17 Course Omakase
If you know me, you know I love sushi, so for Valentine’s Day my boyfriend and I decided on the Sushi by Bou 17 course omakase experience. Upon arrival, we entered a dimly lit lounge that surrounded the sushi bar. We had the opportunity to order drinks while we waited on our reservation, and I obviously ordered a sake. Then we got seated at the sushi bar, an intimate setting that only seats 12 people at a time. It was such a fun experience getting to see the magic up close while also getting the opportunity to try so many different types of nigiri 🍣. My personal favorite was the scallop with truffle sea salt (slide 5). I would highly recommend if you are looking for something different on your next date night, or if you are a sushi fan living in Chicago! Sushi by Bou - Lincoln Park Chicago @ Lincoln Hotel #lemon8foodguide #chicagofood #chicagofoodguide #sushi #restaurantreview
Stepping into Sushi by Bou for their 17-course omakase is truly an experience that transcends just a meal; it's a sensory journey into the art of sushi. Many curious foodies, like me, often search for what to expect from such a high-end sushi omakase, especially regarding the presentation and the actual nigiri selection. My recent visit to the Lincoln Park Chicago location offered fantastic insights I'd love to share. First off, the omakase presentation itself is a highlight. Unlike a traditional restaurant where dishes are brought out from the kitchen, here, each piece of nigiri is meticulously crafted right before your eyes by the chef. This direct interaction and the visual spectacle of the chef's skill add immense value. You'll see them expertly slice a piece of beautiful red tuna nigiri, delicately brush on a special sauce, or perfectly sear a piece of fish with a small torch. The dark, textured plates used for serving each piece really make the vibrant colors of the fish pop, enhancing the visual appeal of every single course. Regarding the 17-course omakase, the beauty lies in the chef's selection, which changes based on the freshest ingredients available. While there isn't a fixed 'menu' in the traditional sense, you can generally anticipate a diverse array of nigiri. During my visit, I savored everything from incredibly fresh red tuna nigiri to pieces with a delicate, light pinkish fish, and even some featuring marbled red fish that melted in my mouth. A particular standout was the scallop nigiri, elevated with a sprinkle of truffle sea salt – a unique flavor combination I still dream about! You might also encounter pieces with translucent, light-colored fish, or expertly seared fish, each prepared to highlight its unique texture and taste. This variety truly showcases the breadth of high-end sushi. The intimate setting, seating only about 12 people, further enhances the high-end omakase experience. It allows for personalized attention from the chef, who often explains each piece, its origin, or the special preparation method. This makes you feel more connected to the food and the culinary process. Beyond the sushi, they offer a great selection of drinks, including sake, which beautifully complements the delicate flavors of the fish. For those looking for a special dining experience in Chicago, whether it's a date night or just to indulge your sushi cravings, Sushi by Bou's 17-course omakase is a fantastic choice. It's an investment in a memorable culinary adventure, offering not just exceptional food but an engaging and educational dining experience that makes you appreciate the art of sushi even more.