Boka is Opening Midōsuji Inside the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel | Eater Chicago

"A forthcoming eight-seat omakase at the Chicago Athletic Association, occupying the bar formerly used by the previous tenant, focused on hand rolls and limited to up to eight guests per seating with two seatings nightly. Named after the gingko-lined street in Osaka, the design includes Japanese influences such as a hand-carved naguri-edge walnut bar and the “Ō” symbol, which references the work of Osaka-born artist Jiro Yoshihara. Operated by Boka as its third sushi concept after Momotaro (West Loop) and Itoko (Lakeview), the program emphasizes seasonality and chef curation under chef Brian Lockwood—who trained at The French Laundry, El Celler De Can Roca, and Eleven Madison Park—and will apply classical French techniques to Japanese ingredients to produce dishes such as sansho pepper duck and crab salad with daikon and miso egg yolk; the hand-roll selection will rotate. Beverage offerings will include wines, sakes, signature cocktails like a tomato water martini, and Japanese spirits infused with lemongrass, sesame, and more. Opening expected late summer or early fall." - Jeffy Mai