Located underneath the Momotaro - an absolutely wonderful spot for alcohol and sushi. You walk into the restaurant, and to the right, down the stairs, you'll find yourself there. They check IDs and vaccination cards at the desk.

The lights are low, the theme is very Japanese, and it's absolutely gorgeous. I personally noticed the patrons to all be very relaxed, and minding their own business. Not in a hostile way, just a cool way. People are all doing their own shit with their own crews.

The atmosphere was sexy, and I got an ego boost just being there - and while the vibe obviously wasn't "prohibition" style speakeasy, it felt very much like I was in a part of the clever crowd, if that makes sense. I wouldn't necessarily call it a speakeasy - it just feels like one.

I didn't happen to be interested in a drink when I went, but I did try some of the food - and I was very impressed. I requested a simple sushi roll that wasn't on the menu, and they were happy to make it. I also got miso soup, and I was thoroughly impressed. Most soup you drink is a simple base for a larger meal, but this miso had so much flavor, tofu, and mushrooms that it was a meal on it's own.

The drink menu, from what I remember, revolved around Sake and Japanese Whiskey, which fit - and they had a deal where you can get three small drinks together at a discount, so while most of the drinks are expensive, when I bring a group, we all won't end up spending too much.

There's a ton of bar space in a sort of bar island circling the bartenders, as you can see in the image - but there are plenty of tables for larger groups as well in side pockets around the perimeter. If you're not coming early in the night, it gets packed quickly - and I would recommend calling to make a reservation if you've got a group of more than 2 people.

Highly recommend, and you can learn more about the restaurant in general here: https://www.momotarochicago.com/