Master Critic Review
Umai
8.4
A Printer’s Row Japanese all-rounder that’s strongest when you mix one ramen with a tight set of nigiri or rolls. The room is modern and lively without feeling chaotic, and the kitchen’s appeal is dependable comfort—katsu, curry, noodles—paired with sushi that keeps regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Roasted Garlic Pork Ramen, Katsu Kare, White Tuna Jalapeño
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A rare South Loop spot that balances ramen-and-katsu comfort with sushi orderability in one kitchen.
Who should go: Groups needing ramen and sushi on one menu.
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner before the rush.
What to order: Spicy roasted garlic pork ramen, katsu kare, white tuna jalapeño.
Insider tip: Order one ramen + 2–3 sushi items; skip over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking in Printer’s Row is hit-or-miss; easiest bet is nearby paid garages/lots around Dearborn/State and Harrison—street spots get tight during dinner hours and weekend foot traffic.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans and sneakers are totally fine, but it reads a little sharper if you’re doing date night (clean jacket/sweater works).
Noise level: Moderate-lively — you can talk comfortably, but it’s not whisper-quiet (more ‘buzzy ramen + sushi energy’ than serene omakase).
Weekend wait: 30–60 min without a reservation (faster if you can grab the first available table or go early).
Weekday lunch: Usually 0–15 min; small rush window can push it closer to 20 min.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — workable options like veggie rolls, cucumber/avocado-style maki, and vegetable-forward starters; you can also request a non-meat ramen base when available.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple sushi/roll choices can be made vegan, but many items lean on mayo-based sauces or egg; ask about sauce swaps and broth ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Some options, but cross-contact risk — sashimi/nigiri are the safest lane, while soy sauce and many sauces contain gluten; request gluten-free soy if available and keep the order simple.
Best For
Better for: The best move here is the ‘one ramen + a tight sushi set’ combo — it’s stronger than places that do only ramen or only sushi. It’s also a solid choice for mixed groups because everyone can land on something satisfying (katsu, curry, noodles, rolls) without forcing a single-style order.
Skip if: Skip if you want a quiet, high-end sushi experience or a chef-led omakase pace — this leans lively and comfort-forward. Also choose an alternative if you need deep vegan variety or strict gluten-free handling without cross-contact concerns.
Hours
Monday4:30pm - 10pm
Tuesday4:30pm - 10pm
Wednesday4:30pm - 10pm
Thursday4:30pm - 10pm
Friday4:30pm - 10:30pm
Saturday4:30pm - 10:30pm
Sunday4:30pm - 9:30pm