31 Best Japanese Restaurants near Lake Forest

“Best sushi. Better than your fancy Chicago spot. It’s the only restaurant we frequent regularly. They have something for everyone including non sushi lovers.“

“I love reviewing and eating Japanese food, and being from Japan, I find it very difficult to come across truly authentic Japanese cuisine. Most American Japanese restaurants barely scratch the surface of what Japanese food really is.

This place not only captured the atmosphere of a real Japanese restaurant, but the food itself was genuinely close to what you’d find in Japan. I had the pleasure of ordering the Zaru Soba Tempura, and I honestly haven’t had authentic tempura in a long time. I’m happy to say it exceeded my expectations, the food was outstanding.

What made the experience even better was that the waiter spoke to us in Japanese, which really showed the restaurant’s respect for the culture and added to the authenticity.

Japanese authenticity rating (if this restaurant were in Japan): 7.8/10
American-Japanese restaurant rating: 8.9/10

Overall, this place is amazing and absolutely worth visiting.“

“Food is always great and their service is amazing. They have an extensive menu with everything from great appetizers to traditional Japanese desserts. Good selection of drinks both regular and adult. Prices are reasonable for the quality of the food and service. You can depend on having a great experience!“

“One of the best sushi spots in the suburbs 😍“

“This spot's ideal for a sushi or bento lunch break, dinner date with your partner, group hibachi experiences, or if you're just craving quality japanese food in general 🙇🏻‍♂️❤️‍🔥 Well worth the trip coming from the city for it's cozy vibe and warm, attentive service, and their menu and execution's on point across the board. Don't hesitate to try something new here“

“Insanely delicious and fresh sushi.“

“It was our first time there. There were many tables open but they sat us right by the front door facing the door dash orders to be picked up. Then our server was abrupt and forgot to bring us our drinks until we reminded him. He was nice but almost like we were an inconvenience. Might have been better if we were sitting in the main part of the restaurant. Food was really good which is what made it a decent experience“

“Everything was excellent!!!“

“Sushi cravings, this is the place to savor good sushi and rolls. The ambiance is excellent, with plenty of space, a very artistic atmosphere, and outstanding table service. Highly recommended. Walk-ins are welcome, but for large parties, reservations are required.“

“I beg my partner to take me here as a treat. Best sushi place to dine in, at Waukegan. I love it here 😭. They have so many different options, and the food is always delicious, the presentation is always there too. The service is always friendly and quick. Things can add up pretty quickly, but I’ll definitely keep coming back for the sushi! The Foxy Roll is my new favorite. I wish they had more desert options though. It’s never hard to find parking but the roads to the parking lot could use repairs.“

“I cannot say enough good things about Koya. I was so happy to find this restaurant. Everything we ordered, tempura, tempura udon soup, kids bento boxes, and sushi was incredibly good. Can't wait to go back!

Kid-friendliness: The bento box options for the kids were great! My 2 and 5 year olds loved it.“

“Love this place. Very fresh sushi!“

“A Big Shout Out to Happi Sushi in Highland Park. We were lucky enough to try a number of their apps and rolls. Every single thing we got was SO delicious 😋. Their sushi was fresh, tasty, and so yummy. The apps are unique and full of flavor. We just love this family owned restaurant. The staff goes above and beyond for each patron. Please try Happi Sushi, Friends. You will not be disappointed!!“

“Always great entertainment and food!!!“

“The drinks are great and food does not disappoint. We celebrated Valentine’s Day today with good service and a gorgeous atmosphere. Love this spot for work happy hours, a special night out or dinner with the family.“

“Love it!!!, the food and service was amazing. Would go for it again. 10/10!“

“Food was absolutely delicious!! Highly recommend!!“

“What a great experiences! The food was amazing! The family enjoyed themselves in the beautiful restaurant and wonderful staffs! Definitely reminded my daughters of grandma's cooking! 🫰“

“Great place to hangout and good sushi“

“Very kind gentleman who offered a sample of teriyaki chicken… That what got me to get food here lol. He was quick and piled as much food as humanly possible into the box. They definitely make sure you have enough for lunch AND dinner (if you can’t finish it all in one sitting). Good price for the amount of food you get, definitely recommend.“

“Top Notch!! Soon fun!! Staff is great, atmosphere is great... fun for kids and family and friends. Highly recommend!!“

“If you want the very best sushi go to Taste of Tokyo! We can’t say enough about how nice, friendly, and creative the owners and their staff are! If they don’t have something on their sushi menu that you want, then just ask! And they will gladly make it! If you want to relax with comfortable seats, great background music, reasonable prices, then visit Taste of Tokyo! If you love to support small businesses in your community then visit Taste Of Tokyo! We are just so grateful for them and their Great Foods!“

“delicioso! 100% recomendado“

“great place to eat, very good service and very large portions. loved it here“

“The best tasting thai food i have had in a long time. It is a little gem I will be returning to again. I had the shumai and they were light and delicate, the pad thai was well balanced with the sweet and sour notes from the tamarind even with it being ordered extra spicy, the heat was there but tge flavor of the dish still shined through.“

“I ordered food for takeout. The app was easy to use. My food was ready at the time I requested. I was greeted when I arrived and my food was hot. I really enjoy the chicken bowl and chicken potstickers. It appears they have vegetarian options available for those who prefer that. I also feel they have a good rewards program.“

“Really good place! I was expecting generic Chinese but I was pleasantly surprised. I asked the owner if the egg foo young was made with real eggs, or eggs from a carton. He was kind of shocked at the notion he would use eggs from a carton and assured me it was made with fresh eggs and freshly-made vegetables, like he would not be caught dead doing it any other way. That gave me a good feeling about the place - he clearly had pride in what he does. We had a vegetarian and a celiac in the party and he was very understanding and respectful of their needs. We are picky eaters but were all very happy with our meals, which were really good. Big portions too!“

“Fuji Thai is the best restaurant in the area! I worked here for 4 years when I was younger and Ive been back as a customer every time I’m in town for the past 5 years. I can say from first hand experience, everything is clean and sanitary. The staff was always great to work with. For a first job, I couldn’t have asked for more. And Mona and her family (owners) are amazing! The food is incredible. Almost everything on the menu is made fresh and from scratch. Favorites: Tom kha soup Panang curry Double shrimp lover“

“My wife and I totally enjoyed their food. We were a bit surprised to see that the AYCE went up to $28.99. We will go back.“

“Stopped by on Wednesday 02/06! And was greeted and attended by Mercedes. She was SUPER kind and attentive with my order! Very grateful she took my needs seriously since I fast on Wednesday's/Friday's & can only eat vegan. She went above & beyond to make sure my needs were meet! & as I was waiting I noticed how clean the area is. & once I got my order it came out so fresh; plan on visiting again! & thank you for the great experience!“

“Just enjoyed an amazing meal! The sushi was so so good and the service couldn’t have been better. Don’t skip this restaurant if you’re in the mood for sushi!“