Restaurant Review: Roka Akor

Price: $$$ ($30 per person or more)

Upon leaving the AMLI River North Launch Party thrown by Michigan Avenue Magazine, I was given a gift certificate to try one of Chicago’s hottest restaurants, Roka Akor. Given the fact that it was a $50 gift card, I was pretty impressed and looked forward to checking out this River North hot spot.

Since it was my turn to plan “date night”, I figured why not put the gift certificate to use and check out this place. I made the reservation through Open Table for Friday night (make sure to do this in advance since they book up) and we were both really excited to give it a try.

Food Review:
Here is what we ordered and some feedback on each of the dishes.

1. White Miso Soup–$4.50—This is not your traditional Japanese Miso Soup. This is a clearly elevated version that miso lovers and haters alike would enjoy. Highly recommend this to start off your meal.
2. Wagyu Beef and Kimchi Dumpings–$10—Although Roka claims this is one of the house specialties, I wasn’t overly impressed. The beef was dense and undercooked and the kimchi had a funny after taste. Skip it.
3. Tuna Tataki Salad–$18—One of the best bites of the night! Tataki means that the fish lightly flash seared briefly over a hot flame. The tuna was served over a delicious apple and caramelized red onion salad.
4. Yellow Tail Sashimi–$18—Another amazing raw fish menu item. The yellow tail was thinly sliced and served with an amazing poached garlic ponzu sauce.
   

   Photo Credit: http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotos-g35805-d2302487-w2-Roka_Akor-Chicago_Illinois.html

5. Robata Grilled Scallops–$14.50—I want to go back and give these scallops another shot. Ours ended up coming out burnt, leaving them a bit bitter to the palette. Now I’m all for a great caramelized scallop, but these were just plain overcooked. They have the makings to be really great
6. Seasonal Vegetable Tempura–$9—This is not your average tempura. Roka uses some unique vegetables (like taro) and slices them into thin strips leaving the base intact. The dish is served with two perfect dipping sauces.
7. Hamachi Serano Chili–$12—Besides Hamachi, I’m not sure what else was in this deliciously decadent roll, but it was incredible. If you like Hamachi and don’t mind a little kick, order this.

Decor Review:

In my opinion, this place is pretty interesting mix of traditional Sushi restaurant combined with a more trendy, new-aged feel. You have the bar, standard seating, the open/exposed sushi bar seating and even a private guest room for parties.

Overall Grade:
A

There is really no reason you shouldn’t go check out Roka Akor. Whether you’re looking for fresh, delicious sushi or an twist on some of your favorite asian classics, you can’t go wrong at Roka.

Love Always,
Erica