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Japanese food and cake in Chicago

Made for those who enjoy the savory balance of Japanese food but always save room for a slice of cake.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated May 2026
01
Shabu Plus Rotary Hot Pot Wicker Park image 1
Shabu Plus Rotary Hot Pot Wicker Park image 2
Shabu Plus Rotary Hot Pot Wicker Park image 3
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Rotary hot pot setup features individual pots and food delivered by mini trains and conveyor belts, creating an interactive dining experience. Atmosphere blends anime and manga decor with a warm, fun vibe suitable for groups and families. Guests engage with a DIY sauce bar and enjoy a variety of fresh ingredients at their own pace.

Food arrives via tracks, adding a fun twist to the meal. The Sukiyaki broth offers a lighter flavor with customizable sauce blends. The angus beef sushi stands out, often ordered multiple times.

Dessert options include green tea crepe cake, chocolate cheesecake, coconut pudding, and mochi ice cream. The crepe cake has a lighter texture and stands out among the amazing dessert selection.

People are saying

"The food delivery via train and conveyor belt is so fun!"

"The staff here is so kind and caring with the Japanese food."

"The mango crepe cake is light and satisfyingly sweet."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Expect a 45-minute seating limit for dining.

3

The all-you-can-eat experience costs $25.00 per person.

02
The Evie image 1
American restaurant

Restaurant occupies an elegant second-floor space with amazing views of Michigan Avenue. Atmosphere feels funky and cool yet allows easy conversation without yelling. Offers masterfully made exotic cocktails and a lively bar with sports TVs.

Crab ragoon roll stands out as a favorite sushi roll. The dragon roll offers rich flavors. Sashimi of Ahi arrives fresh and visually impressive.

Tres Leches cake stands out with its subtly amazing flavor and fruit accompaniment. It offers a texture and taste that surpasses many Spanish grocery store versions.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the steak frites and lobster roll, is top notch."

"The sushi here is fantastic and not to be missed."

"You have to try the Tres Leches Cake; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual is preferred.

03
2AM Izakaya image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant with Kpop music and Japanese art on the walls creates a chill atmosphere. Small tables offer comfortable, private seating ideal for dates or small groups. Open late, it attracts those seeking a relaxed spot for sushi and drinks.

Late night sushi features excellent quality and a variety of rolls like the Godzilla roll and signature rainbow roll. Udon noodles, fried rice, and skewers complement the menu with quick, friendly service.

Crepe cake stands out with a sweet, perfect Mille cake version available even at 2AM Izakaya. Staff sometimes offer a free cake and mochi display for birthdays, adding a special touch.

People are saying

"This late night spot's sushi is so fresh and high quality."

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi, is amazing and fresh."

"I found the crepe cake to be delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

They have a BYOB policy, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

The kitchen closes at 1 AM, so arrive before then for food.

04
Lilac Tiger image 1
Cocktail bar

Small, dark cocktail bar offers creative drinks and an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Inside space feels cramped and loud, with music volume requiring raised voices. Patio seating provides a quieter, less crowded option.

Soft shell crab appears in multiple dishes, especially paired with udon noodles. The combination of garlic and crab stands out in the soft shell chili crab with udon.

Ube cake stands out with its flavorful and tasty profile, often served as a ube milk cake that many enjoy as dessert.

People are saying

"The food here was cooked with heart and had profoundly good flavor."

"The THC Sando was delicious and had lots of flavor."

"The Japanese food here is amazing and the flavor combinations are unique."

Good to know

1

The restaurant might not accept reservations, so plan accordingly.

2

Many menu items may be unavailable during peak hours.

3

Happy hour deals are available, but specific times are not mentioned.

05
Ezankaya image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant blends Japanese sakura flowers with Thai Esan vibes in a beautifully decorated space. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming despite somewhat bright lighting. Guests enjoy a unique Thai-Japanese fusion experience with authentic flavors.

Sushi features Hamachi with ponzu and tobiko that stands out. The menu includes tempura shrimp maki roll and sometimes offers free veggie egg rolls.

Homemade crepe cakes stand out here, especially the Nutella crepe cake. Desserts focus on fresh, homemade flavors with a clear emphasis on cake.

People are saying

"It's a really cozy spot with gorgeous decorations."

"The Japanese food here is fresh and thoughtfully prepared."

"I loved their Thai iced tea, chicken skin, and pork ribs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with special pricing on select items.

2

Lunch specials include sushi for $18, available on weekdays.

3

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, focusing on food only.

06
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen image 1

Vegan restaurant with beautiful decor and a hipster vibe offers outdoor dining and modern, inviting atmosphere. The space feels immaculate and lively, though music volume can be high. It suits both casual nights and romantic dates.

Sashimi stands out with options like Sun-Dried Tomato Sashimi and classic cuts. Crispy oyster mushrooms and unique appetizers wrapped in nori add variety to the Japanese food offerings.

Matcha cheesecake and crab cake stand out, with the crab cake praised for containing real crab. Desserts include a cold, fresh chocolate cake and fruit cobbler, all served to close the meal.

People are saying

"The Ube Panna Cotta is heavenly and my favorite dessert anywhere."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sun-dried tomato sashimi, is outstanding."

"The cake here is amazing, with such kind and talkative staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted appetizers and drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

The restaurant accommodates gluten allergies with a variety of options.

07
Kajiken Chicago image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese-style interior features wooden decor and warm lighting that create an inviting atmosphere. Music includes authentic Japanese selections enhancing the cultural vibe. Seating is intimate and creatively arranged, offering a spacious yet cozy dining experience.

Ramen here stands out for its soupless style and rich flavors. Prices run about $20 per person for ramen and a shared side.

Mango crepe cake offers a good portion and fresh taste. Pairing it with matcha ice cream complements the crepe cake's flavor well.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is so flavorful and delicious."

"The abura soba noodles were perfectly chewy with plenty of sauce."

"The cake here is really tasty and fresh."

Good to know

1

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

2

The average cost per person is around $20 for ramen and a shared side.

3

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

08
The SoulFood Lounge 2 image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small soul food restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere with an all-black aesthetic and live music featuring jazz and saxophone. The vibe stays laid back and refreshing, suited for quiet dinners or date nights. Space is limited, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped setting.

Japanese dishes feature Teriyaki Salmon with incredible flavor and careful preparation. Other options include meticulously crafted items like Hong Kong Honey Chicken and Tuscany Surf and Turf.

Peach Cobbler Pound Cake comes with a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream. Turtle Pound Cake serves as a sweet finish to meals.

People are saying

"The American Food here, like the turkey leg, is off the bone and delicious."

"The grilled pound cake was heavenly and delicious."

"The Japanese Teriyaki Salmon was bursting with incredible flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a spot inside the restaurant.

2

Parking can be difficult, often requiring a walk from 1-3 blocks away.

3

The restaurant has a 'No Share Policy' for events like 'The Grand Tasting'.

09
TE'AMO Boba & Desserts - Navy Pier image 1

Bright, clean space with casual Go & Grab vibe and aesthetic appeal. Friendly atmosphere with fast kiosk ordering and occasional promotions. Known for fresh boba and flavorful mochi donuts alongside unique ube coconut desserts.

Mochi donuts stand out with their fresh, soft dough and light, fluffy texture. Frostings tend to be a bit sweet, and some donuts can taste stale if not fresh.

Cakes here feature fresh fruit toppings like strawberries and mango. Varieties include white peach oolong crepe cake, mango cake, and yogurt strawberry cake. Some cakes come with unique twists like matcha mochi donuts and Oreo flavors.

People are saying

"I loved their strawberry milk tea, it was amazing!"

"The mochi donuts from this Japanese food spot were so delicious and fresh."

"I found the cake here to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a 10-minute wait for drinks during peak hours.

2

The ordering process is done entirely through a touchscreen tablet.

3

A promotion offers a free drink or donut after leaving a review.

10
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space features dim, cozy lighting and live music performances that create a romantic, upscale atmosphere. The lounge offers an upbeat vibe with talented singers and pianists providing background entertainment. Seating is close together, enhancing a lively, intimate feel.

Tuna sushi stands out with its freshness and flavor. Appetizers include spicy shrimp, tuna tartare, and brussel sprouts, often shared alongside sushi rolls.

Warm Butter Cake stands out as a signature dessert, often served with ice cream. Its rich, buttery flavor makes it a popular choice here.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and friendly staff."

"You have to try the butter cake; it's so tasty and rich."

"The Japanese Food here is outstanding, thanks to the attentive and knowledgeable staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available and recommended for convenience.

11
Dearly Beloved image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar showcases edgy and classy decor with amazing sculptures behind the bar, creating a warm, inviting ambiance. Lounge and bar seating offer intimate and Instagram-worthy spaces enhanced by live jazz and DJ sets. Signature craft cocktails and unique dishes complement the visually stunning, chic atmosphere.

French onion ramen stands out with scratch-made noodles, short rib, and a unique house-made cheese topping. Potato pohtato pairs well with it, adding variety to the Japanese food offerings.

Blackout cake stands out with its rich chocolate flavor and pairs well with soda pop. Some cakes can be dry, but the chocolate options are generally very yummy.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing, thanks to Genesis's great recommendations."

"The French Onion Ramen here is amazing and worth trying."

"Lily was absolutely amazing and super friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM Monday through Friday, offering half off all specialties.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters and $10 martinis during happy hour every day.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

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