When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Nikko Sushi Izakaya
Why Nikko Sushi Izakaya is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nikko Sushi Izakaya, located on Division Street in Chicago, offers a compelling blend of traditional Japanese izakaya ambiance with fresh, authentic sushi and small plates designed for sharing. This cozy and inviting spot is perfect for meeting up with friends, whether for lunch, dinner, or a late-night outing. The menu features a variety of fresh sushi and sashimi, alongside classic Japanese izakaya dishes paired excellently with warm sake, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that balances lively energy and casual comfort. Chefs at Nikko put care and authentic ingredients into every dish, ensuring a delicious experience with a modern flair. The restaurant’s location in the heart of Chicago adds to its appeal as a convenient and stylish place to gather and enjoy quality Japanese cuisine together.
Here's what people think of Nikko Sushi Izakaya
As of recent, Nikko Sushi Izakaya holds a 4.6-star rating based on 140 reviews.
Reviewers generally praise Nikko Sushi Izakaya for its fresh sushi, flavorful izakaya dishes, and vibrant atmosphere. Positive reviews highlight the authenticity and quality of the food, the creative sushi rolls, and the friendly, casual environment that encourages social dining. Many reviewers appreciate the balance of traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine, as well as the attentive service and lively ambiance, making it a favored spot for both groups and sushi lovers. On the downside, some criticisms focus on occasional wait times and variability in service or dish preparation, which can affect the overall experience. However, these negative comments are outnumbered by positive feedback emphasizing the restaurant’s inviting vibe, delicious food, and ideal location in Chicago. Overall, Nikko Sushi Izakaya maintains a strong reputation with a 4.6 rating from 140 reviews, reflecting a largely satisfying and enjoyable experience for guests seeking authentic Japanese flavors in a welcoming setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Febri Tjoa
This place is amazing! As a sushi fanatic, I often find that some sushi restaurants don’t meet my expectations, but this one truly exceeded them. The food is extraordinary, and the fish is incredibly fresh. I love the atmosphere, and the service is top-tier! The vibe is fun and inviting, with all the servers always on standby to help, serving us with a smile. Our server, Ryan, was very friendly and helpful. My favorite rolls are the Dynamite and the Dragon on Fire, and I hope everyone gets a chance to try them! Finally, this AYCE sushi experience is perfect inside and out! I would recommend this place to everyone, and I’ll definitely be back because it’s now my favorite AYCE sushi spot!
Catherine Nguyen
Brand new izakaya and sushi in Wicker Park with slightly sleek vibes and fusion-y sushi (which I'm down for) along with sushi and izakaya classics. Overall: the sushi seems to be their strong suit. Definitely 5 stars for the sushi! We had a light dinner with a couple orders of yakitori, some nigiri, one signature roll, and a couple of cocktails. The nigiri and roll were great. Quality fish, very tasty. I liked the fun touches for the roll (with aji amarillo and a yuzu sauce). I thought the chicken-and-onion yakitori could have used a touch more seasoning and char. The pork belly was nice but I thought it was a little overcooked, so it was a little tough (for what it's worth, my husband thought it was par for the course for grilled pork belly). The cocktails looked great, though the old-fashioned seemed watered down that day and my drink (the Jade Shima) was sweeter than I like.and the lemongrass in it didn't come through, but I feel like almost all cocktails I've been getting in Chicago have been on the sweet side, so 🤷🏻♀️. Service was a little off on timing (they were understaffed/new) the night we went, but this place is brand new and that's expected. Servers were warm and took things seriously and I would bet that they'll have consistently great service once they get going. What to get here: nigiri, Seasons Catch Roll I'll definitely be back to try more rolls, their sushi appetizers, and their hand rolls looked really good too.
Deice Tiwa
the best ayce sushi in town! the quality of the fishes tastes so fresh, the sauces is unique and so tasty, also the plating is so cuteee! feels like eating at omakase restaurant... the portion is decent, not too big not too small, just right amount of rice and thick fishes! shout out to our server Helen! she's so personable, informative and quick... also the manager always checks on us to make sure everything was good will def be back! 💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lisa Moy
Quality AYCE sushi. I’m a foodie. I love good authentic quality sushi. The rice and vinegar mix is up to par. Rice vs fish amount and perfect sized. The quality and creativity of the rolls and appetizers high grade. If you like the Americanized version sushi they have a few rolls that have cream cheese and other cooked food. If you want your true authentic they have a good list of that too. You can even order Uni and sweet shrimp on the side for advanced sushi lovers like me. All for only $32.99 for dinner. Location is great and love the 3 levels inside. Waitress came around the right amount of times as well. Worth trying.
James Mabunay
My family and I came here for lunch and had a wonderful experience. For starters, the restaurant was very clean and comfortable. The waiters and waitress were kind and quick to offer help. The waitress who waited on our table was extremely friendly. We had our three young children with us and she was very accomodating, even offering practice chopsticks for the older children. The food was fresh and was served quickly. The fish tasted fresh and the rolls were of generous size. The appetizers were delicious as well. Overall, we had a great experience and would recommend this place to our friends and family.
How to reach Nikko Sushi Izakaya
None
Website: None
Why Nikko Sushi Izakaya may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nikko Sushi Izakaya with your friends? Nikko Sushi Izakaya stands out as the perfect spot to gather your friends for a memorable outing because it offers more than just dining; it’s an experience all about quality, atmosphere, and social connection. Located in Chicago's vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, this Japanese restaurant boasts a strong rating of 4.6 from over 140 reviews, underscoring its popularity and consistent delivery of quality service and cuisine. When you want to rally your group, you want a place that can accommodate lively conversations, diverse tastes, and an inviting ambiance—and Nikko Sushi Izakaya does just that. Known for its incredibly fresh sushi and all-you-can-eat options, you and your friends can share an ever-changing variety of expertly crafted sushi rolls, nigiri, and Japanese dishes that encourage sharing and interaction. The beautifully restored factory setting with exposed brick walls and wooden beams creates a warm yet trendy environment, ideal for casual meetups or special celebrations alike. Add to this the extraordinary cocktails like the famed lychee martinis, and you have a spot that is guaranteed to elevate your group's night out with exceptional food, drinks, and vibe.
What kind of dining experience can groups expect at Nikko Sushi Izakaya? Nikko Sushi Izakaya offers an all-you-can-eat sushi option that’s a true crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for groups who want endless variety without worrying about individual orders. The sushi is consistently praised for its fresh, high-quality fish and the creative rolls that mix classic flavors with innovative twists. The menu goes beyond sushi to include yakitori (grilled skewers) such as pork belly and chicken with scallions, providing tasty alternatives for everyone in the group, including those who prefer cooked dishes. Moreover, each meal comes with appetizers and miso soup or salad, making the dining experience varied and fulfilling. For groups, this means there’s plenty to share and explore together, fostering a lively and interactive atmosphere. The friendly staff add to the relaxed setting, helping new visitors feel welcome and regulars feel like part of a community—a critical element for gatherings with friends where comfort and great service enhance the enjoyment.
What makes the venue’s atmosphere ideal for group meetups and celebrations? Nikko Sushi Izakaya is housed in a tastefully renovated historic factory building, which combines a rustic charm with modern aesthetics. The interior features exposed brick walls and substantial wooden beams that create a cozy yet stylish setting, perfect for intimate conversations as well as energetic group chatter. Multiple floors provide ample seating and privacy options for groups of various sizes. Whether you’re planning a casual after-work get-together, a birthday party, or a weekend dinner with friends, this spacious layout allows for comfortable mingling without feeling crowded. Additionally, having restrooms conveniently located on both main and lower floors adds to the comfort for guests. The overall ambiance encourages a relaxed and enjoyable social experience, making your meetup not just about the food but also about the memorable time you share with your friends.
What additional amenities and activities does Nikko Sushi Izakaya offer for groups? Besides the food and atmosphere, Nikko Sushi Izakaya offers something special to enhance group meetups. Guests rave about the cocktail menu, with the lychee martinis made by a bartender named Helen receiving particular praise for being phenomenal. Drinks like these set a perfect tone for celebrations or casual evenings, giving your group an extra element to enjoy beyond sushi. The restaurant’s all-you-can-eat format encourages a pace where everyone can try different dishes, making the meal interactive and fun—a great icebreaker and conversation starter. The attentive and friendly staff contribute to making each visit seamless and memorable, often going the extra mile for regular guests with personalized touches such as gifting customized chopsticks. This personal care fosters a sense of belonging and connection for groups who come back repeatedly. Finally, the location in a bustling neighborhood gives your group the option to explore nearby spots either before or after your meal, making a night out even more dynamic.
Why is Nikko Sushi Izakaya especially suited for families and friend groups looking for value and quality? Groups looking for a mix of budget-friendly options without compromising on quality will find Nikko Sushi Izakaya especially appealing. The all-you-can-eat sushi offering means that your group can indulge in a wide range of dishes without the stress of individual pricing, which is perfect for larger gatherings or casual meetups. Yet, unlike many AYCE places where quality might take a backseat, Nikko Sushi Izakaya is praised for maintaining fresh ingredients and skilled preparation. The variety caters to both adventurous sushi lovers and more traditional palates, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. With added touches like the complimentary appetizers, miso soup, or salad, the meal feels complete and thoughtfully crafted. This combination of value, service, and culinary consistency makes it an excellent choice for groups who want to celebrate good times without worrying about breaking the bank.
How does Nikko Sushi Izakaya reflect Japanese dining culture in a social context? Nikko Sushi Izakaya embraces the spirit of Japanese dining, which is often centered around communal sharing, variety, and meticulous culinary craftsmanship. Sushi, by nature, encourages sharing plates, trying new things, and savoring flavors together; this brings friends and family closer as they discuss their favorites and sample dishes passed around the table. The inclusion of yakitori and other Japanese small plates adds to the authentic izakaya (Japanese pub) feel—where people gather to eat, drink, and enjoy lively conversation after work or on weekends. The thoughtful presentation and fresh ingredients reflect the dedication of the master chefs behind the scenes, reinforcing a respect for tradition and quality that guests can appreciate. This environment is perfect for groups wanting not just a meal, but a cultural dining experience that feels social, convivial, and immersive, echoing how the Japanese often come together over food and drinks.
What are some practical reasons to choose Nikko Sushi Izakaya for your next meetup? Practically speaking, Nikko Sushi Izakaya’s location in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood makes it an accessible and desirable destination for gatherings, situated close to public transportation and ample parking. Its spacious layout with multiple floors can comfortably host either medium or larger-sized groups without feeling cramped. The restaurant’s hours, including late-night dining on Fridays and Saturdays, allow flexibility to plan meetups either early or late. Friendly and attentive service ensures the needs of your group, from seating to special requests, are smoothly handled. Finally, the accumulation of thousands of loyal guests over the years points to a track record of satisfying many diners, providing reassurance that your group will receive consistently positive experiences whether dining casually or celebrating special occasions.
In summary, Nikko Sushi Izakaya offers a compelling combination of fresh, high-quality sushi, a welcoming and stylish atmosphere, excellent drinks, and group-friendly features that make it an exceptional choice for rallying your friends or family. Whether you are seeking a casual dinner, a festive celebration, or a cultural culinary adventure, this spot delivers an unforgettable social dining experience that will keep your group coming back for more.