A new contemporary Japanese restaurant is preparing to shake up the Chicago culinary landscape this spring!
Hiro Izakaya is the latest concept from the Celeste Group, the team behind GoodFunk and Beatnik on the River.
Opening this spring West Town, the restaurant will take over the former home of Porto, Celeste Group’s Michelin-starred Portuguese eatery, which closed in 2023.
Celeste has scrapped initial plans to revive Porto, instead opting to reimagine the space at Chicago and Ashland Avenues.
The restaurant will center around the namesake concept of izakaya, a type of Japanese bar serving snacks and small meals to complement drinks.
The menu will focus on live-fire robata-grilled dishes, sushi, small plates, and family-style dining.
An expansive beverage program will accompany the food menu. Guests can look forward to craft cocktails, premium sake, top-shelf Japanese and American whiskies, and a curated wine selection.
The restaurant promises a lively atmosphere, inspired by the electric ambiance of the Tokyo streets. Neon accented furnishings will give the space a moody, urban-inspired edge.
“We want Hiro Izakaya to feel effortless; where guests can settle in, savor dynamic flavors, and immerse themselves in the warmth of Japanese hospitality,” says Celeste Group in a statement.
“Whether dining in, enjoying a cocktail at the bar, or taking their favorite bites to-go, we’re creating an experience that balances tradition with a fresh, modern edge.”
Celeste plans to announce an official opening date for Hiro Izakaya in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more updates and check out our list of most anticipated restaurant openings in Chicago for 2025.