Mako, Chicago, IL

Rating:

 4.5

Cost:

$100 – & up

Elaborate, seasonal sushi presentations make up the multiple courses at this sleek, upscale eatery.

Mako

Experience Mako Sushi in Chicago

Mako in Chicago, IL, stands out as an intimate sushi destination offering a seasonal omakase menu that highlights creative and fresh flavors. This upscale spot features a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and elegant presentations that change with the seasons. With its sleek ambiance and focus on innovative sushi options, it's ideal for those seeking a refined dining experience in the bustling West Loop area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of expertly prepared rolls and nigiri, making it a go-to choice for anyone exploring top sushi restaurants nearby. Whether you're in the mood for something special or just great sushi close to home, this venue delivers a memorable meal in a cozy setting.

Summarized by AI using the Grok-3-Mini model.

Insights from Recent Feedback

Diners often rave about the delicious and unique flavors at this sushi spot, with many highlighting the creative twists on traditional dishes that make every bite feel special. While the intimate atmosphere and seasonal menu create a perfect backdrop for celebrations, some note that pricing can be on the higher side, encouraging visits for occasional treats rather than everyday meals. Feedback generally praises the engaging service and beautiful presentations, though a few mention minor inconsistencies like portion sizes or unexpected add-ons. Overall, it's a solid pick for anyone hunting for quality sushi experiences, blending excitement with a few areas for improvement to keep things real. If you're searching for the best sushi near you, this place tends to leave a positive impression despite the occasional hiccup.

Summarized by AI using the Grok-3-Mini model.

Address & Phone

West Loop
731 W Lake St
Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 988-0687

Wheelchair Accessiblility

Parking:Entrance:Restroom:Seating:

Parking Options

Paid parking lot:Paid street parking:

Payment Options

Accepts credit cards:Accepts debit cards:

Reviews

  • Brian Triplitt  4

    Beauty in humble simplicity. The entrance door can be cumbersome especially if the strong winds are blowing. We were greeted inside and the gentleman kindly took our coats. He verified our reservations and remembered that it was to celebrate my wife's birthday. He led us to our reserved seats at the sushi bar and less than 5 minutes later we had another gentleman come by with the wine/cocktail menu. There were 2 sushi chefs at the counter and each was in charge of 4 people that night. Each delectable course is explained where it is from, what is on it, recommend way of eating it and is served timely after the other as to enjoy their unique qualities. There is ample time to make small talk between each course so you don't feel rushed. The majority of pieces felt well crafted, and some were a bit overwhelming to the point it masked the adjuncts overpowered the flavor of the fish. It took away the focus from the fish and made the fish seem more like it was to enhance the flavor of i.e. ginger/scallion. The seared wagyu, super fatty tuna+uni, and seared super fatty tuna with a hint of salt were absolutely divine. The various sashimi+smoked tuna dish had a beautiful presentation. The least amazing for us was the tamago dish. It felt out of place and was uninspiring. It was as if they added it to the menu to increase the count of dishes they offer for their price. If they added it in as and off the menu surprise I wouldn't be complaining. Overall it was a great experience. For my wife's birthday they gave her a menu with a little writing from everyone on the staff to take home which was a bit cute. I feel that they could have given her something else considering the price and the Michelin star. Unfortunately we didn't have plans to keep it as a memento so we left it. I felt as if the server staff was a bit more conversational and welcoming that the sushi chefs prepping in front of us at the counter. We would of course be asked if we are enjoying everything but not much more than that. Maybe it's just me but an omakase is more than just the food. It's about the whole experience, interaction, intimacy and connection to the people and the food. Paid street parking/lot in the area, no valet, recommend reservations, gratuity already included in the check, free coat check, handicap accessible, no pets.

  • Gregory Klein  5

    Hidden gem nestled in the west loop. About 15 seats at the counter and a few small tables. We sat at the counter. Every bite was delicious and unique. Pricy but worth it for a special occasion.

  • Kevin Britt  5

    We were extremely excited to try out Chef Park’s Michelin starred omakase experience in west loop after falling in love with Juno. The tasting menu flew by for as many courses as it was but we were a bit disappointed with the service. Chef Park was engaging and personable through the meal and the intimate setting of the restaurant makes this a natural choice for a special occasion/date.

  • Peter Lillie  5

    Wow! This place was incredible! The food, service, atmosphere were very special. I’ve always wanted to go to a place like this after seeing the documentary “I Dream of Jiro”, years ago. So glad I went.

  • Amelia  2

    We went here the weekend after 2/14. The food was amazing, esp the lamb, uni, raw shrimp, and soup courses. However, I found the pricing to be deceptive/scammy and it wasn’t enough food. Firstly, on tock the tasting menu was listed as $185 when we booked, but when the bill came it was suddenly $215pp (they probably didn’t update it at the time, but they should’ve). Most importantly, the chef offered a salmon piece with king oyster mushrooms in the middle of the meal and asked if everyone would like to “try it” as if it was a complimentary piece. Everyone in the room said enthusiastically, sure why not, and accepted the extra piece. I believe others assumed it was a complimentary piece as well. I didn’t think it was not complimentary esp given it wasn’t a special or memorable piece at all. Then when the bill came it was an extra $60 basically, $26 per piece. We felt like we were baited. There are many ways to convey this course wasn’t complimentary. The most obvious way would have been for the server, to offer the special item on the menu, not just the chef casually asking if we wanted to “try” a piece. Being a fine dining establishment, they should have known to convey this better. With the bill being with all these unexpected curveballs, the $350 pp total felt not worth it for just one Michelin star. I also was only semi full at the end of the meal (I’m less than 110lbs…) as the nigiris were small. Side note was that it was really cold inside for some reason, the other guests around and I were freezing and had to ask them to turn up the space heaters. TLDR: great tasting food, gorgeous interior, but deceptive pricing, left semi full