Umai Restaurant - Chicago

Perfect score - will definitely return! exceeded all my expectations! The dining experience was fantastic! In comparison to other Japanese restaurants in the city, Umai offers delicious food at a reasonable price and a cozy atmosphere. Had a memorable birthday celebration.

This neighborhood gem effortlessly delivers fresh, high-quality fare to a diverse crowd of Lincoln Park families, DePaul professors and students, empty nesters on date nights, and yuppie couples. Conveniently located on Fullerton Avenue next to DePaul's theatre school, the restaurant offers ample parking and is just a short walk from the Fullerton L stop. The ambiance and service showcase attention to detail, with high ceilings, a striking original wall painting, well-maintained tables, and attentive waitstaff creating a welcoming atmosphere. The wine and beer selection is concise but well-curated, and the expertly crafted martinis are a must-try. Guests are enticed to linger and people-watch through the expansive windows.

We ordered the Nabeyaki Udon and the Lollipop Chicken. The udon was tasty for the cold weather, but we wished it had been hotter. The lollipop chicken was a good deal, with five large wings for $7. However, we were put off by the disorganization at the beginning of our meal. The food at Umai is excellent, as many other reviewers have noted, but we hope they work on improving the consistency of their customer service in the future. This would benefit both the restaurant and its patrons greatly.

We came to a mostly empty restaurant. yet we sat beside one of the only occupied tables. we asked if we could sit elsewhere than the tables were fixed and our table would have another reservation in 1 hour 15min. none of these tables were filled during our time in the restaurant, but we were made to sit super close to another couple (the terrible table had managed, made worse by the close dead quiet of the restaurant.) we were ordered for sashimi. the 10 pieces plate. confirms with the waiter that it would not only be the ground fish (rented to order an LA card, if so.) the waiter assured us that it was not easy. it was easy and the fish was cut by someone who doesn't know sashimi. we are not coming back.

Great noodle place. I would recommend the Kare Udon, and sushi for appetizers. Lychee Martini was also great.