The Japanese word for “cousin,” Itoko is an apt description for the ties between this new concept and Chef Kato’s Momotaro and The Izakaya at Momotaro in the West Loop. Its menu features the high level of ingredients and technique that Chicago has come to expect from Kato, but will bring a relaxed environment curated for the Southport neighborhood by Brand Bureau.
A perfect example of the intentional commingling of design and culinary technique is the full circle story of the robata grill that will be featured prominently. Chef Kato has managed to acquire his original robata grill from his time at Sumi, and this piece of his personal and professional history will take center stage in the Itoko kitchen.
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