Almost ten years since our first visit to Ora, we finally made our way back to the new location in Andersonville. We were reminded of why we LOVE Ora and we will be back again soon! First of all, the staff are kind, helpful, and perfectly attentive. Thank you for a great dinning experience. Plus, the ambiance of the new location is much more open and welcoming, while also being chic and classy! Finally, prices are so reasonable considering the fresh and high quality ingredients, and the quantify of food! We also love that it is BYOD with an affordable corkage fee. We brought our own Sauvignon Blanc and it was perfect with the sushi. 10/10 would recommend! We ended up getting 4 different sushi rolls and that was perfect! We walked away full and happy as two hungry men! We also were able to get four different types of fish in the sushi rolls, and that is important to us! Delectable flavors, reasonable prices, BYOD, and an elegant dining experience: Ora truly is a fabulous date night and we highly recommend. We look forward to celebrating our next notable life moment at Ora in the near future! read more

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Prior to my visit there was only one other sushi restaurant that was worthy of my time & money. Said restaurant will run you about $100 pp. My visit to Ora only cost me $50 & I my appetite was just as satisfied & the food was just as good. Very tiny place & it's damn near in Evanston but my goodness this place impressed me a lot. The chef doesn't mind guiding your decisions nor making recommendations. Star of the show was the volcano roll but the other dishes were far from slouches. Tamago, although simple, was a perfect prepared egg & the sweetness factor was a nice surprise. It's also byob so I'm currently reserving my next visit already. read more

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This is hands down the best sushi in Chicago. BYOB, reasonable prices but the actual sushi itself is incredible. Don't come here and ask for a spicy tuna roll or a Philadelphia roll. This place specializes in authentic high quality nigiri. The owner is an absolute genius and an artist. I love the staff. The restaurant is also Beautiful. It's a little far north and out of the way but I promise it's absolutely worth the time and the travel. read more

The vibe inside is upscale yet casual! I was worried a hoodie would be out of place, but it wasn't. At the same time, while not quite romantic, Ora would make a good date spot! Everything is also very clean! The service is friendly, kind, and attentive. With four sushi chefs working their magic at the sushi bar, the food came out at reasonable speed. Especially with how fresh everything was and how much work some specialty rolls take. The menu is simple and approachable. They have more adventurous options for those like me; and simpler ones for those who just enjoy a simple Spicy Tuna roll. Miso soup = I wish I could convey the smell! A little heavy on the salt, yet very heavy on the flavor with a boatload of umami and a just the right amount of sour. I soon happily abandoned the spoon, grabbed the bowl, and happily gulped down whatever was left! Ahh... something I'd gladly order again, especially as the Chicago winter comes around the corner! Wasabi Tail = one of the more interesting rolls I've had. The fish was plentiful, high quality and made its mark. The veggie accompaniments were great at adding a little freshness, and the vinaigrette added some delectable sweetness and acid. The bacon was subtle, but just slightly there (and didn't hurt anything, for sure!). Seared Salmon Belly Sashimi = an excellent piece of fish, seared perfectly to not burn, and with a very subtle sauce. Perfect! Eel Nigiri = Wow! Just wow! Some of the best eel I've ever had! Fresh, superb quality, not over-sauced, not not microwaved like so many places do! Automatically ordered two more! Salmon Tataki = I wasn't sure if I'd like this one because I am not big into crab. However, my mind is blown three times over! The seared salmon was delightful, and I LOVED that the spicy tuna had a respectable heat! There was just enough cucumber for a little crunch and freshness. Finally, just a perfect amount of sweetness from the sweet soy. As for the crab... I ended up really liking it! Where has Ora been all my life!l?! Finally, one little criticism: while the rice is amazing and fresh, it didn't quite stick together, making the pieces exceptionally delicate. When I tell my friends about my Yelping and rating, many think Yelp allows half stars. Alas, it does not. Though if it did, a lot of those places I awarded five would really get 4.5. However, Ora is one of those rare places that is a five through and through! read more

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I was meeting a friend for dinner who loves sushi. I suggested the spot because it's near her and I'd heard many great things. Ora didn't disappoint. After an awkward attempt by each of us to enter the restaurant, we were seated. The entryway looks more like the entrance to apartments or an office. We started out with the edamame and the crispy spicy tuna. I wasn't expecting the tuna to be cooked, but the dish was quite good. The edamame was great too. I'm not sure what kind of salt they used, but it didn't easily melt into the edamame. For our main, we ordered three rolls: Kouyou, Sakana, and Hotate Volcano. Of the three, the Sakana was my favorite with the Volcano being a close second. You know a meal is good when you're thinking about it the next day. While this isn't in the neighborhood for me, I'll be back because the food is excellent. PS It's BYOB read more

Do not go unless you have 3 hours. Went on 7/2 and the restaurant was 1/2 full. Waited 45 mins for our first order of rolls. Ordered more and then after 30 mins the waitress said it would be ready soon. 30 more minutes and she said it would be another 30 mins. We arrived at 7 and left at 8:50 when she told us our 2nd round of sushi would be 30 mins more. It appears they fill door dash orders before customers in the restaurant. They also had 3 people making rolls for the 1st hour and they were still really slow. After the 1st hour 2 of the people left. read more

Waited approximately an hour and thirty for three rolls. Not sure if the waitress forgot to put our order in, or if the sushi chefs disregarded it, but after bringing it up with our very nice waitress she said it was due to a high volume of delivery orders. I nicely explained to her, I'm in the restaurant so delivery orders should come second. Meanwhile, tables that came in 45 minutes after us received their orders, so not sure what the truth is here. The restaurant business is cutthroat so I highly recommend the owners take this feedback to heart. I'll never go back again. read more

Ora - Sushi bar with fresh salmon - Sushi Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My absolute favorite place for sushi in chicago and beyond. Always fresh, always yummy and byob. Beautiful, clean atmosphere and prices are very fair. read more

I love this sushi spot! This is our new favorite neighborhood sushi spot - the fish is super fresh! My husband is gluten free and was able to have a lot of the options here too which is great. read more

You have to check this place out for 3 reasons First is Oysters motoyaki- oysters infused in mayo sauce with caviar sprinkled on top making it out of this world. Second is Surf and turf - seared rib eye with shrimp. The texture of the meat gives this sushi a body no fish can. We also had spicy salmon, snake eye and scallop Volcano. All beyond good, all seared giving that extra taste and substance no other sushi's can deliver. It's also BYOB. Third is Aliya our server. A looker that slays her hair with a killer smile while taking care of you at the same time. What more can you ask for? Ora is highly recommended. read more

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randomly picked out a sushi spot while visiting chicago, and was pleasantly surprised! prices were sooo affordable (as an austinite) for the specialty rolls, and delicious to boot. they top you up with a hefty amount of fish. my must-get is the wasabi tail! if this spot was in my hometown, i'd be visiting all the time. read more

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Food was good but service was so slow. Come here at 5:00 but after you are up for disappointing night

This place is not talked about enough!!! Amazing prices and overall such good service. I had the chefs recommendation nigiri with a few rolls that I can't remember but they were so good! The nigiri special came with miso soup and a traditional roll for the best price. The nigiri had a few pieces I've never tried before but sooo good. The beef tataki appetizer was phenomenal!! It's small in here, so highly recommend a reservation but the ambiance is perfect as a neighborhood gem! I'm already planning my next visit. Looking for an affordable, high quality sushi spot for rolls and nigiri, go here! read more

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Second visit and it's still good! It's a nice, quiet date spot. I was hoping to try their full menu, but they still have the soft opening menu. I tried the half size of oyster motoyaki and salmon aburi. I can see why people like the oyster motoyaki. The dish was rich with savory flavor. I didn't find the oyster flavor to overwhelm the dish. The half size is good for two people to share as an appetizer. I had it on my own and was pretty satiated with it alone. I enjoyed my salmon aburi as well. I mainly got it because I like spicy tuna. We also received complimentary edamame well-seasoned with salt and cooked. It was a nice touch to our meal. I'm looking forward to their full menu! read more

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My partner and I have loved coming to Ora since at least 2017. We've had some incredible meals here and I am happy to report that after the adjustment period following their re-opening, they're still completely delicious, welcoming and full of wonderful ambiance and incredible quality fish. So much of what they make is wonderful (we always start with the beef tataki!) and the rolls are awesome (recommend the Wasabi Tail, Salmon Tataki, and Scallop Volcano, but everyone we've had is good!) but the star of the show is definately the nigiri! We regularly get like 12 pieces of it and every meal we just want to run that order back. It's so crazy good, great quality, super fresh, wonderful proportions. The space is moody, dim and romantic but not overly loud or chaotic like a lot of other date spots. Plus the servers legitimately could not be more sweet or kind-- the service is fantastic. If you're looking for fresh fish, great service, a wonderful vibe all with a very good price for the quality, you gotta hit Ora! read more

Very reliable sushi place in the city. Decent appetizers selection, good choice of sashimi and rolls. Nice decor, very attentive service. And it's byob :) read more

This isn't just my favorite sushi spot in Chicago, it's my favorite anywhere. If you're a purist for great sushi, it's easy to pay 3xs more for a lower quality than you get here. If you can get in for an omakase, you're in for an unforgettable experience. The support staff is prompt and accommodating, the chefs are masters of their craft. read more

Absolutely delicious fresh fish! I have high expectations when it comes to sushi but this blew me away in quality. Especially for the price point. I'm convinced this is the best Sashimi/Nigiri you will find in Chicago. Speciality rolls were full of unique flavors and textures too. We really enjoyed the "surf and turf" and the Salmon roll with crispy skin. The sushi rice alone is delicious with the perfect texture and flavor. Not too wet Service was amazing thank to Jason. Really helped guide us and create an experience. Very excited to come back and bring friends. Keep in mind this is currently BYOB but they will provide you with Wine Glasses and they even have Sake cups. If you love sushi, Do yourself a favor and give it a try! read more

Ora - Chef's Nigiri - Sushi Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Best sushi in Chicago !!! we love to go back there and enjoy every bite:) The staff and owner are always very nice !!! read more

My friend and I were so excited to try Ora's omakase experience! We made reservations over the phone and dined in on a Friday. The space itself is very relaxing and welcoming. We were seated at the bar and took advantage of the BYOB option! We had about 12 courses served by Chef Dalbert and absolutely enjoyed everything we were served! Each dish was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The chef described every dish down to the last detail. We were full by the end of the courses and left extremely satisfied. Needless to say, we'll be back very soon! Thanks Ora! read more

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Hip atmosphere, some of the best nigiri in town. Owner is super-focused on quality, both food and service. read more

Great variety of fresh sushi and rolls. Service was top notch and love the decor. Ended up ordering another meal to go. read more

By far the best sushi I've had in Chicago! We went here on a limb and it was amazing. The fish was fresh and the rolls were so flavorful and unique. 10/10 recommend and it's BYOB so makes for a great night! read more

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Came here for the first time on a Saturday night, no reservation needed as we went right at opening. The restaurant is very cozy. Literally everything is delicious, both their meat options and the seafood and sushi options. I absolutely loved the oyster appetizer, one of the most unique things I've ever tasted. The surf and turf roll was also very unique, I don't think I've ever had steak on sushi before. The fish is so fresh and delicious in everything they use. The spicy tuna roll was my favorite but alas it usually is anywhere. Really can't recommend the fish here enough, it is so good. We will be back for sure read more

We came the other night and we had a wonderful time. Better than expected. Your decor is beautiful: simple elegant and warm. The menu was just as elegant and delicious. We can't wait to come back again for your volcano roll. I saw that you can bring your own bottle. That's always good to remember for next time as well. read more

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Very good creative rolls. We liked all of them, but I think my favorites were the wasabi tail and the snake eye. It's BYOB, but their glassware is pretty clunky. read more

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Awesome sushi place. Food was really good with very unique twists. Order of baked clams I wish I took picture because it was not what I expected but was fantastic. Great culinary surprise. Highly recommended worth the trip! read more

Ora - Still in progress ....snake eye - Sushi Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Such a great experience and such amazing sushi. I definitely recommend the dynamic roll. It's to die for!

I've lived in Los Angeles and Ora is the best sushi and beats anything I've had in California. Their rolls are fantastic. The ambience is very cool as well. I highly recommend Ora. read more

I'll keep my rating the same, but we ordered for delivery a month or two back and it just wasn't as wondrous as it had been in person pre-pandemic. (I understand that it's unrealistic to have that expectation anyways). We spent a lot and did not really get a lot of food. I can't recall if a lot of it was service fees and tip or not, but the nigiri was just okay this time around. I think more than anything my major takeaway was the high cost not feeling justified in this specific instance. read more

Ora - Scottish salmon, yellowtail belly, seared tuna, scallop - Sushi Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I had been wanting to try this place for a long time, and I can't speak highly enough of it. It did seem that they were working with limited staff, but I was in no rush and they were all quite nice. The food was amazing! I don't know if I've had better sushi in the Chicago area. You can tell all of the ingredients are fresh, and the flavors work so well together in the maki rolls. The sashimi were also so delicious. The general atmosphere is relaxed. People were dressed for a night on the town or in casual clothes as well. BYOB, as the bar space is where all of the sushi is made. Will definitely be back! read more

Service are friendly, food are fantastic. Looking forward to try another dish in there menu. read more

Ora - Love the Oyster Motoyaki for appetizer. We've tried 4 rolls in the menu and they are very good. - Sushi Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Even during a pandemic, Ora continues to execute quality sushi. Their basic nigiri presentation is wonderful, with the rice cooked correctly and vinegared to complement the fish. The fish droops over the optimal amount of rice. The twists on traditional sushi work so well with the fish, not overwhelming or attempting to hide the flavor. Orders to try: mebachi big fin, benitoro, hamachi toro, medai, shiro maguro, seven spice escolar, botan ebi, hotate. Hopefully we can all soon see our favorite wait staff. Support this local business. The execution is much better than many of the overpriced places in River North. read more

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The service was great. Our server was friendly and knowledgeable. I thought everything tasted very good but their rice was too moist (at least for our taste). The rolls (esp. the special rolls) were falling apart and the rice wasn't stuck together. We had to be very careful when we picked up each piece otherwise it would just crumble. We ordered 5 rolls and my favorite was spicy salmon. I trust in the quality and freshness of their fish so I definitely want to go back to try their sushi. The rice was a big part for me hence the 3 stars otherwise I would have given them 4 stars. read more

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Unbelievable dinner at Ora! This was the perfect spot to celebrate my fiancé's birthday. Loved the newly renovated and bigger space that can accommodate small or large groups for any occasion. The nigiri is so fresh and tasty that it literally melts in your mouth. You really can't go wrong with any option. The Scallop Volcano maki was delicious and perfect for sharing. The Oyster Motoyaki is enough reason to come back. Super friendly and helpful staff led by Dalbert. Thank you for such an enjoyable experience! read more

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The best deal here was the chef's choice sushi set. One roll plus 6 pieces of nigiri, and miso soup. Considering the prices for the rest of the menu, we chose this, plus the oyster motoyaki, since it was praised in almost every review. The oyster motoyaki was good, but very very heavy. The nigiri choices for the sushi set were amazing! Fish is fresh and I especially loved the sweet shrimp. The maki chosen were the cheapest ones on the menu, and I didn't like them. All the spicy basic rolls are way too spicy, mashed fish kind. I wish I would have ordered some separate rolls. Overall, a nice experience, BYOB with a well stocked liquor store across the street! read more

Wow! This place was awesome and might be my new favorite sushi restaurant. I highly recommend the oyster motoyaki, the snake eye roll, surf and turf roll, and the volcano scallop roll. Really nice ambiance and vibe and really friendly service, as well. This place isn't exactly cheap, but it seems like they're using high quality ingredients. I will definitely be back to sample other items on the menu. read more

This is a great date night spot (maybe a third or fourth date though for reasons I'll explain in a little bit). It's cozy, intimate, and has a very lively but subdued environment. This is one of those places where even though you're getting slices of raw fish (probably) you can tell and taste the difference in the superb quality of the fish compared to any other old sushi place. It's one of those places where you get food and remember just how important quality of food is and quality of preparation is. It's one of those places where food leaves a lingering sense of "goodness" long after the initial taste. From a quality of food perspective this place is great. I would say though that the quality comes at a cost that matches the quality. This place is on the pricier end (but still reasonable for what it is) and is likely partially influenced from the area it is situated in (basically almost the heart of Andersonville). Know that it's totally worth the price. But the price could be a minor deterrent if you're just going for a causal night out. read more

Still so fire . I sort of want to drive back up there and smack the chef it's so good. I'm only mad at myself for somehow letting it go so long without visiting. Menu selection is a little smaller than what I remember; perhaps because they recently changed locations? The surf and turf and scallop volcano rolls were both winners. read more

Superb service, food was amazing and atmosphere was friendly and inviting Best in the area. Ora will definitely be my place of choice for Japanese cuisine. BYOB is a plus! read more