Introduction to Hiro Izakaya

WEST TOWN — A Japanese izakaya serving robata-grilled dishes, sushi, craft cocktails and an extensive sake list is opening this spring at the corner of Ashland and Chicago avenues in West Town.

Location and Background

Hiro Izakaya is taking over the former home of Porto, 1600 W. Chicago Ave., a Michelin-starred restaurant that closed last year. It’s the latest restaurant from Celeste Group, which split from the Bonhomme Group last year. Celeste Group operates its namesake bar in River North, as well as Beatnik on the River Downtown and numerous other businesses in the city.

Concept and Vision

In an interview Monday, Celeste partners Nader Hindo and Arturo Gomez said they wanted to create a more approachable, neighborhood-friendly concept to replace Porto, which won a Michelin Star in 2021 and featured a tasting menu. They envision Hiro Izakaya as “innovative, modern izakaya” that pays homage to the classic Japanese bar environment while allowing for new takes on classic dishes and drinks, with an emphasis on wood-fired menu items.

Menu and Offerings

The restaurant will open in late spring, likely in early or mid-June, Gomez said. The Celeste team is finalizing the restaurant’s menu, a process that has included repeated tastings to whittle down more that 60 possible dishes to about 30. Hiro Izakaya will have two kitchens, one for wood-fired items and another for sushi and smaller plates. The goal is to “start on the smaller end and then evolve it as we go, just to kind of test the market and see what the neighborhood is responding to,” Gomez said. “But we think that we’ve got a lot of great hits.”

Bar Program and Ambiance

Like izakayas in Japan, Hiro Izakaya’s bar program will be at the core of the business. The cocktail list will feature eight to 10 options, including a Toki Highball, as well as 15-20 sakes and wines by the glass, Gomez said. Hindo and Gomez said they’re trying to create a space at Hiro that will honor the “hustle and bustle” of a more traditional izakaya while also welcoming families for dinner and a younger bar crowd.

Approach and Accessibility

“You come in here with your family, you’re going to have fun. You come in as an adult, you have a nice bar to do that,” Hindo said. “We always want to keep it somewhat approachable and not gimmicky for the sake of a gimmick. It’s a really nice bar, great food program. That’s what we’re trying to do.”

Conclusion

Hiro Izakaya promises to bring a unique and exciting dining experience to West Town, blending traditional Japanese cuisine with modern twists and a welcoming atmosphere. With its emphasis on wood-fired dishes, craft cocktails, and extensive sake list, it’s set to become a popular destination for both families and younger crowds.

FAQs

• Q: When is Hiro Izakaya expected to open?
  • A: Late spring, likely in early or mid-June.
• Q: What kind of menu can customers expect?
  • A: A mix of robata-grilled dishes, sushi, and smaller plates, with an emphasis on wood-fired items.
• Q: What is unique about Hiro Izakaya’s bar program?
  • A: It will feature a variety of craft cocktails, including a Toki Highball, along with 15-20 sakes and wines by the glass.
• Q: Is Hiro Izakaya family-friendly?
  • A: Yes, the restaurant aims to be welcoming to both families and a younger bar crowd.