Stepping into Tomo Japanese Street Food is like teleporting from the heart of Evanston to the vibrant streets of Tokyo. Nestled on a corner at 1726 Sherman Ave, not far from Northwestern University’s South Campus, this eatery offers an authentic and delightful escape into Japanese cuisine. Since opening last April, Tomo has quickly become a local favorite for those seeking a genuine taste of Japan.
The ambiance at Tomo is immediately calming and welcoming, a perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of everyday life, especially during stressful periods like finals season. The establishment is cozy, mirroring the intimate and efficient nature of many eateries found in Japan. The staff, though small, are incredibly warm and attentive, greeting each customer with genuine hospitality and guiding them to their preferred seating. Shortly after settling in, you’re offered a refreshing glass of water, a small gesture that speaks volumes about their attentiveness to customer comfort.
Ordering at Tomo Japanese Street Food is streamlined and modern. A simple scan of the QR code on your table leads you to their online menu, where you can browse the diverse offerings, make your selections, and pay all in one go. This efficient system allows you to relax and immerse yourself in the restaurant’s atmosphere, taking in the gentle background music and the colorful, tasteful décor that enhances the Japanese street food vibe.
Tomo’s menu is a treasure trove of Japanese culinary delights. From smoky Japanese barbecue skewers to comforting noodle dishes and hearty rice bowls, there’s something to satisfy every craving. House specials and meticulously prepared bento boxes add to the variety, alongside a selection of small plates perfect for sharing or enjoying as appetizers. The menu invites leisurely exploration, encouraging diners to take their time and discover new favorites.
During my visit to Tomo Japanese Street Food, I opted for the beef set bento box ($18.95) and a side of shishito peppers ($7.95). One of the unique aspects of Tomo is its open kitchen, positioned right in front of the dining area. This transparent setup allows you to witness the culinary artistry firsthand, watching as your meal is prepared with care and precision. It creates a sense of connection and intimacy, making you feel more like a welcomed guest than just a customer.
My meal arrived promptly, beginning with the comforting miso soup that accompanies every bento box. This wasn’t just any miso soup; it was a delicate balance of flavors, featuring a thoughtful mix of seaweed and silken tofu, without any single ingredient overpowering the others. Its understated elegance was the perfect prelude to the meal, awakening the palate and setting a high bar for what was to come.
The bento box and shishito peppers arrived just as I finished the soup, perfectly timed and presented. The shishito peppers were an immediate standout, arriving sizzling and fragrant. The dish was a masterful blend of sweet and spicy, a harmonious union where the peppers’ slight heat was beautifully complemented by a subtly sweet sauce. This dish alone is a reason to visit Tomo Japanese Street Food.
The bento box itself was a generous offering, with four compartments overflowing with a diverse array of Japanese staples. Tomo certainly delivers excellent value for money. The rice, while simple on its own, transformed when touched with soy sauce, showcasing the quality of even the most basic components. The gyoza were another highlight – three perfectly crisp dumplings filled with savory vegetables and topped with fresh scallions. Their flaky texture and flavorful filling made them utterly delightful.
Adding a refreshing counterpoint to the richer flavors was the side salad. A light and crisp cabbage base was topped with creamy corn and a hint of dill, acting as a palate cleanser and adding another layer of texture to the meal. Then came the main attraction: the beef. Initially concealed beneath a generous bed of seared vegetables – cabbage, carrots, and onions – the beef was discovered to be the star of the show. Juicy, tender, and seasoned impeccably, the beef was enhanced by the subtly sweet vegetables, creating a balanced and deeply satisfying combination. If there was a minor critique, it would be the meat-to-vegetable ratio, which leaned slightly towards vegetables, leaving me wanting just a bit more of the exquisite beef.
Overall, Tomo Japanese Street Food is a welcome respite from the usual Evanston dining options. It’s a no-frills eatery that prioritizes quality and authenticity, offering a genuine taste of Japanese street food culture. If you’re looking to escape the mundane and explore a vibrant culinary experience just minutes from campus, Tomo is your destination. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a mini-trip to Japan, right in Evanston.
