Takashi

1952 N. Damen Ave. (Armitage Ave.) Send to Phone

A melding of contemporary French and American cuisines with Japanese influences from chef Takashi Yagihashi.

Cuisine

Open

Lunch Sun., Dinner Tues.-Sun.

Features

Romantic setting
Full bar
Reservations suggested
Valet parking
Casual

Wine

Great Wine List

* Click here for rating key

He’s done the fine dining thing (Ambria, Tribute), the Vegas thing (Okada at Wynn) and even fast food (Noodles at Macy’s). Now chef Takashi Yagihashi is going intimate at his eponymous Bucktown restaurant where he serves refined French and Japanese cuisine. As it turns out, that’s a very good thing for Chicagoans. Attention to detail is evident at this intimate spot, from the Zen-like décor and beautiful dishware to the cozy-yet-elegant booths. Then there’s the food, a combination of hot and cold small plates and entrée-size dishes, which balance bright flavors with contrasting textures. The trio of house-made tofu all may look the same, but each one has its own subtle flavors. Other top starters include crispy sweetbreads, port-braised short ribs with Roquefort spätzle and soy-ginger pork belly. We do suggest saving room for the large plates, especially the seared hamachi and roast duck. There’s a well-thought-out international wine list as well as a selection of sakés from Yagihashi’s hometown. Desserts feel the love, too, with sheep’s milk panna cotta and tropical fruit brunoise.