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| - I probably eat at Sakanaya more than my wallet can comfortably handle, but I keep coming back because it's a better than average sushi place with lots of other food choices. I write this review in the context of the UIUC campus in which Sakanaya is definitely as good as it gets for sushi, so 5 stars instead of 4 if this was located in DT Champaign or Urbana.
Their menu has been relatively consistent throughout the 4 years I've been here. My go-to's are:
-Willis Tower (to share): it comes out super quick, so you can start eating right away (especially if you've been waiting 45 minutes for a table). It's a little tower with rice, spicy tuna crab, and some avocado that you can break up and mix on the plate. Super fun and delicious! At $12 or $6/person for 2 people, it's not a bad deal.
-Chicken wings: they're SO good! Korean style with two flavors: soy garlic and hot&spicy, but I usually go for half-half. Definitely a must try for lunch or late night (they don't have them at dinner).
-OMG and VIP rolls: If you really want to impress that hot date, get one of these rolls that are served with actual flames on the side. They both taste pretty good and are exciting for a special occasion.
-their platters are also good to share with someone if you're really feeling a certain kind of raw fish. my favorite is the I Love Salmon.
-their sashimi is kind of pricey for a campus restaurant, so if you're craving, I'd recommend just getting the sampler. It comes with 3 salmon, 2 tuna and 2 escolar (I think). Obviously, not the highest quality, but it's more affordable if you're getting other items too
-Ramen: more than acceptable for the price! Portions are great, but the broth is just okay. Overall, not bad for $13-14 if you compare how much you're getting vs 1 roll.
There isn't much seating space inside, so during dinner times, it can get really busy (like longer than 1hr wait busy), but if you come right at opening or with smaller party, you can get seated right away or with a shorter wait time. If you have a party larger than 5, I would avoid coming during busy times. Staff are usually pretty accommodating for larger parties, I've been here with 8 people before, but only if there's not a huge line of people.
Ambiance is also really good for a campus restaurant. Dim lighting and industrial style lamps make it feel pretty intimate.
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