This is hands down a must for hand roll sushi. The service is excellent, and the setting offers a small, intimate experience. I promise you, every specialty hand roll is fantastic--and I dare you to have just one. read more

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I cannot stress enough that this is the best sushi in Chicago. And the service matches how amazing the food is. I've been a few times now and each time I walk away talking about how great the meal was. The Noriko Oyster is the best I've ever had; we had the Wagyu, the Hotate crudo, the Crab Motoyaki, the Chef's selection, the Oyster and the Tuna Akami this time around. read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Tucked away in the basement level of Perilla, this handroll restaurant has a very unassuming entrance...BUT the moment you unveil the curtains at the end of the staircase, you're hit with a stunning view. The interior is beautiful - ambient lighting and the mirrors that line the wall make the space feel so spacious yet intimate. No matter what seat you're at, you have a great view. Re: dress code, you'd be fine wearing something more going out-y or a sweater and jeans. Ok now to the food. In order of my favorites, here's the must get: -crab motoyaki (the crunchy roe and the melt in your mouth crab is the perfect bite) -bluefin tuna poke (balanced, good amount of tuna on top) -nori chips and dip (taste was very reminiscent of other delicious asian spots - a must) -scallop dynamite (was the most "saucy" - not too overpowering though) TLDR: You might as well get the chefs handroll set to be the most economical and get the most selection. Then also order the nori chips and dip. You're welcome. Meh notes: -we had to wait a bit before getting seared with a reservation, so it makes sense to wait upstairs at the bar (can see how bookings can be tight if a table lingers a bit) -we placed another order of crab, and it did take a hot moment, so our stomach def expanded a ton during the waiting period (If you haven't had a hand roll before, be warned that you will initially not feel full after eating, BUT the rice expands and then you'll be extra full hahaha. *the more you know*) This place is spectacular and we will 10000% be back!! read more

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We went there for my belated birthday dinner because it was booked 2 months out! But good things are worth the wait and it didn't disappoint. I enjoyed their hand rolls and apps were amazing. Their food was fresh and with a lot of care, you can tell. Their service was attention to details and ambiance were dark and layback. You sit around the chef kitchen, pretty cool experience to watch them prepare the food. read more

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Fell below my expectations after reading several rave reviews. The appetizer, nori & chips, was definitely a stand out dish. I'd honestly come back solely for 3 servings of that in particular Lychee martini was tasty yet short lived. Scallops had a perfect sear. Most of the handrolls are decent at best. You will be satisfied but I expect the appetizer to be trumped by the entreees & it never was. Wagyu was a waste of money. Truffles had several flavor & it honestly tasted more akin to beef tartare than A5. This along with the tuna were by far the worst dishes. read more

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Noriko is a dimly-lit, swanky handroll bar located in the basement level of Perilla. We got the nori chips and dip and signature handroll set, as well as a scallop dynamite roll. The nori chips and dip was probably one of the best and most unique appetizers I had this year. I loved the flavors of the edamame hummus and the crispiness of the nori chips. All the rolls were tasty and fresh, but the scallop dynamite roll was by far my favorite of the whole meal. I will definitely be back to try out some of the other rolls. read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is a great sushi hand roll place downstairs from Perilla (Korean restaurant), also a great place listed in the Michelin guide. Ron, the chef owner was amazing! So friendly and humble. It was great to meet the creative and knowledgeable mastermind who dreamed up such tasty and palatable dishes. The nori hummus dish was sooo good even for someone who normally didn't like seaweed. But it was super savory. The crab motoyaki was real crab and very yummy, the bluefin tuna toro was very savory and buttery and tasted fresh and for someone who hates tuna I was really surprised to love this tuna, the king salmon and avocado roll was super delicious and just the right enough balance of avocado and rice and plenty of salmon with just a tad of sesame seeds on top, the oyster shooter was very good and was more an oyster on a half shell but excellent regardless bc of the flavor and presentation (on a bed of dry black beans vs ice or salt and I hate salt beds), the bluefin spicy tuna was buttery and melted in my mouth, and the California roll was wonderful bc it was real crab meat. The seaweed was a crispy premium seaweed. The ambience was cool and inviting. All the tables were filled up and the servers were very polite and hard working. The Tokyo story (cocktail) is like a Japanese old fashioned and sweet, buttery, smooth, and full of flavor, but light at the same time. Definitely a place to come often! Such thoughtful concoctions of food and drinks. read more

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Tucked beneath Perilla in the heart of West Loop, Noriko feels like a well-kept secret--one you'll want to share but also selfishly keep to yourself. From the moment you descend into the space, you're met with a sultry lounge-like ambiance: dim lights, carefully curated music, and a cozy-chic vibe that immediately pulls you in. It's intimate but not stiff--more like a dinner party thrown by your coolest friend who happens to be a culinary genius. The greeting from the chefs was warm, animated, and authentically cheerful. Not only were they welcoming, but their energy was infectious, striking up genuine conversation without ever feeling performative. It's rare to feel so well taken care of from the moment you're seated--Noriko nails that balance of hospitality and high-level service. Edamame hummus with nori chips kicked off the evening--a wildly creative and playful twist that perfectly bridges Asian and Mediterranean flavors. It's not just a snack; it's a conversation starter. A definite standout that showcases the kitchen's thoughtful originality. Pair that with one of their inventive cocktails--they're not just well-made, they're clever. For those who appreciate sake, the list leans premium but accessible, with a range that shows someone really curated it, not just slapped on a few labels. Let's talk rolls--they're premium in every sense. The rice is seasoned just right (a surprisingly elusive trait these days), and the nori tastes high-grade, offering a delicate crunch instead of a rubbery chew. The proteins are thoughtfully selected, and the textures melt together effortlessly. The Wagyu roll? A dream. Rich, savory, perfectly portioned. It's a showstopper without being overdone. But the unsung hero? The salad. Yes, the salad. With that addictive crunchy nori woven throughout, it became the unexpected highlight. That texture, that sound, that flavor--unreal. A masterclass in simplicity elevated to art. What really sets Noriko apart is timing. The chef knows when to deliver each dish to you--not too fast, never leaving you waiting. The meal flows in a rhythm that lets you savor without feeling rushed. Pro tip: If you're driving, skip the street parking--head around the back where there's typically plenty of space. Much less stressful. In a city full of exciting spots, Noriko is absolutely worth a return. It delivers everything I want in a modern Japanese-inspired experience: heart, flavor, atmosphere, and people who actually love what they do. And it just happens to be perfectly located in West Loop. Go now--before everyone else catches on. read more

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Noriko is the BEST handroll bar I've ever been to! So I am not really a handroll person but this place was absolutely amazing! We started with the edamame hummus and it was the best thing I've had in a long time! We also tried the pork belly and the hot mustard was chefs kiss!! As for handrolls, we tried the blue fin tuna, crab motoyaki, sweet shrimp, and this off menu special that was a piece of scallop! The ambiance and the inside is laid out nicely and the service was great too!! I'd definitely recommend this place but it's very hard to get a reservation. read more

Good music, great sushi, friendly staff and nice cocktails. I really liked it! The sushi is so fresh and we tried alot of different fish. Didn't love the scallop or cuddle fish hand rolls but salmon, tuna, yellowtail, caviar and uni were all awesome iterations. Honestly, my favorite thing there was the edamame hummus with tempura sea weed chips! This was awesome!!! Plan on waiting, it's small and busy but it's worth it. Wrap around sushi bar with the chefs situated in the middle! So you get to watch everything. And they explain every dish, which I love! Would definitely return. Cheers and Happy Holidays! Thank you read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great service in a very intimate environment. Loved the edamame hummus and the scallop dynamite. The handroll sets are a nice option and are recommended. Bit hard to find - it's in the basement of Perilla KBBQ! read more

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A very good hand roll bar with high-quality ingredients and creative combinations. I tried all six of the premier rolls and enjoyed each one, though the style leaned more toward inventive than traditional, which may appeal to some diners more than others. Personally, I prefer a simpler approach that lets the fish shine on its own. Service was warm and friendly, with our server standing out in particular, though the team behind the counter felt a bit reserved. Overall, a strong experience and definitely worth visiting, even if it didn't quite reach the "wow" 5 star factor for me. read more

Delicious food and beautiful presentation to each roll. Wonderful service and intimate environment. Would highly recommend it!

Loved the vibe here! The hand rolls were great. Three hand rolls and two apps were good enough to fill me up. The service was great as well! Would definitely recommend if you are craving hand rolls! read more

I'm only giving it a 3 star cause the quantity of fish and seafood placed in the rolls was a paltry amount, especially for the 38 bucks Doshi Doshi roll. It would be even more after tax and tip close to 50 bucks for that one piece...pass. Also the tuna was mush instead of small chunks. What's up with that? Another scoop of caviar and another small piece of uni could've been topped on there. It's a decent handroll joint but nothing to go out of your way to try. read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Doshi doshi hand roll - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Really cool space, awesome rolls & more and loved the Tokyo story cocktail (whiskey). Was there for a private event and was great, Omakase menu was awesome and great hospitality from the team! read more

I went to a sushi restaurant despite not being able to eat raw fish. I know... But, they accommodated me and it was wonderful. read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Nori Chios and hummas - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great food and definitely filling if you get the chef's set. I definitely recommend if you are looking for some good hand rolls in Chicago. Please book early since the limited spots available. read more

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The food here was so exceptional as I attached photos from my camera roll for this review my mouth started watering again lol. After waiting 6 weeks for my reservation, Noriko definitely lives up to the hype! The chefs tasting left us satisfied and feeling like we got a good variety. The intimate bar seated and overall aesthetic made me feel like I was in soho. Watching the chefs make your food was a nice touch as well! Can't wait to come back read more

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Everything was so incredible. I expected a couple of bumps only being open for a couple of days but omg I cannot wait to go back ASAP! The service was kind and attentive but also wasn't overwhelming. The space was gorgeous and intimate and so cool. The food is absolutely delicious. The fish was so fresh and the portions were generous at a very fair pair. I got the chef's handroll set and truly loved every one. Would get them all again. My favorite was the bluefin tuna toro tho. Utterly obsessed! read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Bluefin tuna toro - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

PHENOMENAL! The Fish was so fresh, I ate slow for once in my life to ensure I enjoyed every bite! The atmosphere was intimate yet inviting! I loved the personal care provided by the staff. The best part?! I didn't feel bloated. I left feeling satisfied & full, but didn't feel gross. I felt like I eat a healthy clean meal. 10/10 will be back. P.S. If you are reading this, don't make a reservation so I can go more often read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Must try must eat! The service and friendliness of the staff and their service is incredible. I felt like family from the second I sat down. I loved how knowledgable the staff was every question I had they had the amswer for with a big smile! Amy did an amazing job made it a great experience for me! The food, the food was out of this world it is a must eat when in Chicago for me now! The tuna Toro, The California Roll, and the Waygu roll left me speechless. The oyster to die for, the chips and dip wow amazing so many flavors! Noriko please don't change a thing I am telling everyone I know about this place!! read more

Amazing experience. The hand rolls were enjoyable. Sitting at the bar and observing was enjoyable. The staff were attentive and helpful. We definitely will be returning for another chance at the menu. read more

The crab roll is INSANE. Also the edamame hummus with crispy nori chip is wildly addicting.

Found my new favorite sushi spot - incredible quality, a fair price, and an approachable but beautiful atmosphere. Not only does the food taste amazing, but watching the rolls be created in front of you makes for a fun experience. Our server Lily was the perfect level of attentive. Highly recommend the chips & edamame hummus, California roll, and warm crab roll. But everything on the menu tasted great. Excited to come back and try more. read more

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Food was great (my favorite were the crab and tuna hand rolls) and the old fashioned is one of the best I've ever had (they do a unique take with a buttery finish). Love the cozy speakeasy vibe as well - definitely will be back!! read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I recently snagged a reservation at Noriko and was super excited to try the Handroll a. Special shoutout to our server Lily who was super knowledgeable of all the menu items, and our kind sushi chef Chris who was behind the counter making our rolls. Definitely will be back to try more! read more

Food was simply amazing. Highly recommend the edamame hummus, pork belly, and even the Noriko salad. All of the rolls were fantastic. Chris and Josh really took care of us and made sure we were having a great time. read more

If you've had handrolls in either LA or NYC you know top tier handrolls are made w warm rice, and simple recipes. The handrolls here were mid to ok at best. We got the chefs options, which was 5 rolls which were just ok. Not sure I'll be back. Pricy for the quality of being just ok. If they didn't rice warm might be a different experience. read more

This place is spectacularly unique. The absolute freshest ingredients crafted into hand rolls that get placed in front of you to be consumed immediately. The cocktails and apps & sides were all exceptional as well. The room is beautiful and you get to watch these masters right in front of you. Book immediately, once the word is out seats will be hard to come by. read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - The entire restaurant - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Absolutely delicious! Every roll and dish was thoughtfully crafted with creativity and precision. The atmosphere was stunning, and the staff's talent and attention to detail made the experience even more impressive. read more

This place is so insanely overrated that I'm writing this review so more people know it... we came to celebrate our first anniversary with a nice sushi experience. The staff was rude when we showed up on time for our res and told our table is not ready and asked to wait but there's literally nowhere to wait... so we stood there in front of the bar watching everyone lol and 5 min later another staff member came up annoyed we were standing there and asked "do you not have a reservation" ... it doesn't bother us that no one acknowledged it was a special occasion / anniversary, but fyi if that matters to you, and didn't help the staffs attitudes towards us Also on this point, fyi they don't serve any dessert so generally this is not the place to go to celebrate lol The rolls took so long to come out and the guys next to us were getting them so much faster so it's hit or miss for sure Finally the food - guys. So overrated it's literally just hand rolls... better to spend your money doing an actual omakase with crafted plates read more

Wow. This place was insanely good. One of, if not, the best meals my husband and I have ever had. From the food and drinks to the service, this one exceeded expectations. The food was so fresh and delicious, each roll they served just got better and better. I wish we were local so we could return whenever we wanted, but we will be visiting Noriko again the next time we are in Chicago. The seating is intimate and limited, so a reservation is the way to go. Very impressed with this spot and definitely recommend for any sushi fans! read more

Noriko Handroll Bar is a spot we'll be coming back to--a lot. Everything about it hits just right, from the food to the vibe to the price. First, the nori chips. Just order them. You won't expect them to be as good as they are, and then suddenly, you're addicted. The crudos were a highlight. We started with the Hamachi Poke, which was super interesting with the yuzu jelly--bright, fresh, and a little unexpected. We liked it so much that we decided to order another and went with the Benitoro Lox. Richer, with cream cheese, everything seasoning, and lox--it's got that familiar, comforting breakfast flavor but in a totally different format. Fun and delicious. On to the handrolls--the premium rolls are phenomenal, especially the crab and uni (which was incredibly fresh). But the classics hold their own too. The Bluefin, California, and Spicy Tuna are all must-orders. If you're looking for a little meat to break up all the incredible seafood, the Pork Belly is a solid move. It's a nice small plate of juicy, flavorful slices--rich, tender, and a great contrast to the fresh fish. Definitely worth adding to the lineup. The service and ambiance are what set Noriko apart. Located in the basement of Perilla Faire (West Loop), the space has an intimate, underground feel that adds to the experience. Most handroll bars feel cramped, have second-rate service, or skimp on plating--not here. The vibe is polished but relaxed, the service is on point, and it all ties together for a great night out. And as far as handroll bars go, it's easily the largest in the city. A fantastic way to spend an evening over a very reasonably priced meal. This Perilla Restaurant Group seems to have really found its stride--second new opening in a year? With Perilla Steak now quickly becoming a favorite for those who know, and Faire, their casual OG spot for great small plates and meats, it's clear they've figured out how to deliver a great night out. Distinct authors of their own take on what that means in Chicago--food, drinks, vibe, service--all super dialed in. read more

This is hands down the best sushi I've ever had. The rolls are to die for, and they even have delicious vegetarian options. The appetizers are also 10/10. read more

Amazing ambiance and great food! Hidden sushi bar that feels like you are in Tokyo or New York City. read more

Noriko Handroll Bar - Japanese Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Food was very initiative and delicious that being only part of the positive experience. Being transported to a complete surprising space a major focus on the talent producing the food in front of you. All my needs were met with great service and delicious food. I Felt like I was in New York or London dropping below the street level experiencing this quiet peacefulness. David jenson read more

UNREAL. Best hand roll bar in Chicago! We sat at the bar and got to talk to the chefs as they made our food - literally 5 feet away. They were so passionate and eager to teach us about the food which made the night an entire experience. Food was to die for- the edamame hummus is a must try. Very intimate, unique atmosphere and perfect for a date night or night out w friends read more

I highly recommend Noriko. This place is hands down one of the best sushi hand roll spots I've been to. The vibe is upscale but still really inviting, and the staff is super friendly and attentive. Everything on the menu is incredible, but if you need recommendations, definitely get the edamame app, the bluefin tuna poke roll, and the crab motoyaki--you seriously can't go wrong with anything. And if you're into cocktails, the miso butter Old Fashioned is a game-changer. Perfect spot for incredible sushi! read more

This new handroll spot goes hard with the sexy vibes and spectacular bites. I enjoyed the salon lox crudo and their blue fin tuna handroll. I look forward to checking out more the menu when I visit again. read more