AJI

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Hello, Illinois food connoisseurs and sushi enthusiasts! If you've been searching for a truly exceptional sushi experience in the heart of Chicago, prepare to be captivated by AJI. This esteemed establishment has quickly become a standout, earning rave reviews for its mastery of fresh fish, particularly its "melt-in-your-mouth tuna, salmon, and buttery yellowtail." More than just a meal, dining at AJI is described as an "incredible experience," where every dish is a work of art, and the service is as "amazing and friendly" as the food is "flavorful." For those who appreciate the delicate balance of perfectly seasoned rice and exquisitely fresh seafood, AJI is a must-visit destination that will leave you genuinely satisfied and eager to return.

AJI is a celebrated sushi restaurant located in Chicago, renowned for its dedication to delivering a premier Japanese dining experience, particularly through its omakase menu. The very name "AJI" often translates to "taste" or "flavor" in Japanese, a fitting reflection of the restaurant's core philosophy. Reviewers consistently highlight the unparalleled freshness of the fish, with one noting it "tasted like it was caught minutes before hitting the plate." This meticulous attention to sourcing and preparation ensures every piece, especially the nigiri, is a "star of the show."

Beyond the pristine quality of the ingredients, AJI is praised for the culinary artistry evident in its dishes. The nigiri showcases "perfectly seasoned rice" and a keen "attention to temperature, texture, and balance." The rolls, while "playful," are never "overdone," striking a harmonious balance between creativity and classic appeal. The "clean and elegant" presentation adds to the special feel of the dining experience. What truly elevates AJI, however, is the human element: the chefs are described as "knowledgeable, friendly, and fun," and the service staff, like Nick and Christian, are "absolutely incredible." This combination of fresh, flavorful food and exceptional hospitality makes AJI a five-star destination for any sushi lover.

AJI is strategically located at 3809 North Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613, USA. This address places it within the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, a bustling area known for its diverse dining scene, entertainment options, and residential charm. Being on North Broadway, a major thoroughfare, ensures excellent visibility and easy access for both local residents and visitors to Chicago.

When it comes to accessibility, AJI is well-served by Chicago's robust public transportation system. It's conveniently located near several CTA "L" train stations, including the Sheridan Red Line station (approximately 0.4 miles or an 8-minute walk) and the Addison Red Line station (approximately 0.5 miles or a 9-minute walk). Various bus lines also operate along North Broadway and nearby streets (e.g., #36, #146, #147, #151, #92), providing numerous options for reaching the restaurant. For those driving, street parking can be found in the vicinity, though it may be limited depending on the time of day. There are also several paid parking garages nearby, and services like SpotHero can assist with reserving a spot in advance, making it a feasible option for car owners. Its central location and connectivity make AJI easily reachable for anyone in the greater Chicago area.

• Omakase Dining Experience: AJI is primarily celebrated for its 15-course Omakase menu, where guests put their trust in the chef's expertise to create a personalized, multi-course tasting journey based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. This is a highly recommended and immersive culinary adventure.

• Nigiri and Sashimi: Guests can enjoy a curated selection of individual nigiri and sashimi, featuring incredibly fresh and "melt-in-your-mouth" fish like tuna, salmon, and yellowtail, prepared with perfect rice seasoning and temperature control.

• Creative Sushi Rolls: Beyond traditional offerings, AJI also features "playful" yet balanced sushi rolls that are uniquely crafted to deliver diverse and satisfying flavors.

• Appetizers & Small Plates: The menu includes a variety of Japanese appetizers such as Gyoza, Shumai, Edamame, Age Tofu, Shrimp & Vegetable Tempura, Crispy Soft Shell Crab, and Japanese Spring Rolls, perfect for starting your meal.

• Teriyaki & Cooked Entrees: For those seeking cooked options, AJI offers a selection of Teriyaki dishes (Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, Salmon, Scallop, Tofu) and other entrees like Japanese Curry and Baby Ribs.

• Bento Boxes: Convenient and comprehensive Bento Boxes are available, often featuring a main entree (like Teriyaki or Tempura) alongside rice and other accompaniments.

• Dessert: Conclude your meal with a delightful dessert, which customers have specifically "lovedddd."

• Beverage Program: AJI offers a selection of cocktails (e.g., Lychee Martini, Saketini, Yuzu Margarita), sake (including high-end bottles like Ultraluxe), beer (Hitachino White Ale, Asahi), and Japanese teas (Genmaicha, Jasmine).

• Reservations Recommended: Given its popularity and the intimate nature of the omakase experience, making reservations is highly recommended, especially for evening and weekend seatings.

• Exceptional Fish Quality: Customers consistently rave about the "incredibly fresh" fish, describing it as "melt-in-your-mouth" and tasting "like it was caught minutes before hitting the plate." This is a cornerstone of their appeal.

• Masterful Nigiri Preparation: The attention to detail in the nigiri — from perfectly seasoned rice to ideal temperature and texture — sets AJI apart, showcasing true sushi artistry.

• Creative & Flavorful Dishes: Beyond traditional items, AJI offers "creative and exotic" dishes and rolls that are "playful without being overdone," delivering a unique and satisfying flavor profile.

• Outstanding Service & Hospitality: The staff, including Nick, Christian, and the chefs themselves, are repeatedly praised as "absolutely incredible," "knowledgeable, friendly, and fun," contributing to a five-star overall experience.

• Intimate Omakase Experience: The 15-course omakase menu provides an intimate and memorable dining journey, allowing guests to fully trust the chefs' expertise and enjoy a curated selection of seasonal delights.

• Elegant Presentation: Dishes are presented in a "clean and elegant" manner, adding to the special feel of the meal without being pretentious.

AJI primarily focuses on offering a high-quality, curated dining experience through its acclaimed omakase menu, which is often considered a special offer in itself due to the value it provides for a multi-course chef's tasting. The 15-course omakase menu is priced at approximately $150 per person, which is competitive for such a comprehensive and high-quality sushi experience in Chicago. While specific recurring daily or weekly specials beyond the omakase are not prominently featured, the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients means the menu itself evolves, offering a continuous "special" experience.

They also offer various lunch specials and dinner combinations that provide excellent value for those not opting for the full omakase. For example, a "Sushi Regular" (seven pcs sushi with one California roll) is around $21.95, and "Sushi Deluxe" (nine pcs sushi with one Tuna roll) is $24.95. Maki combos and bento boxes also present attractive options. For the most current information on any evolving specials or seasonal additions, it is always best to check their official website or inquire directly when making a reservation.

Ready to embark on an incredible sushi journey at AJI? Here’s how you can connect with them:

Address: 3809 North Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613, USA

Phone: (773) 236-1521 (also available as +1 773-236-1521 for mobile contact)

Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for the Omakase experience. Bookings can typically be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.

Seating Times for Omakase:

• Tuesday - Thursday: 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM

• Friday - Saturday: 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 9:00 PM

Please note that these seating times are specifically for the Omakase experience and general à la carte dining hours may vary. It's always advisable to confirm their current hours and seating availability when making your plans.

For residents of Illinois, particularly those in Chicago and the surrounding areas, AJI presents itself as an essential destination for anyone seeking a truly elevated Japanese dining experience. Its location in the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood makes it easily accessible via public transport, integrating seamlessly into a night out in the city. The core appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to "incredibly fresh" fish, meticulously prepared nigiri, and "creative and exotic" dishes that consistently earn five-star praise.

What truly cements AJI as a local favorite, however, is the warm and engaging service. The chefs and staff are celebrated for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication to ensuring every guest has a "fantastic time." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion with their renowned 15-course omakase, enjoying a sophisticated dinner with friends, or simply treating yourself to some of the freshest sushi Chicago has to offer, AJI promises a genuinely satisfying and memorable culinary adventure that you'll undoubtedly want to revisit. It's a true gem in Chicago's vibrant food scene, a place where passion for sushi shines through every delicious bite.

AJI

3809 North Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613, USA