The Windy City is known for its exceptional dining experiences. While many establishments make a strong case for being the best Japanese restaurant in Chicago, locals and tourists alike are fortunate enough to have several exceptional choices in every neighborhood.
Enjoy award-winning cocktails and sushi in the West Loop. Slurp up noodles in 10-hour broth cooked by the “Ramen Lord” himself in Logan Square. Or go all in with an hours-long omakase experience in Lincoln Park.
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Read on to discover the 12 best Japanese restaurants in Chicago right now.
For a 2-in-1 space for top-tier Japanese food — check out Momotaro (West Loop)
Momotaro delivers a 2-for-1 Japanese experience. The robata grill turns out smoky charred skewers, while sushi stuns with top-tier fish and artful presentation. Don’t skip the spicy beef curry spaghetti or the Miyazaki wagyu. The multi-level space—upscale dining room upstairs and a moody izakaya ideal for drinks downstairs—sets the scene for an unforgettable meal, making it no surprise it’s been deemed “Restaurant of the Year” by Chicago Magazine.
For a MICHELIN-Starred restaurant with top-notch cocktails — book a table at Kumiko (West Loop)
MICHELIN-Starred Kumiko bills itself as a “dining bar”—meaning its award-winning cocktails and spirits are equally renowned as the refined Japanese dishes. This minimalist space sets the stage for standout dishes like a wagyu katsu sandwich and fried sweetbreads meant to be paired with drinks curated by award-winning bartender Julia Momosé. Splurge for the tasting menu with drink pairings for a night you won’t soon forget.
For a vibey sushi bar locals flock to for date night — head over to SUSHI-SAN (River North and Lincoln Park)
With multiple locations across Chicago, Sushi San brings a fresh, modern spin to Japanese dining with high-quality fish, bold flavors, and an energetic vibe, thanks to some awesome hip-hop tracks. The menu shines with Japanese favorites like maki rolls, sizzling lobster kimchi rice, and a robust Japanese whiskey and sake menu. Reserve the 10-seat omakase experience at the River North location for an extra-special occasion, or book the private events space in Lincoln Park.
For a cozy bowl of umami-filled ramen at one of the best Japanese restaurants in Chicago — try Akahoshi Ramen (Logan Square)
Named one of the Best Restaurants in America in 2024 by Bon Appétit, Akahoshi Ramen isn’t your old-school mom-and-pop ramen shop, something chef Mike Satinover (aka Ramen Lord to his Reddit followers) isn’t shy about saying. Pop into the modern dining room filled with clean lines and warm wood to dig into a bowl of the signature miso ramen, or opt for the soupless tantanmen with just right chewy noodles topped with ground pork and ma-la spice. Pair them with Japanese sake or whiskey.
For top-notch Japanese dishes with spectacular city views — head over to Miru at the St. Regis Chicago (River North)
With a prime location on the 11th floor of the gleaming The St. Regis Chicago, Miru has breathtaking skyline views and impeccable Japanese cuisine. The sleek, sophisticated space has become a go-to for date nights and special occasions. Standouts include crispy whole snapper, wild mushroom sizzling rice, and savory robata offerings. A curated selection of rare Japanese whiskeys and sake complements the menu, making this a hotspot for both locals and visitors.
For Iron Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s iconic dishes with an epic rooftop view — go to Nobu (West Loop)
Located in the West Loop on “Restaurant Row,” the only Midwest outpost of Nobu delivers the famous blend of luxury and artistry that made the global brand famous. The opulent dining room with soaring ceilings and a dramatic flower chandelier sets the stage for acclaimed chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature dishes, from black cod miso to yellowtail jalapeño sashimi. Japanese techniques combined with Peruvian influences create flavor profiles you’ll want to keep returning for. Head up to the rooftop lounge for drinks.
For a modern-day izakaya mood at a best Japanese restaurant Chicago — make the trek to Itoko (Lakeview/East Lakeview)
Itoko is executive chef Momotaro Gene Kato’s vision for a traditional neighborhood Japanese robata joint. It delivers an inspired mix of sushi, robata, and izakaya-style bites with a modern edge. Expect ultra-fresh sashimi, stellar hand rolls, and expertly grilled skewers. The stylish, wood-accented space sets the stage for a communal dining experience. Don’t miss the A5 wagyu or the creative cocktails to complete your meal.
For homemade ramen and other Japanese-inspired comfort foods — stop by RAMEN-SAN (River North, Lincoln Park, Fulton Market and Streeterville)
With four busy locations across the city, Ramen-San delivers Japanese soul food with a rock-and-roll attitude. The broth—simmered for hours—creates the foundation for chewy noodles and toppings that range from traditional chashu to unexpected fried chicken and kimchi. Warm wood and high-top seating give the dining room a real neighborhood gathering spot feel. A vibrant hip-hop soundtrack and sake shots (try the spicy kimchi shot) make each a late-night go-to.
For savory Japanese pancakes — head on over to Gaijin (West Loop)
Chicago’s first okonomiyaki spot, Gaijin, slings out Japan’s famous savory pancakes for those lucky enough to score a table in the cozy, 60-seat dining room. Layered Hiroshima-style pancakes like classic yakisoba, bacon, and egg can be ordered with Osaka-style pancakes where all the toppings like tempura shrimp and corn are mixed together and built on a cabbage base. Leave room for the kakigori, a special Japanese shaved ice dessert and mochi donuts.
For an epic 20-course tasting menu at a best Japanese restaurant Chicago contender — go to Juno (Lincoln Park)
Delicate sashimi, signature smoked hamachi, and inventive maki rolls make the MICHELIN-recognized Juno a must-visit. The glossy, minimalist space sets the stage for an unforgettable 20-course omakase experience. If ordering a la carte, don’t skip the charred octopus or the tuna trio. Pair fresh-cut sushi with top-shelf sake, and it’s clear why Juno is a top contender for the best Japanese restaurant in Chicago.
For the freshest fish flown from around the world — reserve a seat at 312 Fish Market (Lower West Side)
Make your way through 88 Marketplace to discover its not-so-best kept secret: 312 Fish Market. Bringing Tokyo’s legendary seafood culture to Chicago, this spot serves fresh fish—from buttery otoro to Kauai prawns—best enjoyed at the counter. The signature handrolls star warm rice and exceptional fish wrapped in crisp nori. You can even indulge in a 17-course tasting menu.
For some of Chicago’s finest sushi — book a table at Raisu (Irving Park)
Local fans rave that Raisu serves some of the highest-quality fish in the city, which makes sense since they have fish flown in straight from Japan weekly. Try to book a seat at the sushi counter, arguably the star of the cozy dining room. Order the delicately crispy tempura combo and smoked salmon sashimi to start. Follow that up with any of the signature makis. A culinary journey awaits, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend date night.
Locals will tell you dining out in Chicago is an adventure, and it’ll be hard to go wrong with any of these beloved Japanese restaurants. From the freshest seafood flown straight in from Tokyo to tasting menu experiences that you can linger over to rich broths boiled for hours for that comforting bowl of ramen, there are dishes for every taste and mood.
Just make sure you don’t get stuck waiting at the last minute by reserving a seat ahead of time.
Secure your spot at the best Japanese restaurant for you in Chicago by booking a table on OpenTable today.
Now that you have decided the best Japanese restaurant in Chicago for you, check out these city guides for more stellar dining options in the city:
- 10 can’t-miss Chicago pizza restaurants
- 12 top restaurants for every kind of date in Chicago
- 10 top-notch Indian restaurants in Chicago
- 10 top Chicago restaurants for group dining
Esther Carlstone is a travel and food writer based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in publications such as Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Tripadvisor, Insider, and more. Follow her on Instagram @familyfieldtrip.
