Tanoshii Sushi West Loop

For Illinois residents with a discerning palate for sushi, Tanoshii Sushi West Loop is a must-visit destination that promises to exceed expectations. While it may sometimes be "overlooked" as one reviewer candidly admitted, this restaurant consistently delivers "high-quality, fresh, and creative sushi" that rivals some of the best in Chicago. Nestled in the vibrant West Loop, Tanoshii offers an experience that goes beyond the typical Americanized sushi joint, focusing on the true artistry and freshness of Japanese cuisine.

What truly sets Tanoshii apart is its commitment to exceptional ingredients and a personalized dining approach. Patrons rave about the "delicious" and "actually really high quality" fish, noting its incredible freshness—some even specifically mentioning fish imported from Spain. This dedication to sourcing premium ingredients is evident in every bite, delivering a taste experience that is hard to come by in the city. Beyond the exquisite food, the staff and service at Tanoshii are consistently described as "top tier," creating a welcoming and attentive atmosphere that complements the high-caliber cuisine.

The "Chef’s Special" is a particular highlight, offering a unique omakase-style experience where you entrust your meal to the chef's expertise. By simply communicating your preferences, you're guaranteed something "fresh, flavorful, and beautifully put together" every time. This element of delightful surprise, combined with the restaurant's cozy ambiance and solid happy hour, makes Tanoshii Sushi West Loop a cherished spot for locals seeking an authentic and memorable sushi journey.

Tanoshii Sushi West Loop is conveniently located at 720 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661, USA, placing it squarely in the heart of Chicago's renowned West Loop neighborhood. This area is celebrated for its dynamic culinary scene, making it a prime destination for food lovers across Illinois. The restaurant's position on West Randolph Street ensures it's easily accessible while being part of a vibrant and walkable district.

For those utilizing public transportation, Tanoshii Sushi West Loop is easily reachable via various CTA train lines and bus routes. The Morgan 'L' station, serving the Green and Pink Lines, is a short walk away, providing excellent connectivity. Several bus lines also have stops conveniently close to the restaurant, making it accessible from different parts of Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

If you're driving, street parking can be found, though it's typical for the bustling West Loop to require a bit of patience. Various parking garages are also available nearby, offering a more convenient option for those planning to drive. The restaurant's inviting presence on Randolph Street makes it easy to locate, contributing to a smooth start to your dining experience in this popular Chicago neighborhood.

Tanoshii Sushi West Loop offers a diverse range of services and a menu designed to cater to both sushi aficionados and those looking for high-quality Japanese cuisine. Their focus on fresh ingredients and personalized service sets them apart:

• Dine-In Experience: Enjoy your meal in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its intimate vibe, perfect for a fun night out, a date, or a relaxed meal with friends.

• Chef's Special / Omakase Style: This is arguably Tanoshii's most celebrated offering. Guests can opt for the Chef's Special, where they communicate their likes and dislikes to the chef, who then creates a customized, multi-course sushi experience. This ensures an element of surprise and a consistently fresh, expertly prepared selection tailored to your preferences. The lunch omakase typically includes 6 pieces of nigiri, a half roll, and a hand-roll, while the dinner omakase offers 10 pieces of nigiri, a half roll, and a hand-roll.

• Extensive Sushi & Sashimi Menu: Beyond the Chef's Special, Tanoshii offers a wide array of classic and creative sushi rolls (makimono), nigiri, and sashimi. Popular options include the "Signature Roll" (a non-traditional 10-piece roll with fish on top/inside, wrapped in soy paper), "Spicy Tuna," "Chicago Maki" (tuna, salmon, avocado, cucumber), "Rainbow Maki," and various special rolls like "Salmon Truffle Special Roll" and "Fresh Wasabi Special Roll."

• Small Bites & Appetizers: A selection of delicious starters such as Edamame, Gyoza (veggie or shrimp dumplings), Agedashi Tofu, Tempura (shrimp and vegetable), and creative dishes like "Fish & Chips" (spicy tuna on tortilla chips) and "Bluefin Truffle Sashimi."

• Japanese Classics & Entrees: For those seeking cooked dishes, the menu includes Chicken Teriyaki, Scottish Salmon Teriyaki, and Sweet & Spicy Black Tiger Shrimp. They also offer various Udon Noodle Soups and Yakisoba.

• Beverage Program: While a mocktail was noted by one reviewer as not being a favorite, the restaurant does offer a full bar with a selection of Japanese beers, sake, and cocktails to complement your meal. Note that it is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) establishment, which can be a great perk for diners.

• Reservations Recommended: Due to its popularity and "very limited seatings," especially for the omakase, making a reservation in advance is strongly advised to avoid waiting. They have specific seating times for both lunch and dinner.

Tanoshii Sushi West Loop boasts several distinctive features that make it a standout destination for sushi enthusiasts in Illinois:

• Exceptional Fish Quality: A recurring theme in customer reviews is the outstanding quality and freshness of the fish. Patrons describe it as "actually really high quality," "delicious," and "so fresh," with mentions of fish imported from Spain. This commitment to premium ingredients is a major draw.

• Personalized Chef's Special: The unique omakase-style "Chef's Special" truly sets Tanoshii apart. The ability to communicate preferences and receive a surprise selection of expertly crafted, fresh, and creative sushi pieces makes for a highly personalized and memorable dining adventure.

• Top-Tier Staff and Service: Reviews consistently praise the "top tier" staff and service. Servers are knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating, offering recommendations and even making "accommodations with their special rolls based on what you like." This attentive service contributes significantly to the overall positive experience.

• Cozy and Welcoming Vibe: Despite its popularity, Tanoshii maintains a "cozy, welcoming vibe," making it suitable for a relaxed yet special night out. The ambiance complements the exquisite food, creating an enjoyable environment for diners.

• Beyond Americanized Sushi: Many reviewers, initially expecting typical Americanized rolls, were pleasantly surprised by the authentic and high-quality offerings. This restaurant defies preconceived notions by delivering truly fresh and creative sushi that transcends the mundane.

• BYOB Policy: The BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) policy is a notable feature, allowing guests to bring their preferred alcoholic beverages, potentially enhancing their dining experience and offering cost savings on drinks.

• "Michelin Star Quality" Experience: While not officially Michelin-starred, the combination of food quality and service leaves some customers feeling like they are getting a "Michelin star quality" experience, speaking volumes about the restaurant's high standards.

Tanoshii Sushi West Loop is known for its "solid" happy hour, making it an attractive option for locals seeking great deals on high-quality sushi and drinks. While specific, always-on promotions can vary, the mention of happy hour suggests a dedicated period where certain drinks and small bites are available at discounted prices.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, happy hour timings, or special offers, it is highly recommended to contact Tanoshii Sushi West Loop directly via phone or check their official website. Given its popularity, any specials are likely well-utilized by regulars, so knowing the details in advance can help you plan your visit effectively and take advantage of the best deals.

To experience the highly-rated sushi at Tanoshii Sushi West Loop, make a reservation, or inquire about their menu, please use the following contact details:

Address: 720 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661, USA

Phone: (312) 207-8894

For Reservations: It is strongly advised to make a reservation, especially during peak hours. You can typically book online through platforms like Yelp or directly via their website (if available for the West Loop location). Please note their strict cancellation policy: the full price of the omakase per guest will be charged for no-shows or cancellations/reductions within 1 hour of seating. Cancellations 48 hours in advance should be made via Yelp, and last-minute changes require a direct call during business hours.

Hours of Operation:

• Lunch: Monday - Saturday (11:30 AM - 2:30 PM), with seatings at 11:30 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:00 PM, and 1:45 PM.

• Dinner: Monday - Saturday (6:00 PM - 10:30 PM), with seatings at 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM, and 9:00 PM.

• Sunday: (5:30 PM - 10:00 PM), with seatings at 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:30 PM.

For residents of Illinois, particularly those in the Chicago area, Tanoshii Sushi West Loop presents an exceptional opportunity to indulge in truly high-quality and authentic Japanese sushi. Its reputation for serving "fresh, flavorful, and beautifully put together" dishes, featuring premium fish imported from sources like Spain, elevates it far beyond a typical sushi spot. This commitment to excellence ensures that every meal is a memorable culinary event.

The personalized "Chef's Special" offers a unique and exciting way to explore the chef's artistry, catering to individual preferences and ensuring a delightful surprise with each visit. Coupled with "top-tier" staff who are attentive and accommodating, the dining experience feels both exclusive and welcoming. The cozy ambiance makes it perfect for various occasions, from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory outing.

Given its consistent rave reviews, the value it provides, and its accessible location in the vibrant West Loop, Tanoshii Sushi is an ideal choice for Illinois locals seeking to discover a genuine sushi gem. It's a place that fosters loyalty, inviting diners to become regulars who appreciate the consistent quality and exceptional service, making it a true highlight in Chicago’s diverse culinary landscape.

Tanoshii Sushi West Loop

720 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661, USA