Food & Drink

Slaying Sashimi: The 6 Best Spots for Raw Fish in Chicago

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, you’ll know that sashimi is a must-try dish.

This traditional Japanese delicacy is made up of thin slices of raw fish, which are served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. But where can you find the best sashimi in Chicago?

Chicago has a vibrant food scene, with a plethora of restaurants that specialize in Japanese cuisine. From high-end sushi spots to casual eateries, there are plenty of options to choose from.

However, not all sashimi is created equal, and it can be hard to know where to go for the best quality fish.

That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve scoured the city to find the top places for sashimi in Chicago. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or a newcomer to Japanese cuisine, we’ve got you covered.

From classic salmon sashimi to more adventurous options like octopus and sea urchin, there’s something for everyone on this list. So sit back, grab some chopsticks, and get ready to discover the best sashimi in Chicago.

1. Momotaro

Momotaro
820 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607 (Google Maps)

Momotaro is a modern Japanese restaurant that offers top-quality sushi and sashimi.

The fish is flown in, ensuring freshness and high-quality ingredients. The presentation of the dishes is fantastic, and the service is excellent.

The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, recommending perfect sake pairings for the food. While the prices are on the higher side, the complexity and quality of the food justify the cost.

Momotaro is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and exquisite sushi experience.

2. SUSHI DOKKU Japanese Restaurant

Sushi Dokku Japanese Restaurant
823 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 (Google Maps)

SUSHI DOKKU Japanese Restaurant is a chic and minimalist spot that serves up delicious sushi, sashimi, and Japanese small plates.

Their Nigiri is a must-try, especially the Wagyu, Uni, Unagi, and Sake nigiri. The Grilled Octopus appetizer is also highly recommended.

While the Maki rolls are good, they aren't as mind-blowing as the Nigiri. The service is on point and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu.

The only downside is that the prices are on the higher end of the spectrum. If you're looking for a fancy sushi experience, SUSHI DOKKU Japanese Restaurant is definitely worth checking out.

3. Umai

Umai
730 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60605 (Google Maps)

Umai is a stylish Japanese restaurant that serves up fresh and tasty sushi, including a variety of other Japanese dishes.

The attentive service and great atmosphere make for a pleasant dining experience. The tempura dishes are light and crunchy, and the sushi is always fresh.

The spicy garlic pork ramen is a must-try, and the tempura oyster appetizer is phenomenal.

Vegetarian options are available, and the prices are reasonable. Umai is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner, and delivery is also available.

4. Hinoki Sushiko

Hinoki Sushiko
1465 W Willow St, Chicago, IL 60642 (Google Maps)

Looking for the best sashimi in town, look no further than Hinoki Sushiko. With some of the thickest cuts of fish around, this sushi spot is a must-visit for any seafood lover.

The restaurant offers a simple and plain selection of nigiri, but don't let that fool you. Each piece is packed with flavor and will leave you wanting more.

The service is top-notch, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. If you're looking for a more private experience, try the 15-course chef's sushi dinner.

The atmosphere is inviting, and the decor is stunning. Hinoki Sushiko is a hidden gem that you won't want to miss.

5. Kai Sushi

Kai Sushi
1255 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605 (Google Maps)

Kai Sushi is a must-visit for anyone looking for quality sashimi. The sushi is consistently good and well-priced.

The outdoor patio is dog-friendly, and the service is excellent. The shrimp udon is a standout dish that is worth taking home.

The sushi is fresh and clean, and the wasabi is delicious.

Kai Sushi is a simple space that serves familiar sushi rolls and sashimi, along with udon noodle dishes. It's an affordable and great spot for sushi in the area.

6. Sushi Taku-Logan Square

Sushi Taku-Logan Square
2283 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (Google Maps)

Sushi Taku-Logan Square is a top-notch spot for sashimi. The quality of the fish is exceptional, and the portions are generous.

The service is efficient and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience.

The menu is varied, with a good selection of appetizers and rolls to choose from.

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided. If you're a fan of sashimi, Sushi Taku-Logan Square is definitely worth a visit.