Chicago Hidden Gem Japanese｜Izakaya Kurumaya 🏮🍣

Kurumaya is my favorite Japanese izakaya in Chicago! It’s located near the Arlington Japanese supermarket—a bit far from the Loop, but I still go several times a month. The menu is extensive, and I’ve never been disappointed with anything I’ve tried. The whole place has a cozy, neighborhood-restaurant feel. The Japanese staff are super friendly—the guys love to joke around, and the girls are really sweet. Every visit feels warm and relaxed! 😊 They serve both lunch and dinner, but the lunch menu is simpler—I recommend going for dinner. Note: Closed on Sundays. They even have a hand-drawn menu—so cute! 🎨📖 Here are my top recommendations: 🌟 Amaebi Karaage – Fried sweet shrimp—I order this every time! The shrimp are big and delicious. 🍤 🌟 Beef Tongue & Beef Salad – Both are amazing. The salad has a tangy dressing that’s super refreshing. Their beef dishes are always on point. 🥩🥗 🌟 Kurumaya Gozen – Their signature bento box (pictured below the cover). Comes with sashimi, tempura, teriyaki—all delicious! 🍱 🌟 Chirashi – Fresh sashimi over sushi rice. The fish is always high-quality. 🐟🍚 🌟 Ochazuke (Tea-over-Rice) – Tried it many times! They have salmon, pickled plum, and seaweed versions. Go for the mixed—it combines all three and tastes fantastic! 🍵🍚 🌟 Tempura Don – Another favorite I’ve ordered repeatedly. Their tempura shrimp are plump and satisfying! 🍤🍚 #ChicagoEats #JapaneseFood #IzakayaLove #HiddenGem #ChicagoFoodie #SushiLovers