Kamehachi
Who says whisky is just for Scotland? Whisky without an “e” is only used when referring to Scottish and Japanese whisky, and even though Japan and Chicago could not be more different in location…they both show a great appreciation for the drink. Whether you like it straight, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Japanese whisky is a drink that goes down smooth and sticks with you long after that last sip. Here is where to begin your Japanese whisky journey in Chicago…
Momotaro {820 West Lake Street, Chicago; 312.733.4818}
Bring your friends! Bring your family! Everyone is welcome at Momotaro, and everyone will want to join you after they see the menu. Aside from their decadent food offerings, their drink menu is chock-full of unique offerings. Even classic cocktails, like the Yobi Manhattan, has a Momotaro twist thanks to touches like Chicago’s 11th orchard red clover bitters, brandied cherry, and Japanese whisky. If you want to explore, ask the staff for their favorites; you’ll likely discover something brand new to love.
Enso Sushi & Bar {1613 North Damen Avenue, Chicago; 773.878.8998}
Classic Japanese bites, unparalleled sushi, and a whole section of the menu devoted to Sochu Whisky. We shouldn’t have to say more, but we will also mention their fun and fresh cocktail menu, as well as dishes like ramen, udon noodles, and Sizzling Ribs & Rice. We’ll see you for dinner!
Kamehachi {various locations}
As a Chicago institution for more than 50 years, this is the spot to come for an expert opinion on Japanese whisky. You can order it straight or in a cocktail. We love their Edo Manhattan (with nikka coffee-grain whisky, sweet vermouth, bitter truth aromatic bitters, plum bitters, and maraschino liqueur) paired with their Fillet of Beef, which is served with fried onion, wasabi mashed potato, and Asian mushroom sauce.
Arami {1829 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago; 312.243.1535}
Simplicity is the name of the game at Arami, focusing on only the best and most flavorful ingredients. That includes their liquor menu, which is sorted by flavor profile as well as alcohol type. Choose a “clean, pure” sip or go for “rich, classic.” There is no bad choice here. Also, shout out to Arami for being a part of the upcoming Midway Airport food expansion! We always having love more spots to eat our favorite foods!
Sushi Dokku {823 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.455.8238}
Take advantage of the last few weeks of nice weather and sip whisky on Sushi Dokku’s patio! This West Loop spot is intimate, relaxing, and the perfect place to indulge in their Whisky Flight (bartender’s choice of three 1-ounce pours).
Katana {339 North Dearborn Street, Chicago; 312.877.5544}
With more than 20 whisky options on their menu, tastes of all kinds can be satisfied at Katana. Put them in the restaurant’s signature Old Fashioned or pair them straight with anything off their Robata Grill menu. We recommend the Wagyu Kosho for sure!
Sable Kitchen & Bar {Kimpton Hotel Palomar Chicago; 4803, 505 North State Street, Suite 101, Chicago; 312.755.9704}
A hotel restaurant might not be the first spot you think of to enjoy select international whisky, but in the case of Sable Kitchen…it should be! Their summer twist on the G&T with Nikka Coffey and Fentiman’s Tonic is the perfect way to ease into the Japanese whisky (Nikka Coffey). Then, if you like what you taste, ask for a glass on the rocks!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
The post Sip on Chicago’s Best Japanese Whisky appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.