Itoko

When it comes to discovering new sushi spots in Chicago, Itoko in Lakeview is a standout that more people should know about. From elegant cocktails to high-quality hand rolls and shareable plates, Itoko delivers an approachable Japanese dining experience—perfect for a Friday night out.

No better way to kick off dinner than with Itoko’s Lychee Martini. Unlike many overly sweet versions, this one had a balanced, clean taste with a hint of floral notes.

One of the highlights of the night was the TCD Tuna Toro, a deconstructed hand roll featuring kalgua caviar, sushi rice, and nori—letting you assemble each bite yourself. The tuna was melt-in-your-mouth fresh, and the combination of textures made it a must-try dish.

We also ordered the Foie Gras & Pork Gyoza, which was a table favorite. Rich, savory, and perfectly crispy, it’s one of those dishes you’ll crave again and again—especially ideal for sharing.

As my main, I opted for the Three-Piece Trio Hand Rolls, each delivering bold and unique flavor combinations:

• Momo Jr.: Tuna, spicy tako, pickled daikon, sweet soy

• XO Scallop: Diver scallop, XO sauce, scallion, puffed soba

• Shio Koji Salmon: Avocado mousse, crispy salmon skin, trout roe

Every roll showcased creativity in flavor and high quality ingredients. While the nori was a bit chewy to bite through cleanly, the flavors made up for the challenge.

I always order Unagi Nigiri wherever I go, and Itoko’s did not disappoint. Sweet, buttery, and slightly smoky, it was a fantastic end to the savory portion of the meal.

Itoko is a perfect sushi spot in Chicago if you're craving beautifully plated dishes, innovative cocktails, and a lively, upscale atmosphere. I’ll definitely be returning to explore more of their traditional sushi rolls and another round of that tuna toro.

Itoko: 3325 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL