A unique omakase experience Midōsuji opens inside Chicago Athletic Association hotel

Midōsuji, an exclusive dining experience brought to life by the Boka Restaurant Group, has opened its doors at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. Drawing its name from Osaka’s iconic boulevard, Midōsuji melds culinary traditions from Osaka and Chicago, reflecting an artistic fusion of cultures, according to the announcement.

Spearheaded by Chef Brian Lockwood, Midōsuji offers a bespoke omakase experience that captivates guests with a curated, multi-course menu. This experience features a blend of refined Japanese ingredients and classical French techniques, the press release states. Diners can enjoy delights such as crab salad with daikon and miso egg yolk or sansho pepper duck, which the announcement says will be made differently each night. 

Offering two seatings per night for only eight guests, reservations will be essential. According to the press release, the experience will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 6-8:30 p.m. Dinner is priced at $195 per person, with an additional $105 to opt for drink pairings.

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Innovative design meets historic charm

The restaurant's design pays homage to both Japanese artistry and Chicago’s architectural heritage, featuring a restored 1930s-era space adorned with Japanese influences like cherry blossom wall coverings, the announcement describes. Additionally, the specially crafted beverage menu features wines, sakes, and uniquely concocted cocktails like the Tomato Water Martini, which the press release says was inspired by Tokyo’s cocktail bars.

Kevin Boehm, co-founder of Boka Restaurant Group, praised the venture in the announcement, saying, “The opening of Midōsuji at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel is the mark of a new era of culinary experiences, bringing a fresh perspective and exciting new concepts to the legacy property, guests and the Chicago community.” The restaurant, once a secretive Prohibition-era speakeasy known as the Milk Room, now beckons guests to partake in an immersive culinary and cultural journey.

For more details or to book a reservation, guests are encouraged to visit midosujichicago.com.