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Sushi-san
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi-san
8.4
Lettuce Entertain You’s flagship Sushi-san pushes hip-hop, high energy, and shareable sushi in a loud, crowded Grand Avenue space. Thousands of reviews and multiple locations built off this original show that it’s a reliable go-to for fun maki, nigiri, and Japanese-ish bar food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tako Taco, Crazy Shrimp Tempura roll, Beef 'n Bop sizzling rice
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: High-volume, music-driven sushi bar balancing playful rolls and solid nigiri.
Who should go: Groups wanting lively sushi and cocktails.
When to visit: Weeknights before peak to avoid longest waits.
What to order: Tako Taco, Crazy Shrimp Tempura, Beef 'n Bop.
Insider tip: Grab counter seats if you care more about sushi than scene.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in the River North nightlife zone; most diners use nearby paid garages along Grand Ave and Wells St.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and sneakers are fine, but most groups lean slightly dressy for nights out.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours — conversation works for groups, but it’s not ideal for quiet or intimate talk.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–90 minutes without a reservation during peak evenings.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, except on Fridays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie maki, tofu, and appetizer options, though the menu skews seafood-focused.
Vegan options: Limited — a small number of maki and vegetable dishes can be adapted; confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Some rolls and nigiri can be prepared gluten-free on request, but cross-contact is possible in a high-volume sushi bar.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a fun, energetic date than a quiet one — the vibe is lively and social, not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but expect waits at peak times; smaller parties fare better at counter or bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Works for older kids or teens during earlier hours; late evenings trend loud, crowded, and more adult-oriented.
Best For
Better for: High-energy group dinners, fun maki and shareable plates, and a party-style sushi experience with consistent execution.
Skip if: You want a quiet omakase, traditional sushi purism, or a low-noise dinner where conversation is the priority.
Sushi-san
8.5
Sushi-san is a hip-hop-blasted sushi bar where San-sets, crispy rice, and strong cocktails fuel animated date nights. The menu leans on high-quality fish delivered daily, aburi bites, and shareable maki in a room that feels more downtown hangout than hushed temple.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Spicy Tuna Rice, Umami Scallop Aburi, Spicy Tuna Maki
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Loud, fun sushi bar with serious fish and hip-hop energy.
Who should go: Couples who prefer lively, music-forward sushi nights.
When to visit: Later evenings when the soundtrack and bar are rolling.
What to order: Crispy spicy tuna rice, San-set nigiri, umami scallop bite.
Insider tip: Sit at the sushi bar to talk omakase-style specials with chefs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking nearby; most guests use paid garages in the surrounding River North blocks. Valet may be available at neighboring venues but is not guaranteed.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and sneakers are fine, but most guests lean trendy or going-out casual.
Noise level: Loud — music-forward room where conversation is possible but not hushed.
Weekend wait: 30–60 min without a reservation, longer during peak late-night windows.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait; bar seating is often available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage — veggie maki, salads, and cooked appetizers are available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few maki and veggie sides can be built vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Many items are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions and gluten-free soy sauce is usually available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want fun, high-energy sushi with a lively soundtrack — it feels social and playful rather than formal or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes at the bar or for smaller parties, but expect a wait at prime hours; join the waitlist and consider counter seating for the fastest turn.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally better for adults and older teens — the room is loud and runs late, with limited accommodations for young children.
Best For
Better for: Lively, late-night sushi with strong cocktails, upbeat music, and shareable maki and aburi bites in a social setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet, traditional, or omakase-style experience where conversation and chef interaction are the focus.