A variety of sushi & other Japanese eats served in a stylish, modern space with a big-screen TV.
Maria “Mars” Elena
I ate ramen here earlier this month, and I honestly had a pleasant time! I had a few California rolls and the chicken ramen! I definitely hope to be able to stop by again sometime! I definitely recommend this place!
… moreJ.N
The spicy tune rolls are really good with a crunchy tempura they put inside the rolls taste really good. The miso soup taste bland. It’s free so I can’t complain. The service can be slow if they are busy. But still attentive if the owner in front helps serve along with the one other server who’s always there. The decoration inside of the restaurant is a little bit outdated, but the bathrooms are very clean. Ther price of the food is very affordable for the large portions they give you to eat.
… moreHannah R
On a self-care day, I chose to dine at South Kawa Japanese Restaurant and was not disappointed. The food was delicious and curated with care, and the service was excellent.
My Ratings:
House Salad with Ginger Dressing (3/5)
The lettuce was fresh and crunchy, though the pieces were a bit too large for a single bite. I also would like to see more variety of vegetables in the appetizer. However, the ginger dressing was divine.
Seafood Ramen (4/5)
The texture of the mussels, scallops, fish cakes, and egg was fresh and tasty. I savored each bite, appreciating the care taken in preparing the ingredients. The broth was thick and milky with a pleasant, savory flavor profile. I did add a little soy sauce to enhance the saltiness and bring out more of the broth’s depth. As for the flavor, it was a solid, classic Japanese style ramen, but executed well. This was my first time having seafood ramen, which added to the originality of the experience for me. The dish also looked visually appealing upon serving.
Sake Sashimi (Salmon) (5/5)
This was the clear highlight of my meal. The two slices of fatty salmon were served perfectly fresh and light. The texture was excellent—upon gentle pressure, the salmon would regain its original shape, a true sign of freshness. The sashimi melted in my mouth, and I savored every tender bite. The decorative sliced carrot on the side was unfortunately quite bitter, but its flavor can often be unpredictable.
Environment
I visited during an early dinner, so the restaurant was quiet. I inferred that many in Bridgeport order online, so the staff seemed a little surprised that I wanted to dine in. It’s a sign of our current culture, but I’d love to see the dining room fully seated. It’s a wonderful place that deserves to be enjoyed in person. I will attend a later dinner hour to conclude my opinions about the atmosphere.
… moreKeeNisha Fox
Very nice place, especially if you just want a really relaxing atmosphere, great vibes, super sweet and friendly and not to mention quick service with a smile. Sushi is fresh, Ramen is very delicious and flavorful. I can drink the broth by itself. But all and all, “It’s a must go check out.” … This was family time!!!
… moreChicago Bae Reviews
I decided to treat my friend out to dinner for his birthday and we decided on SKJR. So, let me get into it. The food was pretty good. I have to say having had sushi and sashimi in Japan in my time I have to say the quality was pretty good, the soft shell crab could have been a little more crispy. The taste was on par. The gyoza was looked okay but, my friend and I both agreed we that it could have been better from an overall cook time stand point. The sushi, sashimi was on point. I definitely would go back just for the sushi.
The service was okay. There wasn’t many people inside the shop and the server/waitress didn’t seem very excited to walk us through any of the special items. The atmosphere or ambiance like I call it, was really nice. Everything seemed very clean and the décor really matched the environment. Overall, I would say definitely try the sushi and sashimi!
… moreLeo Kupperman
Not good. I was seriously disappointed in the sushi roll combo, especially given all the positive reviews. Gummy rice, stale nori, cheap ginger, just ok fish, wayyy too much avocado. Everything felt plasticy, cheap, just blech. Tragically bland and not refreshing. I hope it was just a bad day but there are much better sushi places, even at this price point (which is very good to be fair).
… moreYI Di Li
I came in because my friend wanted me to try sushi and this is the best and I was a little unsure. It’s a small place and there was only one other table but the food was so good! They were really generous with the fish in my rolls and the rice wasn’t thick. The Dynamite was crispy and the sweet and spicy was a great combo. I’m gonna come back again.
… moreAyanna Vasquez
Overall a perfect experience when trying new food! My mom and I loved the food here and we will definitely be going again! A friend of mine from school works there and they were able to help pick out some food that we will enjoy 🙂 The restaurant was very decorated and I definitely felt comfortable being there. Shout out to my very good friend for helping us 🙂
… moreEthan Bailey
Atmosphere was warm and welcoming, nice for a small family or date night.
I ordered a round of tuna and a salmon Nigiri, which I was pretty disappointed in. Not worth the price, conveyor belt sushi quality. Ifykyk
… moreSergio D
This is one of my favorite sushi spots in Chicago! The food (and fish) is delicious, fresh, and affordable. And the service is attentive, kind, and joyful. I recommend the Fallen Angel roll, Yakuza roll, and UIC roll – those are my favorites! They also have great lunch specials, perfect for a quick meal, with or without company. Every time I go to South Kawa, it feels like I’m enjoying a meal with family!
… more