Hiro Bar Izakaya

I will say this was a 3.5/4 out of 5. I’m rounding up my overall rating to a 4. It’s a very nice ambience inside with various seating options (bar, high stool, regular seating). When we went around 7pm it was practically empty and not sure if because it’s a new restaurant or it was a week day but I recommend going on a weekend when it is a bit more lively. Despite it not being packed, service was a bit slow. Food wise - the food tasted really good however the portions were tiny for the price. We ordered the cucumber salad, mushroom skewers, and chicken sandwich. All were really good. Mushroom skewers were seasoned very well but were a bit dry (no sauce or anything). Also, chicken sandwich was very good but the chicken was a bit dry. We asked for more honey mustard because it was so dry and then saw that they charged us for the additional mustard which was a bit penny pinching. The sandwich is very flavorful and chicken was thoroughly cooked. There’s also not a lot of vegetarian options. All in all the food was good in my opinion however do have these few suggestions.

Perfect eating experience. I am a self-proclaimed foodie and can be a bit picky, so when I find somewhere I love, I like to share my experience. I went to Hiro Bar Izakaya last night with a group to celebrate a birthday and had a complete experience. Can't wait to go back. From the outside, you aren't sure what to expect, but once you enter, you know you are in for a unique experience. The decor was gorgeous (if you are seated up front, make sure u check out the back room). I love restaurants where all of the staff support your needs. The gentleman waiting on us was so knowledgeable. All of his recommendations were on point. Last but not least, the COCKTAILS and FOOD!! Both were OUTSTANDING!! Period. Everything was so good my family kept diving in before I could get good pics. But you get the point.

While the old Porto restaurant will be missed, Hiro comes in hot with an impeccable vibe and a delicious shareable menu that will delight both dates and groups. The cocktail menu was the standout for us - we will be coming back for the drinks alone since we were wowed by basically every cocktail we ordered, especially the Sesame Martini. Service was amazing and overall cannot recommend this place enough.

Hiro Izakaya absolutely blew me away. From the moment we sat down, the owner and chef made us feel right at home. He took the time to walk us through the dishes, explaining every detail behind the recipes. You could really tell how much passion and thought went into everything. All of the chicken yakitori was perfectly cooked — juicy, tender, and seasoned just right. The mushroom yakitori was a pleasant surprise too. It was so soft with a chewy, almost meaty texture that made it incredibly satisfying. The ribeye kushiyaki was just as impressive. It was soft, juicy, and packed with flavor. The pork belly bao was another standout. The pork was marinated beautifully and just melted in your mouth. And the el pastor handroll was honestly the perfect bite. It was such a smart and delicious blend of Mexican and Japanese flavors. I’d go back just for that roll alone. On top of the amazing food, the vibe of the restaurant was warm and stylish, and the service was outstanding. Everyone was friendly, attentive, and genuinely cared about the experience. Hiro Izakaya is more than just dinner — it’s a full experience. I’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend.

The truffle hamachi carpaccio was a highlight with super fresh fish and crispy potato bits that added the perfect crunch. Probably the best bite of food I’ve had. The crispy rice was another favorite packed with flavor. We also loved that the owner came by to tell us about their house-made chili oil. The small touches like that really make the experience special. Both the server and chef took time to explain each dish, which made everything feel even more thoughtful and personal. For dessert, the Toki Tres Leches was amazing with rich flavors, not too sweet, and a generous portion. We had a couple of cocktails that were all refreshing. We were tempted to try everything on the menu but were way too full but there’s always next time! Highly recommend if you're into great food, good vibes, and awesome service.

The vibe was warm and modern, and the service- shoutout to our server Ethan- was attentive, friendly, and on point the entire night. We started with their take on a lychee martini, and it might be my new favorite cocktail in the city- balanced, not too sweet, and so refreshing. The food across the board was fantastic, but a few dishes really stood out. The corn ribs were unexpectedly addictive- charred, flavorful, and fun to eat. And don’t even think about skipping dessert. The lychee crème brûlée was a standout: creamy, floral, with a perfectly torched sugar crust that cracked like a dream. Overall, an amazing addition to Chicago’s dining scene. Great drinks, standout dishes, and top-tier service—already planning my next visit!

Had a wonderful dinner here at Hiro!! The server, Doug, was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and super kind and gracious. The cocktails were also so delicious. We so much enjoyed all of his suggestions and will definitely be back!

I wish I would have taken more photos. Dinner was incredible - but what stood out the most was the service and the cocktails. Will definitely be back. Highly recommend the Bananas Foster and the Soba noodles.

Short rib noodle is awesome, flavor & texture. It is definitely a kool date nite vibe in here. I sat at the bar, the bar tender was friendly. I had the ghost orchid cocktail and i can appreciate i can actually taste the lychee so refreshing and delicious. This place is worth checking out.

I will say this was a 3.5/4 out of 5. I'm rounding up my overall rating to a 4. It's a very nice ambience inside with various seating options (bar, high stool, regular seating). When we went around 7pm it was practically empty and not sure if because it's a new restaurant or it was a week day but I recommend going on a weekend when it is a bit more lively. Despite it not being packed, service was a bit slow. Food wise - the food tasted really good however the portions were tiny for the price. We ordered the cucumber salad, mushroom skewers, and chicken sandwich. All were really good. Mushroom robata were seasoned very well but were a bit dry (no sauce or anything). Also, Chicken Sando was very good but the chicken was a bit dry. We asked for more honey mustard because it was so dry and then saw that they charged us for the additional mustard which was a bit penny pinching. The sandwich is very flavorful and chicken was thoroughly cooked. There's also not a lot of vegetarian options. All in all the food was good in my opinion however do have these few suggestions.

Ambiance is super sexy retro modern vibes. Staff are super friendly and gave great recommendations. We got the Brussel sprout salad, spicy tuna crispy rice and the short rib noodles. All were fantastic. We would definitely come back for it. The drinks were phenomenal we recommend the ghost orchid, sea & smoke and for dessert get the espresso martini. Also don't forget a candy from the cat mouth and the hostess stand!

The space is stunning, the service is quick, attentive and so friendly (shout out to Gary!), and the food is insanely delicious. Incredible addition to West Town!

My new favorite spot! I have been twice since opening and BOTH times were phenomenal. Excellent service, beautiful restaurant, and the food is so crave-able. Special mention to the shortrib noodles, butter burger, and bao buns. Will be back again and again!

Ahh! This used to be Beatnik. Remember that! This is by the Celeste Group, which is behind Celeste, Good Funk, Vela and etc. I had their fries. The staff and service are hiroriffic.

Great spot. Tre's leches is fantastic. Definitely talk to your waiter about portions/ the way to order since it is more of a sharables type thing.