Booze Box - Chicago

We tried the Pear Up, Matcha, and Staycation cocktails, all of which were quite delicious. For food, we ordered Takoyaki and Shishito peppers. The Shishito was good, and we even received a complimentary extra order due to a mix-up in the kitchen! The Takoyaki, on the other hand, could have used more octopus, but it still tasted fine. Two members of our group ordered the Ramen, which was just average. Given the price, I expected a few more ingredients. However, the broth and pork shoulder did taste good. Overall, while I wouldn’t crave a return visit, it’s a nice spot to take someone out for a casual evening.

What a fantastic bar located beneath a sushi restaurant! We just stopped by for drinks, but it was an amazing experience. I highly recommend entering through the alley—it adds a lot to the fun! The drinks were excellent, and we didn't have a reservation, yet we didn’t have to wait long for seats at the bar (but I can't guarantee that will always be the case). I have to mention the vibe—it really had a great atmosphere. It's a perfect place to enjoy a drink and have a chat at the bar. Absolutely awesome!

You can enter through two ways: from inside Sushi Dokku above via stairs, or, in my opinion, the more exciting route is through the alley behind the sushi restaurant. There’s a big red illuminated arrow directing you right to the entrance, so you won’t miss it. The door you walk through feels reminiscent of something you’d find in Tokyo. It’s a fantastic spot to impress friends visiting Chicago, of course, if you manage to arrange the reservation as a surprise! Once you enter, a bouncer checks IDs, and we were greeted by a very friendly hostess who promptly took us to our table. Let’s talk about the music—it’s amazing! From my previous attempts to find a spot at the bar to my dining experience this weekend, I noticed the DJs do an excellent job playing a mix of chill hip hop, R&B, dancehall, and other underground bar vibes. The crowd is diverse, creating a great atmosphere for enjoying cocktails and Japanese appetizers. Just a heads up: this isn’t really the kind of place you go to if you’re looking for a full meal. We tried the Takoyaki appetizer, which was okay, but honestly, it didn’t taste like the octopus I was expecting. The texture was off from what I’m used to. They do offer a range of food choices, and I saw plenty of sushi being ordered, so it’s definitely a solid date spot, though you should be prepared for it to be a bit loud. Personally, I wouldn't plan to eat a lot here—but that’s just me; maybe I’d consider a bigger meal if I were upstairs at Sushi Dokku. There are a few intimate two-top tables towards the back that could create a nice private vibe if you can get them. We were seated at a four-top table in the corner near some coat hangers, which was pleasant, but I’d have preferred one of those cozy two-top tables or a nice curvy booth. Now, onto the drinks—I ordered a Japanese Manhattan and it was fantastic! Manhattans can be really strong, but this one was just right. Given the neighborhood and the establishment, I expected drink prices to be a bit inflated. A $15 beautifully presented cocktail felt pretty standard, especially knowing how upscale Fulton Market is. I honestly thought I might be shelling out $17-$18. Overall, I will definitely be returning to this place and I can't wait to secure a different table when my friends visit from out of town!

Ambiance! Moody lighting! Kind service! the menu was really exciting and I'm usually not one for experimental food. Pricey, but honestly worth it. I had some 17$ sake, which i think was actually the cheapest on the menu but it was worth it. The bar downstairs after we ate dinner was lit, I was so surprised, I chose this place to celebrate with friends on a whim and I'm so glad. i had a great time. Great dj, great drinks, phenomenal food for a perfect night

One word. Amazing. Definitely recommend to everyone and anyone who loves sushi. Went with the Omakase option and it was delicious.