ThreeBestRated.com
BEST RATED CHICAGO, IL JAPANESE RESTAURANTS

3 Best Japanese Restaurants in Chicago, IL

Expert-recommended Top 3 Japanese Restaurants in Chicago, Illinois. All of our japanese restaurants actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!

Ramen-San River North - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Ramen-San River North - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Ramen-San River North - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Best Japanese Restaurants in Chicago IL - Ramen-San River North video
4+ YEARS IN TBR
CALL EMAIL

RAMEN-SAN RIVER NORTH

(5.0 Score)
59 West Hubbard Street, #2,
Chicago, IL 60654 Directions

Since 2014

Specialty:

✓ Karaage Chicken Nuggets ✓ Tuna and Avocado Tartare ✓ Salad San ✓ Edamame Hummus ✓ Spicy Szechuan Wings ✓ Sticky Thai Wings ✓ 10-Hour Tonkotsu Ramen ✓ Kimchi and Fried Chicken Ramen ✓ Tantan-san Ramen ✓ Chicken Shio Ramen ✓ Sumo Bowl Ramen ✓ Kid Ramen ✓ Kid Tonkotsu Ramen ✓ Xoxo Shrimp and Pork ✓ Fried Brussels ✓ Spicy Kimchi ✓ Crab Rangoon ✓ Pork Belly Bun ✓ Fried Chicken Bun ✓ Lobster and Crab Ramen ✓ Spicy Miso Ramen ✓ Brussels Sprouts ✓ Glazed Bok Choy ✓ Melo-san ✓ Side Tonkotsu Broth ✓ Side Sumo Broth ✓ Side Kimchi Broth

"Ramen-San River North serves a variety of hot broths, ice-cold beer, and 90s hip-hop music. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining areas. The restaurant is a casual ramen spot offering noodle soups, buns, chicken wings, cocktails, sake, and a selection of whiskeys. The staff is friendly, and the combination of food and music creates a lively atmosphere. Lunch specials include a choice of four rice dishes, three ramen dishes, a side salad, and an appetizer. The restaurant also serves vegetarian options and provides outdoor seating for customers.

2026 Update: Ramen-San River North is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining seven days a week. They offer gift cards for customers. Ramen-San River North also hosts private events and catering for groups of 10 to 40, with a full bar, sound system, and karaoke setup, suitable for corporate events or birthday celebrations. The restaurant serves traditional ramen flavors, and recommended dishes include the 10-Hour Tonkotsu Ramen and Pork Belly Bun."

Reviews | Play Video | Write a Review

Price:

Cocktails
Yuzu Margarita $15
Shogun Sunset $14
Japanese Ol' Fashioned $15
Shibuya Shuffle $15
Japanese Yuzu Highball $13
Asahi Draft $9
Sake Bombs $8
Spirit Free
Rose Mallow $9
Thank Yuzu $9
San Specialties
Karaage Chicken Nuggets $13.5
Tuna & Avocado Tartare $15.5
Edamame Hummus $9.5
Salad-San $8
Mantou Buns (Ea)
Fried Chicken $5.5
Pork Belly $5.5
Crispy Tofu $5.5
Dumplings
Chicken & Veg Gyoza $11
Xoxo Shrimp & Pork $14
Crab Rangoon $15
Chicken Wings (5pc)
Sticky Thai $14
Spicy Szechuan $14
Late Night Fried Rice
Ramen
Tantan-San $17
10 Hour Tonkotsu $18
Kimchi & Fried Chicken $18
Chicken Shio $17
Sumo $23
Ramen Additions
Fried Garlic $1
Sesame Chili $1
Molten Egg $1
Buttered Corn $1
Fresh Tofu $2
Spicy Crushed Egg $2

Contact:

(312) 377-9950

Mon-Wed & Sun: 11am - 11pm
Thu: 11am - 12am
Fri & Sat: 11am - 1am

TBR® Inspection Report:

Momotaro - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Momotaro - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Momotaro - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Best Japanese Restaurants in Chicago IL - Momotaro video
7+ YEARS IN TBR
CALL EMAIL

MOMOTARO

(4.9 Score)
820 West Lake Street,
Chicago, IL 60607 Directions

Since 2015

Specialty:

✓ Edamame ✓ Miso Soup ✓ Spicy Tako ✓ Scallop Motoyaki ✓ Tsukune Dango ✓ Spaghetti ✓ Mapo Tofu ✓ Shishito ✓ Gyutan ✓ Negima ✓ Kamo To Momo ✓ Mishima Skirt Steak ✓ Alaskan King Crab ✓ Momomaki ✓ Hotate Batayaki ✓ Nigiri ✓ Mizuna Salada ✓ Tea Smoked Duck ✓ Kani Jo Maki ✓ Baby Shiitake ✓ Shio Koji Sake ✓ Spicy Salmon Dip ✓ Aji Yakusugi ✓ Aburi Beni Toro ✓ Aburi Toro ✓ Negi Hamachi ✓ Negi Toro ✓ Baby Shiitake Maki ✓ Tekka Maki ✓ Yakitori Don ✓ Chahan ✓ Japanese Short Grain Steamed Rice ✓ Shishito Robata ✓ Shiitake Robata ✓ Zucchini Denegaku ✓ Kabocha Harasame Noodles ✓ Kamo Rosu

"Momotaro is a modern Japanese restaurant serving sushi and robata, with a downstairs Tokyo-inspired izakaya. The restaurant has three floors, including the main dining room, a casual basement izakaya, and a private area upstairs. Momotaro is led by Executive Chef Gene Kato and features high ceilings with Japanese-themed warehouse-style décor. There is a separate vegetarian and vegan menu with several plant-based options. Momotaro also offers cocktails and provides high chairs for guests.

2026 Update: Momotaro offers unique spaces suitable for a variety of events. The private dining room can host corporate luncheons, cocktail receptions, or dinners. These spaces are complemented by food prepared on-site and attentive service. Amenities include coat check, valet parking, elevator access, and audio-visual capabilities. For groups of 8 to 52, contracted events are available in the Main Dining Room. The team includes Alex Hernandez, Chef de Cuisine; Switt Narkprasert, Sushi Director; and Merissa White, General Manager. The restaurant also provides a gluten-free menu for guests."

Reviews | Play Video | Write a Review
Four Diamond Awards in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025
Semifinalist Outstanding Restaurateur in 2015
Finalist Outstanding Restaurateur in 2016 and 2017
Winner Outstanding Restaurateur in 2019

Price:

Dinner
Cold
Ninjin Sarada $10
Maguro $20
Broccoli Goma-Ae $12
Zucchini Dengaku $12
Momo To Buri $17
Jidori Kimo $14
Kabocha Harusame Noodles $14
Kamo Rosu $16
Hot
Edamame $8
Miso Soup $8
Tako Su $24
Scallop Motoyaki $22
Spaghetti $16
Tsukune Dango $18
Mapo Tofu $26
Rice
Yakitori Don $18
Chahan $22
Japanese Short Grain Steamed Rice $5
Robata Yaki
Shishito $10
Shiitake $14
Gyutan $14
Kamo To Momo $24
Negima $14
Tsukune $12
Beef Tsukune “Sliders” $16
Kohitsuji $24
Mishima Skirt Steak $18
Hotate Batayaki $20
From The Coals
Miyazaki Wagyu $120
Imperial Strip $85
Makimono
Karai Tuna $16
Una-Kyu $15
Kanpyo Roll $8
Shio Koji Sake $14
Momomaki $24
Kani Jomaki $16
Tekka Maki $14
Negi Toro (Roll) $16

Contact:

(312) 733-4818

Mon-Thu & Sun: 5pm - 10pm
Fri & Sat: 4:30pm - 11pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

Roka Akor Chicago - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Roka Akor Chicago - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Roka Akor Chicago - Chicago, IL Japanese Restaurants
Best Japanese Restaurants in Chicago IL - Roka Akor Chicago video
5+ YEARS IN TBR
CALL EMAIL

ROKA AKOR CHICAGO

(4.8 Score)
456 North Clark Street,
Chicago, IL 60654 Directions

Since 2014

Specialty:

✓ Crispy Rice and Spicy Tuna ✓ Arugula and Romaine Salad ✓ Assorted Sashimi Taco ✓ Veggie Taco ✓ Steamed Edamame ✓ White Miso ✓ Japanese Shishito Peppers ✓ Crispy Squid ✓ Wagyu Beef and Kimchi Dumplings ✓ Grilled Pork Belly ✓ Grilled Diver Sea Scallops ✓ Robata Grilled Octopus ✓ Chicken Yakitori Skewers ✓ Shrimp and Lobster Dumplings ✓ Crispy Fried Eggplant ✓ Jalapeño Honey ✓ Prime Rib Eye ✓ Glazed Kurobuta Pork Ribs ✓ Unagi Maguro Roll ✓ Seared Wagyu Roll ✓ Hamachi Serrano Chili Roll ✓ Crispy Prawn and Chirashi Roll

"Roka Akor Chicago features a contemporary dining space with local artwork and Roka’s signature design elements. The restaurant has an open kitchen layout, allowing guests to observe food preparation while seated. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and drink options. The atmosphere is relaxed and suitable for both romantic dinners and business events. Roka Akor Chicago offers an off-menu sticky rice option and a selection of Japanese brews in addition to standard draft and bottled drinks. The restaurant also serves happy-hour food and provides high chairs for guests.

2026 Update: Roka Akor Chicago menu highlights include cuts of prime steak, Wagyu from various regions of Japan, grilled seafood, and sushi. The restaurant has a private dining room and a semi-private area suitable for business dinners or special occasions. Their large dining room provides a full view of the robata grill, with counter seating where guests can interact with the chefs. Across five locations in the country, each restaurant combines local design elements with Roka Akor’s signature wood and lighting. They also offer gift cards for customers."

Reviews | Play Video | Write a Review

Price:

Cold Plates
Prime Beef Tataki $24
Butterfish Tataki $18
Tuna Tataki $20
Yellowtail Sashimi $26
Toro Tartare $24
Oyster Plate With Yuzu Jelly $28
Snake River Farms Filet Tartare $26
Crispy Rice And Spicy Tuna $26
Arugula And Romaine Salad $16
Assorted Sashimi Taco $14
Veggie Taco $11
Hot Plates
Steamed Edamame $8
White Miso, Wild Mushrooms, Tofu $7
Frillman Farms Shishito Peppers $13
Crispy Squid $16
Wagyu Beef And Kimchi Dumplings $21
Grilled Pork Belly $19
Robata Grilled Scallop $28
Robata Grilled Octopus $24
Chicken Yakitori Skewers $14
Shrimp And Lobster Dumplings $23
Crispy Fried Eggplant $14
Daily Sushi & Sashimi Feature
Toro Nigiri $26
Flame Seared Salmon Nigiri $14
Hirame Nigiri $16
Tempura
Shrimp Tempura $21
Tiger Prawn Tempura $18
Spicy Fried Tofu $16

Contact:

(312) 477-7652

Mon-Thu & Sun: 5pm - 10pm
Fri: 5pm - 11pm
Sat: 4pm - 11pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

Video

Write a Review for Roka Akor Chicago

Our Review Process:

  • All reviews matter:We publish both positive and negative reviews to provide a balanced perspective.
  • No censorship: Businesses cannot pay to remove or modify negative reviews.
  • Verification process: All reviews are checked for authenticity and compliance with our community guidelines before publication.
  • Fair representation: We display reviews of all ratings (1–5 stars) to help users make informed decisions.
  • Independence: We are not affiliated with the businesses we review and receive no compensation for favorable ratings.

Your honest opinion helps others make better choices. Whether your experience was excellent, average, or disappointing, we want to hear from you. For more details, check Community Review Guidelines.

Contact Business

RAMEN-SAN RIVER NORTH REVIEWS

Had a great experience at this ramen spot. The food was honestly delicious — the broth was rich and full of flavor, the noodles had the perfect texture, and everything just came together really well. You can tell they put a lot of care into what they serve. Service was also really solid — friendly staff, quick to help, and the vibe of the place was super chill and welcoming. Definitely a place I’d come back to when I’m craving a good bowl of ramen.

Came to this late night in Chicago, and sat with the windows open to the street. Got the Fried Chicken late night fried rice and it was amazing. Or waited was great and service was quick and easy. Immediately got seated on a busy Friday night. Also very allergy/substitution friendly!

Express lunch special was worth it, 10/10! The broth was good and not too spicy. Skirt steak with rice was really good meat was tender and rice was good as well. Service was nice n fast. Would definitely come back if I’m in Chicago again.

These reviews are provided for information purposes and to help you make informed decisions.

To share your experience, click here or send it to reviews@threebestrated.com.

We will display both positive and negative reviews. All submitted reviews are published after verification for authenticity and compliance with our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Community Review Guidelines.

MOMOTARO REVIEWS

Came in for Restaurant Week, and honestly, they have some of the best sushi I’ve had in a while—absolutely delicious. The cocktail was so good I had to get two (wish I remembered the name). The octopus was amazing—slightly spicy, but the sauce balanced it perfectly. The Negima was just okay. Dessert, though? The flourless cake was next-level!

Popped in for restaurant week, what a treat! The sushi was super fresh & the fish melted in your mouth before you can even take a bite. The octopus is now probably my favorite in all Chicago! Staff attention was also something I took notice, they clean your table in between each serving which is greatly appreciated. Can’t wait to go back and dine the full menu!

Come here to celebrate anniversary with my boyfriend! The service and vibe is wonderful. We love wagyu steak so much, but the sauce on zucchini is a little bit salty.

ROKA AKOR CHICAGO REVIEWS

This was our 1st time at Roka Akor & we celebrated my birthday here. The food was all very delicious. The meat was cooked to perfection with so much flavor. All the sides were great and the deserts were phenomenal! Customer service was great and everyone was very friendly. We will DEFINITELY be coming back in the near future. Thank you Roka for the awesome birthday experience.

That’s here with my partner for restaurant week. We really enjoyed the first course which consisted of dumpling a sushi roll and a sushi taco. The fish melted in your mouth. We then enjoyed the lamb and the black cod. He enjoyed the lamb and I loved the black card. It melted in my mouth. The service was good not wowing but the bartenders were nice. Despite it being restaurant week, we also ordered a couple of items from the happy hour menu.

Beautiful place. We came for my birthday. They had a personalized card waiting for me. Excellent touch. We got the NY Strip and Diver scallops. The sake (Demon Slayer) was good.

TBR® Inspection Score Report

RAMEN-SAN RIVER NORTH Total Inspection Points: 119/120
Legitimate Ratings: 9
Acknowledgments: 10
Business Hours: 10
Menu Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Online Order: 10
Pricing: 10
Reviews Accuracy of 20.9K: 10
Extensive Menu: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

MOMOTARO Total Inspection Points: 118/120
Acknowledgments: 9
Legitimate Ratings: 9
Business Hours: 10
Menu Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Online Order: 10
Pricing: 10
Reviews Accuracy of 11.4K: 10
Video: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

ROKA AKOR CHICAGO Total Inspection Points: 116/120
Reviews Accuracy of 11.1K: 8
Acknowledgments: 9
Legitimate Ratings: 9
Business Hours: 10
Menu Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Exact Services: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Online Order: 10
Pricing: 10
Video: 10