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Japonais attracts star power |
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Written by CARLY MARQUARDSON
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Friday, 15 October 2004 |
Located on the river in downtown Chicago, Japonais, the hot new celeb-soaked eatery, aims to serve “exceptional contemporary Japanese cuisine and Sushi in an extraordinary atmosphere”, and it succeeds.
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Japonais
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600 W. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 822-9600
www.japonaischicago.comLunch hours
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays
Dinner hours
5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays
5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Fridays to Saturdays
5 to 10 p.m. Sundays
Lounge and bar hours
5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Mondays to Wednesdays
5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Thursdays to Fridays
5 p.m. to 3 a.m. Saturdays
5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sundays
Riverwalk Café
Open Seasonally
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The massive building, which holds over 300 people, is divided into three major areas: the red dining room, its less formal counterpart the green dining room, and downstairs, the lounge bar and riverside café.
ATMOSPHERE
Japonais is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. The décor is a beautiful blend of European and Japanese styles designed by famed architect/designer Jeffrey Beers, who wanted to create a “complementary relationship between the space and the cuisine.” Entering the restaurant is awe-inspiring, not only because of its size; but the designer’s meticulous attention to detail. The décor in fact was so amazing, it was the basis for much of the evening’s conversation.
CROWD
Japonais is definitely a place to see and be seen. It is almost a given that whatever celebrity happens to be in town filming Oprah will at some point be spotted dining here. The busy restaurant seems to be a favorite amongst a 25-40 year old crowd of movers and shakers dressed in the latest fashions. Women were clad in anything from jeans and designer blouses to dresses, and men’s clothing ranged from suits to chinos and dress shirts. The openness of the lounge and patio promote socialization, while the layout of the restaurant is great for a night out with friends.
SPIRITS
Japonais’ extensive drinks menu is difficult to rival. Offering 20 types of sake in varieties such as Kunshu, Shoshu, Junshu, Jukushu, and Nigori; there is a sake to suit even the most discriminating taste buds. Despite their hefty price tag, the cocktails are works of art, especially their signature ‘floating orchid’ cocktail composed of Stolichnaya vodka, Cointreau, fresh pear and lemon juices and topped with an edible orchid garnish. Japonais also serves a variety of imported beer, cognacs, small batch bourbons and single malt whiskies. The impressive wine list features wine from all over the world which can be purchased by the bottle ($33- $375) or by the glass ($8- $18).
PRICES
Though the ambiance of the restaurant, apparent affluence of its clientele, and absence of prices on its website evoked fear within me; our meal was actually quite reasonable, considering the stature of the restaurant. The items of greatest expense were actually the alcoholic beverages. One can expect to pay between $4 and $12 for starters from the soup and salad selection, while hot and cold appetizers range between $4 and $24. An entrée will set you back between $19 and $45, and items from the sushi bar are a reasonable option; ranging between $2 and $15. Fortunately the elegance of the restaurant is not reflected in its prices; in that sense you get more than you pay for.
FOOD
Japonais’ creative menu offers something for everyone. Among their specialties are Kobe Prime Rib uni hollandaise, Kani Nigiri spicy baked king crab, and Maple Leaf Smoked Duck with hoisin sauce mango chutney and mushu wraps. The food is a mixture of contemporary and traditional cuisine, beautifully presented, though often in smaller portions. A personal favorite menu item was the “Crazy Veggie” maki roll which consisted of tempura asparagus topped with marinated squash and shitake mushrooms. The service staff was professional, knowledgeable, and extremely attentive.
WHY IT’S UNIQUE
Everything about Japonais is unique. From the concept that the atmosphere and the food are of equal importance to the second to none service, and the incomparable food and drink menus; Japonais can make just about anybody feel like a celebrity for the evening.
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