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| Umai Japanese Kitchen and Sushi from Polk |
We recently did a drive by and snapped a quick picture of the intimate space and hip decor. It was also encouraging to see it packed. If anyone has been there please let us know your thoughts. We're excited to try it out soon.
Finally, for those who didn't understand our headline all we can say is we can't shake our old school hip-hop roots! Every time we say "Umai" we naturally sing it to the tune of the 1999 Mos Def classic "Umi Says"...don't you?!?!?:
Went last night sushi was great, service a little slow, but they were very apologetic and it was understandable given it was their first night. Definitely a place to check out.
ReplyDeleteWent last night and left very disappointed. I get there are opening week jitters, but was very discouraged to see tables who arrived later get their food before us, and one of our orders didn't come out until we asked about it. Also, paid a lot for small amounts of sushi. Not coming back.
ReplyDeleteNot coming back? I think that is a little harsh. Last night was their very first night open! Cut these folks a little slack until they get their feet wet. Any new operation (and especially a restaurant) is going to have some kinks to work out during the fist few days/weeks. If the amount of money they must have spent in build-out is any indication, I am sure they will work hard to make dining there an enjoyable experience. I am quite happy to have a sushi option in the neighborhood and wish them well!
ReplyDeleteWELL ITS BETTER THAN TRIAD
ReplyDeleteIf I ever move out of the South Loop and into Printers Row, I'll check this place out. Still can't figure out how this place is considered "South Loop" by Sloopin. I guess anything to skew the 'Business Counter' numbers in a positive direction. Funny, when things shut down in areas that aren't traditionally considered the "South Loop," the counter is not affected in a negative manner.
ReplyDeleteWow anon 10:24, classic. Place looks promising, I will give it a month before I check it out.
ReplyDeleteWent for lunch today. Service was just fine and we were well attended to. The sushi was really good, easily up there with the best in the Sloop. The special rolls were unique and tasty and it was cool you could order half rolls of them. This place is definitely worth a visit. I'll be going back soon. It is a great addition to the neighborhood.
ReplyDeleteAnd major LOL @ 11:21AM. Just LOL @ you.
@ Anonymous 11:21
ReplyDeleteThe typically recognized boundaries of the South Loop are Congress at the north, Cermak at the south, the river to the west and the lake to the east.
Printers row is usually considered part of the South Loop, but even if you don't see it that way, Printers' Row's western boundary is Clark. Being that this restaurant is on the west side of Polk, it's right on the border and you could make a case for either neighborhood.
TL;DR - Don't be such a snob.
Went last night. Sushi was tasty and service was polite, prompt, and informative (we asked many questions about the menu). Space is very smartly designed and has a great vibe. Will go back again. I hope this place does well ... it's a nice addition to the neighborhood!
ReplyDeleteWent for lunch today and loved the bento box lunch special. Nice variety on the menu - they even had a Hawaiian Loco Moco plate. Service was great. Space is small, but perfect for the neighborhood I think.
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I had dinner at Umai last night. It was quite good and the service was excellent. Seems like it is getting better and we look forward to going back. Welcome to the neighborhood.
ReplyDeleteWife and I went last night. Good amount of business, food was quite good and the service was great. Those who did not have the same experience may want to give it another try.
ReplyDeletePleasantly surprised! Based on the positive reviews we figured it would be okay (let's get serious here, it couldn't be worse than Triad or South Coast) so we decided to check it out last night. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful...I think the spicy scallop was the best I've ever had. Decor and ambiance were perfect, as was the service. We will be back, and I encourage everyone else to try it as well.
ReplyDelete