CASA MADAI
Yevette Brown · 116 Google reviewsCASA MADAI — top-tier japanese in Pilsen. The kind of room you save for someone special. Drink selection punches above its weight, and BYOB. Edwin Roa: "The omakese is phenomenal, they have such great combinations of flavors" [$$]
What 193 diners keep saying
What 193 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Thank you for helping me make my friends birthday night special. We’re hip hop heads and the music just hit, felt like someone jacked our playlist. It was BYOB and I loved that the server brought a glass with ice and tajin rim for our drink. Loved all the art and decor. The food was definitely good. I love places that bring a fusion/ twist to sushi. Looking forward to more fusion options. The creme brulee was small and tasted more like a flan but still good. Loved the uniqueness of the mole scallops.”
“A hidden gem in Pilsen and the city. Some of the best sushi I’ve had. Staff was the nicest! The the Mexican sake was bomb. Loved their Pilsen roll and the red miso soup. Will go definitely back to try more! Oh and the tres leches cake was outstanding! @chicagopescetarian”
“TL;DR: 10/10. Incredible fusion of Japanese and Mexican flavors, amazing atmosphere, genuinely spicy edamame, and some of the friendliest, most knowledgeable staff I’ve encountered. My new favorite sushi spot. I came here because I was curious about the Japanese-Mexican fusion, and it completely exceeded my expectations. The atmosphere is fantastic—open, welcoming, and filled with great ’90s rap and R&B that sets the perfect vibe. The menu is concise, but everything looked so good it was hard to choose. I ordered the Pilsen Roll and the spicy edamame. The edamame was actually spicy (not just coated in chili oil), with great seasoning and real heat. The Pilsen Roll was an easy 10/10. What impressed me most is how intentional the food feels. The Japanese and Mexican flavors complement each other instead of competing, and you can tell a lot of thought went into every dish. The staff was also incredibly knowledgeable and happy to explain the ingredients and flavor combinations. This was an outstanding experience from start to finish. I’ll definitely be back—this is my new favorite spot.”
“The time spent here was amazing. First time sushi eater and the selections were amazing. Tasted so fresh and was given good recommendations by Jesus. Def recommend to come visit for a first timer.”
“An amazing experience. We did the chef’s omakase and every dish was thoughtful and delicious. Cocktails were perfectly crafted. Service was stellar.”
“The best sushi you will ever have! The Mexican touch is incredible, every bite was delicious, the service is impeccable and the vibe is beautiful. We had the omakase and it was fabulous. Chef Ismael Lucero Lopez is a super star!”
“I’ve lived in Chicago 6 years and my recent dining experience for my anniversary dinner takes the lead as my #1 favorite for food and experience (ambiance/service/vibes). Ismael is an experienced sushi chef who takes the time to connect with you as a diner and educate you on the ingredients and techniques involved in each thoughtfully curated bite. When I tell you that I was happy dancing after every course, I’m being literal. At moments I had to close my eyes because it was so fun to just focus on so many contrasting flavors and textures without any one being overpowering. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the professionalism and personality of both Juan and Ismael! The vibes were great, it was dimly lit, romantic, while still having energy. The restaurant was quiet when we went but we felt blessed for that and staff made us feel like we rented the place out with their attention and care throughout the night. We made another reservation mid meal because we already knew we couldn’t wait to come back. Don’t wait for a special occasion like we did, life is the occasion and this place deserves a spot on your restaurant rotation!”
“Went out on Valentine's Day for the Omakase. Was easily the best Nigiri I have ever had. Fantastic experience and really wowed. One of my favorite dining experiences!”
“Hidden gem with the freshest food! If you haven't been to Casa Madi yet, you are missing out. The food is so tasty and clearly made with fresh ingredients. Every bite was delicious! Beyond the kitchen, the service is excellent—they really make you feel welcome. Such a great spot for a fresh, flavorful meal.”
“There are few places that actually execute fusion cuisine… A lot of times you get an alternating-dish menu, or a misplaced “ethnic” cilantro leaf among an otherwise predictable dish. Casa Madai knocks it out of the park, with truly innovative, fusion dishes (salsa matcha on a toro tostada!? No, seriously, get the tostada). Rooted and perfectly comfortable in the Pilsen neighborhood, it’s a wonderful place for date night, a hangout with the guys (DO THE OMAKASE), or a random weekday. A highly recommended stop for a unique experience.”
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