Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chicago

Japanese food and omakase

Made for those who trust the chef to curate their entire Japanese dining experience from start to finish.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Omakase by Kanemaru image 1
Omakase by Kanemaru image 2
Omakase by Kanemaru image 3
View all
Japanese restaurant

Intimate 8-10 seat counter offers a minimalist, serene setting focused on craftsmanship. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, creating a warm, inviting vibe with soft lighting. Skilled chef prepares exceptional sushi with fresh, high-grade fish, complemented by an excellent sake selection.

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.

A 16-course traditional omakase offers stunning presentation and dishes like sea urchin and tuna that stand out. The service is incredible, making the whole experience smooth and memorable.

People are saying

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

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

"Chef Kanemaru's Omakase showcases meticulous, traditional Japanese preparation."

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.

02
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.

Omakase here offers an incredible sushi experience from start to finish with high-quality, fresh fish. The meal stands out as exceptionally well-crafted and memorable.

Omakase here offers an awesome and fun experience with a speakeasy vibe. The sushi is crafted from start to finish with great care, making it a standout in the city.

People are saying

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

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

"I experienced the best omakase in Chicago."

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.

03
AJI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Counter seating for about 10 creates an intimate, upscale setting with dark, minimalist decor reflecting Japanese elegance. Chefs prepare a 14-course omakase in front of diners, with a split flap display showing each course's name. The atmosphere stays chic and elegant without feeling pretentious, suited for special occasions.

Omakase here offers an incredible experience with amazing food that stands out from typical sushi. The quality rivals many Michelin star omakase restaurants.

Omakase here features an all sushi menu crafted like master artwork. The chef offers friendly service and checks in during the meal, making it welcoming for first-timers and seasoned diners alike.

People are saying

"The fish here is thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavor."

"The Omakase here is fresh, focused, and full of flavor."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and focused on quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at AJI.

2

The omakase experience includes 15 taster courses prepared by skilled chefs.

3

Pricing is $150 per person, excluding taxes, gratuity, and drinks.

04
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 an authentic Kaiseki Omakase dinner blending artistry and flavor perfectly. The Orange Sunshine roll and sushi sets stand out as memorable highlights.

Offers a true taste of omakase rarely found outside Japan with a Kaiseki Omakase dinner blending artistry and flavor perfectly. The experience at the chefs counter is unforgettable and consistently exceeds expectations.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food omakase experience here is spectacular."

"This was the best dinner spot in Chicago I've ever had."

"The Omakase experience here was truly incredible."

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.

05
Omakase Box image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, sleek space offers a cozy and refined atmosphere with nicely spaced tables and classic decor. Energy stays relaxed and welcoming, allowing for quiet conversation despite occasional loudness. Known for exceptional fish quality and affordable omakase, it balances top-tier sushi with a comfortable vibe.

Omakase experience features excellent sushi with fresh, skillfully prepared dishes. Watching the sushi chef work adds to the engaging atmosphere while the value remains reasonable outside downtown.

A 15-course omakase tasting offers excellent sushi with amazing service and great value. The experience feels special without being downtown or overly expensive.

People are saying

"The omakase sushi experience here is truly wonderful."

"The fish here is so fresh and outstanding."

"The Omakase here is delicious from start to finish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 pm to 6 pm with $24 hand rolls.

2

Reservations are required for the Omakase Counter experience.

3

Omakase Box is currently BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

06
SHŌ Omakase image 1
Restaurant

Large, open sushi bar showcases chefs preparing inventive dishes in a sleek, modern Japanese setting. Atmosphere blends calming elegance with clubby background music, creating an unpretentious yet special vibe. Guests enjoy a highly curated sake selection and creative flavor combinations not commonly found elsewhere.

Omakase here offers unique dishes not found in Japan or the US, showcasing creative flavors and an outstanding menu. The food and service maintain great vibes throughout the experience.

Unique dishes not found in Japan or the US highlight the creative menu. The experience features great vibes and attentive staff, making the flavors and creativity stand out.

People are saying

"This Japanese food is an unforgettable, creative dining experience."

"The sake here is unique, innovative, and utterly delectable."

"The Omakase staff walked me through each course, explaining everything."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance.

2

The price is $145 per person, which is considered a good value.

3

Each course features immaculate cuts of fish and thoughtful garnishes.

07
CASA MADAI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a laid-back but stylish vibe with a warm and approachable atmosphere. The space feels cozy and festive, complemented by a carefully curated music playlist that enhances the relaxed mood. Guests enjoy an elevated dining experience without formality, making it suitable for a comfortable night out.

Omakase offers a spectacular mix of Japanese and Mexican flavors with fresh nigiri a la carte. Ramen features a rich broth and miso soup stands out as the best in the city.

Offers an intimate omakase experience with a unique blend of Mexican flavors and techniques. The sushi is exceptionally delicious and the overall meal feels affordable yet spectacular.

People are saying

"The omakase here is the best Japanese Food I've ever had."

"I loved the unique blend of Mexican and Japanese cuisine here."

"The Omakase here is unbelievably fresh and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

CASA MADAI is a BYOB restaurant, with a $15-$25 corkage fee.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Reservations may be hard to secure in the coming months due to popularity.

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.

Omakase here offers super fresh sushi served at a good pace with creative flavors that blend well. The experience is affordable and filling, making it a solid choice for sushi lovers.

Offers a standard omakase priced around $60 that feels filling and affordable. The experience includes attentive service from the chef and staff, making it a great value for the quality provided.

People are saying

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

"The Omakase chefs here are true artists."

"I found the omakase experience to be very affordable."

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 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.

Omakase features impeccably prepared sushi with unique flavors crafted by skilled chefs. The experience combines affordable fine dining with attentive service and occasional small gifts from the chef.

Chef Sebastian crafts unique flavors using the freshest ingredients in an intimate setting with about 6-8 guests. The omakase offers affordable quality and sometimes includes small free gifts from the chef.

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 Omakase chefs are so friendly and make the experience special."

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.

10
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.

Omakase here offers a 17-course experience with attentive service and no pretension. The hand-roll bar and regular dining provide authentic interaction alongside delicious, well-paced dishes.

Offers a 17-course omakase with well-paced, delicious dishes. Combines quality and value better than many traditional sushi spots.

People are saying

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

"The lunch omakase here is fantastic and unskippable."

"The omakase here is a fabulous Japanese food experience."

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.

11
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.

Omakase dinners feature fresh, thoughtful courses from nigiri to handrolls. Donburi bowls offer satisfying portions with a good amount of fish, and desserts include a strawberry matcha sando.

The omakase features a chef's coursed meal with high-quality sushi. Sitting at the bar offers a unique and delicious dining experience.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food omakase was incredible, with the chef explaining each thoughtful course."

"The Omakase experience here is incredible, with each dish more delectable than the last."

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.

12
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.

Sushi here stands out for its exceptional quality and wide variety of options, including a 14-course omakase. Service is warm and welcoming, with knowledgeable staff guiding the experience.

A 14-course omakase offers unique flavors in every piece. Each bite feels exquisite and the experience is splendid throughout.

People are saying

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

"The omakase Japanese food here is exquisite and unique."

"The Omakase experience here is splendid and exquisite."

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.

13
Kyōten image 1
Sushi restaurant

Private, intimate space centers on fresh, rare fish cuts and chef-led explanations that create a convivial, dinner party vibe. Bare walls and casual decor set a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where the focus stays on the food and interaction.

Omakase here features exquisite rice and fish with courses showcasing fish painted with sauces and accented by wasabi, citrus zest, horseradish, or ginger. The sushi experience is world class and highly competitive even with top spots in Japan.

Exquisite rice and fish stand out in this high-end omakase. Chef Otto and Chef Phan offer detailed explanations and a personable, engaging experience that rivals top spots in Japan.

People are saying

"The seafood here is the freshest I've ever had."

"This Japanese food is the best sushi I've ever had."

"This Omakase experience raised my sushi standards."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The omakase experience lasts about three hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect to pay around $490 plus tax for a Friday or weekend meal.

14
The Omakase Room at Sushi-San image 1

Intimate counter seating for ten creates a personal dining experience with a chef guiding each course. The room stays quiet and elegant, contrasting with the lively main restaurant downstairs. The menu blends French, Kaiseki, and Nigiri styles, paired with carefully selected sakes to complement the meal.

The Omakase Room offers a unique and exquisite Japanese dining experience with a purpose-built setting for the show. Dishes like tuna tartare with osetria caviar, bonito, Chutoro, and wagyu stand out, and the portions leave diners full.

The Omakase Room offers an exquisite tasting experience with generous portions that leave diners full. The setting is purpose-built for the show, showcasing creativity and dedication in every course.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the fresh urchin."

"The Omakase here uses top-quality, fresh ingredients."

"The Japanese food here uses top-quality, fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating capacity.

2

The meal costs over $250 per person, making it a special occasion dining option.

3

The experience includes 18 courses, typically lasting around 75 minutes.

15
Bonyeon image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Fine dining space seats 12 with a Korean-American Fusion BBQ concept and a modern kitchen visible behind a wide counter. Atmosphere stays intimate and elegant, offering a private experience with sophisticated, tasteful decor. Guests engage with chefs who explain each course, enhancing the unique steak omakase experience.

Beef omakase here offers a refined tasting that blends tradition with creativity. Thoughtful wine pairings enhance the culinary journey throughout the meal.

Beef omakase here offers a unique and playful twist on tradition with refined creativity. Thoughtful wine pairings elevate the experience, making it an extraordinary culinary journey.

People are saying

"It's a unique steak omakase with dishes prepared right in front of you."

"The Japanese food here, especially the wagyu, is top-notch."

"I experienced an intimate beef omakase that blew me away."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for parties of 8 or more.

2

The restaurant seats a maximum of 12 people per seating.

3

Paid street parking is available right out front.

16
Tanoshii Andersonville image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant offers a cozy, intimate vibe with quiet, soothing music enhancing a relaxed atmosphere. Regulars often choose to sit at the counter for a snug experience and enjoy creative omakase selections. BYOB policy adds a casual touch to the dining experience.

Sushi stands out with thick-cut sashimi and otoro that melts in your mouth. Signature rolls like the fresh wasabi roll and salmon truffle roll offer unique flavors, while vegetarian sushi shows great attention to detail.

Sitting at the bar lets you watch the chef prepare an interactive omakase experience. The tasting menu fills you up, which is rare for omakase, and the price feels reasonable for the quality.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The Omakase here is creative and truly exceptional."

"The sushi here is always fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Tanoshii Andersonville is a BYOB restaurant with a $3 charge per person.

2

Reservations are recommended before visiting to ensure seating.

3

The 'omakase' allows customers to specify dietary restrictions.

17
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.

Omakase meals feature prominently with high-quality sushi crafted by Chef Mike. The setting feels like a secret clubhouse, offering a memorable and intimate dining experience.

Creative Asian fusion shines with a wide variety of fish flown from Japan. The omakase table offers a fun and personal dining experience guided by knowledgeable chefs.

People are saying

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

"This intimate Japanese food experience felt like a secret clubhouse."

"The Omakase felt like a hidden, intimate experience in a cozy space."

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.

18
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.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and beautiful plating, delivering full flavor in every bite. The omakase bar offers an intimate tasting experience with a curated menu that highlights specialty sushi.

An intimate setting highlights the omakase bar where every bite of the curated tasting menu stands out. Dishes like amberjack and tuna run shine alongside a notable salad appetizer.

People are saying

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

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

"The Omakase here is phenomenal, with standout dishes like amberjack."

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.

19
Green Tea Japanese Restaurant image 1

Sushi restaurant offers a cozy, intimate space with modern Japanese-inspired decor and an open kitchen. Atmosphere feels clean and inviting with lowfi jazz music playing softly. Small size suits quiet dinners, though noise can rise with lively conversation.

Rich, creamy tonkotsu broth defines the ramen here, with a spicy version that stands out. High quality sushi and soft shell crab tempura offer great variety and freshness.

Nigiri omakase features gold leaf, truffle, ikura, and uni toppers. The set includes miso soup and salad alongside selections like Spicy Kampachi and Grilled Squid Robata.

People are saying

"The staff's kindness made the Japanese food experience feel special."

"It's such a cozy little place with a warm, welcoming atmosphere."

"The Omakase here feels so warm and welcoming."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited seating.

3

A $20 'large party' fee applies for groups over four.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...