Casa Madai — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

Tried tableside omakase. Miso soup was very salty. Tuna tostada was oily and bland (something you may see at an all inclusive resort sushi). The mochi icecream dessert (for $10) included one mochi icecream piece cut into 4 with whipped cream, I kid you not. The sushi itself was just ok- it came out all at once, some flavor combination did not work imo. It did include one piece of chutoro.

If the high ratings drew you in to try and perhaps you are comparing to Kai Zan (about same price point of their omakase), you will leave dissatisfied and disappointed.

Amateur decor (just an open place w seating), amateur food, highly overpriced for what they bring to the table. If it’s your first sushi experience, it may be satisfactory. I am very confused about their rating. But to be fair, we did not try their rolls or chef side omakase but considering some of the combination of flavors presented in tableside omakase or the small quantity of it, not willing to.

I know there is such a omakase craze but just because I took a few lessons in tennis, does not give me privilege of being a charging instructor at expert rate. It was a $400 meal befitting more of $150 range and I think you may agree. If you don’t agree, contact me for some...

We went on the Grand Opening evening, and to our surprise, there were business owners from Pilsen, as well as family and friends to commemorate the opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony. We just came to support a new local business and to enjoy some sushi, but we were welcomed by everyone, including Brandon, the GM.

We were started with an amuse-bouche from one of the chefs, which was a welcomed surprise. We then received a couple of pieces each of two of their signature maki rolls and then we were each served 5 pieces of nigiri. Everything was great! To be honest, we’re not dessert people, but the ice cream with a combination of macadamia nuts and other goodness topped off a lovely experience. We brought some good wine from home (it’s BYOB) to elevate the experience. Though there were a lot of people there to celebrate the opening, our service was prompt and everything on our plates was well explained.

The location may be secluded from other spots in Pilsen, only a few blocks south of 18th, but do yourself a favor and come enjoy an excellent sushi experience. We’ll be back to try it again, and would love to enjoy the omakase experience as well. If you don’t already know, don’t sleep on the food...

Casa Madai and Chef Ismael delivered one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve ever had. Each evening felt like a private Omasake-style journey, curated with thought, passion, and flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

Chef Ismael’s ability to fuse Mexican ingredients with Japanese precision was nothing short of extraordinary. Every single piece of sushi was crafted with intention, each bite carrying its own unique flavor profile that stood on its own while still telling a story as part of the larger menu. What made the experience even more special was learning about Chef Ismael’s journey—how he began his culinary path and what led him into the world of sushi. That personal touch made the meal feel deeply connected, not just to the food, but to the person behind it.

The evening ended on a perfect note with a silky Yuzu cheesecake, a refreshing and delicious finale that tied the whole experience together.

Casa Madai isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a true culinary experience where tradition, creativity, and storytelling come together. Chef Ismael has created something truly special here, and it’s an experience that lingers long after...