Tokyo Last Call

This past September, I experienced Tokyo Last Call, a unique dining concept in the basement of Sushi-San, where four Japanese bars and bartenders rotate each weekend with their own curated cocktail menus. I attended the last weekend in September, featuring Tokyo Confidential as the guest bartender.

My favorite cocktail of the night was the Arigato El Gatto, made with Japanese whiskey, mezcal, watermelon, and chili. The cocktail had the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and sweet, and the chili added a subtle heat that elevated the flavor.

For food, I went for The Big Tahuna Smashburger, made with bigeye tuna and onion jam, paired with Tot-o-yaki topped with ginger and bonito flakes. These dishes captured the essence of Japanese bar food in a creative and flavorful way.

I also enjoyed the Tea Sea cocktail, with gin, grappa, rose wine, tropical green tea, and lime — fresh, vibrant, and the perfect complement to the food menu.

I also had Wagyu Skewers with flaky salt and spicy mustard — a perfectly tender and savory bite that paired beautifully with the cocktails.

For my final drink, I tried Mugi Boogie, Tokyo Confidential’s twist on the espresso martini, with Haku Vodka, Mugi Shochu, coffee, soy caramel, and tonka, balancing sweet and salty flavors perfectly.

Tokyo Last Call at Sushi-San is an unforgettable dining experience. Sitting at the Master’s Counter allowed a front-row view of the bartender crafting each cocktail, while enjoying a menu of inventive Japanese-inspired bar bites. This concept is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Japanese flavors and craft cocktails in Chicago.

Tokyo Last Call: 1950 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL