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Bloop Bloop
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Bloop Bloop
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Bloop Bloop in Lincoln Square/North Center specializes in $1 sushi balls, triangle rice balls, and sushi “sandwiches” in a counter-service format. It’s more about snackable, mix-and-match bites than traditional nigiri, with bright sauces and lots of customization.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Sushi Ball, Eel Sushi Ball, Triangle Rice Ball Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: America’s first sushi-ball–focused concept where you can build a tray of $1 bites in endless combinations.
Who should go: Budget-minded sushi fans who like to graze and experiment.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before the takeout line builds.
What to order: Salmon and eel sushi balls plus a triangle rice ball set.
Insider tip: Mix raw-fish balls with a few cooked or veggie options so you can sample more flavors without palate fatigue.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the surrounding residential blocks; generally easier outside peak dinner hours
Dress code: Casual – come as you are
Noise level: Low to moderate – counter-service vibe with easy conversation
Weekend wait: Short counter line during peak hours, but it moves quickly
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several veggie sushi balls and rice triangles are available
Vegan options: Limited – a few options depending on fillings and sauces
Gluten-free options: Some items may be gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a casual prep setting
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re going for something playful and low-pressure. It’s casual, quick, and fun to experiment with different combinations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. This is counter-service with limited seating, so you’ll order at the counter and grab an open spot when available.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the bite-size format and mild flavors make it approachable for kids, though seating and space are limited.
Best For
Better for: Casual, affordable sushi snacks you can mix-and-match with Instagram-ready presentation
Skip if: You’re looking for traditional nigiri, omakase service, or a formal sit-down sushi experience
Bloop Bloop
7.7
Bloop Bloop reimagines sushi as bite-size temari-style balls, served counter-service in a bright North Center storefront. It’s a playful option for low-key dates built around grazing through $1 sushi balls and sharing fruit teas rather than a long, formal dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Sushi Ball, Eel Sushi Ball, Octopus Leg Sushi Ball
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Chicago’s first dedicated sushi-ball shop where couples can mix dozens of flavors for a playful, ultra-affordable date.
Who should go: Low-key dates that value fun formats over formal sushi dinners.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before peak takeaway traffic starts.
What to order: Salmon, Eel, and Octopus Leg sushi balls plus a fruit tea.
Insider tip: Build a custom flight of ten different sushi balls to share instead of repeating favorites.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Lincoln and nearby side streets; generally manageable outside peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — jeans and sneakers are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is easy at most times, with some light counter-service bustle.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes during peak hours, often quicker for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good — several veggie sushi balls and sides are available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few options depending on rotation; ask staff to confirm ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Some items may be gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible due to shared prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s low-pressure, playful, and affordable, which works great for casual first dates where you want something fun without committing to a long meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service and first-come-first-served. Seating is limited, but turnover is fast, so waiting rarely takes long.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the format is approachable for kids, though the space is small and better suited for older children who can sit at a counter.
Best For
Better for: Playful, budget-friendly sushi dates where you can sample lots of flavors without a big bill.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service sushi dinner with elaborate rolls, omakase, or a long sit-down experience.