Boka Restaurant Group to Open Omakase Restaurant Midosuji at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

Strategic Insights -

Boka Restaurant Group, a leading restaurant company, is set to open an omakase restaurant, Midosuji, in the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. The new restaurant, led by chef Brian Lockwood, will replace the former speakeasy bar Milk Room and is expected to open later this year. Midosuji will offer a unique dining experience, serving a multicourse tasting menu that blends Japanese traditions with French influences, in a beautifully restored 1930s-era space.

Key Takeaways:

  • Midosuji, an omakase restaurant, will be led by chef Brian Lockwood, previously chef de cuisine at Eleven Madison Park.
  • The restaurant will offer a multicourse tasting menu blending Japanese traditions with French influences.
  • Menu items will include crab salad with daikon and miso egg yolk, rotating hand rolls, duck, and seasonal dishes.
  • The restaurant will be located in the Chicago Athletic Association hotel, replacing the former Milk Room speakeasy bar.
  • Midosuji is one of Boka Restaurant Group's first moves after taking over hospitality services from Land & Sea Dept. at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel.
  • The restaurant will offer two seatings per night for eight guests per seating.
  • Boka Restaurant Group has restored and preserved the 1930s-era bar, original tile work, and wood-beamed ceiling while incorporating Japanese influences in the space.

Statistics:

  • 8 guests will be seated per night.
  • 2 seatings per night.
  • 150 employees were laid off at the Cherry Circle Room restaurant when Boka took control of the food and beverage business at the hotel in January.

Sources:

  • Boka Restaurant Group press release announcing the opening of Midosuji.
  • Article in Crain Communications Inc. titled "Boka Restaurant Group takes over food, beverage holdings at Chicago Athletic Association".
  • Eleven Madison Park three-Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Chicago Athletic Association hotel.
  • Hyatt property.
  • Land & Sea Dept.
  • Cherry Circle Room restaurant.
  • Milk Room speakeasy bar.
  • Game Room.
  • Drawing Room.