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Bloop Bloop
$ · Sushi

2205 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Sushi in Avondale & North Center Best Date Night Sushi in Avondale & North Center

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Bloop Bloop 7.6
Lincoln Square
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven Instagram Worthy Wonders
Bloop Bloop in Lincoln Square/North Center specializes in $1 sushi balls, triangle rice balls, and sushi “sandwiches” in a counter-service format. It’s more about snackable, mix-and-match bites than traditional nigiri, with bright sauces and lots of customization.
Must-Try Dishes: Salmon Sushi Ball, Eel Sushi Ball, Triangle Rice Ball Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.8 Service: 7.1 Consistency: 7 Food Quality: 7.7 Atmosphere: 6.5 Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: America’s first sushi-ball–focused concept where you can build a tray of $1 bites in endless combinations.
Who should go: Budget-minded sushi fans who like to graze and experiment.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before the takeout line builds.
What to order: Salmon and eel sushi balls plus a triangle rice ball set.
Insider tip: Mix raw-fish balls with a few cooked or veggie options so you can sample more flavors without palate fatigue.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the surrounding residential blocks; generally easier outside peak dinner hours
Dress code: Casual – come as you are
Noise level: Low to moderate – counter-service vibe with easy conversation
Weekend wait: Short counter line during peak hours, but it moves quickly
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several veggie sushi balls and rice triangles are available
Vegan options: Limited – a few options depending on fillings and sauces
Gluten-free options: Some items may be gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a casual prep setting
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re going for something playful and low-pressure. It’s casual, quick, and fun to experiment with different combinations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. This is counter-service with limited seating, so you’ll order at the counter and grab an open spot when available.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the bite-size format and mild flavors make it approachable for kids, though seating and space are limited.
Best For
Better for: Casual, affordable sushi snacks you can mix-and-match with Instagram-ready presentation
Skip if: You’re looking for traditional nigiri, omakase service, or a formal sit-down sushi experience