Hiro Izakaya

Hiro Izakaya is a popular Japanese izakaya in Chicago known for its shareable small plates, sushi-inspired bites, and elevated comfort food. With a menu designed for group dining, it’s the kind of place where ordering a variety of dishes is the best way to experience everything. I had been wanting to try Hiro Izakaya for a while, and it fully lived up to expectations.

To start, I ordered a classic Lychee Martini. It was light, sweet, and a refreshing way to kick off the meal.

We also began with edamame served in a tamarind chili ponzu. The sauce stood out immediately with both savory and slightly sweet with a subtle tang that elevated a simple starter.

The first wave of dishes included Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Chicken Potstickers, Rock Shrimp, and a Brussels Sprout Salad. Each dish brought something different to the table, from crispy textures to bold sauces. The Brussels Sprout Salad was a standout, tossed with tamarind chili ponzu and shredded vegetables, delivering a balance of crunch, acidity, and flavor.

For the main courses, we shared Short Rib Noodles, Pork Belly Bao Buns, a burger, and the chicken sandwich. The Short Rib Noodles were rich and flavorful with tender meat and a well-balanced sauce. The Pork Belly Bao Buns offered a soft, fluffy texture with savory, melt-in-your-mouth pork. The burger and chicken sandwich added a more indulgent, comfort-style element to the meal, rounding out the variety.

Hiro Izakaya stands out as one of the top izakaya-style restaurants in Chicago for dining. The menu offers a wide range of dishes with bold, balanced flavors, making it easy to mix and match across categories. It’s a spot that delivers consistency, variety, and a strong overall dining experience.

Hiro Bar Izakaya: 1600 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL