Niu B

niu b south loop

Hello, Illinois food lovers! Are you craving a delicious and convenient Japanese meal in the heart of Chicago? Look no further than Niu B, a popular Japanese fusion restaurant located in the vibrant South Loop. Niu B, which has been serving the Chicago community since 2014, offers a diverse menu that goes beyond traditional sushi, incorporating flavorful ramen, unique specialty rolls, and a selection of other Asian-inspired dishes, all in a setting that's both casual and elegant.

Niu B prides itself on bringing a contemporary twist to classic Japanese cuisine, making it a go-to spot for everything from a quick lunch to a relaxed dinner. They focus on fresh ingredients and an efficient, friendly service that ensures a pleasant dining experience. Whether you're a sushi aficionado, a ramen enthusiast, or looking for something unique like their famous "The Flamer" roll or crispy Taro fries, Niu B has something to tantalize your taste buds. This article will guide you through what makes Niu B a suitable choice for those in Illinois, covering its convenient location, diverse menu, key features, and why it's a great spot for our local community.

Niu B is conveniently located at 888 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, USA. This prime address places it in the bustling South Loop neighborhood of Chicago, right on Michigan Avenue, offering fantastic accessibility for locals across Illinois, especially those in the Chicago metropolitan area.

The South Loop is a vibrant and growing area, known for its proximity to iconic Chicago landmarks such as Grant Park, Millennium Park, and the Museum Campus. Its location on Michigan Avenue means it’s easily identifiable and reachable. For those relying on public transportation, Niu B is just steps away from major CTA bus routes and within walking distance of several 'L' train lines (such as the Green, Orange, and Brown lines at Roosevelt or the Red line at Harrison). For diners arriving by car, the restaurant benefits from being on Michigan Avenue, with street meter parking often available and potentially attached paid parking lots in the rear of the building, which is a significant advantage in downtown Chicago. This strategic placement makes Niu B an ideal spot for professionals, tourists, and local residents seeking quality Japanese cuisine before or after exploring the city's attractions. Its easy accessibility ensures that Niu B is a convenient choice for any occasion.

Niu B offers a comprehensive menu of Japanese and Asian fusion cuisine, designed to cater to various tastes and dining preferences. Their services include dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

• Sushi and Sashimi: A wide selection of fresh nigiri, sashimi, and classic maki rolls (e.g., California Maki, Salmon Avocado Maki). They are particularly known for their specialty fusion rolls.
• Specialty Fusion Rolls: Niu B stands out with its creative and unique "fusion makis" like "The Flamer" (shrimp tempura, cream cheese, spicy crabmeat, shrimp, jalapeno, topped with salmon, super white tuna, tobiko, baked in oven with spicy mayo, unagi sauce, scallions), "Sexy Mexican" (shrimp, spicy crabmeat, jalapeno, topped with avocado slices, sriracha), "Spice Girl," "King Kong Maki," and "Red Dragon."
• Ramen and Noodles: A selection of flavorful ramen dishes, including Tokyo Tonkotsu Ramen (silky pork broth, slow-cooked pork belly, soft-boiled egg, etc.) and Spicy Miso Ramen. Reviews highlight the "broth was the right blend of salty and spicy, pork super tender, noodles cooked just right." Other noodle dishes like Tempura Udon and Hong Kong Style Chow Fun are also available.
• Hot Appetizers and Small Plates: A diverse range of appetizers perfect for sharing, such as Edamame (including spicy garlic and wasabi garlic versions), Chicken Gyoza, Crispy Shrimp, Takoyaki, Karaage Chicken (Japanese fried chicken), Taro Fries (praised for being "crispy outside and soft inside"), and Hamachi Crudo.
• Main Dishes / Japanese Plates: A selection of larger entrees beyond sushi and ramen, including Miso Black Cod, Chicken Katsu, Walnut Shrimp, Teriyaki Chicken/Steak, Mongolian Beef, and various wok-fried dishes like Honey Sesame and Spicy Kung Pao (with choice of protein).
• Soup & Salad: Traditional Japanese soups like Miso Soup and Wonton Soup, as well as various salads including Seaweed Salad and Mixed Greens.
• Dim Sum: A small selection of dim sum items, such as Soup Dumplings, Shrimp & Pork Shumai, and BBQ Pork Buns, adding to the Asian fusion aspect.
• Full Bar: Niu B features a full bar offering specialty Japanese whiskey cocktails, house infusions, premium sake selections, wine, and beer. Non-alcoholic options like smoothies and juices are also available.
• Lunch Bento Boxes: Special Bento Box Sets are offered for pick-up and delivery during lunch hours (typically Monday-Friday 11am-3pm). These include miso soup, salad, steamed rice, California Maki (or edamame), and a choice of main course.
• Dine-In, Takeout, and Delivery: Customers can enjoy their meal in the restaurant's "casually elegant" dining room, order for pick-up, or utilize delivery services through platforms like Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats.

Niu B in Chicago boasts several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for locals seeking a quality Japanese dining experience:

• Diverse Japanese Fusion Menu: Niu B excels in offering a wide array of Japanese cuisine, from fresh sushi and sashimi to hearty ramen bowls and delicious hot appetizers, blending traditional and contemporary Asian flavors. This variety caters to a broad range of preferences.
• Standout Specialty Rolls: Their "fusion makis" are a significant highlight, with "The Flamer" being consistently praised as "very good" and even "the best thing we had." Other creative rolls like "Sexy Mexican" and "Spice Girl" offer unique and enticing flavor combinations.
• Excellent Ramen: The Tokyo ramen is noted for its "right blend of salty and spicy broth," "super tender pork," and "noodles cooked just right," making it a strong contender for ramen enthusiasts.
• Highly-Rated Appetizers and Sides: Beyond the main courses, items like the "Taro fries" are a hit, described as "crispy outside and soft inside," and the Unagi (eel) is praised for being "soft and warm."
• Friendly and Efficient Service: Customers frequently commend the "super friendly and nice" servers and note that "food came out quickly." This attentiveness enhances the overall dining experience.
• "Casually Elegant" Ambiance: The restaurant's interior is described as "sleek and modern," inspired by 1930s Japanese Izakaya Bars in Tokyo. This creates a comfortable yet refined atmosphere suitable for various occasions, from casual meals to more intimate gatherings.
• Proximity to Major Attractions: Being located on Michigan Avenue, just steps from Grant Park, Millennium Park, and Hilton Towers, makes Niu B highly convenient for both local residents and those visiting downtown Chicago.
• Full Bar with Japanese Specialties: The presence of a full bar featuring Japanese whiskey cocktails, sake, and house infusions allows for perfect beverage pairings with their cuisine.
• Catering to Various Dietary Needs: With a good selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options clearly marked on their menu (or adaptable upon request), Niu B strives to accommodate different dietary preferences.

While specific, daily rotating promotions might not always be publicly advertised in reviews, Niu B does offer structured deals and special features that locals in Illinois can take advantage of.

• Lunch Bento Box Sets: A notable and consistent offer is their "Lunch Bento Box Sets," available for pick-up and delivery. These sets, priced around $14.50, include miso soup, a mixed greens salad, steamed rice, 4 pieces of California Maki (or Edamame for vegan choices), and a choice of main course (e.g., Honey Sesame Chicken, Spicy Kung Pao, General Tsao's Chicken/Tofu). This provides excellent value for a comprehensive midday meal.
• "Fox Features Rewards Card" Discount: Niu B has previously offered a "10% OFF" promotion for those displaying a Fox Features Rewards Card. While this might be a historical offer, it suggests Niu B participates in local loyalty programs, and it's worth checking if similar programs or partnerships are currently active.
• Online Ordering Perks: When ordering directly through their website or popular delivery platforms (Grubhub, DoorDash, Uber Eats), customers may occasionally find platform-specific discounts or free delivery offers, depending on the current promotions run by those services.
• Gift Cards: Niu B offers online gift cards, which can be a great way for locals to treat friends and family to a meal, or for personal future use.

For the most current and specific information on any promotions, new menu items, or special events, it is highly recommended to visit Niu B's official website, check their social media channels, or directly inquire when placing an order or making a reservation.

Ready to experience the fresh flavors and welcoming ambiance of Niu B? Here’s how you can get in touch and plan your visit:

Address:888 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Phone:(312) 922-1127

Mobile Phone:+1 312-922-1127

You can use these phone numbers to place takeout orders, inquire about the menu, or check on current dining availability. While walk-ins are generally welcome, making a reservation, especially during peak dinner hours or for larger groups, is always a good idea to ensure a smooth dining experience. For their full menu, updated hours, and direct online ordering links, visiting their official website is also highly recommended.

For the diverse residents of Illinois, particularly those in and around the bustling city of Chicago, Niu B stands as an exceptionally suitable and appealing Japanese restaurant choice. Its prime location on Michigan Avenue in the South Loop makes it incredibly accessible, seamlessly integrating into the daily lives of professionals, residents, and visitors who frequent downtown Chicago. Its proximity to major landmarks like Grant Park makes it a perfect spot for a meal before or after exploring the city.

What truly makes Niu B suitable for locals is its balanced approach to Japanese cuisine. It offers a wide variety of dishes, ensuring there's something for every palate. From classic, fresh sushi and sashimi to robust, flavorful ramen bowls (with a perfectly balanced broth and tender pork), and uniquely creative specialty rolls like "The Flamer," Niu B provides a comprehensive and exciting culinary experience. The consistent praise for their "crispy outside and soft inside" Taro fries and "soft and warm" Unagi further highlights their attention to detail across the menu.

Beyond the food, the "super friendly and nice" service, combined with dishes that "came out quickly," ensures a pleasant and efficient dining experience, crucial for busy urban dwellers. The "casually elegant" ambiance means it’s comfortable enough for a relaxed meal yet refined enough for a slightly more special occasion. For Illinoisans seeking a reliable, high-quality Japanese restaurant that offers a blend of traditional favorites and innovative fusion dishes, all delivered with excellent service and convenience, Niu B is a standout choice that perfectly meets the needs and desires of the local community.

Niu B

888 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605, USA