5 Best Japanese Restaurants near Wilmette

“Don't be fooled by the appearance! Behind the modest dining area with 3 tables and a narrow counter is hiding an amazing Japanese chef who is not only brilliant in delivering the highest quality of sushi and sashimi, cooking delightful hot dishes but also pays close attention to the presentation of his creations. My sashimi selection was delightful and miso soup very tasty. The nice nod to the classic Japanese cuisine was a delicious assortment of Japanese pickles. My husband loved the incredible dressing of the house salad, the right consistency of the egg rolls, and the freshness of the shrimp tempura roll. He was particularly fond of the rich flavor of his gyoza. Kelly made us feel very welcome at her restaurant. We cannot wait to be back at this hidden gem! Bravo, Akira-San! Save our table“

“It was my first time here and wow, it was so good! I need to try the other dishes, but the Beef Yakiniku Donburi was so delicious!!! The dish has butter corn and beef in a garlic bbq sauce. I also ordered the Plain Bob Ramen with Torino broth, which taste the same from Torino Restaurant. The place is small but there's one large table. It's a great place for take out as their containers are perfect. Can't wait to try this place again!“

“I came here for a pick up order. Had the steak bowl and chicken bowl. The bowls were very tasty. I particular the steak which I really enjoyed. The steak had a grilled taste and was marinated perfectly. The bowls came with a cup of miso soup which was not watered down like many other places. I initially felt bad ordered 10 minutes before closing but the young lady working behind the register and owner were very nice and welcoming. The interior of the restaurant had a Chipolti fell to it but much brighter and less sterile. For a quick lunch or dinner, this is a great spot centrally located in Wilmette downtown. I will definitely be coming back.“

“We've been coming here or taking out since the beginning. No idea why I hadn't reviewed before. The ramen is very good. I personally like the creative ones like the yuzu citrus broth ramen, but the traditional is great as well. The cucumber salad hits the spot. The bao buns are delicious and I like that they are priced per unit so we can decide what we want. The sushi is solid, though I don't thik I would go there just to get sushi. Good cocktail program, fast service, and of course, the vibe is nice too. Authentically Japanese, tonight we were reminded of our visit to "Ramen street" in the Tokyo metro station a year ago.“

“Salmon teriyaki dinner has been family favorite for years. The way it is cooked- the fish is buttery and sauce is balanced and I eat the skin- so delicious. Tempura, shrimp and veggies, is light and crispy. Love unagi Q, New Mexican role and Bob's roll with the smoked salmon, cucumbers and cream cheese. My favorite is the mackerel, broiled and also teriyaki. Have had sashimi dinner and the fish has always been fresh. Love Akai Hana- have been coming for years.Kid-friendliness: If you ask, the waitress will give extra tofu in the miso soup. My son has been doing this since he was 3, and the waitress remembers. He loves the gyoza and can eat two orders. He is now 17.“