Reviewing Kai Zan: Authentic Japanese food in Chicago.

WA Michelin guide recommended restaurant, located in Humboldt Park, the locals like to keep this restaurant on the down-low because it is truly a gem, and sometimes a challenge to get a reservation. 

As you first walk in, you will notice about 10 tables and a sushi bar where you can watch your food being prepared.

You will hear quiet conversations among the guests about the meals they are eating. You will smell the mouthwatering aroma of fresh seafood and grilled skewers. Most days, you will have a 90-minute cap on your dining time because the reservations are back-to-back and there is limited seating.  

Kai Zan was first established in 2012 by brothers and sushi extraordinaires Melvin and Carlo Vizconde. The chefs and owners are constantly creating new and dynamic dishes. When the pandemic hit, they pivoted like most other restaurants and arranged special take-out menus. Without hesitation, they always sold out and kept their customers up to date in real-time about out-of-stock ingredients or last-minute available order slots.  

The servers and staff are extremely knowledgeable about the backstory and preparation of each meal you receive. The Omakase, or chef’s tasting menu, is my favorite order. There are several Omakase variations, but no matter what you get, be prepared to leave with a happy palate and a full belly.  

My husband and I have made it a tradition to go to Kai Zan on my birthday each year. The Omakase, of course, is

always my pick! Throughout the meal, there are about 10 small plates, each of which is decadent and made with extreme care. You can taste the quality of the fish and see the amount of attention each plate gets, especially if you are seated at the bar. Our spread started with an oyster shooter, which is unlike anything I had tasted up until that moment. Every time we finished a course, I told my husband that it couldn’t possibly be topped; however, I was proven wrong with each new dish! Every component of the meal was well thought out, and the flavors went together so perfectly. 

If you have not tried Omakase and love seafood and sushi, I encourage you to go to Kai Zan. Make sure you don’t eat anything too heavy the day you visit because you want to be able to enjoy and appreciate every single bite! Also, be sure to book a reservation two to three weeks in advance to ensure you get your desired date night.