Tenjin Japanese Restaurant
Tenjin Japanese Restaurant — high-caliber japanese in Skokie. Nothing about this place is trying to impress you, and that's the point. Technique and tradition show up on every plate. "The pork cutlet was on a bed of caramelized onions that added to the flavor" — George Hengels [$$]
What 668 diners keep saying
What 668 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“This was a fun little gem to find while in the area on a work trip. The staff was polite and quick. The food was so fresh and delicious. I had the edamame to start followed by their nigiri sushi options. 100% would recommend to anyone. The fish was so fresh and clean tasting, and the bottle of saki I had paired perfectly. Don't let the strip mall exterior fool you this is a top place for sushi and Japanese cuisine.”

“First time visit. Made a last-minute reservation on Toast and was seated immediately. Sushi was excellent and you can taste fresh ingredients and fresh fish. Smaller roll and portion sizes. Food is slightly expensive but worth the handmade quality and service you get. Will come earlier next time since the kitchen closed before we could order more! Slightly limited parking in back.”

“When I was a child, I always thought Renga-Tei is where rich folks went out to eat Japanese food. This place hasn’t changed in decades, and in many ways, that is why it is still popular. They still take reservations only by phone and are written in a notebook. Their dishes from bento boxes to sake probably have been prepared the same way since I was a child. It’s not trendy, nor is it flashy or fancy. Just solidly good food with excellent service. Update: first time visiting since the name change. The old Renga-Tei was quite good. But the new Tenjin modernized the old and continues the excellent tradition. If it’s on the special menu, it’s worth getting. Even miso udon had unforgettable broth with perfectly cooked egg and tofu skin. Service is as good as ever. So glad to see this transformation. Update: Its special A5 Wagu hotpot was one of the best dishes ever.”

“I like to come here after work or even with my friends and family on the weekend. Everything is always delicious. Can’t wait to try more on the menu. いつもありがとうございました!”

“Favorite sushi restaurant on the North side! The quality of their fish cannot be matched. Always fresh and delicious. I have a sesame allergy that they go above and beyond to accommodate. The wine list is great too with monthly features and happy hour options!”

“Everything we ordered was delicious, and I really enjoyed the ambiance of the restaurant. So far, this is the best Japanese restaurant I’ve ever been to in the area. The nigiri was incredibly fresh!”

“This place amazing! Great service, fresh sushi and good prices. I went with a patient of mine in a wheelchair and they were more than happy to accommodate his needs. I wish I took a picture of the Dragon roll and bento 🍱 I assure you won't be disappointed!”

“Great portion sizes and great tasting food. Pork katsu, chicken katsu, gyoza, shishito peppers, and coffee jelly.”

“Their food definitely reminded us of Japan. We went there last year and their food matched the same taste and quality that you would get in Japan. Not too salty either. I always go for their sushi and miso soup. The only thing I wished they had better of, was their hojicha tea - wished it was stronger like it is in Japan. Other than that, I’ll come back to try some more stuff on the menu :)”
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