Ai Japanese Restaurant
3.4
- Neighborhood: River North
- 358 W. Ontario St.
- Chicago, IL 60610
- 312-335-9888
Ai (translates to “love”), which opened September 2007 in River North, is from Agnes Chua Yoshikawa and Gene Chua, the siblings behind Lincoln Park’s Ringo Japanese Restaurant and Tsuki. Although owners made cosmetic upgrades, you’ll spot plenty of holdovers from the former tenant (Kizoku), including the entryway aquarium, mod light fixtures and oversized windows overlooking Ontario Street (but, no, not the naked sushi). Look for creative cocktails and late-night dining in the restaurant's red and black lounge. Chef Toyoji Hemmi is handling exec chef duties at both Tsuki and Ai; his menu lists maki, nigiri and sashimi, plus a selection of Japanese fare like a panko bread crumb-battered crab and shrimp cake, and a wasabi-rubbed filet mignon.
Getting There
- Cross Streets:
- Ontario and Orleans
- Parking:
- Street Parking Difficult and Valet
- Wheelchair Access:
- Yes
The Basics
- Hours:
-
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Dinner: 5-11:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday
- Cuisine:
- Japanese and Sushi
- Meals Served:
- Dinner and Lunch. A late-night menu is available on Fridays and Saturdays
- Reservations:
- Accepted
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
Features
- Carryout:
- Yes
- ATM:
- Yes. Across the street
- Facilities:
- Private Party and Banquet Facilities. The lounge may be reserved for private functions
- Payment Methods:
- Major Credit Cards
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Seating :
- Capacity: 120 (the sushi bar seats 18)
Write a review
Rate Ai Japanese Restaurant
"My new hot spot"
bijoux from wicker park - July 3, 2008
I went to the Summer Lovin' event at the MCA, and Ai and Tsuki were there being showcased. Tsuki, being one of my favorite sushi restaurants, witho...
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"Had a great experience"
wickerpark3000 from Wicker Park - July 3, 2008
I was scheduled to meet a friend at Ai last night. After reading the last couple of reviews, I tried to convince him to meet elsewhere. He said t...
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"worst sushi experience EVER"
foodie15 from roscoe village - June 29, 2008
Wow, this may be one of the worst experiences I have had with service. And I am BIG on service. There are just simple things I expect when I dine...
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What's nearby?
Calendar of Events
Ai Japanese Restaurant
-
Elaine Dame Duo
7/10/2008 - 8:30 PM -
Keely Nicole
7/18/2008 - 8:00 PM
