The Izakaya
Chicago
Located beneath Momotaro in Chicago, The Izakaya is a moody, subterranean Japanese pub featuring a vibrant yokocho atmosphere and craft cocktails. The venue is most renowned for its Momo Royale burger, a juicy double-patty tribute to the Big Mac served on a fluffy house-made bao bun alongside Japanese sweet potato fries. Other standout menu highlights include Nagoya-style wings, panko-fried chicken skewers, creamy uni pasta, and limited-availability hamachi collar.
Commenters share mixed feelings, vigorously debating how the burger stacks up against other famous Chicago spots like Au Cheval and NADC. While some viewers are eager to visit, others critique the burger's relatively small size—jokingly comparing it to a slider—and raise concerns about inconsistent doneness and food quality.
- Order the signature Momo Royale burger served on a house-made bao bun with sweet potato fries.
- Try other popular dishes including the creamy uni pasta, Nagoya-style wings, and Kobayashi tuna donburi.
- Ask for the hamachi collar early, as it is served in limited availability.
- Book reservations well in advance, as the intimate basement lounge fills up quickly.
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