Nomonomo-Japanese Pub + Grill

I've spent time in Japan and this is the most authentic, best place for yakitori I've tried outside of asia.

1. We made a reservation for 7 pm on 03/01, but upon arrival, we were seated all the way in the back, right next to the bathroom, despite other available tables of the same size in the main dining area. When I requested a different table, the hostess (or possibly a server in training) promptly accommodated our request. However, it would have been preferable if they had been considerate enough to assign us a suitable table initially, given that we had made a reservation in advance. 2. The entire water pitcher and our water glasses emitted a strong odor and taste of Clorox bleach. Although we refrained from requesting replacement glassware due to our prior table change request, we opted to order drinks instead of risking further inconvenience. We did not want to appear overly demanding, but the odor and taste were quite noticeable. (As a note, it usually takes significant issues for me to leave a 1-star review.) 3. While I understand that this is not a McDonald's dining experience, I found the portion sizes of certain dishes to be unreasonable. For instance, the sashimi carpaccio consisted of only 5 thinly sliced pieces of fish for $17, and some of the yakitori items seemed overpriced in comparison. 4. I would not have minded the pricing if the courses had been served in a logical order. At a high-end restaurant, one expects professional service commensurate with the price paid. However, after our appetizers arrived, entrees were served before any of the yakitori we had ordered. 5. I discovered what appeared to be a piece of metal scrub in my mentaiko udon, approximately 3 inches in length. Upon informing our server, he apologized and offered to comp the dish. However, upon his return from the kitchen, he claimed it was merely a piece of onion hair, not metal. At that point, I chose not to pursue the matter further, assuming the dish would be deducted from the bill regardless. 6. Before receiving the check, we were offered a visibly cheap-looking complimentary cheesecake as an apology for the unpleasant incident with the dish. However, upon reviewing the bill, I noticed that the mentaiko udon was still listed. When I brought this to the server's attention, he responded dismissively, offering to remove it from the bill but implying that I was seeking free food. Overall, despite ordering three appetizers, four drinks, four yakitori items, and two entrees between the two of us, we felt as though we were treated poorly. The quality of the food was mediocre at best. It's unfortunate that Chicago lacks many options for authentic izakaya-style cuisine at reasonable prices. However, one thing is certain: I will not be returning here.

Rice too salty and we missed sauces on the side to add more flavor. But the kimchi pork udon was very good and so the yugo margarita. The staff is really friendly and the food arrived fast.

Very cool atmosphere, great drinks, and everything we ordered was absolutely delicious. The Karage, Shumai, and Niku noodles were especially flavorful. Will absolutely be back!

Went in with a bigger group on a whim - got a table and was pleasantly surprised how good the food was. Will definitely be going back!

Really cute surprise spot. There was a 2 ½ hr wait at Wasabi Ramen. (No thank you) So, my cousin and I stopped in here instead. Delicious chicken ramen and yakitori. Happy with the cocktails too. Highly recommend! Parking: Difficult. Don't drive.