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Kamehachi - Old Town
ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Gold Coast & Old Town
Best Seafood in Gold Coast & Old Town
Best Sushi Rolls in Gold Coast & Old Town
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Gold Coast & Old Town
Master Critic Review
Kamehachi - Old Town
8.3
Chicago’s original sushi bar, Kamehachi has anchored Old Town since 1967 with a sprawling menu of maki, nigiri, hot appetizers, and combo platters. It’s less about avant-garde omakase and more about reliable rolls, bento-style meals, and a neighborhood crowd that spans families, regulars, and pre-Second City dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crouching Tuna Hidden Crab roll, Spicy Tuna Deluxe roll, Kamehachi Combo
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Long-running Old Town institution where generations of Chicagoans had their first sushi.
Who should go: Groups and families wanting classic rolls and cooked Japanese plates.
When to visit: Early evening or weeknights before pre-show and weekend rush.
What to order: Crouching Tuna Hidden Crab, Spicy Tuna Deluxe, Kamehachi Combo.
Insider tip: Use the combo platters to cover both nigiri and signature rolls without over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Old Town can be limited during peak hours; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans are fine and you’ll see everything from families to date-night outfits.
Noise level: Moderate – lively at peak hours but usually conversational, especially earlier in the evening.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on time and season.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple veggie rolls, tofu dishes, and cooked plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited but possible – simple vegetable rolls and salads can be made vegan if you ask.
Gluten-free options: Some options are naturally gluten-free; ask about soy sauce and tempura breading to be safe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. It has a relaxed, classic sushi-bar feel that works well for conversation without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes during non-peak hours. On weekends or pre-show times, reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The menu is broad enough for kids (including cooked items), and the atmosphere is welcoming to families.
Best For
Better for: Consistent, classic sushi in a comfortable setting where groups, families, and longtime regulars all feel at home.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge omakase or ultra-trendy sushi with experimental presentations.