THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Katana Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Katana Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: Innovative Dining Group (BOA Steakhouse, Sushi Roku, ROKU and Robata Bar) throws a dash of Hollywood glamour into this River North sushi and robata bar. Frequented by celebrities at its Hollywood counterpart, this sibling is a staple for scenesters seeking a luxe experience. The bi-level space incorporates natural tones, sprawling communal tables, an eight- and additional four-seat sushi bar for omakase and roomy circular booths, contributing to an overall ambient vibe. A mezzanine with a dedicated room for private dining overlooks the main room, while a 30-seat patio opens during warmer months.

Likes: Rare and exotic sushi and sashimi options.
Dislikes: Dining in the mezzanine is a little too dark and removed.

Food & Drinks: With robata, sushi, hot and cold dishes plus an omakase menu, chefs Robert Juan and Jose Melendez source premium ingredients at the peak of their seasonality. Bamboo-skewered items benefit from smoky flavor via binchotan coals, including the Chilean sea bass and the chewy chicken cartilage. On the hot menu, the soseji stars: bacon-wrapped Kurobuta sausage complemented by karashi mustard is fork tender and earthy. The White Lotus (shrimp tempura, avocado, asparagus, albacore and crispy onions) is a delicate standout, and the signature Katana roll with spicy tuna, tuna sashimi, jalapeño and yuzu oil packs heat into every bite. Michael Simon designs a well-crafted cocktail menu, with select Japanese beer, sakés, whiskey and wine.