About Us

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Chicago at 2218 N Lincoln Ave, 2AM Izakaya is more than just a restaurant—it’s an escape into the warm, welcoming world of Japanese nightlife. Designed to evoke the intimate charm of Tokyo’s back-alley izakayas, our space blends rustic wood accents, soft Edison bulb lighting, and the sizzle of yakitori on the grill to create an atmosphere that’s both lively and relaxed.

 

A Menu That Feels Like a Journey
Whether you’re craving a post-work unwind or a midnight feast, our kitchen serves up authentic Japanese comfort food long after others have closed:

• Grilled to Perfection: Skewers of juicy yakitori (try the tsukune or smoky bacon-wrapped enoki), blistered shishito peppers, and buttery miso-marinated black cod.

• Fresh & Bold: Silky sashimi cuts, crispy karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and delicate tempura with a whisper-light batter.

• Soul-Warming Bowls: Our tonkotsu ramen—slow-simmered pork broth, tender chashu, and a molten ajitama egg—is legendary among night owls.

 

Drinks to Match the Mood
Pair your meal with curated sake (from floral daiginjo to unfiltered nigori), shochu cocktails like the yuzu-ginger mule, or a frosty Sapporo. Our bartenders craft each drink to complement the umami-rich flavors of the kitchen.

 

At 2AM Izakaya, the night unfolds at your pace. Slide into a corner booth with friends, chat over shared plates at the cedar bar, or toast under the strings of paper lanterns. It’s the kind of place where strangers become regulars—and regulars become family.

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Open Late, Always Welcoming
Because the best stories (and cravings) don’t stick to business hours. Walk-ins welcome, reservations encouraged for groups.