ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Loop
Master Critic Review
Tabo Sushi & Noodles by Takashi
7.5
Vibes:
Food Hall Frenzy
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Business Lunch Power Players
A food-court-style downtown stop built for speed: ramen bowls, simple rolls, and quick combos that make sense when you need something warm and filling on State Street. Come for convenience and value rather than ceremony—this is a functional lunch move, not an omakase night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shoyu ramen, Spicy tuna roll, Salmon avocado roll
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Downtown ramen-and-sushi convenience in a fast, lunch-first format.
Who should go: Shoppers and office workers needing a quick, affordable meal.
When to visit: Weekday lunch window for the freshest rotation.
What to order: Shoyu ramen, spicy tuna roll, salmon avocado roll.
Insider tip: Split a ramen and add one roll—better balance than two bowls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid garages nearby but pricey downtown; street parking is limited and time-restricted—CTA or walking is usually easier.
Dress code: Casual downtown (jeans, sneakers, work attire all fine).
Noise level: Loud - food hall energy; fine for quick chats but not ideal for long conversations.
Weekend wait: 10-25 min depending on foot traffic; mostly a line-to-order situation, not a long sit-down wait.
Weekday lunch: 5-15 min typical; fastest before 12:00pm or after 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie rolls and simpler noodle/rice options are usually available, but variety can be limited.
Vegan options: Limited - possible with veggie rolls and no animal-based add-ons, but you may need to customize and double-check sauces.
Gluten-free options: Limited - sushi/rice-based choices can work, but soy sauce and some marinades may contain gluten; ask for gluten-free soy sauce if available.
Best For
Better for: Speed, price, and convenience in the Loop—solid when you want ramen + a basic roll without spending time or money.
Consider Alternatives If: You want high-end sushi, a quiet meal, or a sit-down experience—choose a dedicated sushi bar or ramen shop instead.