Konbini & Kanpai Lakeview — Restaurant in Lake View Township

This fun Lakeview liquor shop (think craft beer and wine, canned cocktails and sake) is all about hospitality and diversity. The range I saw opening week goes from all-American coolers like Ranch waters from Texas, to favorite Midwest IPAs, to Kolsch-style ales, and everything in-between. Curated with care by a pair of well-traveled Chicagoans, these owners are happy to pour out samples at the free weekly tastings. Even better, you can mix and match beer singles to taste at home or right in the shop.

Inside it’s bright and comfortable, with just enough seating to shop and sip with friends. Check out the large and ever growing sake selection chilling up front. For wine, shelves are stocked with thoughtful offerings like natural, organic, biodynamic, and sustainably farmed wines. You can browse the full wall of beer fridges without having to commit to a set four- or six- pack. The price per can is the same amount as if you would purchase a four- or six- pack. Best of both worlds! The picks keep changing so I’ll keep coming back. Overall an excellent neighborhood...

I feel at home here. My only regret is not finding it sooner in our neighborhood. We hosted my husband’s birthday here - the space was amazing and just the vibe we were looking for. I kept getting distracted from my conversations with friends by looking around at the fun variety of drinks, snacks, plants, origami decor (!!). How could you not try every type of beer, wine, liquor and sake? They have it all.

I love the signs above the the fridges that guided me to the flavors I’m looking for. Jun-Jun was there and made our event very special, and taught us a few things about sake! There were origami bouquets on the table we reserved for the party. Separate tabs for everyone was not a problem. I mean, come on! I’m already thinking about my own birthday and wanting to host it here again. PS including a pic from the origami class I attended which was SO fun! Can’t wait for more...

I stopped by today and I was so glad I did! Whether you are a Japanese culture aficionado or just a simple Chicagoan looking for a unique drink, K&K is definitely worth checking out. I immediately noticed the store was clean and tidy, and I quickly found myself surrounded by a colorful array of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in all shapes and sizes and types. Everything from sake to wine to beer and everything in between, you'll surely find whatever you are looking for here - even the obscure/niche/exotic stuff you can't find anywhere else. The selection is outstanding and you can tell the owners are genuinely kind people, are very knowledgeable, and are...