancing the tasting experience.

Sitting at the bar offers access to excellent food and a variety of Izakaya bar food options. The bar serves as a spot for enjoying both drinks and flavorful dishes.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food omakase experience here is spectacular."

"The sake pairing with the omakase was incredible."

"The omakase tasting menu was phenomenal; I enjoyed every bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the NYE holiday course.

2

The restaurant offers a unique omakase experience rarely found outside of Japan.

3

The menu includes a variety of options for both a la carte and omakase dining.

11
Sushi by Bou- Fulton Market Chicago @ Emily Hotel image 1

Small, intimate restaurant with 12 seats and a speakeasy vibe featuring 90s hip hop music and graffiti art. Atmosphere feels lively yet personal, enhanced by craft cocktails and attentive service. Known for high-quality sushi and an engaging omakase experience.

Sake here comes in a flight with different types offering great value. The 17 course option includes a complimentary smooth sake that balances dryness and sweetness. A welcome shot of sake starts the meal.

Bartenders like Tashon, Stephanie, and Tashen offer a warm welcome and friendly service. The lounge area provides a relaxed spot while drinks and food are prepared.

People are saying

"The Japanese food service was so personal and professional, it made the evening special."

"The fish here is so fresh, it just explodes with flavor."

"The chefs at this bar bring personality and passion to every bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating.

2

Karaoke sessions are available during visits.

3

The omakase experience costs $65 for 12 pieces of sushi.

12
Tsukiji Sushi Sake Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant blends Japanese decor with Latin music, creating a unique fusion atmosphere. Warm, inviting vibe features comfortable patio seating with gorgeous landscaping. Energy stays friendly and lively, enhanced by a reggaeton playlist and candlelit tables.

A huge variety of sake is offered with detailed explanations for each. Warm sake stands out alongside creative drinks like the jamaica margarita. The owner sometimes shares a sake shot to celebrate special moments.

The bar offers a skilled team crafting excellent drinks alongside the kitchen's food. The atmosphere supports a sake-focused experience that complements the menu well.

People are saying

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

"You'll find creative sushi and unique rolls here, not just traditional sake."

"The margaritas at the bar were next-level and perfectly balanced."

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.

13
Tamu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist decor and a hand roll bar create a calm, inviting atmosphere amid a busy area. The space includes a private omakase room with attentive service, offering a focused dining experience. Guests enjoy a laid-back vibe with fresh sushi and thoughtfully crafted cocktails.

Complimentary sake comes with celebrations, adding a thoughtful touch. The sake pairs well with dishes like anago and toro taku rolls, making it a standout choice among the extra rolls ordered.

A hand roll bar offers a casual spot for eating or date nights. Servers check with the chef before taking orders, ensuring fresh preparation.

People are saying

"The Omakase here is delicious, with high-quality fish."

"Chef Max's sake recommendations were a perfect pair."

"You can get hand rolls at the bar, which is perfect for date nights."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the omakase table, which seats only 8 people.

2

The omakase menu is available during both lunch and dinner.

3

Happy Hour runs from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM with $5 hand rolls for dine-in.

14
Joto Sushi image 1
Restaurant

Cozy space blends urban Japanese street art with a sexy front half and an intimate omakase bar tucked in the back. Atmosphere shifts from lively and intimate indoors to a shaded patio perfect for warm nights. Guests enjoy aged tuna and fish rarely found elsewhere, paired with an excellent sake program.

An excellent sake program offers options like Tozai Well Of Wisdom and Snow Maiden sake. Drinks are dry and balanced, pairing well with sushi and cocktails like lychee martini and black Manhattan.

Staff at the bar stays kind and attentive, including the host and dish clearers. Seating happens right away, but the atmosphere feels lacking distinctive features compared to nearby bars.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here feature exceptionally fresh fish and flavorful hand rolls."

"The dry aged tuna and fatty tuna here are phenomenal."

"The sushi here is some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Joto Sushi offers an all-day happy hour on Mondays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

3

The restaurant features a unique dry aging process for their fish, enhancing flavor.

15
Sushi Suite 202 - Lincoln Park Chicago by Sushi by Bou image 1

Dining unfolds in a converted hotel suite with intimate counter seating and a speakeasy vibe. The atmosphere feels exclusive and romantic, suited for special occasions with just six seats offering a unique omakase experience. A small lounge invites lingering over drinks and vinyl records after the meal.

Sake flights come with detailed explanations and thoughtful pairings. Tastings help find the right sake, and Japanese whiskeys offer a fresh perspective.

People are saying

"It's a unique, intimate spot, like a secret clubhouse inside a hotel."

"This sake omakase is an intimate, unforgettable experience."

"The bar's intimate atmosphere makes it feel really special."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance due to limited seating for six guests.

2

The omakase experience features a 17-course meal prepared by the chef.

3

Expect to pay around $385 for two people for the full experience.

16
Rudy's Ramen image 1
Restaurant

Open kitchen and bar offer a first-row view of cooking in a stylish yet cozy space with minimalist decor and an Asian feel. Atmosphere stays comfortable and inviting with good music and a bright, clean environment. Seating includes varied options with thoughtful features like space for jackets and bags.

Sake pairs well with the ramen, guided by a knowledgeable server who helps select options. The very good sake selection complements the meal like a sommelier in Tokyo.

Warm and welcoming service comes from behind the bar, creating a relaxed vibe. Watching the staff cook and chatting with the owner adds a personal touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The ramen and cocktails here are great."

"The sake here is served with wonderfully friendly and authentic hospitality."

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.

17
Izakaya Shinya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style restaurant offers authentic Japanese decor with traditional seating and moody lighting. The atmosphere stays cozy and lively, featuring karaoke that energizes the space late into the night. Guests enjoy grilling at the table and a varied sake and cocktail selection.

House hot sake stands out with its rich flavor and smooth finish. The drink and sake selection offers a good variety, and staff provide helpful recommendations to find a sake that suits your taste.

A vibrant bar with a wide variety of options and simple bar foods featuring Japanese flavors. The atmosphere stays busy but welcoming, with excellent service and space at the bar even when crowded.

People are saying

"The food here felt like being back in Japan."

"The sake selection here is huge and reasonably priced."

"Diana and Brianna at the bar were so welcoming and delightful."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 9pm.

2

Happy hour offers $7 drinks, but only for the first drink.

3

The restaurant is open until 2 AM, perfect for late-night dining.

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