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Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Chicago
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Master Critic Review
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Chicago
8.3
Sushi by Scratch runs a ticketed omakase in a small, candlelit room, pacing 15–17 courses around the chefs behind the counter. It’s structured, theatrical, and sake-friendly, ideal for couples who want a single-focus tasting menu built around nigiri and composed bites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yellowtail Jalapeño Sashimi, Miso Black Cod, Torched Toro Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 5.8
Service: 9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Multi-course omakase where every seat faces the chefs.
Who should go: Sushi obsessives planning a splurgey, tasting-menu date.
When to visit: Late first seating for time to linger post-omakase.
What to order: Let the omakase run; add a sake pairing to match.
Insider tip: Arrive early for the pre-dinner bar welcome and first pours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the area is limited; most guests use nearby paid garages or rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets and dresses are common, but formalwear isn’t required.
Noise level: Low–moderate — intimate counter setting where you can comfortably hear the chefs and your date.
Weekend wait: No typical wait — seats are ticketed and prepaid by reservation; walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — this is a dinner-only omakase experience.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — the omakase is fish-focused; inquire in advance to confirm whether a modified menu is possible.
Vegan options: Not recommended — the format is built around seafood and dairy-based elements.
Gluten-free options: Often workable with advance notice — some bites use soy sauce or marinades that may need substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s quiet, immersive, and structured around the chef-led experience, which gives couples a shared focal point. Just note that seating is counter-style and runs as a timed tasting rather than a lingering, conversational meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely — seats are sold as prepaid tickets for specific time slots. Occasionally last-minute cancellations appear online, but walk-ins are not a reliable option.
Is it kid-friendly? No — the experience is best for adults due to the long, multi-course format, counter seating, and focus on raw fish. There are no kid-specific menu options or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Intimate, chef-driven omakase with theatrical pacing and attention to detail, ideal for special-occasion date nights where the tasting menu is the main event.
Skip if: You want à la carte sushi, flexible pacing, substitutions without advance notice, or a casual meal where you can come and go on your own schedule.
Hours
Monday5pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday5pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday5pm - 9:30pm
Thursday5pm - 9:30pm
Friday5pm - 9:30pm
Saturday5pm - 9:30pm
Sunday5pm - 9:30pm