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Atami Sushi Bar & Grill
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Atami Sushi Bar & Grill
7.8
Compact sushi counter off Lombard with classic nigiri, hand rolls, and sake in a minimalist room. Thoughtful cuts and tidy presentation deliver clean, photo-friendly plates without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Assorted nigiri set, Rainbow roll, Salmon belly sashimi
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Tidy, minimalist plates with classic cuts at fair prices.
Who should go: Nigiri-first traditionalists
When to visit: Mon–Thu after 7pm for quicker seating
What to order: Nigiri set, rainbow roll, salmon belly
Insider tip: Ask for daily fish specials—often limited to a few orders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Lombard and nearby side streets; spots open up after 7pm but can be tight on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual — neat jeans and a button-down or blouse work fine; slightly upscale vibe fits the sushi pricing.
Noise level: Low to moderate — soft background music, comfortable for conversation even during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation; bar seats often free sooner.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable rolls, cucumber maki, and avocado nigiri available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few veggie rolls and salads, but cross-prep with fish may occur.
Gluten-free options: Yes — tamari available on request, but soy sauce and tempura are not GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the minimalist counter setup and calm atmosphere make it ideal for focused conversation without distractions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes on weeknights; weekends require timing flexibility or willingness to sit at the counter.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids; space is compact and ambiance leans adult, though older teens comfortable with sushi will fit fine.
Best For
Better for: Solo sushi sessions or quiet meals focused on traditional cuts and clean presentation.
Skip if: You’re seeking fusion rolls, cocktails, or a lively group atmosphere — try Mamanoko or Ace Wasabi instead.
Atami Sushi Bar & Grill
7.8
Cozy Lombard standby emphasizing generous specialty rolls and approachable pricing. Regulars come for friendly service and playful signatures like the burrito-style roll alongside tempura shrimp standards.
Must-Try Dishes:
Atami Special Roll, Blue Hawaii Roll, Burrito Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Comfort-first specialty rolls (including a burrito roll) with warm hospitality.
Who should go: Neighborhood regulars chasing big, fun rolls
When to visit: Open evenings; arrive 5–6pm to breeze in
What to order: Atami Special Roll, Blue Hawaii Roll, Burrito Roll
Insider tip: Ask for off-menu spicy add-ons on deep-fried rolls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Lombard or nearby side streets; can be tight after 6pm, but metered spots turn over fairly often.
Dress code: Casual—comfortable attire works fine; locals often come straight from errands or a casual night out.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly most nights, with occasional bustle during weekend dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak 7–8pm hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian rolls and tempura vegetables available.
Vegan options: Limited—can request avocado or cucumber rolls; no dedicated vegan section.
Gluten-free options: Partial accommodation—gluten-free soy sauce available on request, but shared prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for casual comfort rather than formality—cozy booths and friendly service create an easygoing first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—walk-ins are common. For groups on weekends, call ahead to shorten the wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-welcoming staff, easy parking nearby, and approachable rolls make it fine for kids 8 and up.
Best For
Better for: Generous roll portions and neighborhood warmth; more relaxed and personal than trendy Marina sushi spots.
Skip if: You’re after pristine omakase or ultra-refined nigiri—this is comfort sushi, not fine dining.