Gaijin Chicago is a vibrant and interactive 60-seat Japanese restaurant located on W Lake Street. Led by Chef Paul Virant, it offers both Hiroshima and Osaka styles of savory Japanese pancake, known as okonomiyaki, while pastry chef Angelyne Canicosa brings her dessert prowess with kakigori and other Japanese-inspired treats. With an excellent bar program focused on beer, sake, Japanese whisky, wine, and highballs, Gaijin Chicago promises a lively culinary experience.
(381)
950 W Lake Street
Chicago, IL
60607
To get to the restaurant on W Lake Street in Chicago, you can take public transport by using the L train's Green and Pink line to the Morgan station. From there, walk south towards Lake Street and turn right. The restaurant should be on your left.
If you're driving, take I-90/94 and exit at Lake Street. Turn right onto Lake Street and continue for about 2 miles. The restaurant should be on your left-hand side. There is street parking available nearby, as well as a paid parking lot across the street from the restaurant.
| Monday | 4pm - 10pm |
| Tuesday | 4pm - 10pm |
| Wednesday | 4pm - 10pm |
| Thursday | 4pm - 10pm |
| Friday | 11am - 10pm |
| Saturday | 11am - 10pm |
| Sunday | 11am - 10pm |
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Japanese restaurants are known for their unique and flavorful dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing. Gaijin Chicago, located on W Lake Street, is a Japanese restaurant that truly embodies the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine. Led by Chef Paul Virant, Gaijin is Chicago's first and only dedicated okonomiyaki and kakigori restaurant.
One of the standout features of Gaijin is its commitment to honoring traditional preparations and techniques while also incorporating Chef Virant's passion for pickling and preserving. The result is a menu that offers both Hiroshima and Osaka styles of savory Japanese pancakes, or okonomiyaki, that are cooked to perfection on a custom 12-foot griddle. For those who prefer table service, individual Hiroshima teppan griddles are available.
Pastry chef Angelyne Canicosa brings her dessert prowess to Gaijin with a menu featuring kakigori, a shaved ice dessert, along with mochi donuts and other Japanese-inspired treats. The bar program, led by beverage director Julius White, showcases highballs and a focused selection of beer – including a Moody Tongue-Gaijin collaboration house lager, sake, Japanese whisky, and wine.
The 60-seat space at Gaijin is designed to deliver a lively and interactive culinary experience. The chef's counter allows diners to watch as their food is prepared right in front of them while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant.
Overall, Gaijin Chicago is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an authentic Japanese dining experience in Chicago. With its commitment to tradition and innovation in both food and drink offerings, it's no wonder why this restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
