The Izakaya
Julian Harrell · 110 Google reviewsThe Izakaya — West Loop japanese where the Uni Pasta sets the tone. Worth ordering a drink, because the bar holds its own. "The aesthetics are incredible & of course the service is just perfect" — Jen. [$$]
What 1,149 diners keep saying
What 1,149 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“One of my favorite Chicago spots. Food, drinks and vibe is all there. The momo royal is a hidden gem.”
“Been wanting to eat dinner here for a while and I'm so happy to have finally tried it. Ambiance and service were both killer - there's no mistaking you're in a hidden joint in a big cosmopolitan city. Happy to report the food matched the atmosphere! Our favorite dishes were the Satsumaimo Fries, Happi Salada, and Chahan - all amazing and full of well curated flavors. Sashimi was a little disappointing and a bit more fishy tasting than we were expecting. Still an amazing meal overall and I can't wait to return.”
“The Izakaya was a nice vibe. The music was on point, the service was excellent, and the food quite delicious. I will definitely return so I can enjoy this great spot that was recommended by my son. Alex, our waitress, was quite attentive, as well as all of the other staff.”
“Came to Momotaro for Chicago Restaurant Week and was honestly blown away. I took a look at their regular menu and was surprised by how affordable it actually is for the quality! Way more approachable than I expected. Incredible value. The service was excellent from start to finish: attentive, friendly, and never rushed. The space itself is beautiful, modern, warm, and energetic without being loud. Just great vibes all around. Perfect spot for lunch, date night, or hanging out with friends. Everything about the experience felt effortless and well thought out. Will absolutely be coming back, Restaurant Week or not.”
“Peter was legit. That guy ran through all the drinks, flavor profiles, all without ever looking at the menu. Place looks awesome!! The atmosphere was 🔥.”
“The drinks are practical and good; however, the individuals behind the bar have talent. I appreciate the off menu cocktail. The food is 10/10. Had one item from each part of the menu and almost finished every last morsel. So good. Going back. Enough said.”
“The Izakaya is a nostalgic piece of Japan right in the heart of West Loop - amazing! A few steps off of Lake & Green, guests descend into a basement that transports you to another world that would normally require a passport and a pricey plane ticket. Well-placed lanterns and string lights provide a warm glow that compliment the vibey playlist accompanying an absolutely delicious menu and super friendly service. The Momo Royal is Chicago hamburger royalty worthy of standing alongside other West Loop heavy hitters. Perfectly cooked French fries and miso mayo round out a comforting yet luxurious plate of food (at a very reasonable price of $25). Also enjoyed the Miyato Precision mocktail, which is top tier for any NA option I’ve encountered globally. The Izakaya is fiya!!!! 10/10!!”
“In the heart of West Loop nestled next to Momotaro all you have to do is descend a few steps into the basement of Izakaya to be transported to another world. The space is vibrant with splashes of light that illuminate the dark. Well-placed lanterns give a warm glow that compliment the expertly curated playlist grooves. Service is friendly and attentive without pretense or pressure. And the food is delicious!! I tried the Momo Royal, which deserves real consideration as a member of Chicago’s hamburger bourgeoisie (the toasted bao bread is next level too). The fries are paired with miso mayo that adds a luxurious texture and subtle yet inescapable flavor. The Miyato Precision mocktail is arguably the best I’ve ever had (Drake voice). It drinks at the grownup table without all the unwanted baggage. Izakaya is a real 10/10!!! Follow “savortheflavorbabe” on Instagram for more top tier bites!”
“This place was very nice. It’s really dim inside to set the tone. Music was way too loud. The mono royale burger was way more rare than I thought. I should have stated how I wanted it done but it was also not asked how I wanted it so I’m not sure if it was an option while it tasted good I had a hard time getting past that bright red personally. I also bought the chahan rice. It was very good but how it cooks on the table makes the bottom of it burn while you eat it and you waste so much of it. There’s a benefit surcharge on the bill. I’m bringing it up so people are aware prior to ordering. This place was pretty expensive but the staff was very kind and respectful I could see it being a good date night with someone you already know bc the music is too loud to have great conversations you’ll be yelling.”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More Japanese in West Loop & Fulton Market
See the ranking →
In the same lane · Japanese, mid-range
If it's packed, walk to…
More good rooms in West Loop, minutes away.