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Tamu
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Tamu
8.3
Tamu is a West Loop hand roll and omakase bar centered on pristine fish, temaki, and compact nigiri progressions in a sleek, intimate space. It’s become a go-to for focused sushi lunches and low-key evenings where quality and technique take priority over formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri set, Chili Ebi signature temaki, Unagi signature temaki
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A focused West Loop hand roll and omakase counter where high-quality fish and tight, temaki-driven menus keep things dialed and intentional.
Who should go: Sushi purists who value pristine fish over big crowds.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early evenings for calmer counter seating.
What to order: Omakase nigiri set, Chili Ebi temaki, Unagi signature temaki.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar, let the team guide your omakase, then add a couple of favorite temaki as a custom finish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be limited in the West Loop; nearby paid garages are usually the safest bet during peak hours.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly polished.
Noise level: Moderate — you can usually hold a normal conversation, especially at the counter.
Weekend wait: Often booked — limited walk-in seats may require a wait.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, especially earlier in the service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few veggie rolls or sides depending on the menu that day.
Vegan options: Very limited — most items involve seafood or sauces with fish components.
Gluten-free options: Some items can work — soy sauce contains gluten unless a GF version is requested.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the focused, intimate counter setup makes it ideal for conversation and a slightly elevated but not stuffy experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — walk-ins may find space at off-peak times, but evenings and weekends are best booked ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the space and menu are better suited for adults or older teens comfortable with sushi.
Best For
Better for: Purists who appreciate clean cuts of fish, expertly prepared hand rolls, and a calm, detail-driven experience.
Skip if: You want big group energy, fusion-style rolls, or a loud party-style sushi scene.
Tamu
8.5
Tamu is an intimate West Loop spot centered on temaki handrolls, donburi, and nigiri-focused omakase from a team with serious sushi credentials. Guests lean on chef’s sets and high-quality fish for a more focused Japanese experience than the big-room restaurants nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef's Choice Set, Tuna Combo, Uni Sushi
Scores:
Value: 6.3
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Compact sushi counter spotlighting temaki, donburi, and chef-led nigiri sets.
Who should go: Sushi fans wanting focused fish and intimate counter service.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or early weekend seatings before peak rush.
What to order: Chef's Choice Set, Tuna Combo, Uni Sushi
Insider tip: Sit at the counter and let the staff build a progression around daily specials instead of over-ordering upfront.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking and nearby garages; expect competition during peak dining hours
Dress code: Smart casual — many guests lean slightly dressy for date night
Noise level: Moderate — you can comfortably hold a conversation, especially at the counter
Weekend wait: Expect a wait or limited availability without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Typically not applicable — focus is on dinner service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options, mainly vegetable rolls, sides, or select donburi modifications
Vegan options: Very limited — fish-forward menu
Gluten-free options: Some sushi options are naturally gluten-free; ask staff to avoid soy sauce and marinades where possible
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate counter seating and focused Japanese menu make it ideal for a relaxed but elevated first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — walk-ins may be seated early evening or late, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially — the quiet, intimate vibe suits adults and older teens more than young children.
Best For
Better for: Guests who want a focused sushi experience with handrolls and omakase-style sets in a refined but intimate setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for loud group dining, extensive hot entrées, or a broad Japanese menu with lots of cooked options.
Hours
Monday5pm - 10pm
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday4pm - 10pm
Sunday4pm - 9pm