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The Chicago Traveler

Three’s a Party at Sushi Samba Rio

by Matt B on July 1st, 2008

Okay, get this. Brazil. Japan. Peru. You would think that combining plates from these three cuisines would be dangerous at best. And yet, Sushi Samba Rio fuses this trio together scrumptiously.

sushi samba rioThe eclectic phenomenon begins the moment you walk in the door. Energetic and fun, the sound of a salsa beat greets hungry patrons. The spacious restaurant is divided into several sections, each with its own atmosphere and personality. From the rooftop lounge to the sleek circular sushi bar, the spaces are just as attractive as the people who fill them. This is a great place to do a little people-watching, so don't be surprised if you catch someone checking you out.

The menu features an array of small dishes, featuring appetizers like tuna tataki (tatsoi, heart of palm, avocado, lemon, yuca chip, and aji panca coulis) and butter lettuce wraps (with crispy rock shrimp, uni ailoi, peas, and black truffle vinaigrette). 'Samba rolls,' a.k.a. sushi rolls, include Samba rio Roll'which brings together lobster tempura, red leaf lettuce, cucumber, avocado, and rice cracker'and the Bobo Brazil'seared kobe-style beef, avocado, kaiware, shiso, red onion, and chimichurri ponzu. And if you'd prefer a traditional one-plate entr'e, try the crispy red snapper in spicy red curry sauce or organic chicken teriyaki.

sushi samba rioOf course, a place this hip serves up excellent cocktails. Try a traditional caipirinha, pisco sour, or mojito, or order one of the restaurant's signature drinks like the 'Sambatini.'

The colors are bold, the menu is daring, and the people are lively. Sushi Samba Rio isn't just a restaurant; it's a party.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) Khaotikit, leighrowan

Sushi Samba Rio ($$$$): 504 N Wells St; 312-595-2300
Sun ' Tues: 11:45 a.m. ' 12 midnight
Weds ' Thurs: 11:45 a.m. ' 1:00 a.m.
Fri ' Sat: 11:45 a.m. ' 2:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult; pay lots nearby; valet available
Public trans: Bus # 11, 65, 125, 156
http://sushisamba.com/

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POSTED IN: Restaurants

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