About the Event
Enjoy a robata family style dinner at Lakeview’s hot spot – Itoko. Chef Gene will give a brief presentation to Society members and guests in Itoko’s intimate and private Kinjo Room.
Join us for a complimentary glass of sake from 6:00-6:30 pm thanks to Uka Sake. Cash bar option will be available.
Menu includes: Momomaki, Aburi Saba Nigiri, Salmon Dip, Spicy Cucumber Salad, Shiitake, Negima (Chicken thigh, scallion & shiso) skewers, chahan and Panna Cotta.
About the Speaker
Growing up in a Japanese household in Charlotte, North Carolina, Kato learned to cook the foods so integral to his heritage and culture and is devoted to elevating Japanese cuisine while remaining authentically respectful of tradition. Prior to becoming a Boka Restaurant group Chef/Partner, Kato owned and operated Sumi Robata, a beloved restaurant that brought Chicago the traditional takumi experience of grilling on a robata using sumi, a distinct Japanese white charcoal.
Kato was named Executive Chef Partner of Momotaro, Boka Restaurant Group’s modern, seasonal Japanese restaurant, located in the heart of Chicago’s Fulton Market neighborhood in 2019. Since taking the helm, the restaurant has received a three-star review from Phil Vettel in the Chicago Tribune and has been lauded with both local and national praise. His purview encompasses The Izakaya, Momotaro’s basement level bar and restaurant, reminiscent of the Yokocho street scene of Tokyo, which was added to Chicago’s Michelin Guide in 2023. Gene debuted his latest restaurant in Lakeview’s Southport Corridor neighborhood this Spring. Itoko, which translates to “cousin” in Japanese, is inspired by its sister concepts in Fulton Market, and highlights Gene’s passion for traditional sushi and robata dishes.
Special thanks to our sake sponsor:
