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Niu Japanese Fusion Lounge
Master Critic Review
Niu Japanese Fusion Lounge
8.4
Niu Japanese Fusion Lounge is a spacious Streeterville staple opened in 2007, blending sushi, fusion maki, ramen, and pan-Asian plates in a dark, lounge-like room next to the AMC River East theaters. With more than a thousand reviews, a deep maki list, and long hours, it works as well for group sushi dinners as it does for happy hour before a movie.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sexy Mexican roll, Niu Sushi Set, Ono Carpaccio
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Large, loungey Streeterville sushi spot with a huge fusion-maki and cocktail lineup steps from the movie theater.
Who should go: Groups and date nights wanting sushi plus pan-Asian options.
When to visit: Evenings and happy hour before or after AMC showtimes.
What to order: Sexy Mexican roll, Niu Sushi Set, Ono Carpaccio.
Insider tip: Time your visit with happy hour for lower-priced drinks and maki while avoiding the heaviest pre-movie crowds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited; most guests use nearby paid garages around Illinois St. and Columbus Dr. (validation not typical).
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for evening visits.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak evenings — conversation is possible but can require raised voices at larger tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially around movie showtimes.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie maki, appetizers, and noodle dishes.
Vegan options: Limited — a few maki and veggie sides can be customized, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Some sushi and sashimi options can work gluten-free if you avoid soy sauce and tempura items; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim, lounge-style setting and cocktails make it feel polished without being formal, though it can get lively during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but waits are common before and after movie showtimes. Walk-ins are more successful earlier in the evening or on weekdays.
Is it kid-friendly? Acceptable for older kids and families during earlier hours, but the vibe skews adult and lounge-oriented at night.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, mixed sushi + pan-Asian menus, cocktails, and convenient pre-/post-movie dining with long hours.
Skip if: You want quiet, traditional sushi, omakase-style precision, or a more intimate, chef-driven experience.