Sankyu Sushi & Izakaya - Bar Lounge

1176 Elmhurst Rd, Mt Prospect, IL 60056

847 228 5539

https://www.sankyusushi.com/ 

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Sankyu Sushi & Izakaya and Their Irresistible Tonkatsu Bento

When you're in the Mount Prospect area, there’s a cozy Japanese restaurant worth your attention: Sankyu Sushi & Izakaya. Located at 1176 Elmhurst Rd, this spot blends the warmth of a traditional Japanese “izakaya” (casual pub-style eatery) with the refined touches of sushi, ramen, and bento culture. 

Among the many dishes on their menu, one stands out for comfort, crunch, and classic Japanese bento sensibilities: their Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet) Bento.

🍱 What Makes the Tonkatsu Bento Special

The Tonkatsu Bento at Sankyu features a crispy, breaded pork cutlet — golden and crunchy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside — a hallmark of the traditional Japanese dish Tonkatsu. 

It arrives as a thoughtfully arranged meal box, complete with:

• Steamy rice (the perfect neutral base for the rest of the flavors) 

• A generous portion of shredded cabbage — the crisp freshness cuts beautifully through the rich, fried pork.

• Fresh cucumber slices and juicy tomato wedges — adding a refreshing, bright crunch, balancing the heavier components nicely.

• A bowl of miso soup — warming and comforting, offering a savory, umami-rich counterpoint to the breaded cutlet.

• Of course — the star — the panko-crusted pork cutlet, fried to golden perfection, then sliced and ready to enjoy.

This composition reflects the classic Japanese bento philosophy: a balanced meal of protein, carbs, veggies, and flavors — hearty, satisfying, but still well rounded. 

The Vibe at Sankyu: More Than Just Food

What makes Sankyu more than just “another sushi place” is its atmosphere and spirit. Recent reviews highlight how the restaurant delivers an “izakaya atmosphere,” with friendly service and a space that feels both cozy and authentic. 

Inside, after a renovation, the dining area has been refreshed — some diners note that it evokes a sense of being in Japan. 

For many, it becomes a go-to spot for relaxed dinners, late-night bites, or even a casual date night when you're craving comfort Japanese food. 

Why the Tonkatsu Bento Works — Especially Here

• Balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy, warm pork cutlet with the light, crisp cabbage and cool veggies makes each bite interesting. The plain rice and savory miso soup round out the meal, giving a mix of comfort and freshness.

• Satisfying but not heavy. Because of the vegetable and rice accompaniments, the meal feels filling without being overwhelmingly heavy — a perfect middle ground between indulgence and balance.

• Authentic Japanese comfort food. Tonkatsu is a beloved classic in Japan, and when made well (as Sankyu aims to do), it delivers that familiar, homey satisfaction. 

• Great for any occasion. Whether you’re grabbing a quick solo lunch, meeting friends after work, or going out with family, this bento fits.

Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem Worth a Visit

If you’re in the Chicago suburbs and craving something that satisfies — crispy, savory, comforting, and authentically Japanese — Sankyu Sushi & Izakaya’s Tonkatsu Bento is a gem. It feels like a small escape to Japan, complete with satisfying portions, a welcoming vibe, and the kind of simple, honest cooking that keeps people coming back.

If you like — I could also write a short “review-style” food blog post (with more sensory descriptions and tasting notes) about this Bento dish — might make you want to visit ASAP. Want me to write that for you now?