11/17/05 UPDATE:

We knew it was too good to last. But turns out that Tsuki has killed its fugu service. A day after we published our story "Sushi to die for?," the restaurant sent out the following letter to the media:

"As a responsible [restaurateur], Tsuki Restaurant has decided, as of today, to no longer sell the fugu fish. [Tsuki] just found out there is a possibility their fugu distributor may have been selling this to them illegally. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. Thank You, TSUKI Restaurant"

The original article follows below: ---

First we're allowed to get our sushi licks on semi-nude models at Kizoku (see Chicago Sushi Exposed), now we get to defy death at Tsuki (click here for hours, maps, etc.)! The Lincoln Park spot added fugu specials to the menu about three weeks ago, and it's sold out every weekend. For those who don't know, fugu's the name of a specific species of puffer fish or blowfish that can be deadly if it's not cleaned and prepped properly (hence its status as a delicacy). Only certified chefs are allowed to filet this fish that's why Tuski's chefs get certified in Tokyo (although these puffers were actually detoxified in Japan). Owners tell us the chefs taste the fish before they create anything; presumably they'd be ill by dinner service, so eat up! Look for tempting versions like raw with ponzu sauce ($29.95) and an Mm, Mm-good grilled fin dropped in hot sake ($10). Available Thursday-Saturday nights, if you want to indulge on another night, 24-hours advance notice is required.

Terri Mooney, metromix special contributor

This story was updated on 11/17/05.