Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Chicago

Gaijin is praised for its authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly the okonomiyaki, and its lively atmosphere. The restaurant's commitment to traditional techniques and use of local ingredients are also appreciated.

Discover Gaijin: Chicago's Hip Japanese Culinary Gem in Fulton Market District 

Nestled in the trendy Fulton Market District of Chicago, Gaijin invites food enthusiasts and urban explorers alike to savor an elevated taste of Japan's beloved okonomiyaki and inventive shaved ice desserts. This restaurant’s warehouse-style vibe perfectly complements its creative menu offerings and attentive service, crafting an experience that is both authentic and delightfully modern.

A Flavor Journey with Okonomiyaki and More

Gaijin excels in delivering a flavorful variety of okonomiyaki styles, including the highly recommended Hiroshima-style, which features yakisoba noodles, bacon, and cabbage — a perfect blend of textures and savory umami. Guests also rave about the Osaka-style, katsu curry, and unique fusion dishes like twice-cooked garlic with soy-glazed crackers. Complement these with their signature cocktails or innovative shaved ice drinks, such as the frozen rose and matcha shaved ice, which add a refreshing and visually stunning touch to your meal.

 is at the heart of Gaijin’s cuisine, honoring traditional Japanese recipes while adding creative twists. The restaurant’s grill tables allow diners to enjoy freshly cooked dishes right before their eyes, enhancing the immersive experience.

 with friendly staff ensures your glass is never empty and your needs are met promptly, making every visit comfortable and memorable.

 combines an industrial-chic interior with outdoor seating options, perfect for groups, date nights, or casual dinners in a lively neighborhood setting.

 Monday to Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., weekends 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

 Accepted via OpenTable, with walk-ins welcome.

 Metered street parking nearby; no dedicated lot.

 Gaijin operates Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and on weekends from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

 Yes, Gaijin accepts reservations through OpenTable, but walk-ins are also welcome.

 Gaijin does not have a dedicated parking lot; metered street parking is available nearby.

 Yes, Gaijin offers gluten-free options on their menu.

 Yes, Gaijin provides takeout and delivery services.

Gaijin enjoys a positive reputation among Chicago locals and visitors, who praise it for authentic Japanese cuisine, especially its savory okonomiyaki and delightful kakigori desserts. Diners appreciate the cozy yet dynamic atmosphere and the attentive, friendly service that enhances every meal. Whether you're seeking a spot for a lively group dinner or a unique date night, Gaijin delivers a memorable experience in the heart of the city's vibrant culinary scene.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Fulton Market District of Chicago, Gaijin offers a unique culinary escape that combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern, trendy atmosphere. This restaurant is a haven for food lovers seeking authentic Japanese cuisine with a contemporary twist, all set in a hip, warehouse-like setting that exudes a cool, urban vibe.

hip japanese restaurant in chicago's fulton market district

Hip, warehouse-like setting for savory Japanese pancakes, creative shaved ice desserts & highballs.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeGRTUGtnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgVZJntAsDogRGymcVEr0ypI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeGRTUGtnRRAB

We ordered The Traditional Hiroshima okonomiyaki which was delicious.  I love having noodles in my okonomiyaki and it was perfectly cooked.  I saw some of the chefs burn a little bit some okonomiyaki dishes.

Our server was really attentive and there was a water girl that kept refilling our water who never let our water get low or empty.

We got marinated beef ribs for appetizer and that was pretty good too. It reminded me of wagyu beef sticks they sell in Japan.

Their cocktails were good too I forgot what I got though.  Their chocolate mochi donut and sherbert ice cream was good too!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNub0stb1ZnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgVZJntAsDogRGymcVEr0ypI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNub0stb1ZnEAE

Great okonomiyaki, especially the Osaka style. We also had the katsu curry which was delicious, and the matcha shaved ice was simply to die for.

The restaurant itself had nice atmosphere, but since we sat outside, the sound of trains and cars going by was really loud and kinda annoying.

Overall great value for money and definitely recommended.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzaEl2Q0hnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgVZJntAsDogRGymcVEr0ypI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzaEl2Q0hnEAE

I was excited to head to Gaijin for my first dinner in Chicago during this visit. Our table took a bit of time to get set up so we ended up ordering drinks at the bar while we were waiting.

We ordered the three sweetest drinks: the Hi-Chew drink and the two shaved ice drinks. The shaved ice drinks were quite a spectacle -- it starts as a pile of shaved ice and some flowers, then they pour on the liquid which melts the ice and creates the cocktail. I got the frozen rose drink which was honestly very delightful. It was the sweetest of the drinks we tried and I'd definitely get it again. The other shaved ice drink was quite floral and good and then the Hi-Chew drink wasn't as sweet as the other two. We really enjoyed the cocktails -- definitely a highlight.

We then got two okonomiyaki. The best one that we had was the Hiroshima style okonomiyaki which has yakisoba, bacon, cabbage, and some batter. It was just the perfect blend of flavors and textures. I especially enjoyed the yakisoba component so I'm sure that the yakisoba dish would also be great. This is one of the better Hiroshima style okonomiyakis that I've had in the US, and I'd definitely get it again.

We also got the shrimp Osaka style okonomiyaki which I wasn't as big of a fan of. The flavors were reminiscent of elote, and it didn't really feel like an okonomiyaki. While the shrimp was good, I didn't like the combination of the other ingredients and the cabbage tasted a bit bitter. This was an interesting fusion dish but I preferred the Hiroshima style okonomiyaki vastly more.

We also got the twice cooked garlic after I saw some rave reviews online. I personally really liked it because I love savory flavors. This dish was bursting with umami with the soy-glazed crackers and extremely smooth garlic that was cooked in oil and soy sauce. The dish was a bit one note but it was a note that I liked so I was very okay with it. I would get this again.

Lastly, after seeing the dish at another table, we had to try the black bear kakigori (shaved ice). My favorite component was the dark chocolate eyes as well as the salted caramel ice cream. I thought the chocolate ice was a bit too sweet -- I found myself looking to have more of the unflavored ice inside. Overall I think this dish is super cute but I probably would not get this again. I would go for a more traditional shaved ice like the matcha.

Overall this restaurant has great vibes. The servers are very friendly and attentive and we got some really great drinks. The twice cooked garlic and Hiroshima style okonomiyaki are dishes to come back for but I wasn't as big a fan of the Osaka style okonomiyaki or the black bear shaved ice.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmbmJIR2hRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgVZJntAsDogRGymcVEr0ypI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmbmJIR2hRRRAB

As a long-time okonomiyaki fan since I lived in Japan, I highly highly recommend this place. The menu does a good job capturing items from the traditional okonomiyaki pallet, and the food follows in terms of flavor. It is served on traditional grill tables, which captures the experience really well, but also be prepared for the toasty atmosphere (dress lighter).

We ended up getting two servings of okonomiyaki (+ mochi), but one serving would have been more than sufficient for serving two with a good appetite. The servers were friendly and flexible for adjusting ingredients to our liking.

My favorite restaurant in Chicago!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYcnRPSlV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJgVZJntAsDogRGymcVEr0ypI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYcnRPSlV3EAE

Our mistake was thinking that five girls could eat five separate portions, we could not hahah

Two of us chose the Gaijin tasting experience, which is for sure the best move if you’re someone who likes to try multiple things at a new restaurant. (The Osaka flight also realllly caught my eye) That being said it does not include my favorite, so I’d recommend getting the HIROSHIMA-STYLE OKONOMIYAKI along with whatever else you order here.

Delicious experience, would definitely recommend this as a perfect date spot 

Discover Gaijin: Savory Okonomiyaki in Chicago's Fulton Market

Gaijin, located in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood, is Chicago's first okonomiyaki restaurant, offering both Hiroshima and Osaka styles of the savory Japanese pancake.

A rich history of Gaijin in Chicago's West Loop district.

Nestled in the vibrant Fulton Market District of Chicago, Gaijin has swiftly established itself as a culinary landmark. Since its opening in 2019, this restaurant has captivated food enthusiasts with its dedication to authentic Japanese flavors, especially its expertly crafted okonomiyaki — a savory Japanese pancake — and unique kakigori shaved ice desserts.

Gaijin's story began in 2019 when it opened its doors in Chicago’s West Loop, a neighborhood renowned for its dynamic food scene. From the very start, the restaurant focused on delivering an authentic Japanese dining experience, featuring dishes like Hiroshima and Osaka style okonomiyaki cooked on custom grill tables, and desserts such as creative kakigori.

Just a year later, in 2020, Gaijin's innovative take on Japanese comfort food caught the attention of food critics and publications, earning a feature in Time Out Chicago. This recognition highlighted its unique combination of traditional flavors with a modern twist, appealing to locals and visitors alike.

By 2021, Gaijin’s creative approach and commitment to quality earned it recognition from the prestigious Michelin Guide. This accolade solidified the restaurant’s status as a must-visit destination for authentic Japanese cuisine in Chicago.

Gaijin offers more than just delicious food; its hip, warehouse-like setting in Chicago’s Fulton Market District creates an inviting atmosphere. Diners can enjoy watching chefs craft dishes in an open kitchen while seated at custom griddle tables, offering an interactive and cozy experience that enhances the flavors of the traditional okonomiyaki and innovative cocktails.

 combining tradition with creative flavors.

A cozy and interactive open kitchen setting

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Curbside Pickup

In the heart of Chicago's bustling Fulton Market District, Gaijin offers a unique dining experience with savory Japanese pancakes, creative shaved ice desserts, and highballs in a hip, warehouse-like setting.

Gaijin

Gaijin offers a variety of Japanese-inspired dishes, including starters, shared plates, Osaka-style okonomiyaki, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, sides, mochi donuts, and ice cream.

Kombu Vegetables

Tsukemono Trio

Gaijin Menu

Nestled in the vibrant Fulton Market District of Chicago, Gaijin offers an enticing dive into authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. Its menu is a celebration of traditional flavors, especially highlighted by their masterful okonomiyaki — the savory Japanese pancakes that are a must-try for any foodie venturing into Japanese comfort food. The intimate, warehouse-like setting perfectly complements the robust and creative dishes served here.

Begin your culinary journey with delicate starters that set the tone for the meal. The Veggie Korokke offers a satisfying bite of deep-fried breaded vegetables, delivering a crispy texture and fresh flavors that awaken the palate. For those who crave something more pungent and rich, the Roasted Garlic is a standout — garlic cloves bathed in togarashi-scented chile oil and paired with crunchy rice crackers create a dish bursting with umami and subtle spice.

The heart of Gaijin’s menu lies in its exquisite okonomiyaki and yakisoba dishes, each crafted with careful attention to texture and flavor balance. The Osaka-Style Okonomiyaki is a crispy, golden masterpiece stacked with cabbage, tempura shrimp, creole butter, and puffed rice, finished with the signature okonomiyaki sauce that ties the dish together with a savory sweetness.

For a more layered texture experience, the Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki showcases a delightful combination of cabbage, savory yakisoba noodles, smoky bacon, and a perfectly cooked egg atop a delicate batter. This dish is praised for its harmonious blend of flavors and is a must-order for first-timers.

Another highlight is the Pork Belly Yakisoba, a savory stir-fried ramen noodle dish tossed with cabbage, tender pork belly, toasted sesame, and a tart, savory sauce that delivers a bold flavor punch. This dish offers a comforting mix of textures that pair beautifully with the other mains.

Indulge your sweet tooth with Gaijin’s inventive desserts that blend traditional Japanese ingredients with contemporary flair. The Matcha Shaved Ice is a refreshing treat featuring finely shaved ice drenched in earthy matcha syrup and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk — a perfect balance of bitter and sweet that cools and delights.

For a chewy, buttery finale, the Mochi Donuts combine mochi flour with sugar, eggs, and butter to create a delightfully soft yet slightly crispy doughnut with a unique texture that’s both comforting and unique.

Gaijin is also celebrated for its inventive cocktail program. Signature drinks like the frozen rose and floral shaved ice cocktails provide a playful spectacle as they transform before your eyes, offering sweet, floral notes that complement the meal perfectly. The Hi-Chew cocktail adds a nostalgic fruity burst that’s less sweet but equally enjoyable, making the drinks menu a highlight on its own.

 - A curated flight of multiple okonomiyaki styles for the adventurous diner wanting to taste the best of Gaijin's offerings.

Savor authentic flavors at Gaijin in Chicago's vibrant Fulton Market District. Dive into an unforgettable culinary experience today!

Gaijin: Unique Japanese Restaurant in Chicago's Fulton Market

Cook County

A savory Japanese pancake available in Osaka and Hiroshima styles, customizable with various toppings.

Okonomiyaki

Glazed rice flour donuts with flavors like matcha, strawberry, pandan, chocolate, kinako, coffee, and ube.

Mochi Donuts

Gaijin: A Flavorful Journey in Chicago's Fulton Market District 

Nestled in the vibrant Fulton Market District at 950 West Lake Street, Gaijin offers an immersive dining experience for lovers of Japanese cuisine and adventurous eaters alike. This hip, warehouse-style restaurant is renowned for its mouthwatering okonomiyaki — a savory Japanese pancake that's elevated with creative twists and authentic techniques. Whether you're craving the traditional Hiroshima or the bolder Osaka styles, Gaijin delivers perfectly cooked dishes that capture the heart of Japanese street food culture.

Gaijin's menu is a treasure trove of flavors, highlighted by their famed Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which blends yakisoba noodles, bacon, cabbage, and a special batter to create a satisfying symphony of textures and tastes. Fans rave about the marinated beef ribs appetizer, reminiscent of luxurious wagyu beef sticks, and the twice-cooked garlic dish bursting with umami thanks to soy-glazed crackers and smooth garlic infused with soy sauce and oil. Don't miss the inventive shrimp Osaka-style okonomiyaki that brings a playful elote-inspired fusion to the table.

 are also well-catered for, ensuring everyone can savor the rich Japanese flavors Gaijin is known for.

Creative Cocktails and Refreshing Desserts

Enhance your meal with Gaijin's inventive cocktail selection, featuring standout drinks like the frozen rose and floral shaved ice cocktails, which are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate. The bar also serves highballs, sake, wine, and draft beer, perfect for pairing with your savory dishes. For dessert, indulge in their unique chocolate mochi donut or the matcha shaved ice — a refreshing treat that captures the essence of Japanese sweets with a modern twist.

Gaijin keeps things exciting with lively Chef Collaboration Nights, where guest chefs present unique okonomiyaki specials that add fresh perspectives to classic recipes. For those looking to unwind after work, the Happy Hour Specials offer a fantastic deal with selected highballs, sake, wine, draft beer, starters, and share plates starting at just $5, Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. These events are perfect for foodies, date nights, or casual gatherings with friends.

The ambiance at Gaijin is hip and industrial, with an open kitchen and traditional grill tables that allow you to watch your okonomiyaki sizzle to perfection. Keep in mind the warm, toasty atmosphere inside — dressing lighter is a good tip. Guests can enjoy both dine-in and outdoor seating options, with attentive service ensuring your water glass is never empty. The restaurant welcomes groups and offers takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup for convenience. Paid street parking is available nearby, and multiple payment options including credit, debit, and NFC make settling the bill effortless.

 Unique okonomiyaki styles, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Chicago’s Fulton Market District.

 Yes, Gaijin offers vegetarian-friendly dishes to accommodate various dietary preferences.

 Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., with specials starting at $5.

 Yes, the restaurant accommodates groups and offers a lively environment for social dining.

Illinois

Experience Chicago's first okonomiyaki restaurant in Fulton Market District, offering Hiroshima & Osaka styles, unique desserts, and Japanese beverages.

Gaijin Chicago: Authentic Japanese Okonomiyaki & More

Discover Gaijin in Chicago's West Loop for authentic Hiroshima & Osaka-style okonomiyaki, delicious mochi donuts, and flavorful Japanese drinks. Book now!

Explore Gaijin: Chicago's Premier Japanese Dining Spot

Learn about Gaijin, Chicago's first Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki restaurant, opened in 2019, blending traditional flavors with innovative dishes in a lively setting.

Discover Gaijin: Savory Okonomiyaki in Chicago's Fulton Market

Au Cheval

Firenze: Italian Street Food

Girl & The Goat