I have come here several times for a second dinner and drinks. The ambiance is great. They have very good picked veggies, yummy oysters and I really enjoy the tonkatsu curry rice. The potato salad is also quite unique and flavorful. I absolutely adore the Cloudhopper- it is a combination of flavors i have never tasted before in any other drink. Highly recommend. read more

The ambiance was great and Kumiko has an expansive menu of various japanese influenced drinks. I appreciated the simple beauty of the drinks that tasted of a complexity I could not decipher. Our server was also very knowledgeable of the menu and gave great advice on what to pick. read more

Kumiko - umeboshi chu - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Kumiko is currently considered to be one of the best bars in the world. They are an elegant, timeless Japanese dining bar, offering innovative mixology and a seafood-forward tasting menu. Small plates may also be ordered a la carte. Owner Julia Momosé blends Japanese ingredients and techniques to create drinks that are truly one of a kind. My husband and I enjoyed their Seasonal Tasting Menu, priced at $135/person, and ordered cocktails a la carte. The menu consisted of 7 courses, perfectly paced over about 90 minutes. Stand out dishes were the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo and Blue Prawn amuse bouche, Sunchoke Chawanmushi, and Sobacha Custard, which featured pear frozen yogurt and black sesame feuilletine. The food was outstanding, but where Kumiko really shines is their cocktail program. The "Tryptych", a silky, martini-esque drink left me speechless. It incorporates Kokuryu 'Kuzuryu Junmai, 'Tenshi no Yuwaku' Imo Shochu, Nanbu Bijin 'Muto' Umeshu, Armagnac, and purple sweet potato vinegar. The "Cloud Hopper" (Hakutake 'Shiro' Rice Shochu, Fidencio 'Clasico' Mezcal, passionfruit, green cardamom, oat milk, Yakult, lemon) was a sweet, fruity finish. My husband is currently not drinking alcohol, and was still able to enjoy the experience with expertly crafted non-alcoholic cocktails, and high quality tea. Service was polished and professional. This was a perfect date night for us, and we look forward to returning the next time we are in Chicago. read more

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I wouldn't have known about Kumiko if it weren't for 50BestBars. Kumiko made it into the top 100 best bars in the entire world falling in at number 61. Since I knew I was going to be in Chicago for a few days I made a reservation for 10:15pm since that was the earliest they had. They are a very popular bar so make your reservations ahead of time. Inside is very beautiful & dimly lit, the perfect 2nd date location (A little pricey for a 1st date ). Started with a few drinks & the server recommended the Gin Spritz which was absolutely delicious, order it if you're a gin lover like myself. For my next drink I asked for something with tequila & they said that they don't have anything on the menu but they can come up with something. He came back with the "Mezcal Winning Element" & it was absolutely fantastic. Can NOT put into words how good that drink was. I should have ordered 3 of them. Now to the food, started with the Karaage which was the perfect starter. Easily some of the best pieces of chicken I've had in awhile. Extremely tender and the texture made it that much sweeter! Next was the Japanese Potato salad which was a lot more filling than I expected!! It looks very small but oh was it filling but delicious nonetheless. I tried one of the cod wings which wasn't necessarily my favorite. It wasn't bad but the Karaage & Potato salad set the bar so high that everything else BETTER come correct & this dish didn't. You know what blew EVERYTHING out of the water? If you guessed the Wagyu sandwich you were WRONG AS HELL it's the Gyudon. OHHHHH MY DAYS this dish is OUTSTANDING!!! I was blown away with every single bite, it's like I was in heaven! Do NOT miss this dish, actually get 2 orders of the Gyudon so you can take 1 home ! Now everyone probably raves about the Wagyu sandwich and for good reason because it's delicious but it's not 90 dollars delicious. Every bite was VERY good but I still stand by the Gyudon being the best thing on the menu & the price for it is perfect. I absolutely LOVED Kumiko & the only negative thing I can say is I didn't have enough time to try all of the delicious drinks hahaha read more

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Kumiko is a nice little upscale cocktail bar with small plates that are very intricate and feel boujee. The atmosphere in itself exudes a sort of fine dining feeling making this place an ideal place for a special occasion, but definitely breaks the bank for a casual dinner. I would recommend coming here to try the interesting cocktails as you'd have to order lots of food to be satisfied. Best cocktails: sea flower, cloud hopper (if you're a fan of sweeter drinks) Food: Maitakedon: the best dish we tasted, had so much flavor and had a pretty presentation Truffle Milk Toast: the sweetness with the truffle tasted so uniquely good, my tastebuds were confused Tonkatsu Sando: honestly felt like a generic sandwich with a decent pork cutlet Karaage: was good, but felt like some pricy chicken nuggets Oysters: good quality! Miso Butter Turnips: honestly tasted like a generic salad read more

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When I first walked in wasn't sure it was the right place. Entrance looks like a lobby of doctors office or dentist. There are candles and incense. Smells good. Talked to the receptionist or host and realize yep this is the right place!! New friend walked in and we waited for our mutual friend who tends to be late often. After a few minutes we are seated inside at a table. Poured water, offered a hot/warm towel for our hands and begin to order drinks. My first drink was their version of the Boulevardier the Ume Boulevardier. My second drink was something that had coffee or coffee liqueur in it that was divine. read more

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We stopped by Kumiko a while before dinner. The bar/restaurant is quite small so there isn't a real place to wait. We walked around while we had an hour wait. Fortunately they texted us two seats at the bar were ready within 15 minutes. The inside of Kumiko is gorgeous and clean. The staff are nice and helpful. We sat at the bar and ordered their take on an old fashioned. We also got an alcohol free drink with hojicha. Both were pricey but well worth the money especially since you get what you expect. We didn't try any food but if it was anything like the drinks, I'm sure it's delicious. read more

Kumiko - Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is a nice place to come for drinks. It's a little intimate though because you are in a small space with a lot of people but it's not too loud or quiet (but maybe it's because of the extensive drink menu). Their food menu is basically bar food so it tends to be on the saltier side and it comes out when the food is done, which I didn't mind. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable if you have no idea what you're ordering. 20% gratuity is already included in the bill. The cocktails are good and the descriptions do a good job of describing them. I got the walk softly and the vodka didn't taste strong and it was a mild drink as opposed to the snowdrop one where they salted and peppered the rim. The flavor was stronger and they infused lemon in that one. I enjoyed the Karaagé because of the thicker breading with the dipping sauce and the Gyūdon. The Gyūdon is a little slimy but the short rib was so tender and you can taste the caramelized onions. The bf liked the Nikumaki the most. It tasted like a bacon-y sausage wrapped around carrots with sauce. I ordered an oyster to try and it tasted like the sea so I don't think it's for me but the presentation was cute. Tonkatsu sando was a pretty good size (especially compared to the Nikumaki) and tastes like what you would expect but the Katsu wasn't especially crispy on the outside. read more

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First visit to this North America's best 50 bar! See attached for what we ordered. Loved the Red Chai and First Gold! Matcha Tea was not our taste. Gimlet was okay. Cashews were yumm!! read more

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Great place to come for unique and delicious cocktails, late night bites, and good conversation. the ambiance is fantastic! dark but warm lighting, well spaced out seating, soft music in the background, beautiful plants scattered throughout the space - we were seated at the bar and it was perfect to take in the whole atmosphere! we got the oysters and scallop salad to share while I sipped on the walk softly cocktail. the oysters were super fresh and tasty and the drink was really well balanced and light and refreshing! the staff at the bar were so knowledgable and passionate about their work. It was so cool watching and hearing about how the drinks are made! definitely make reservations! It seemed like walk-ins were difficult read more

We may have misunderstood what this restaurant had to offer, but we were unfortunately not wow'd. I know the focus is on cocktails, but service was spotty and all of our food was super duper salty. We all downed lots of water after leaving. I'm not sure we'd order any of the food again except the nuts. The drinks were good, but only one was outstanding. This was a bit of a let down as we loved the drinks from Green River. The entrance experience was lovely with tea and scents and our servers were friendly, but they kept missing things. Like taking away our empty drinks, wiping the table, but leaving behind crumbs and sticky stuff. Not providing serveware even when it was clear we were sharing food. The interior is beautiful and I'm in love with the bathroom wallpaper. We will perhaps try a drink again, but we're unlikely to visit for food. read more

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Love how small and hidden the restaurant is! They have the best drinks and the wide noodle dish on the tasting menu changed my life! read more

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The attention to detail and service was 2nd to none. Definitely a place to celebrate a special occasion, come with a full wallet. My drink was so balanced and perfect. The vibe was so calming. read more

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They open at 6:00pm, my wife and I arrived at 5:55pm just to be told that there was no possibility of us getting in. The host made us feel like because we didn't have a reservation we were an inconvenience and it seemed like they have been open for hours. I didn't get to experience the place all I'm recommending is don't bother if you don't have a reservation. read more

I was so happy to finally try one of the best bars in America right now. The service, cocktails, and food were impeccable. We ordered two rounds of cocktails and several dishes for dinner. My favorite dish was the scallop salad. The presentation was beautiful and the scallops melted in your mouth with each bite being flavorful with bright citrus and savory brown butter and ponzu. My favorite cocktail was my ume old fashioned. It was unlike any old fashioned I've ever had. It was only available during this time of year when ume trees are blooming. It was the most balanced cocktail I've had in recent memory. Not too strong, not too sweet, just perfectly mixed. If you're ever in Chicago and have a chance to try Kumiko, I can definitely say it lives up to the hype of one of the best bars in America. read more

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Unbelievable. After reading Julia's book, I decided to check the place out after meaning to for years. The anteroom feels like a spa; I was welcomed with the smell of (I think?) sage and two very friendly hosts. We did not have a reservation, but they did not seem to care. They asked we wait 10 minutes to give Julia time to serve the previous guest, so that when we sat we could be immediately served. Why more bars don't do hosting like that, I don't know. It all very so intentional. At the bar, Julia, who owns the place, was making the drinks -- something I did not expect. I told her I wanted something spice and Amaro-forward, my friend wanted something low-ABV and citrusy. She paired us both with drinks. Watching her bartend is a show; her technique is basically perfect, she moves with so much grace and thought. And the drinks were fantastic. Booze-forward, balanced, and unique flavors added over a familiar base. Mine was a Manhattan riff with split vermouths, caraway, and an Akashi / Rice Shōchū split vase (New Wave); my friend's was a vodka and vermouth spritz with Yuzushu (Walk Softly). I felt really inspired, and Kumiko is already having an impact on the way I build my own cocktails and interact with guests at my bar. Coming here is a must for any bartender or server, or if you just want some awesome, thoughtful drinks and ambience. read more

Kumiko - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

they've been on the top 50 N. America bar list for some time so I decided to stop by during my work trip to chicago. Kumiko's atmosphere is definitely more on the finer side. Not saying it can't be casual, but they give more attention to details than other bars i've been to. ex. hot towel to wash your hands, extensive food menu + a tasting menu. for drinks I had the old fashioned and some other cocktails I don't remember the name of. they were all great. their milk truffle dessert is a must for sure. read more

Kumiko - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very fancy and elevated vibe. A full menu of mocktails and a few little snacks that were tasty as well. A very small entryway for waiting so be aware of larger groups. Service is very friendly and they give you hand towels at the start of the meal. We got several drinks but the pepperberry, mosaic, and the omebashi swizzle were great as well as the red chai. I loved the vinegar tang of the swizzle like kombucha. Also, the potato salad was really good and had crispy fried potatoes within it.the cashews and pickles were a unique snack as well. read more

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As a martini fan, I ordered a sea grape martini. The flavor of the cucumber olive brine overpowered that of soku gin. No comments on other cocktails. read more

Cool bar, great drinks, food is good but can be a bit salty (fine if you don't come straight from another dinner lol). Definitely order truffle milk toast. read more

Considering how much I love to eat, I cannot believe that I have never heard of Kumiko. I don't know if it's a hidden gem or if I'm just the last person to find out that this place exists. As with many other new hip restaurants, the entrance is unmarked, so you just have to know it's there. Although, it is possible that the unmarked outer area only exists during the winter to keep out the cold. Not entirely sure. Inside, the restaurant is cozy, dimly lit, and intimate. These are all things I've come to appreciate with age. I don't want to have to scream at my friends during dinner. The tables are close together, but everyone seems to pick up on the "use your indoor voices" vibe. Apparently this place is known for the cocktails and I can see why. You are asked at the door if you are just there for the amazing cocktails or if you will be dining. I had the Unabridged and Moonrise Daiquiri. Both on opposite sides of the spectrum. The Unabridged was earthy, aromatic, and the coffee and herbs really came through. The Moonrise Daiquiri was my favorite though because it was crisp, clean, light, and refreshing. I ended the meal with Kumiko's version of a cold brew martini, which was fine considering they weren't able to make a true espresso martini. On to the food... Yuzu Kosho Karaage (fried chicken, kanzuri mayo, sudachi) - Holy WOW!!! I've eaten a lot of karaage and almost didn't order this, but it knocked my socks off. Perfectly fried moist chicken. That mayo though!!! I would take a bath in that mayo. I'm going to be dreaming about this chicken and mayo until next time. Yaki-Imo Miso Soup - Not your traditional miso soup. In fact, it doesn't even taste like any miso soup I've ever had. Personally, I was not a huge fan. There was a lot of umami and it was more viscous than standard miso soup, but the flavors didn't really work for me. Murray Cod Wing - So this was just fried cod. Underwhelming. There were bones and fins to deal with, which made me think that I would have rather had fish and chips at a legit UK bar. Wagyukatsu Sando, truffle honey, shokupan - Let's be honest, we've all had wagyu and priced at $90, this is the most expensive item on the menu. It is worth every penny. You want to talk about a perfectly cooked, seasoned, melt in your mouth, savory yet a little bit sweet morsel of heaven, then this is it. Loved it. Would eat again and again and again... Kanitamadon (Dungeness crab, shirodashi tamago, kani miso mayo, espelette, and greens, served over seasoned white rice) - Bleck. I wanted to like this, but I couldn't get over the fact that I just thought it tasted bad. Something about the combination of flavors didn't work for me. Who knows, maybe others feel differently. Hard pass the next time I visit. Truffle Milk Toast (Japanese milk bread, fermented honey ice cream, truffle) - Everything about this dessert worked for me. It was not too sweet and definitely savory. The bread had a nice crispy outside and soft inside that provided pleasant contrasting textures. The truffle comes through without being overpowering, which is something I find at a lot of restaurants that try to truffle oil everything on the menu. Perfect blend of sweet and savory. In the end, Kumiko had some absolutely drool-worthy showstoppers and some duds. I am so excited to return to explore the rest of the cocktails and try out some of the other menu items that stood out, but didn't make it into my belly this time around. That fried chicken and wagyu sandwich though... Must eat again. read more

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Amazing drink menu, definitely recommend getting one of their flight options. Also even though it's known for their bar program, they offer a great selection of small bites! read more

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Had their A5 miyazaki wagyu dando ($95), Ive tried A5 wagyu multiple times and their quality is different. They explain it melts in your mouth but is rather difficult to chew on, their cooking term is not right or its not A5 wagyu one of two, bread was ok. Drinks are over priced, nothing amazing. Had the "new wave" ($21) it tasted like normal whisky with a hint of barley tea. Also, they have a drink with mezcal in the menu and the waitress didn't know more beyond the brand name of the bottle, how come this place is in the 50 best bars list? Ive been to other bars far in the list than this place with more knowledgeable expertise in what they serve and definitely better products than this place. read more

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The wagyu sando is amazing. Worth it even if that's all you get. Service was excellent. Attentive and there when you needed them. read more

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This place is an amazing gym of a find. I came across this through a TimeOut article and it didn't disappoint. Think Japanese speakeasy. Quiet, intimate setting. Patrons attire are very eclectic and smart casual. The oysters, Kani Kuri-mu Korokke and Yuzu Kosho Karaage are must haves. For cocktails, I enjoyed the Highball. The staff provide an amazing experience, offering suggestions and making you feel like you are the most important guest in attendance. I recommend making a reservation as the waitlist can be hit or miss. read more

Came here for birthday drinks with my group of girlfriends. It was a super unique and calm atmosphere, where we could enjoy unique beverages that suited the wide spectrum of taste we all had. The service was excellent and the ambience was soothing and we could have a decent conversation And hear each other perfectly. There is also an extensive spirit free cocktail list, which I personally greatly appreciated. Definitely worth a stop for unique experience! read more

Kumiko - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I knew Kumiko would be a five star experience. Anything less would have been a blow to emotional wellbeing. To say I was excited to come here is an understatement. I have been mixing (home bartender, quarantine hobby turned passion) from Julia Momosé's The Way of the Cocktail for a year or two now, and it has remained one of my favorite cocktail books to mix from. I've admired Momosé's craft from afar (I'm a Manhattan-dweller, and I'm aware we have no shortage of fabulous cocktail bars here either) and never really thought my first Kumiko experience was as imminent as it ultimately was. A recent trip to Chicago had me lusting after Kumiko, but dining here originally wasn't feasible when the trip was planned. But it seems by attempts at manifesting worked, and now I am here, leaving a glowing Yelp review. Kumiko was a well-oiled machine, sophisticated an elegant, with outstanding cocktails and an equally formidable food menu. Step by step, this was a flawlessly executed experience. Impressed and dazzled, I left Kumiko buzzed and gratified. Came here as a party of four on a Sunday night. The space itself is fairly small, but that means each party gets great serve. The decor is fairly minimalist but all elements are tastefully designed. It's upscale without being pretentious. Cocktails are obviously where Kumiko shines. I am kicking myself for not taking pictures of the whole menu because it was vast and endlessly impressive. Not to mention, there were off-menu drinks and nightly specials that I had too much fun drinking to log in my mental recipe bank. Sadly, very few of the drinks I ordered are on the online menu. But luckily, between the four of us, I got to try a dizzying number of drinks over the course of the night. The photos of single drinks accompanying my review are a cognac sour (I'm not a big cognac drinker but this cocktail was outstanding) and the New Wave (Akashi Japanese Whisky, Pineau des Charentes Rouge, Verjus Blanc, Chiyonosono '8,000 Generations' Rice Shōchū, Mugicha, and Combier Kümmel Caraway Liqueur), which is a work of art and very possibly just might be the best drink I've ever had. Beyond these two, I remember loving two of my sister's drinks, the Sea Flower (Nikka Coffey Gin, Dolin Blanc Vermouth de Chambéry, Yuzu Koshō, Kabosu Juice, and Lime) and the Umeboshi Chu-Hi (Munemasa Mizunomai Green Tea Shōchū, Shiso-pickled Umé, Sesame, Sparkling Umé Juice). I think it's safe to say that you won't be disappointed with any drink you order. And one last note on those "off-menu" items: if you tell your server what you like/what you're in the mood for, they will effortlessly recommend something on or off the menu and describe it all perfectly. If you're overwhelmed with choices, put the decision in their hands. Food-wise, Kumiko offers a small but formidable menu featuring creative small plates that are perfect for sharing. Two members of our party had significant gluten sensitivity and/or celiac, and it was a relief to find that nearly the whole menu was naturally gluten-free. Eats, below: Assorted pickled veggies: A Pretty standard but delicious all the same. My favorites were the beets and shishito peppers. Japanese Potato Salad (yukon gold, quick pickle carrots, shio-kōji pickled cucumber, smoked ham): A+ This dish comes on a teeny tiny plate and looks like it won't do much for your hunger level but it was surprisingly quite filling. Immensely flavorful and it even had one party member breaking her no red meat rule because the rest of us were raving about it. Cod Wings w/ charred lemon, house ponzu, yuzu zest: A+ The mechanics of making cod wings is far out of my purview, but these astounded us. The wings were lightly fried and the ponzu/yuzu combo lightened the dish up significantly. Thoughtful, powerful and tasty. Maitakédon (marinated mushroom, caramelized onion, onsen tamago, crispy onions, gari): A+ Four self-proclaimed mushroom-lovers devoured this one. Earthy and savory with a great variety of flavors and textures. Nikumaki (asparagus, binchotan grilled beef, roasted tallow hollandaise, green garlic powder): A This dish was super creative and tasty but it was oddly not a highlight. It's all relative though, clearly everything was amazing. The beef-wrapped asparagus had elevated devils on horseback vibes and the hollandaise was a beautiful touch -- much more intriguing than your typical aioli. Crab Salad w/ added roe: A+ I wish I could tell you exactly what was in this but it was one of the night's featured specials. Tender meat sitting surrounded by greens, topped with roe (optional, for an additional $10, worth it in my opinion). Another surprisingly filling one and so very flavorful. read more

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Too much pretense. The front area is a nightmare even if you show up for your reservation on time like we did. We had to stand cramped in a corner where the hostess had to continually squeeze through our group to grab people's coats. The drinks weren't anything incredible. Our friend ordered a $50 vieux carre and honestly there was nothing special about it. We came for drinks and dessert and when we went to order dessert they said the kitchen was closed but no one ever even gave us a last call. Haven't tried the food so can't really say anything about it but probably won't be back. ‍ read more

Kumiko - $50 Vieux carre.. - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Kumiko is a rare gem. The ambiance is dark and moody, but also romantic and elegant. It's obvious that the staff are well trained because the service is impeccable. Kumiko is the brainchild of an acclaimed bartender, so be creative with your drink choice. I got the Moonrise Daiquiri flight, which was a unique way to experience a cocktail. Even though it's a cocktail bar the food is excellent. We especially loved the croquettes and the karage (fried chicken). Definitely a great place for dates, or impressing out of towners, and certainly a spot to get dolled up for. read more

I think this place is really neat. I love the drinks and how much effort and care the staff puts into each one. They also try to make things compostable and think about the environment. We love a thoughtful place. They are real good with the covid precautions. Even calling for pick ups and stuff. Food good. Drink good. Staff nice. You can order online. I think they have a Michelin star! Lemme know whats up otherwise. They even wished me a happy birthday and brought my order in a cool silver platter another time. Idk I just like this place. It can be a bit pricey but then cocktails and stuff in the west loop can get up there. Deff go try out for a coffee or adult 21+ bevy. U can see my pic where there is even a cute origami crane with a bottled hand crafted drink. Much love read more

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Zen vibes, impeccable drinks and genuine service. Thank you Rachel for welcoming us with open arms and knowledgeable love of the menu. We are grateful for the experience of delicious drinks we were able to experience. The genmaicha old fashion was incredible, best drink we have ever had. Lily was such a kind person and recommended the rhubarb colada that was 10/10. Thank you Lily and Rachel for the extra touch on an amazing evening. We'll be back! And can't wait to recommend the place to everyone we know. read more

Kumiko - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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We came for the drinks and then I proceeded to have second supper like the hobbit I guess I am. The setting is quite intimate and allows for great conversation while you struggle to choose amongst a myriad of interesting cocktail options. Our server was a fantastic guide through the fog of our indecision and helped in picking out some delicious noshes as well. This did include an earthy sweet kabocha dish that launched me into a Ratatouille-level reverie - can't say I expected it, but I'll take the pleasant surprise. read more

There is a reason that Kumiko is voted one of the top 50 bars in the world! I was thrilled that we were able to get a reservation here for my last night in Chicago. From the moment we entered, we were treated with the utmost respect and were asked for our food preferences and restrictions so that the menus we were given were specific to our preferences (I am a pescatarian and my friend is a carnivore). The atmosphere is very, very zen-almost felt as though you were entering a Japanese spa. The service was impeccable. My friend and I shared the nori cashews and I ordered the scallop salad, while my friend had the Tonkatsu Sando, which she said was delicious. The scallops melted in my mouth; very similar to Crudo style, perfectly prepared, and beautifully presented. I would like to commend the staff; every single person we interacted with was outstanding and went above and beyond to make the experience memorable. read more

Kumiko - Scallop salad (sorry about the lighting) - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Came in on a weekday evening, perhaps one of the only ways to get a reservation here on a short week's notice. This place. Is a gem. Not a place to visit frequently unless money is not an issue. Nonetheless this establishment is one I would recommend to anyone. Disclaimer - I came for the drink menu and did not order any food. If you're on some sort of budget, I'd recommend coming here after dinner. Drinks (9/10): Take a look at the drink menu. It's extensive and creative. I'm not well-versed with "fine" drinking as a student so will not go into details or specific recommendations. But the beauty of this place is that the service here allows you to venture aimlessly in. The servers will ask you questions and give you recommendations. It will take multiple visits to properly explore the menu to your heart's content. The component flights I found were the most fun. In that you are served 3 small glasses. 2 are served as the components as is while the 3rd is the final mixed drink. Value (8/10): Very satisfied with the prices here given the service and quality this place has to offer. Drinks can range from $16-50. $16 is a price point anyone should expect to be happy with at this quality. Ngl the alcohol content hits well here. I was worried I would have to sample without a buzz. Ambience/service (8.5/10): Again the servers are accommodating, helping you navigate the menu and suggesting drinks to your liking. A patron had dropped their phone and someone came to swoop it up. Servers also pull out chairs for patrons. If the bathroom is occupied, someone can tell you when it is open while you are at your seat. Ambience wise it is an intimate setting great for conversations and dates. Dim and candlelit. Moderate noise volumes. Tables are a bit close to each other in that you may have to shuffle sideways when leaving your table to give your neighbors some space. This has definitely allowed them to fit an extra table. It is what it is. read more

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Great speakeasy and cocktail bar. Cocktails are great and small bites are delicious, however, the small bites are pretty small. Ambiance and service is 10/10, it's a very Japanese vibe and you really feel like you are living a Japanese experience. read more

Kumiko - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Came here in March and it was super amazing! Loved every part of it - the food items & the drinks (and I'm not even a huge drinker). I will say there was one drink that tasted like soap - I think it was the Citrus Medley cocktail but can't remember the name. The Cloud Hopper cocktail I would 200% recommend though. It's SO good! I also thought the Umeshu flight was fun. For food, I really liked the karage, the potato salad, and both rice bowls - maitake don and gyudon. I also tried the Iberico Katsukare, the curry sauce was really good and I don't really eat pork but I had 2 pieces and it was super tender! Overall, great ambiance and a nice fancy place to go with a friend or on a date! It's quite small so make sure you make reservations ahead of time. read more

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amazing place, great drinks and food but please do your self a favor and order the olives....

This place does live up to the hype. We came for what we thought would be just 1-2 drinks but then didn't want to stop trying the food it was so good and unique! The ambiance is very cool with the bar giving a glimpse to the kitchen and all the Japanese sake. The flights are a very cool idea. When our budget allows we will definitely be back for the full dining experience and try more pours. read more

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We just left Kumiko and had the most lovely experience. The cocktails are nihonshu based and so smooth and delicious (we bought the book). The deconstructed sazerac was so complete and delicious and being able to taste the junmai and the whiskey separately gave me an appreciation for the whole drink. The food was wonderful. The karrage I'll be dreaming of for some time as well as the Japanese take on potato salad. We had 2 items from the special food menu and what a surprise in the truffle shokupan dessert! Umami, sweet, and savory. The staff was delightfully attentive and they gave us a lovely card to commemorate our anniversary. We also got the cocktail book they offer. Such a perfect night! read more

Kumiko - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The hubs and I came here last night for a late dinner with the craziest craving for sushi and this place happened to be seating past 9pm on a Thursday night. Unfortunately as soon as we walked through the door, we found out they weren't carrying any fish due to supply chain issues and we were already so hungry we decided to stay despite the irony of why we decided to go there in the first place. My first impress walking in was firstly, the decor and ambiance here are very cozy, intimate, yet elevated, and secondly, the drinks here are PRICEY after perusing the extensive cocktail menu for awhile. Service is top notch however, even though I feel the drinks were definitely underpoured/a little stingy for the price. My small martini with a ton of glass left to the top was $20, while my husbands Old Fashioned with a HUGE ice cube was also only filled part way. Anyways, moving on from that, the food itself is worth mentioning here as well. We ordered the kusshi oysters, karaage, nikumaki, gyudon and their truffle milk toast and LOVED the gyudon, karaage, and milk toast especially. The gyudon was very savory with pops of crunchy meat and sweet sauce to balance it and the karaage was both very crunchy with some bits highlighting a great mochi like chew beneath the crunchy exterior. The truffle milk toast took a moment to adjust to before realizing how delicious this party in your mouth is, very unique and surprising! read more

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