Slurping Turtle, Happy Stomach

I've been fortunate enough to be a guest not once, but twice, at the innocuous gray and red brick house that resides on the  corner of Damen and Armitage ave, also known as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Chicago, Takashi.  On the inside Takashi is quite cozy and magical.  One of the best components to a meal I've ever had in my life was here; fish accompanied with roasted long-stem Japanese wood mushrooms with a cauliflower foam.  The cauliflower foam (an actual bubbling mini-heap) tasted exactly like creamy, buttered cauliflower; pure heaven.  Behind Takashi is genius skill of head chef James Beard Accolade, Takashi Yagihashi, the pioneer behind the famed Tribute in suburban Detroit.

via Takashi off of Damen ave. in Bucktown

via An elusive flavored foam coating perfectly seared scallops

Takashi is a special occasion restaurant; there's something in the cuisine- and wine, that's approachable yet decadent which calls for sharing.  The more intimate the group you choose to bring here, the better.  Takashi is ideal for a small family get together, an anniversary celebration, or romantic holiday dinner sure to impress. Ah, so dreamy.

A little more helpful info: Takashi holds a Michelin star and serves a noodle-focused brunch. Ok, enough about Takashi.

FINALLY, something more affordable and accessible, sans romance! Yagihashi opened Slurping Turtle in River North and we are dying to get there and take our own noodle slurping picture.  Sushi, noodles, dumplings, and broth, OH MY! With a full bar, located right on hustle-bustle Hubbard ave. Slurping Turtle is bound to hit some high notes and fill some empty bellies.

Food for thought: The turtle is symbolic of longevity in Japan. Thus, the slurping turtle is the quest for the everlasting noodle- and ultimate Japanese comfort food.

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