Dinner and a show with friends? Sure – when the dinner and show are at Kiku Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Lounge with our friends Lori and Brian Klemm.
Welcomed by owner Steve Shin, we were seated at the hibachi grill where Mondo, expert chef and showman, held court.
Since we are sushi novices, Brian led us through the menu and we shared Godzilla Maki, Kiku’s most popular appetizer made with shrimp, cream cheese, avocado, green onion and masago. Add an order of Kiku Tempura which has battered shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin and eggplant. With a choice of more than 40 appetizers, Brian made two great selections.
As we were enjoying our traditional Japanese chicken broth, Mondo was working his culinary magic before our eyes – flipping eggs first into his toque, spatula flying, knives whirling, Onion Volcano erupting in a flash of steam – all while cooking for eight guests. Mondo was magnificent!
A number of families were experiencing Kiku that evening and Kiku’s dinner menu has something for everyone, including children.
As we selected our entrees, Laurie chose Sea Scallops, one of her all-time favorites. Lori ordered Hibachi Steak and Garlic Shrimp, Mark went with Filet and Garlic Shrimp while Brian ordered Kiku Hibachi Calamari. The only sound was the clanging of Mondo’s spatula as he continued to entertain. All cooked perfectly and served in large portions. Fried rice and colorful seasonal vegetables complimented our dinners.
Kiku offers contemporary Japanese cuisine where the food is not only delicious, but also beautiful to look at with artful presentations – bring your camera.
For Laurie, Mark, Lori and Brian, Kiku offers the “Culinary 4 F’s” – Food, Friends, Fun and Feng Shui.
Kiku Japanese Steakhouse is located on 2764 Aurora Ave. next to Menard’s in Naperville. Reservations suggested on weekends at (630) 305-3355.
