This Is How I Roll: Sushi at Kyoto Japanese Restaurant

I know a lot of people who absolutely love sushi. I even have friends who would probably eat sushi for every meal if they could. As you know I love asian so, when I saw a deal for dinner at Kyoto Japanese Restaurant, I didn't really hesitate to buy it. I am one of those people who don't show up to a restaurant without having scoured the menu and picked out exactly what I think I will order – the menu for Kyoto featured sushi. A lot of sushi. When I initially bought the deal, I thought I would just order one of the entrees they feature such as teriyaki steak. However, my boyfriend pointed out that going to a sushi restaurant and not ordering sushi was silly. I could not fault his logic, so I went to Kyoto one night knowing I would soon taste my very first piece of sushi…

The Vibe

Kyoto is located near DePaul University on Lincoln avenue (a block away from Prost, where I have previously brunched). Upon entering, you must walk down a short flight of stairs until you reach a small Japanese haven of mock rice paper walls and long dark tables. On the far side is the sushi bar, where you can sit an watch the magic happen right in front of you, if you so choose.

For a Tuesday night, the restaurant was fairly busy. The atmosphere was chill, and laughter could be head from all corners of the restaurant as patrons recounted their day to friends. There were a few groups of friends as well as couples, all enjoying a great dinner out on a cold Chicago night. The staff was also incredibly friendly and the service, speedy.

The Food

We began our meal with the tempura appetizer. I had never had fried carrots or broccoli, but they were both very tasty. The classic tempura shrimp and onions were also very good. We also ordered an appetizer of Tori Kara Age, or spicy chicken wings. Not very asian but they were also very good with an awesome teriyaki dipping sauce. I realize now that the start of my meal was very fried.

For our first bites of sushi ever, my boyfriend and I both order one of the signature sushi rolls featured at Kyoto called the Miami roll,  which consisted of shrimp, crab, cucumber, masago, cream cheese, spicy mayo all deep fried. Yes, another fried item but if I was going to try sushi I figured I couldn't go wrong with fried sushi.

Verdict:It was really good! I loved the combination of flavors and would highly recommend trying out. The crispness of the outside with the soft inside and spicy mayo all came together beautifully. It also looked amazing before I even bit into it.

Although I am not an expert on sushi, I can say that my first encounter was a success and I will definitely try it again. While I do not know if I am ready to venture into the realm of the raw sushi, I could very well be back for another cooked signature item on the menu at Kyoto.

Bonus!

Kyoto is currently BYOB! There were plenty of patrons there with beer, wine, and even champagne! So when you visit, bring along some bubbly. There is also free parking in the rear of the restaurant.

The Deal

I Spent: $45 $22

I Got: 45 worth of food – Appetizer, sushi, and rice

Click HERE to get your sushi fix!

Restaurant Info

Kyoto Japanese Restaurant

2534 N Lincoln Ave

Chicago, IL 60614

(773)477-2788