NoMI has one of the most gorgeous rooftop spaces in Chicago. It is just steps away from Michigan Avenue in the Park Hyatt, and the large garden terrace on the 11th floor is bursting with colorful flowers. Recently the Windy City Blogger Collective hosted an intimate dinner where we go to taste the restaurant's new sushi menu. The garden terrace at NoMI has it's own bar, and plenty of seating. There are small tables in middle, and big high tops in along the edge of the space for larger parties. These tables would be the perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion, it's also where our big group of bloggers sat.
Sushi is something that I have slowly come around to liking in the past few years. And trust me, even if you are lukewarm on the idea of sushi, you will love NoMI's sushi and sashimi.
Our evening began as all evenings should, with Sparking Rose Sangria. It was light and fruity, and ever so picture perfect. The cocktails at NoMI are excellent, it is a perfect place for post work drinks on a sunny day.
Since I was dining with a big group, NoMI sent out platters of sushi and sashimi, that were so gorgeous we had to take dozens of photos. The cool thing is that the big platters are available on the menu too.
We started with the Ceviche made with a mixture of seafood, seasoned with scallion, cilantro, and lime.
The Salmon Tataki was one of my favorites. The salmon was quickly seared on one side, and served with scallion, shallot, and sliced peppers. The salmon had a mild delicate flavor, and the texture was the perfect balanced of cooked and raw.
Those were just the starters. Next we moved along to sashimi.
The sashimi platter had scallops, salmon, yellowtail, and salmon roe.
We tried all the pieces of sashimi too - tuna, salmon, snapper, yellowtail, eel, shrimp, sea urchin, salmon roe, and tamago.
The sushi came out next.
We tried the Dragon, Tiger, and Garden Rolls.
I absolutely loved the Garden Roll which was made with asparagus, avocado, shiitake, and squash.
Our meal ended with a pair of desserts.
The raspberry greek yogurt dessert was excellent. I love desserts with fruit and greek yogurt, and this was creamy and fruity all at once.
We also tried a cherry tart made with a sesame pastry. It was a creative and successful flavor combination.
I had a wonderful time feasting with my friends at NoMI. If you haven't been yet, you need to check it out. They serve lunch too!
In addition to the extensive sushi menu, NoMI has a full dinner menu with seasonally inspired meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, making NoMI the best place to satisfy both sushi lovers, and those who prefer to order something else.
NoMI's address is 800 North Michigan Avenue, and they do accept reservations.
