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Chicago, IL

North America

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# Bloop Bloop – Affordable Sushi Balls in Chicago, IL
Bloop Bloop is a unique sushi restaurant located at 2205 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL, known for its innovative concept of $1 sushi balls. This eatery has quickly gained popularity for its casual dining experience, primarily focused on takeout. Bloop Bloop's menu features a variety of sushi balls, each crafted with fresh ingredients, appealing to both sushi enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The restaurant has garnered attention on social media platforms for its quirky branding and affordable pricing, making it a go-to spot for quick bites in the city. Despite some mixed reviews, Bloop Bloop continues to attract a diverse clientele eager to explore its offerings.

## History
### The story of Bloop Bloop
Bloop Bloop was founded with a vision to revolutionize the sushi dining experience by making it accessible and affordable for everyone. The concept of sushi balls was introduced to cater to a fast-paced lifestyle, allowing customers to enjoy sushi without the traditional sit-down dining experience. The restaurant's playful branding and unique offerings have made it a standout in Chicago's vibrant food scene.

### Milestones and growth
- Launch of the first location in Chicago, focusing on takeout.
- Introduction of the $1 sushi ball concept, attracting a young, trendy crowd.
- Rapid growth in popularity due to social media marketing and word-of-mouth.
- Expansion of menu items to include various sushi flavors and drinks.

### Cultural and local influence
Bloop Bloop has tapped into the growing trend of casual dining and fast food, particularly among younger generations who seek quick, affordable meal options. The restaurant's playful approach to sushi has resonated with the local community, encouraging a more relaxed and fun atmosphere around sushi consumption. This cultural shift has contributed to the restaurant's identity as a casual dining spot rather than a traditional sushi bar.

### Continuing the tradition
As Bloop Bloop continues to evolve, it aims to maintain its commitment to quality and affordability. The restaurant is focused on refining its processes and expanding its menu while staying true to its core philosophy of making sushi accessible to all. By embracing customer feedback and adapting to the needs of its clientele, Bloop Bloop is dedicated to enhancing the sushi experience in Chicago.

## Community
### Community involvement
Bloop Bloop actively engages with the local community through various initiatives, including collaborations with local events and participation in food festivals. The restaurant often showcases its offerings at community gatherings, allowing residents to sample its unique sushi balls and beverages. This involvement has helped Bloop Bloop establish a loyal customer base and foster a sense of community around its brand.

### Community notion about the place
The local perception of Bloop Bloop is generally positive, with many residents appreciating its innovative approach to sushi. Customers often highlight the affordability and convenience of the sushi balls, making it a popular choice for quick meals. However, some feedback indicates that there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding service efficiency and food consistency.

### Events and gatherings
Bloop Bloop has hosted several events aimed at bringing the community together, such as sushi-making workshops and tasting events. These gatherings provide an opportunity for customers to learn more about sushi preparation and the ingredients used, fostering a deeper appreciation for the cuisine. Additionally, the restaurant often collaborates with local artists and musicians to create a vibrant atmosphere during special events.

## Offerings
### What Bloop Bloop offers
Bloop Bloop specializes in sushi balls, offering a variety of flavors and combinations that cater to different tastes. The restaurant's menu is designed for quick service, allowing customers to order and enjoy their meals on the go. In addition to sushi balls, Bloop Bloop also features a selection of beverages, including teas and other refreshing drinks.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Bloop Bloop is primarily focused on takeout, with limited seating available for those who wish to enjoy their meals on-site. Customers can place their orders through self-service kiosks, which streamline the ordering process. The sushi balls are presented in attractive packaging, making them easy to transport and consume. While the concept is appealing, some customers have noted inconsistencies in the quality and flavor of the sushi balls.

### Events and packages
Bloop Bloop occasionally offers special promotions and packages, particularly during holidays or community events. These packages may include a selection of sushi balls at a discounted price or bundled with drinks. Such offerings enhance the value for customers and encourage them to try different flavors from the menu.

### Facilities and features
- Self-service kiosks for ordering
- Limited seating for dine-in customers
- Attractive packaging for takeout orders
- Variety of sushi ball flavors
- Beverage options including teas and soft drinks

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Customer reviews of Bloop Bloop highlight both positive and negative aspects of the dining experience. Many patrons appreciate the affordability of the sushi balls and the unique concept, while others express concerns about service efficiency and food quality.

### Compliments and strengths
- Affordable pricing for sushi balls
- Unique and innovative concept
- Fresh ingredients in sushi preparation
- Attractive packaging for takeout orders
- Quick service during peak hours

### Contrasts and notable mentions
- Inconsistencies in food quality and flavor
- Limited seating and dining options
- Mixed reviews on service efficiency
- Some menu items may not always be available

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Bloop Bloop presents a fresh take on sushi dining in Chicago, appealing to those seeking affordable and quick meal options. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in service and consistency, the restaurant's innovative approach and community involvement contribute to its growing popularity.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Bloop Bloop is conveniently located in the vibrant neighborhood of Chicago, IL, specifically at 2205 W Montrose Ave. This area is known for its eclectic mix of dining options and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore nearby parks and local shops, making it an ideal spot for a quick meal before or after engaging in other activities. The restaurant's location also allows for easy access to public transportation, enhancing its appeal to both locals and tourists.

## FAQs
**What are sushi balls** Sushi balls are bite-sized sushi portions typically made with rice and various toppings.
**Is Bloop Bloop a dine-in restaurant** Bloop Bloop primarily focuses on takeout, with limited seating available.
**What are the prices at Bloop Bloop** Most sushi balls are priced at $1 each, making them an affordable option.
**Are there vegetarian options available** The menu may include vegetarian sushi balls, but availability can vary.
**What are the hours of operation** Bloop Bloop opens at 2 PM, primarily serving lunch and early dinner.

## Visit Bloop Bloop Today
Bloop Bloop invites you to experience its unique offerings of $1 sushi balls in Chicago, IL. With a commitment to affordability and community engagement, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a fun dining experience, Bloop Bloop's innovative approach to sushi is sure to delight. Come by today and discover what makes this eatery a standout in the city's culinary landscape!

65008b1e-6560-4f75-b7e2-5c0c6cc225cb

Overall I liked what we ordered here but you need to know that the food is spicy. I was expecting a pretty straight forward rice ball with fish. Instead it is covered in sauce. The sauce is good but it's pretty spicy. The website didn't mention the sauce at all. So just wanted to make folks aware before they order.

466c99f2-d5ae-4bca-89c2-ef81f6e8e371

I decided to stop by after seeing they offered $1 sushi balls, which sounded great. Their menu also listed lattes with boba, but when I asked about it, I was told they don't actually serve boba -- which was disappointing and misleading. I ordered three sushi balls, but they were mostly rice with very little topping, and one even had a rubbery texture. Unfortunately, I wasn't impressed and won't be returning.

bde9fc3c-2e97-4fe9-b845-78996f71b723

The pricing at Bloop Bloop is favorable, as their whole thing is $1 sushi balls. They do have other options, but on my visit, I only sampled the sushi balls. I did shrimp, eel and octopus rice balls. The eel was not spicy, but the other two were. I am a spice wimp, so I was downing water with the shrimp and octopus. I am probably just an old fuddy duddy, but I wish they had menus posted in the place instead of just QR codes. I don't balk at this approach at sit-down places, but Bloop Bloop only has a few stools and a counter, so the focus is not at all on dining-in. They do have stands for ordering, but they were not functional during my visit. There were signs on the screens for the QR code. I did appreciate that I did not have to enter my card number and could pay at the counter instead. They seem to move orders through at a decent pace. Bloop Bloop doesn't open until 2pm, which seems odd, as this is more of a lunch type place than what's for dinner.

bf3dd6bb-f3d2-4598-8e53-6a1b3ff3b85c

Recommendations: * Salmon Rice Ball * Eel Rice Ball * red snappers Rice Ball I first saw this restaurant trending on Instagram and TikTok, so we decided to give it a try. We ordered six pieces of rice ball and a lemon tea through the self-service kiosk. Some of the triangular rice balls were unavailable, so we focused on the $1 rice balls instead. We tried salmon, snapper, eel, and scallop--each one was flavorful and fresh. The rice balls were made with the right amount of sushi vinegar, which is the traditional way of preparing sushi rice. This extra touch elevated the taste and brought out the freshness of the fish. They are slightly larger than traditional sushi, but surprisingly enjoyable, especially with the added mayo and soy sauce mixed with wasabi. Each order comes in a box, with about 5 to 6 rice balls inside. The lemon tea was refreshing and reminded me of Hong Kong style lemon tea, though the tea flavor could be stronger. We went with 25% sweetness, which felt balanced. The only downsides were the long wait time, we waited about 20 minutes,and the limited seating. There are only four window seats, so if it is full, I recommend grabbing your sushi box and enjoying it at the nearby park.

71ed25b7-8bc5-43f3-ad52-5d6f71fb435e

fun lil spot for quick taste of sushi and snack! i really like this concept of $1 a sushi ball bite. tried the salmon, white tuna, squid, and scallop rice ball and a unagi inari. they are all pretty rice heavy compared to fish ratio, but they are all sauced up which helps keep each bite flavorful! soy sauce wasn't needed. the food came out relatively fast in very cute packaging. would come back!

5a0946fc-ee34-4a01-8bb1-ad3c71507d8d

I am really excited about this restaurant I think they just need more time to get the flow of things and I truly am hoping for the best for them. I ordered the Salmon ball, Octopus ball, Red tuna, White tuna, Shrimp, and Gunkan (my favorite). Not sticky rice it didn't hold shape and fell apart as I ate it, but the toppings were good. They didn't give me anything to eat it with (like chopsticks) and I didn't see anywhere to grab those. It seemed they should start prepping before opening by at least making all the rice balls prior then topping them as the orders come through, if possible. I waited for well over an hour for 6 sushi balls and watched other people cancel orders. I think they just need a better system and I want to come back in a few months to try again. Since there are no tables, my experience was mostly a bunch of customers standing and blindly waiting for their number to be called since we can't see them being made. They have one worker making drinks at the register and what seemed like just one worker in the back making the food. The mango tea latte was yummy with popping boba but not a fan of the large mango chunks at the bottom. The removable top is good idea so you're not fighting to get everything off the bottom. Overall, would come back to try again after they've figured out a better system and will update when I do! Hoping for the best!!

24e9cf52-2002-49aa-af66-8c095e7eca4c

I love sushi and was hoping to come here often, but was very disappointed. This is mostly rice, and the amount of fish was literally equivalent to shavings. It was almost zero fish. These balls are not worth $1 each. Their ordering system needs a lot of help. They said it would be a 20-minute wait, and I would be texted when ready. I waited in my car a block away. I came back after 30 minutes and my food was sitting there. When I told them I hadn't been texted they said, without much concern: "Oh... our system is having problems." Good thing I didn't just keep waiting and waiting. This food is not even worth $1 each. And if they can't even notify you when it's ready, when it's not busy, and it takes 30 minutes, there are major problems.

a91c1e91-2018-4949-889b-bd4b7574b6fa

Sushi balls for only $1?! The sign and the wacky inflatable lumberjack definitely caught my eye and I had to stop in to see for myself. This sushi place is mainly for takeout as there is only one rectangular wooden bar height table with 4 stools against one wall. You place your order at the two kiosks and just wait for your number to be called. The packaging for the drinks and the sushi balls are super cute. I really liked the elaborate red cup that my strawberry refreshing tea with yakult boba came in. I was also surprised to see that there were also onigiris and meat skewers on the menu but were not available at the time that I visited. I ordered a variety of salmon, eel, white tuna, smoked salmon, seeweed and octopus balls. I'll definitely have to come back earlier in the day to hopefully try the skewers and onigiri. This restaurant is definitely a great value.

df664b20-4bbf-4cbc-a6e8-c09d16af9286

I was so excited for this place and loved the idea of sushi balls but it turned out to be a huge letdown for me. They don't even use sushi rice, just regular white rice. Flavors just aren't there.

8e141371-4b83-47ed-a7c9-544db25ef87e

Food is good. The kiosk works great but it is highly inefficient. For what seems so simple, takes so long. Hopefully they work that out but I would still recommend.

Discover Bloop Bloop in Chicago for a unique dining experience. Savor delicious cuisine at 2205 W Montrose Ave. Book your table now for an unforgettable meal.

Bloop Bloop Restaurant in Chicago, IL - Great Local Cuisine

Chicago

Bloop Bloop

Illinois

Discover Bloop Bloop in Chicago, IL. Enjoy innovative dishes in a vibrant setting near local attractions. Book your table now!

Bloop Bloop Restaurant, Chicago IL - Unique Dining Experience

Learn about Bloop Bloop in Chicago, IL. A must-visit spot for food lovers seeking fresh, innovative cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

About Bloop Bloop, Chicago IL - Your New Favorite Eatery

Opening hours for Bloop Bloop, Chicago, IL. Find opening hours for Bloop Bloop, Chicago, IL on 2205 W Montrose Ave.

Bloop Bloop Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Bloop Bloop

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