Taste of Japan: Authentic Japanese Cuisine in the Heart of Chicago

Taste of Japan Introduce

For those in Illinois with a keen appreciation for authentic Japanese cuisine, discovering a local spot that truly captures the essence of Japan's diverse flavors is a real treat. Located in the bustling heart of Chicago, Taste of Japan offers a delightful culinary journey through some of the country's most beloved dishes. It's a place where tradition meets taste, providing a comforting and satisfying experience for anyone craving genuine Japanese fare.

Taste of Japan prides itself on a menu that spans various popular categories, ensuring there's something to tempt every palate. From hearty ramen bowls, perfect for a chilly Chicago day, to delicately prepared sushi and sashimi, and rich, savory Japanese curry, the restaurant delivers a comprehensive taste of Japanese gastronomy. Their commitment to offering a range of delicious meals has made them a go-to spot for locals seeking an authentic and fulfilling dining experience.

The restaurant aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all its patrons. While every dining experience has its nuances, Taste of Japan strives for consistent quality and attentive service. Whether you're a long-time fan of Japanese food or looking to explore new flavors, this establishment invites you to savor their carefully crafted dishes. The positive feedback from many customers highlights their satisfying portions and the flavorful depth of their offerings, promising a worthwhile visit.

Location and Accessibility

Taste of Japan is conveniently situated at 201 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA. This prime location places it firmly within downtown Chicago, making it highly accessible for a wide array of diners, including professionals working in the Loop, residents of nearby neighborhoods, and visitors exploring the city's vibrant core.

Being on North Wells Street means the restaurant is incredibly well-connected to Chicago's extensive public transportation network. Numerous CTA L train lines and bus routes have stops within easy walking distance, making it a hassle-free destination whether you're coming from across the city or just a few blocks away. For those who commute by train, its proximity to major Metra stations also adds to its convenience, allowing for a quick meal before or after work.

For drivers, while street parking in downtown Chicago can often be a challenge, there are typically various parking garages and lots available in the surrounding area. This central location ensures that Taste of Japan is an easy and practical choice for anyone looking for authentic Japanese food in the city's bustling business district.

Services Offered

Taste of Japan focuses on providing a comprehensive Japanese dining experience with a menu that caters to diverse preferences. Their services are designed to accommodate both quick meals and more leisurely dining.

Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in their restaurant, which offers a convenient and accessible dining experience in downtown Chicago.
Takeout Options: For those on the go or preferring to eat at home, all menu items are available for takeout.
Delivery Services: The restaurant partners with popular delivery platforms like Grubhub and Uber Eats, making it easy to enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your home or office.
Variety of Japanese Meals: Specializing in a broad range of authentic dishes, including various ramen bowls, Japanese curry, and a selection of sushi and sashimi.
Appetizers: A range of starters such as Edamame, Miso Soup, Seaweed Salad, Crispy Spicy Tuna, and Shrimp Tempura.
"Trust Me Box" Options: Curated sushi and sashimi boxes offering chef's choice selections, perfect for those wanting a diverse tasting experience.
Hand Rolls: A selection of freshly prepared hand rolls with various fillings.
Zaru Soba (Cold Noodles): An alternative to hot ramen, offering a refreshing noodle dish.
Spicy Sauce Availability: Tables are equipped with a spicy sauce for customers who prefer an extra kick to their meals.
Restroom Facilities: A restroom is available for customer use on-site, adding to the convenience of dining in.

Features / Highlights

Taste of Japan stands out in the Chicago culinary scene due to several key features and highlights that enhance the dining experience for its patrons:

Diverse and Delicious Menu: The restaurant offers a wide array of popular and authentic Japanese dishes. Customers can enjoy flavorful ramen, rich Japanese curry, and fresh sushi and sashimi, providing options for every craving.
Hearty Ramen Portions: The ramen, specifically the pork tonkatsu miso ramen, is highlighted for its generous quantity of ingredients, including plenty of pork, noodles, bamboo, and egg, ensuring a satisfying meal.
Customizable Spice Level: The availability of a spicy sauce at each table allows diners to adjust the heat of their food to their personal preference, a thoughtful touch for spice lovers.
Convenient Downtown Location: Situated on North Wells Street, it's easily accessible for those working or living in the Loop, making it an excellent spot for lunch or dinner in the heart of the city.
Customer-Friendly Facilities: The presence of a clean and accessible restroom for customers is a practical feature that adds to overall comfort during a visit.
Reputable for Return Visits: The sentiment "I would return" from a recent customer underscores the positive overall experience and the desire for repeat patronage, speaking to the restaurant's ability to leave a good impression.
Value for Money: For a group of four, a total bill including tip at $110 indicates reasonable pricing for a Japanese restaurant in downtown Chicago, offering good value for the quality and quantity of food served.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, ongoing promotions for Taste of Japan are not extensively detailed in the provided customer reviews, many Japanese restaurants, especially those located in bustling urban centers, commonly offer various specials to attract and retain customers. Based on typical industry practices, patrons might look forward to:

Lunch Specials: Many Japanese eateries feature discounted or combo meals during lunchtime hours, catering to the busy weekday crowd.
Daily or Weekly Specials: Offering particular ramen bowls, sushi rolls, or curry dishes at a reduced price on specific days.
Loyalty Programs: Some restaurants implement loyalty programs or punch cards to reward frequent diners with discounts or free items after a certain number of visits.
Seasonal Menu Items: Introducing limited-time dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients, providing new and exciting options for returning customers.
Online Ordering Discounts: Promotions for customers who place orders directly through their website or via popular food delivery apps.

To stay updated on any current promotions, it is advisable for interested individuals to check Taste of Japan's official online presence, such as their website or social media pages, or inquire directly when visiting the restaurant. In-store signage often displays the most current offers.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire further about the offerings at Taste of Japan, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 201 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
Phone: (312) 588-9818
Mobile Phone: +1 312-588-9818

Their business hours are generally Monday through Saturday from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM, and they are closed on Sundays. It's always a good idea to confirm hours, especially on holidays.

Conclusion: Why Taste of Japan is Suitable for Locals

Taste of Japan emerges as a highly suitable and appealing choice for locals across Illinois, particularly those in and around Chicago, for several compelling reasons. Its strategic location in the heart of downtown Chicago on N Wells Street makes it an incredibly convenient dining destination. Whether you're working in the nearby offices, living in one of the vibrant urban neighborhoods, or simply exploring the city, Taste of Japan offers easy access via public transport and is a practical stop for a delicious meal.

The restaurant's strength lies in its diverse and authentic Japanese menu, which caters to a wide range of tastes. From comforting and hearty ramen that is perfect for colder days, packed with generous portions of meat and fresh ingredients, to meticulously prepared sushi and sashimi, and rich Japanese curry, Taste of Japan truly offers something for everyone. The ability to customize dishes with an extra spicy kick, as evidenced by the table-side hot sauce, further enhances the personalized dining experience.

Furthermore, the value offered at Taste of Japan is noteworthy, with prices that are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food, especially considering its prime downtown location. This makes it an accessible option for regular visits, not just special occasions. The availability of restrooms and the generally positive feedback regarding the overall experience and quality reinforce its standing as a reliable and enjoyable local eatery. For anyone in Illinois seeking an authentic and satisfying taste of Japan in a convenient urban setting, this establishment is a highly recommended choice that promises a flavorful journey.

Taste of Japan Food & drink

All Day - Appetizers
Edamame US$6.00
Steamed young soybeans in their pods, lightly salted.
Atlantic Seabass With Wasabi Cream US$10.00
Crispy Atlantic seabass fillet topped with wasabi cream, served with mixed greens and lemon wedges.
Crispy Spicy Tuna US$9.00
Crispy wonton shells filled with spicy tuna tartare, avocado, and topped with a drizzle of spicy mayo and fresh cilantro.
Yellowtail Carpaccio US$9.00
Thinly sliced yellowtail garnished with capers, cilantro, and diced tomatoes.
Shrimp Tempura Butter Mayo US$10.00
Crispy shrimp tempura served with a side of butter mayo and a lemon wedge.
Spicy Crab Wrap With Soybean Paper US$10.00
Spicy.
Miso Soup US$5.00
Savory broth with tofu, seaweed, and green onions.
Ika Salad US$8.00
Tender squid mixed with crunchy vegetables and seaweed, lightly seasoned for a balanced starter.
Green Salad With Chicken Sweet And Sour US$7.00
Grilled chicken, fresh mixed greens, avocado slices, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes with a sweet and sour dressing.
Seaweed Salad US$7.00
Crisp seaweed garnished with sesame seeds and a light dressing.

All Day - Curry Rice
Lobster Curry Rice US$30.00
Crispy breaded lobster with savory curry sauce, tender potatoes, carrots, onions, and fresh green onions served over steamed white rice.
Seabass Curry Rice US$20.00
Crispy seabass fillet atop rice, served with a rich curry sauce, carrots, onions, potatoes, and a side of mixed greens.
Shrimp Tempura Curry Rice US$20.00
4 pieces of Shrimp Tempura
Chicken Curry Rice US$16.00
Crispy breaded chicken cutlet served with steamed rice and a rich curry sauce with chunks of carrots and potatoes.
Pork Tonkatsu Curry Rice US$17.00
Crispy breaded pork cutlet with rich curry sauce, served with steamed rice, carrots, and potatoes.
Tofu Curry Rice US$16.00
Deep-fried tofu with Japanese curry, rice, sesame seeds, pickled radish, and fried onion.

All Day - Miso Ramen
Lobster Miso Ramen US$30.00
Rich miso broth with ramen noodles, topped with green onions, bamboo shoots, black fungus, and half a boiled egg, served with a side of crispy fried lobster.
Seabass Miso Ramen US$20.00
Tender seabass, miso broth, ramen noodles, soft-boiled egg, bamboo shoots, green onions, and wood ear mushrooms. Served with a side of mixed greens and crispy breaded cutlets.
Shrimp Tempura Miso Ramen US$20.00
4 pieces of Shrimp Tempura
Chicken Miso Ramen US$16.00
Crispy breaded chicken served with miso broth ramen, topped with half a boiled egg, bamboo shoots, and seaweed.
Pork Tonkatsu Miso Ramen US$17.00
Tender pork tonkatsu with miso ramen, topped with scallions, bamboo shoots, a soft-boiled egg, and wood ear mushrooms.
Tofu Miso Ramen US$16.00
Silky tofu, tender ramen noodles, soft-boiled egg, wood ear mushrooms, and green onions in a savory miso broth.
Char Shu Miso Ramen US$16.00
Tender slices of char siu pork, half a soft-boiled egg, bamboo shoots, black fungus, and green onions in a savory miso broth with ramen noodles.

All Day - Zaru Soba (Cold)
Lobster Agemono US$30.00
Crispy fried lobster paired with cold buckwheat noodles, garnished with scallions. Served with a side of mixed greens, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a soft-boiled egg.
Seabass Agemono US$20.00
Crispy breaded seabass served with cold soba noodles, fresh mixed greens, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a soft-boiled egg.
Shrimp Tempura Agemono US$20.00
4 pieces of Shrimp Tempura
Chicken Agemono US$16.00
Crispy breaded chicken cutlet served with buckwheat soba noodles, fresh avocado slices, mixed greens, and a boiled egg half.
Pork Tonkatsu Agemono US$17.00
Crispy breaded pork cutlet served with buckwheat noodles, garnished with scallions, accompanied by a boiled egg, fresh avocado slices, and mixed greens.

All Day - Extra Side Orders
Ramen US$6.00
Tender ramen noodles garnished with fresh herbs.
Zaru Soba US$6.00
Buckwheat noodles served plain, ideal for dipping in a savory sauce or adding to your favorite dishes.
Lobster Tail US$17.00
Crispy breaded lobster tail served atop a bed of mixed greens.
Seabass (6 Oz) US$11.00
Crispy, golden-breaded seabass fillets served atop a bed of fresh mixed greens.
Chicken (7 Oz) US$9.00
Crispy breaded chicken cutlets served with a side of creamy coleslaw.
Pork (7 Oz) US$9.00
Crispy breaded pork cutlet, served in a 7 oz portion.
Boiled Egg US$2.00
Halved boiled eggs with tender whites and creamy, vibrant yolks.
Steamed Rice US$3.00
Fluffy, tender steamed rice, a staple side dish to complement any meal.

All Day - Dessert
Mochi Ice Cream US$2.00
1 piece.
Matcha Green Tea Tiramisu US$6.00
Layers of creamy mascarpone infused with matcha green tea, alternating with soft sponge cake, topped with a dusting of matcha powder.
Green Tea Cheese Cake US$6.00
Creamy cheesecake infused with green tea, featuring a smooth texture and a subtle blend of sweet and earthy flavors on a crunchy graham cracker crust.

All Day - Sushi/Sashimi
Bean Curd / Inari US$2.50
Raw.
Salmon Roe / Ikura US$3.00
Raw.
Salmon / Sake US$2.50
Raw.
Light Grilled Salmon With Yuzu Sauce US$2.50
Raw.
Yellowtail / Hamachi US$2.50
Raw.
Super White Tuna US$2.50
Raw.
Shrimp / Ebi US$2.50
Raw.
Crab Stick / Kanikama US$2.50
Raw.
Octopus / Tako US$2.50
Raw.
Scallop Lightly Grilled With Ponzu Sauce US$3.00
Raw.
Sweet Egg / Tamago US$2.50
Sweet egg, known as tamago, available as sushi or sashimi.
Squid / Ika US$2.50
Raw.
Smelt Roe / Masago US$3.00
Raw.
Spicy Tuna Tartare US$2.50
Raw.
Eel / Unagi US$2.50
Eel, also known as unagi. Choice of sushi or sashimi.
Tuna / Maguro US$2.50
Raw.

All Day - Trust Me Sushi Boxes
Light Box US$20.00
Chef's choice of 12 pcs of sushi (raw).
Box Regular US$25.00
Chef's choice of 10 pcs of sushi (raw), edamame, zaru soba, and seaweed salad.
Box Plus US$33.00
Chef's choice of 5 pcs of sushi, 5 pcs of sashimi, edamame, zaru soba, and crispy raw tuna.
Box Max US$38.00
Chef's choice of 5 pcs of sushi, 5 pcs of sashimi, lobster tempura, green salad, and crispy raw tuna.
Box Deluxe US$30.00
Chef's choice of 10 pcs of sushi, spicy crab hand roll, edamame, and Zaru soba.

All Day - Hand Rolls
Bean Curd Hand Roll US$5.00
Savory bean curd wrapped in seasoned seaweed with sushi rice, garnished with sesame seeds.
Ikura Hand Roll US$5.50
Raw.
Salmon Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Yellowtail Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Light Grilled Salmon Hand Roll With Yuzu Sauce US$5.00
Raw.
Shrimp Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Crab Stick Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Octopus Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Lightly Grilled Scallop Hand Roll With Ponzu Sauce US$5.50
Raw.
Sweet Egg Hand Roll US$5.00
Soft, sweet egg wrapped in seasoned rice and crisp seaweed.
Squid Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Masago Hand Roll US$5.50
Raw.
Spicy Tuna Tartare Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.
Eel Hand Roll US$5.00
Tender eel, crisp cucumber, and seasoned rice wrapped in nori, sprinkled with sesame seeds.
Tuna Hand Roll US$5.00
Raw.

All Day - Drinks
Bottled Coke US$3.00
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
Bottle Diet Coke US$3.00
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
Bottle Sprite US$3.00
The cold, refreshing flavors of lemon and lime, perfectly blended.
Bottle Apple Juice US$3.00
Pure apple juice with no added sugars, offering a natural and refreshing taste.
Bottle Orange Juice US$3.00
100% pure orange juice, rich in vitamin C.
Bottle Perrier Sparkling Water US$3.00
Refreshing sparkling mineral water with a crisp, clean taste.
Bottle Water US$2.00
Purified bottled water.
Fuji Water US$3.00
Natural artesian water sourced from the untouched aquifers of Fiji.
Ramune-Original US$5.00
A classic Japanese carbonated drink with a unique bottle design and a refreshing citrus flavor.
ATA Japanese Soda- Original US$4.00
Refreshing carbonated drink with a sweet, original flavor.
Ocha Green Tea (Can) US$4.00
Unsweetened green tea with a refreshing and natural flavor, served in a convenient can.
Bottle Strawberry Milk US$4.00
Sweet strawberry milk blend with creamy texture and natural strawberry flavor.

All Day - Miso Zaru Soba
Lobster Miso Zaru Soba US$30.00
Crispy breaded lobster with mixed greens, paired with cold buckwheat noodles in miso broth, garnished with a boiled egg, mushrooms, and green onions.
Seabass Miso Zaru Soba US$20.00
Crispy seabass with chilled buckwheat noodles, garnished with green onions, boiled egg, pickled vegetables, and mushrooms. Served with a side of mixed greens.
Shrimp Tempura Miso Zaru Soba US$20.00
4 pieces of Shrimp Tempura
Chicken Miso Zaru Soba US$16.00
Crispy breaded chicken served with cold buckwheat noodles, miso broth, boiled egg, mushrooms, and fresh greens.
Pork Tonkatsu Miso Zaru Soba US$17.00
Crispy breaded pork cutlet paired with chilled buckwheat noodles, garnished with boiled egg, scallions, and mixed greens.
Tofu Miso Zaru Soba US$16.00
Crispy tofu, zaru soba noodles, soft-boiled egg, green onions, and mushrooms in miso broth.
Char Shu Miso Zaru Soba US$16.00
Tender slices of char siu pork, boiled egg, black fungus, bamboo shoots, and scallions atop chilled buckwheat noodles with miso dressing.

Taste of Japan Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Offerings
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating

Amenities
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy

Crowd
Locals

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards

Taste of Japan Photos

Taste of Japan Location

Taste of Japan

Illinois Cook County Chicago Chicago Loop North Wells Street

201 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA

Taste of Japan Reviews

Taste of Japan has several delicious meals like ramen, Japanese curry and various sushi and sashimi.I had the pork tonkatsu miso ramen and it had plenty of pork, noodles, bamboo and egg.The restaurant has a spicy sauce at the tables that you can add for extra spicy flavor.For four of us, it was $110 including tip.I would return. I visited in late May 2025. There is a restroom available for customers.
May 28 · Andrew Mast
Its our first time here. The place was good. It was cold outside and wanted to taste a hot soup. We ordered ramen and it was served not too hot. It was just warm. Could have been better if the food it was served really hot.
December 11 · Manski
I really want to like this place because the location is fantastic and it's close to where I live. Unfortunately it is just not that good compared to many other sushi places. I wanted to give the place the benefit of the doubt and so I came back a second time and ordered more sushi. I'm not getting sushi here again.I got the Ikura, Yellowtail, Salmon, Eel, and Lightly Grilled Salmon Handroll. First thing I noticed was that the sushi fell apart easily. It was breaking into two pieces while I was trying to grab it and the rice was not sticking together.It was also weirdly mushy. I know it's raw fish but I've eaten a lot of sushi in my life, including a lot of buffet sushi and AYCE sushi, and this was probably the first time in my life I've actually thought it was strange. Strange enough where I'm putting it in this review. It was still edible and I ate it all (mostly because I paid for it and didn't want to throw it away), but not something I've experienced at any other sushi place.It was also warm. As if it was put in the microwave and heated up. I've never experienced warm sushi before... I don't know what to think.If this food was sitting in the employee lounge for free, I would still hesitate to eat more than a few pieces.This place gets some points because of the location, but I'm not coming back to this place for the sushi. Perhaps I'll try out some of the rice or noodles some other time but I'm going to pass on the sushi.
May 15 · Justin Nguyen
I ordered ahead for lunch and was pleasantly surprised! Very good quality fish and flavor was great. I will definitely be back to try more! Only giving 4 stars for now since I've only tried once.
January 25 · E M P
Both taste and portion sizes are great! The plates are substantial, with heaping servings of rice alongside the curry.The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming, making it perfect for casual lunches or dinner with friends. The staff is friendly.
January 15 · Kevin Jiang