Chicago Must‑Visit Izakaya (Momotaro’s Hidden Gem!) 🍶

Personally, I found the izakaya downstairs more surprising than the Michelin‑starred Momotaro upstairs. Portions are small, but nothing disappointed — highly recommended! Note: “Upstairs restaurant” in this post refers to the one‑star Momotaro. Today’s Menu 🍽️ 🥢 Fried Lotus Root with Pork (Lotus Root “Sandwich”) A must‑order! Described as “lotus” on the menu — tastes just like Chinese, but without the batter. Sweet‑savory pork filling + crispy lotus root — instantly makes you want a drink. 🐟 Sashimi (Tuna) Fresh, fatty, clean slices. 🍝 Uni Pasta Same as the upstairs version — salty‑forward, creamy sauce that melts in your mouth. Addictively good. 🐑 Lamb Kushi (Skewers) Same as upstairs — tender, well‑marbled lamb with almost no gaminess. Charred edges have a wonderful smokiness. 🥑 Tuna Tostada Visually stunning — layered cucumber, avocado, tuna. A cool, refreshing bite. 🍗 Nagoya Tebasaki Wings Wow — unexpectedly amazing! Crispy, sweet‑soy glaze, juicy inside — that crunchy, oily first bite is everything. 🍍 Bamboo (Cocktail) Light, fruity — hints of pineapple? 🍺 Hitachino NA (Yuzu Beer?) Refreshing citrus‑infused brew. 🍸 Other Cocktails Can’t recall each name, but the cocktail list is solid — visually beautiful and tasty. Key Details 📍 🍴 Spot: Izakaya at Momotaro 📍 Address: 820 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607 (downstairs from Momotaro — head down the stairs!) 💰 Price: ~$100 per person. As an izakaya, the vibe and food are both fantastic. Music sets the mood just right. What other great izakaya spots do you love? Share below! #ChicagoEats #Izakaya #Momotaro #HiddenGem #JapaneseBar #MustTryChicago