Wicker Park’s funky, hip sushi hot spot is serious about sushi. Offering more than just your everyday maki and nigiri, Mirai ups the ante on sushi (fish is flown in daily, and some selections are still swimming), sake (a generous list), and Japanese culinary creativity (with intriguing menu items and specials). The bilevel restaurant boasts a bright, smoke-free main floor dining area and sushi bar, your best bet for experiencing the sushi chef's specials; the upstairs sake bar is dark and seductive, with a choice of barstools, tables, or sleek lounge furniture, with DJ music on weekends.

Mirai Sushi Information:

• Japanese, sushi menu. Dinner. Bar. Casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking. Outdoor seating. Credit cards accepted.