The Izakaya at Momotaro is a dimly lit, atmospheric bar with 30 or so seats, making the exclusive space right below Momotaro Chicago a big hot spot. Situated right below beloved Japanese restaurant Momotaro, the West Loop bar brings an extra bit of grit to its elegant upstairs partner.
The menu at Izakaya is filled with Japanese style pub plates offering up DIY hand rolls, Red Miso Lamb chops, K-Town Jogae, Scallops, Renkon Hasami-Age, a signature burger, and more create a mouthwatering menu.With an extensive cocktail menu, the drinks are aplenty and the food is delicious, making for an unforgettable experience all around.
Decorated to the nines, the fabulous location breeds a mix of glamor mixed with a refined casualness. Take, for example, the bar area which serves up drinks and meals on an extended bar brimming with lights and signs.
The outside of the bar lends itself a bit of mystery, beckoning customers in with a brick facade while dining areas like the Hanami Room are decked out with gorgeous over-the-top cherry blossoms. A decked out booth area shows off red light fixtures, a cozy couch and round bar tables perfect for gathering around with friends on a night out.
Drinks like the Strawberry Swing, a signature El Guel mezcal, pineau des charentes, strawberry shiso cordial, thai spice bitters, and lime or the Izakaya-exclusive drink, Nominication, made with Glenmorangie scotch, peach, Thai basil, tiki water, and lemon, bring back repeat customers vying for delicious refreshments. The food is also a big draw, like the delicious Uni noodle bowl, containing uni, rock shrimp, and shiso have diners craving the delicious flavor pallets offered here.
Dessert options, like the Sesame Sundae feature chewy sesame brownie bites, salted cocoa nibs, black sesame ice cream, neri goma magic shell, chocolate sauce, and vanilla bean whipped cream is the stuff of dreams.
Operating hours are from Sunday to Thursday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Make a reservation here.
Address: 820 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607
[Featured photo via: The Izakaya at Momotaro]