The Izakaya at Momotaro

Name: The Izakaya at Momotaro
Address: 820 W. Lake St, Chicago, IL, United States, 60607
Telephone: (312) 733-4818
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.7

4.7 (900)

$31 to $50

Japanese

820 W. Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607

Make a reservation

2 people

Jun 6, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 67 times today

About this restaurant

Lively
Great for creative cocktails
Good for special occasions

The Izakaya is located on the subterranean level of Momotaro. The Izakaya and its shared-plates pub-inspired menu echoes the Yokocho street scene of Tokyo. Narrow lounge-inspired ‘alleys’ around a central bar bedecked with hand-painted Japanese menus, moody neon lights, and vintage Tokyo street signs set the scene for the Izakaya’s direct nod to Tokyo’s most famous post-war black markets. Dark, energetic, and ripe with expectation, the Izakaya additionally offers a 30-seat bar featuring crafted cocktails, sakes, and a quality selection of Japanese whiskeys. Parties and programming are no strangers to the Izakaya, where a rotating selection of events, including Monday Night Karaoke, feel right at home in this lively lower-level atmosphere.

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Japanese, Sushi, Seafood
Hours of operation
Dinner Wed, Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
Phone number
(312) 733-4818
Website
http://www.momotarochicago.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Gene Kato
Private party facilities
The Izakaya is located on the subterranean level of Momotaro
Private party contact
our Event Sales Manager: (312) 773-4818
Delivery & takeout
Order direct

Location
820 W. Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607
Neighborhood
West Loop
Cross street
Green
Parking details
Valet is located on the corner of Lake & Green
Public transit
#8 Halsted Bus at Lake Street. Green & Pink line at Morgan stop.
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Gift card

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Private dining

Popular dishes

Edamame$8.00
Japanese sea salt
Baby Green Salad$12.00
mizuna, carrot-citrus dressing
Uni Deviled Egg$12.00
curry spice, chive, shiso
Miso Soup$8.00
house tofu, wakame, honshimeji mushroom
Nikkei Scallop Ceviche$16.00
sashimi scallop, pickled persimmon, pine nuts, shiso oil
Blistered Shishito$12.00
bonito mayonnaise, togarashi
Tuna Tostada*$16.00
crispy nori, tuna tartare, avocado, pickled red onion, lime
Gyoza
pork & chicken filling, soy dipping sauce
- 6 Pieces$14.00
Satsumaimo Fries$9.00
Japanese sweet potato fries, miso mayo
Shake'n Kato Wings$16.00
kaarage chicken wings (choice of ramen or fire spice blends)
Mishima Skirt Steak*$18.00
robata yaki, seasoned with Japanese sea salt

Tonkatsu

Berkshire Pork Ribs$18.00
8oz baby back ribs, curry spice, white kimchi, ponzu, Asian chimichurri
Chicken Katsu$24.00
crispy panko-crusted chicken thigh, sweet and savory curry sauce, pickled turnip

Iza Classics

Uni Pasta$23.00
uni, rock shrimp, shiso
Hamachi Kama (Collar)$14.00
"kalbi" marinade, red miso crust, garic aioli
A5 Cup Noodle*$38.00
sliced A5 tenderloin, pickled shishito, umami paste, soft-poached egg, shio tare
The Momo Royale$20.00
double-patty burger, house-made bao bun, satsumaimo fries

Rice

Yakitori Don*$16.00
grilled chicken thigh, chicken tare, soft-poached egg
Chahan*$22.00
stone bowl beef fried rice, wild maitake, soft-poached egg
Tamaki Gold$6.00
steamed short grain rice

Sashimi

garnished with myoga salad, pickled ginger, wasabi

Shima Aji$7.00
striped jack
Akami$7.00
bluefin tuna loin
Chutoro$11.00
medium fat bluefin belly
Otoro$13.00
fatty bluefin belly
Madai$7.00
snapper

Temaki

Momo Jr$22.00
spicy octopus, tuna tartar, pickled daikon, nikiri
Scallop$16.00
diver scallop, yuzu kosho, pickled onion, fried garlic
Shio Koji Sake$16.00
salmon, avocado mousse, salmon skin, ikura
King Crab$26.00
king crab, ginger mayo, tempura shallot, lemon wedge

Donburi

Tuna, Tuna, Tuna$28.00
akami, chutoro, tartar, nikiri, myoga salad, wasabi
Jewel Bako$38.00
Chef's selection of seasonal fish and caviar. Myoga salad, pickled watermelon radish, pickled ginger, nori sheet

Cocktails

Monk's Journey$17.00
chicago distilling ceres vodka, aloe liqueur, matcha, lime
Before & After$16.00
broker's gin, manzanilla sherry, luxardo aperitivo, chamomile, lime
A Land Apart$16.00
espolon tequila, fruitful dragonberry, ming river baijiu, manzanilla sherry, coconut milk
Strawberry Swing$17.00
el guel mezcal, pineau des charentes, strawberry shiso cordial, thai spice bitters, lime
White Lotus$17.00
flor de cana rum, jasmine, cardamom, red clover bitters
Kaba Old Fashioned*$18.00
evan williams bourbon, mars iwai whisky, turbinado, cherry bark and sarsaparilla bitters

Highballs

Roku Highball$13.00
shiso & ginger infused roku gin, toki water
Toki Highball$13.00
suntory toki whisky, toki water
Haku Highball$13.00
hibiscus infused haku vodka, toki water

Sake

Honjozo

Dry Mountain$14.00

Junmai

Itami Onigoroshi$13.00
served hot
- Kettle (500ml)$52.00
Karakuchi Premium Dry$16.00
Mirror of Truth$16.00

Junmai Ginjo

Black Dragon$17.00
Nakao's Secret$16.00
Bride of the Fox$18.00

Junmai Daiginjo

Demon Slayer, Onikoroshi$19.00
The One with the Clocks$20.00
Pearls of Simplicity$21.00
Heaven & Earth$18.00

Nigori

Dreamy Clouds$17.00
tokubetsu junmai nigori
The Blue One$16.00
junmai nigori

Umeshu

Kiuchi$16.00

Flights

Japanese Whisky

1 oz Pour

Donyu Suru: An Intro$28.00
mars iwai; akashi blended; suntory toki
Nikka: by Japan's Oldest Distillery$50.00
from the barrel coffey grain; taketsuru pure malt

Gin

1 oz Pour

Gin Shotto: Silvershot$34.00
ki no bi; nikka coffey; suntory roku

Sake

1.5 oz Pour

Mizu to Mai: Water + Rice = Sake$30.00
karakuchi premium dry (junmai); nakao's secret (junmai ginjo); dreamy clouds (nigori)
The Fifty Percent: Junmai Daiginjo$34.00
the one with the clocks; pearls of simplicity; demon slayer
U(mai)mi: Earthy & Rich$31.00
black dragon; bride of the fox; heaven & earth

What 900 people are saying

The Izakaya at Momotaro reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.6Service
4.7Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

The Izakaya at Momotaro offers a vibrant atmosphere that transports diners to a modern Tokyo setting. Known for its "fantastic burgers" and "delicious wings," the restaurant's food consistently impresses. Service is attentive, with staff making special occasions memorable. Despite some noise, the "amazing vibes" and "unique cocktails" create an unforgettable dining experience.

900 Reviews

J
Jay
Chicago / Illinois2 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
It was quite a nice experience and all the food was very tasty. Service attentive but not overbearing. Room is very cool.
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded 2 days ago
Thanks so much, Jay! We’re glad you had a great time with us—the balance of bold flavors, good vibes, and just-right service is exactly what we aim for. Appreciate you shouting out the space, too… we do love our moody little hideaway. Hope to see you again soon! Kanpai, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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N
Natasha
Tampa / Central Florida West1 review
5.0
Dined on May 25, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I was amazed when I first walked in here. The ambience of the place is on another level that made me feel like I was walking to a techno, electrifying Tokyo. Each seating arrangement was well thought out and no matter where you’re sat, you got a good vibe of the place. For drinks we got the Kobayashi which was an ube coconut cocktail and although I wish it was stronger, that was probably the best drink I’ve ever tried. My boyfriend got the Liquid luck and it was a sour strawberry cocktail and he said it’s something he could keep drinking. For food we got the Momo Royale (it 100% loved up to the hype of one of the best burgers. The bun was soft yet slightly crispy on the outside which was amazing). We also got the Tebasaki Wings! We were hesitant at first because we were told it was only 4 wings. But they’re actually a decent size and we were very full after splitting the burger and sharing the wings. I’m so happy that I listened to all the other good reviews and made a reservation. The service was also really good!
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 28, 2025
Dear Natasha, You just made our day with this review! We love that the vibe transported you, and we’re so glad the Kobayashi, Liquid Luck, and Momo Royale delivered the full Izakaya experience. And yes—the wings are small in number but mighty in flavor. Thank you for trusting the hype (and the reviews)—we’re thrilled you made that reservation and can’t wait to have you back for round two! Kanpai, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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J
Joe
Chicago / Illinois2 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 22, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 5
The food and atmosphere were excellent. I highly recommend this establishment.
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 28, 2025
Dear Joe, Short, sweet, and music to our ears! We’re so glad you enjoyed the food and atmosphere—and we truly appreciate the recommendation. Hope to see you back again soon for another great night at The Izakaya. Kanpai, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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B
Brad
Seattle / Eastern Washington1 review
5.0
Dined on May 16, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had a wonderful time at the Izakaya of Momotaro. Decided to choose this excellent restaurant to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and it did not disappoint. First, the staff was so nice in making us feel special from the moment we walked up to the host stand. Once we told them our names, they immediately wished us a happy anniversary, and the menus even had it written on it - such a nice surprise! Our server was attentive and always around if we needed anything. Can’t praise the staff enough! Next, on to the food. We are a bit picky, in that we lived in Japan for a number of years, so experienced a large number of Japanese izakayas. Momotaro’s Izakaya was no where close to one you find in Japan, but to be fair, we haven’t found one similar in the states. I also don’t think that is exactly what they are going for, but more of a modern and hip take on a Japanese Izakaya - which they did well. We had the hamakama, tebasaki, Tsukune, gyoza, satsumaimo fries, and tropical sundae. Everything was so delicious, and the portions were very good - I haven’t seen that much meat on a hamakama in some time. The only knock I have is that this place is a bit loud…and my spouse’s voice doesn’t travel that well. That hurt the mood a little bit, but a minor complaint overall. We didn’t try the cheeseburger even though every one raves about it….i just couldn’t…I mean it is an Izakaya…
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 16, 2025
Hi Brad, Thank you for celebrating your anniversary with us—it means a lot! We’re so glad our team helped make it feel special and that you enjoyed the dishes, especially the hamakama. Your perspective as someone who’s lived in Japan is truly appreciated, and we’re proud to offer a modern spin that still honors the izakaya spirit. We hear you on the volume—it’s definitely a lively space, and we’re always working on finding the right balance. As for the burger… maybe next time? Hope to welcome you back again soon! Kanpai, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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j
joe VIP
Chicago / Illinois18 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 15, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Love this place. The crispy rice and the burger is off the charts...
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 16, 2025
Joe, We love hearing that! The Chahan and the burger are definitely crowd favorites, and we’re thrilled they hit the mark for you. Thanks for the kind words—we’ll have both ready for you next time! Cheers, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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J
Jolie VIP
Chicago / Illinois3 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 14, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
One of the best in the city! The food and service are great!
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 16, 2025
Jolie, One of the best in the city?! That means the world to us—thank you! We’re so glad you had a great time with both the food and the service. Can’t wait to welcome you back for more! Cheers, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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C
Cecilia
Orange County1 review
4.0
Dined on May 12, 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
Food was amazing, service was great! Though there was a little bit of a wait between courses. Overall, great first experience. Will be coming back!
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 16, 2025
Hi Cecilia, We’re so glad you had a great first visit! Thank you for the kind words about the food and service—and for your patience between courses. We’ll keep working to tighten that up. Can’t wait to have you back for round two! Cheers, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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B
Brandon
Chicago / Illinois4 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 10, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Food was amazing. Attentive staff, and the ambience is great. This was my second time at Izakaya and this experience was what brought me back, again.
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 16, 2025
Hi Brandon, We’re so glad you came back—and even happier to hear the experience delivered again! Thank you for the kind words about the food, team, and atmosphere. We’ll be ready whenever you’re back for visit number three! Cheers, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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P
Priscilla VIP
Chicago / Illinois15 reviews
3.0
Dined on May 6, 2025
1. Overall 3
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 2
The food was phenomenal, however very expensive. We did not know it was karaoke night, which truly ruined the evening, it was terrible. Do NOT go on Mondays unless you want to participate in karaoke in a small and very loud space.
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on May 7, 2025
Hi Priscilla, Thanks so much for the feedback! We’re glad you loved the food and appreciate you sharing your thoughts about the Monday night scene. Karaoke night definitely brings a big energy—and it’s not everyone’s vibe. We’d love to have you back on a quieter night to enjoy the experience from a different angle! Kanpai, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya.
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S
Shon VIP
Chicago / Illinois12 reviews
4.0
Dined on April 20, 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
This was my second time at Izakaya at Momotaro -- a cozy, hidden gem tucked underneath the main restaurant. The space has a low-key, intimate Japanese vibe that's perfect for drinks and catching up with friends. Now let's talk about the star of the show: the Momo Royale burger. If you're coming here, you have to try it. It's hands down one of my top 5 burgers in Chicago. The bao bun is pillowy, the patty is rich and flavorful, and it all just comes together beautifully. It's served with sweet potato fries -- and listen, I'm not usually into sweet potato fries, but these were genuinely so good, especially with their dipping sauce. We also tried the hand roll, tuna tartare, and gyoza. Those were fine -- nothing bad, but nothing that stood out either. The burger definitely stole the spotlight. They've got a solid selection of sake, and while the prices lean a bit high (especially if you're drinking), the overall experience makes it worth it. This place is great for a chill pregame spot or a wind-down hang with friends.
The Izakaya at MomotaroResponded on April 26, 2025
Shon, you’re officially part of the inner circle now — and honestly, we’re honored. Thank you for the amazing review! You nailed the vibe: cozy, a little hidden, and full of flavor bombs like the Momo Royale (our not-so-secret weapon). We're also taking a victory lap for winning you over with those sweet potato fries — welcome to the good side. Can’t wait to have you back for more late-night snacks, sake splashes, and all the low-key magic. Kanpai, Merissa White General Manager Momotaro & The Izakaya
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FAQs

The Izakaya at Momotaro offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (312) 733-4818.

The Izakaya at Momotaro is rated 4.7 stars by 900 OpenTable diners.

The Izakaya at Momotaro does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Jun 6, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 67 times today

820 W. Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607

Additional information

Cross street
Green
Neighborhood
West Loop
Hours of operation
Dinner Wed, Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Japanese, Sushi, Seafood
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Valet is located on the corner of Lake & Green
Public transit
#8 Halsted Bus at Lake Street. Green & Pink line at Morgan stop.
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Gene Kato
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine
Delivery & takeout
Order direct

Website
http://www.momotarochicago.com/
Phone number
(312) 733-4818
Private party facilities
The Izakaya is located on the subterranean level of Momotaro
Private party contact
our Event Sales Manager: (312) 773-4818

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card

The Izakaya at Momotaro

Make a reservation

About this restaurant

Additional information

Gift card

The Izakaya Private Dining Room

The Izakaya Buyout

Custom inquiry

Uni Pasta

Tuna Tuna Tuna

Tuna Tostada

Small Plates

Edamame$8.00

Baby Green Salad$12.00

Uni Deviled Egg$12.00

Miso Soup$8.00

Nikkei Scallop Ceviche$16.00

Blistered Shishito$12.00

Tuna Tostada*$16.00

Gyoza

Satsumaimo Fries$9.00

Shake'n Kato Wings$16.00

Mishima Skirt Steak*$18.00

Tonkatsu

Berkshire Pork Ribs$18.00

Chicken Katsu$24.00

Iza Classics

Uni Pasta$23.00

Hamachi Kama (Collar)$14.00

A5 Cup Noodle*$38.00

The Momo Royale$20.00

Rice

Yakitori Don*$16.00

Chahan*$22.00

Tamaki Gold$6.00

Sashimi

Shima Aji$7.00

Akami$7.00

Chutoro$11.00

Otoro$13.00

Madai$7.00

Temaki

Momo Jr$22.00

Scallop$16.00

Shio Koji Sake$16.00

King Crab$26.00

Donburi

Tuna, Tuna, Tuna$28.00

Jewel Bako$38.00

Cocktails

Monk's Journey$17.00

Before & After$16.00

A Land Apart$16.00

Strawberry Swing$17.00

White Lotus$17.00

Kaba Old Fashioned*$18.00

Highballs

Roku Highball$13.00

Toki Highball$13.00

Haku Highball$13.00

Sake

Honjozo

Dry Mountain$14.00

Junmai

Itami Onigoroshi$13.00

Karakuchi Premium Dry$16.00

Mirror of Truth$16.00

Junmai Ginjo

Black Dragon$17.00

Nakao's Secret$16.00

Bride of the Fox$18.00

Junmai Daiginjo

Demon Slayer, Onikoroshi$19.00

The One with the Clocks$20.00

Pearls of Simplicity$21.00

Heaven & Earth$18.00

Nigori

Dreamy Clouds$17.00

The Blue One$16.00

Umeshu