Kumiko
Japanese-inspired
630 W. Lake St., Chicago, IL 60661
OUR SCORE
5.0
ACCOLADES
- Named one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2020
- Included in Esquire's Best Bars in America, 2019
- Time Out's Bar Awards 2019 winner for Best New Bar
- The Chicago Tribune named it one of Chicago’s 25 best new bars in 2019
- Awarded a Michelin star in 2021 for its sister restaurant, Kikko, located in the lower level of Kumiko
REVIEW & BAR SUMMARY
Located in the heart of Chicago's bustling West Loop, Kumiko is an ode to the delicate interplay of tradition and modernity, offering patrons an exquisite exploration of the craft of mixology. The bar, with its sophisticated décor that harmoniously blends Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design elements, creates an atmosphere of understated elegance that is both intimate and inviting.
At the helm of Kumiko's beverage program is a team of world-class bartenders who infuse their creations with a deep respect for cocktail history while pushing the boundaries of innovation. The bar features a diverse selection of cocktails that marry unique Japanese ingredients with premium spirits, providing an unparalleled drinking experience.
One of the highlights from the cocktail menu is the "Omurice," a whimsical concoction inspired by the classic Japanese comfort dish. This cocktail artfully combines sherry, tomato, and rice spirit, topped with a frothy layer reminiscent of an omelet, delivering a savory and unexpected flavor profile.
For those seeking a visually stunning and palate-pleasing cocktail, the "Koi Pond" never fails to impress. It combines gin with herbal and floral notes, offering a refreshing sip alongside a presentation that's as beautiful as the serene waters its name evokes.
The "Yuzu Highball" is a perfect choice for highball enthusiasts, offering a crisp and effervescent experience. It's crafted with meticulous attention to balance, featuring Japanese whisky, yuzu, and a special selection of bitters, all topped with soda to create a light yet complex cocktail that's ideal for savoring at any time of the evening.
Kumiko also caters to non-alcoholic preferences with an array of thoughtfully crafted zero-proof cocktails. The "Seedlip Grove," for instance, is a testament to creativity in the zero-proof space, combining Seedlip Grove 42 with a harmonious blend of citrus and spices, proving that a lack of alcohol doesn't mean a compromise on taste or sophistication.
For luxury travel, food, and wine aficionados looking to immerse themselves in a world of refined flavors and extraordinary mixology, a visit to Kumiko in Chicago is an essential experience – one that will leave an indelible mark on the palette and elevate any cocktail enthusiast’s appreciation for the art form.