The words “cheap” and “sushi” feel like they shouldn’t go together. It’s raw fish, after all. (“Airport sushi,” anyone?) But good sushi can be affordable. And in Chicago, it often is!
On this International Sushi Day, consider scoring a deal at one of these local gems.
Lawrence Fish Market in Albany Park and Chinatown
Lawrence Fish Market is the gold standard of cheap sushi, at least where I grew up near Lawrence Avenue. Even in high school, my friends could afford this — we used to buy platters and picnic in the park! Today, it’s $55 for a four-person tray. In 2024, Lawrence Fish Market expanded to the South Side.
Ukai Sushi in Lakeview
Hit Ukai for lunch. IMO the any-two-rolls option, which includes a soup for $12.95, is the way to go. (At that point, a third roll is only an extra $2.) Reader Claudia S. of Lakeview calls their lunch deal “insane.”
Lucky Trendy Sushi in Logan Square
This new restaurant offers penny-pinching Logan Squarers like myself a taste of the good life. Everything on the menu is under $20! (Ok, technically the Sashimi Silver plate is $20.95. But still.) Signature rolls are just $6.50.
Alynia Zushi in Bridgeport
Don’t be fooled by the phonetic name — sushi at Alynia is indeed affordable. City Cast Chicago producer Michelle Navarro gives it her whole-hearted endorsement. She also described the friendly owner who proudly plugs each fish pick-up (on Instagram and IRL). Other bonuses: $1 oysters and karaoke.
Kai Sushi in South Loop, River North, and Lakeview
Kai Sushi offers half-off special rolls when you dine in, Monday through Wednesday. Make an outing of it! It’s also BYOB 😉
All You Can Eat
- Sushi Tokoro in Lincoln Square
- Sushi Para II in Lincoln Park
- Sushi Taku in Logan Square and Wicker Park
- Taku also has a rotary option in Lincoln Park
- Koi Sushi in Lincoln Park
- Sushi Plus Rotary Sushi Bar in Chinatown
