Kamehachi's founder, Marion Konishi, belonged to a community of Japanese-Americans that immigrated to Chicago in the 1940s. Aspiring to bring the colorful customs of Japan to the streets of the Windy City, Konishi put her money where her mouth (and the era's bland Midwestern palate) was, and in 1967 treated Chicago to its very first sushi bar. Today, Kamehachi has five locations, including this spot in Northbrook near the Metra station and Northbrook Court.

Midwesterners aren't the only folks whose taste buds have been tantalized; the list of celebrities who have awkwardly fumbled with chopsticks at Kamehachi reads like a who’s who of sashimi lovers. Now under the ownership of Konishi's granddaughter, Giulia Sindler, the joint remains a comfortable place to roll or eat rolls, whatever your "scene" may be.

Here’s what to expect at the end of your chopsticks: Kamehachi’s menu offers a wide selection of nigiri sushi, sashimi, maki mono and sake. Upgrade your typical ramen dinner with udon soup for some real noodle-slurpin’ action. If you’re still a little queasy about the raw fish situation, go for the Beginner’s Sushi 101: a selection of California rolls, cucumber rolls and a shrimp and egg omelet. No raw fish there, so it’s perfect for chickens.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg