Excellent quality Chinese food at a reasonable price. Whenever I want to take my family out for an elegant Chinese dinner we go to Sesame Inn. The menu selection is excellent and prices reasonable. The customer service is fast and friendly and the wait time to be seated is never long. This place has the best quality orange chicken I have ever tasted. My wife and 3 kids agree. Highly recommended!
(5)
Jen B.
Poor Service from our Server but amazing Food! It saddens me that just about every restaurant we visit in Chicago has employees with terrible customer service skills. No greeting, warm welcome or any kindness of any sort from our Server. Just dry ROBOTIC. Thank you Mr. Roboto
(3)
Brett H.
Very disappointed by their handling of an online order (through their website). Apparently the order never actually showed up in their computer's print out so we waited for 90 minutes for a delivery that never came. No big deal. Accidents happen. It was the next part of the story that accounts for my two star rating... I called 15 minutes before closing time on a Sunday and simply asked if something may be wrong with my order. I advised that I had my confirmation number but was told repeatedly I must have ordered from elsewhere and nothing was in the computer. I then drive to the restaurant and show the usual "manager" (?owner?) both my order number email receipt and my charged bank statement. I am still told to follow up and he seemed confused that his restaurant even had its own website. I pushed and only after another 5 minutes was my order actually found. The end result was a voided transaction and no food after 2 hours of waiting. It's sad that this is something I'm writing a Yelp review about because I've been coming to Sesame Inn for nearly 3 years and I am pretty surprised by the lack of trust of my concern, lack of follow through, or even a sincere apology (re:comp'd order) for a issue like this. Mistakes happen: it's okay, really, but own an honest mistake and make it right and you'll have a happy customer. Otherwise...
(2)
Denise D.
I have tried this place several times now, and either they've upped their game or I was there on a bad day. I like going for lunch where there are sushi specials and you get that cute sheet of paper to mark off which items you'd like. My only complaint, but it's a big one, is their spicy tuna roll. I LOVE spicy tuna rolls, but there's is bad. Really bad. The tuna isn't bad, but whatever they use to make it spicy sure is. Most places sort of chop up the tuna and combine with a spicy sauce for the spicy tuna roll, but here they keep the tuna intact and spread or sprinkle a spice mix unevenly into the roll. Some bites are fire hot, some bites have no spice. The consistency of the bites with the spice is weird, almost sandy. It's very unpleasant. There are still plenty of yummy choices, though, and I'm always content with everything else.
(4)
aj b.
Kamikaze roll was bad. Fish is not fresh. Roll is tiny for 12 bucks that they charge!!! Cucumber roll tasted frozen. Terrible sushi. We won't be back, for sure. This is a picture of the meal for 30 bucks minus small appetizer. Ridiculous!
(1)
Jeudi J.
Better than previous visits for sure. Got a roll with very nice tempura shrimp inside, eel and avo outside with eel sauce; just delicious. Spicy tuna roll with tuna and salmon on top could have used a little something to snazz it up, but was fresh and good with quite a lot of fish. And the pad Thai with shrimp was really luscious, with quite a few medium shrimp and very saucy, like I prefer. Had an expired Groupon and they gave me the value I paid without a problem, and service was good. I think they're getting better with time and now I know a couple things I really like there, for next time.
(4)
Stephanie H.
Decided to give this place a try after a few disappointing trips to Chi Tung. I was not disappointed. The food was delicious and the service was great. I will definitely be returning.
(5)
Dreena L.
This restaurant was not even worth dining in. The outside of the place was nice seemed kind of like a small intimate establishment. My boyfriend and I walked in was greeted with the smell of cleaning products mixed with cooked food and a hint of staleness. Not great for me but my boyfriend suggested we give it a try. So the hostess directed us to our table and it was sticky and wet. Asked if we can get some napkins to wipe it down. We waited for about ten minutes prior to our waiter coming over to see about us and he was very standoffish. He didn't say hello, sorry about the wait, what can I get for you...etc...etc...etc...he just said, "Are you ready to order?" He actually looked as if he was over it already and didn't want to be there. Actually he is the same guy that all the other reviewers have been complaining about so I'm shocked he is still working there. Maybe it's a family owned restaurant #shrug. We ordered water and told him we were still looking at the menu but I couldn't take it anymore. I had to leave. I am a stickler about service and I give you what you give me so we left and went to my absolute favorite spot in Homewood (Asian Harbor check them out) for better service and quite possibly better food.
(1)
Sarah L.
I have been here several times, and this place is the definition of hit or miss. It's definitely preferable to Chi Tung on busy nights, but can't beat Sushi Thaime for the Sushi. The food is either absolutely fantastic or highly questionable, no consistency whatsoever. The service, however, is deplorable. The same server, a man in his 30s(?) with a hair style that yearns to be anywhere but in a suburban restaurant, is awful. It takes the staff forever to seat you (if you don't give up and seat yourself) let alone bring you water, ask about beverages, etc. Please promote the busboy, he's the only one who gives a damn.
(3)
J Ted A.
Amazing! Went for the first time 2 days ago...for lunch. The price is fantastic and the food even better. Do the lunch menu.
(5)
Glenn H.
Good food, not crowded, reliable quality.frindly service. Especially like the hot and sour soup.
(4)
Emily A.
I have been coming here for years with my family and boyfriend. Love that they offer a Groupon. I typically opt for the pad thai with tofu (spicy) or vegetable maki, but I branched out and tried the Beverly maki roll on my last visit. Hands-down, best roll I have tried in the south suburbs. Although the service is a little slow, I always enjoy my meal.
(4)
Chris C.
Came here with the family as only some like Sushi. Came early on Sunday evening and it was empty, service is pretty slow as they are very focused on take out customers, but the kids like the Japanese Sprite. The quality of the fish was not great, but it was alright and the chicken dishes that the others had was good.
(4)
Keith P.
Great little place. Usually gets the overflow when Chi Tung is too crowded, but don't let that take away from how good they are. Great food, Great prices !
(5)
Sam O.
Went in with a groupon. The sushi was bland. Service was ok. I may try them again but not sure.
(2)
Serena M.
I really love this place but the last time I went I was really disappointed in the duck. Which I was really looking forward too.the duck wasn't crispy like the description says. It was really rubbery and it looked undercooked. Other then that service and the sushi was awesome. Please try the Thai ice tea very yummy if your looking to try "new things"
(2)
Patricia M.
I've driven past this place for years. Dined at Sesame Inn for the first time last night. Nice, clean place. Good fresh sushi! I loved the Godzilla Maki' Service was a little slow (not at all crowded either) and could have been a little friendlier. Tried a new cocktail advertised on the tables...horrible & expensive. I will go again.
(3)
Tamara M.
I enjoyed this place, I found them off of Groupon and decided to give them a try and I am happy I did. The crab Rangoon (even though it had another name. It still was a crab Rangoon) was delicious, the sesame chicken was flavorful and yummy. the pad Thai wasn't bad and the egg roll was delicious. I had no complaints of this place because I ordered dishes that I assumed would be hard for them to mess up. The waitress seemed to have a attitude problem but I didn't really pay her no mind so it was whatever. I cant say if I would go back to, its more of if I'm in the neighborhood and I wanted Chinese food then I may stop by
(3)
David N.
A solid back-up plan when Chi Tung is filled to capacity. All of our visits have come during the lunch rush, and we've yet to be disappointed. Quality sushi rolls and generous lunch portions make it an easy, Chi Tung-less pill to swallow. Service can be a bit slow, and ticket times are longer than most, but the food has always been excellent, and we have yet to put up with an annoying crowd. For my money, this place is spot on, and a worthy adversary for its nearby counterpart.
(4)
Danielle K.
Groupon brought us to this restaurant for a date night. Hostess could use some help with her greeting skills, but hostess is also the phone receptionist for to-go orders, and the pick up cashier. We were not greeted as we walked in because she was on the phone, then when she was finished she said "oh just sit there" and walked away. We sat down and were greeted by a very friendly waitress, then ordered drinks and apps. Appetizers arrived (potstickers and crab angle) and it was all GOOD!!! Very fresh and hot, not sitting under heat lamps before service. Entrees came I had sushi and husband had Mongolian beef. Everything was great!!! Sushi was fresh and the Mongolian beef was not short on taste. A great menu with lots of variety to choose from, big portions. We will definitely return to the restaurant, but maybe on a not so busy night.
(3)
Tonya H.
I was deceived into thinking that the food was good by the number of patrons. The Crazy Noodle dish was swimming in a bland cooking oil. Drink a bottle a bottle of Wesson and save 10 bucks. Wanted to run home and vomit what I did eat.
(1)
barry s.
Tried them in mothers day when the power was out at chi-Tung.. The egg rolls were like the frozen ones at sams club, only deep fried. The sushi was not as fresh as chi Tung. The meal tasted similar to something you would get at the mess hall while serving in the marine core. Never again. I don't know how this place stays in business.
(1)
Raphael M.
Sushi is great. Service is not the greatest though. Waiter is not really interested in serving. But looks at you like you are crazy
(3)
Buttermilk P.
We wanted to make sure the first time wasn't a fluke. It wasn't. This time we had Pad Se Ew w/ chicken, General Tso's Chicken and Shrimp Egg Foo Young. Good grief. This confirmed my original belief that this was the best Chinese and Thai food I ever had. The flavors are like a symphony in your mouth and the portions are generous (although the gravy on the Egg Foo Young was a tad bit salty for our taste). One of the things we appreciate the most about the Sesame Inn is that its consistency affords us the confidence to experiment with the menu. You know how some places only do certain things well and if you stray from what you know, you'll be sorry? Not here. We were talking about what we would try next time, a few minutes after we started eating. Aug. 2014 My wife and went back to Sesame Inn again. This time we ordered Thai Curry Fried Rice w/Chicken and Orange Chicken......................I wanted to bust through their kitchen doors and start kissing people. The food here is soooo good! Ironically, I get sad every time we visit this place. Why? There is another Asian restaurant about a 1/2 mile away from Sesame that is extremely popular. They recently built a brand new facility from the ground up and their parking lot is a city block long. The place is always jam packed. Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, you name it, you can't get in the door it's so full With all seriousness, I don't get it. The food is.....I've had better food at the local hole in the wall take-out joint. They can't light a match to Sesame Inn. They're not in the same hemisphere. Yet the owner of Sesame is doing everything short of giving his food away to drum up business. I guess that's life. I'm just glad we found Sesame Inn. They have definitely earned my continued support.
(5)
Gina V.
I visited for the first time on Wednesday when I wasn't feeling well. I got a very simple order of chicken fried rice to go. It was done quickly. When I got home to eat it, I found it to be exactly what I needed. It was very tasty. It tasted fresh and was perfect. I will be back!
(5)
Ro D.
The sister restaurant to the Oak Lawn Sushi Thaime. The sushi rolls were not as tightly wrapped, but the taste was incredible. We had the sushi boat with 4 nigri and 4 sashimi. The Chinese beef sticks were succulent with flavor, no need for any sauce accompaniment. The Highlight of our meal was the Spicy Crab dish. Wow!! I'm definitely a fan as long as this stays on the menu. The owner is very friendly, he greets each regular customer with a warm welcome. The service though good is a bit slow, but in a close atmosphere like this, it's worth the wait. Cheers!
(3)
C M.
Sushi is decent. The rolls are really basic, but they have cheap lunch specials. I don't know how other people said that the orange chicken was good. I wouldn't recommend that or their fried rice.
(3)
Agnes L.
Look for this restaurant on Groupon, as they often have offers. My most recent visit was a $30 value that I bought for $15, which yields enough food for three to four people. (I took home plenty of leftovers.) My friend and I ordered the Tom Yum soup with shrimp for two, PanangNu Thai beef curry and the Szechuan chicken. All ingredients were very fresh, most especially notable was the crisp broccoli accompanying the chicken. All meat was tender. And all spice levels were just right with enough kick to jump start my taste buds but not burn them. In comparison to other Asian cuisine in the area, I would say that Sesame Inn is comparable to its biggest competitor, Chi-Tung, in value and quality. The biggest plus to coming here over Chi-Tung is that there isn't much of wait. Sesame Inn's partner restaurant down the road on 95th is Sushi Thaime. The space is much larger at Sesame Inn than Sushi Thai Me, thus better for groups. At Sesame Inn, I highly suggest getting their Chinese and Thai food over the sushi. (In prior visits, I've had dishes from each section of the menu.) To be honest, I'm always a little wary of sushi at places that also have Chinese food because preparing sushi is a patient art - a drastically different process than cooking a quick stir-fry.
(4)
John D.
AWFUL. On a recommendation from a couple of friends, gave it a try. Egg rolls are chewy and bland. The meat was more like bland steamed taco meat than anything remotely resembling what an egg roll should be. Pineapple fried rice with chicken... the rice was still white, barely fried. The chunks of vegetables were close to raw. In fact, the onions were so close to raw that the were way, way strong. Overpowering raw. Wife had Pad Thai. Bland, with an odd sauce. Honestly, we threw both dishes out after a few bites and are waiting for Chi Tung to deliver as I type this. Careless preparation, just slap it in the pan and call it a day. If you want bland rice with raw vegetables, this is the place for you....
(1)
Hungry M.
Had a very nice time here. Cannot say enough about Bruce. Very friendly, professional and courteous. We had the 12 piece sashimi platter, a California roll, the orange chicken and the sesame chicken, all outstanding. Very affordable even without our Groupon coupon with knocked off $15. If I am in the area again, I will stop in with hesitation.
(4)
Yuri L.
Nope, not good at all. For one, the service was horrible, the waiter looked like he wanted to die than be at work dealing with people. The busboy was a lot more attentive than him. One of the girls that worked there, I think she was just coming in to check on things started to seat people, in her PJs which had a huge hole by her ass. Sushi was disgusting, I saw that my order was up by the bar, and say there for 20 minutes before being brought to my table. My boyfriend got a different dish, and i kept picking off his plate because I was grossed out by the sushi. He only thing I likes were the potstickers. Good thing we had a groupon for this place. Otherwise I would had been more upset to have spent money on this place.
(2)
TK M.
My husband and I were in the area and Yelped this spot. The food and service is just so-so. If you are a sushi aficionado, you could be very disappointed. We have no idea how this place received 4 stars.
(2)
Susan H.
I used to enjoy going here. Sadly, the quality just isn't there these days. Swung by to grab some sushi (place was a ghost town) and the rice tasted sour and my rolls were far too sticky. They fell apart to boot. Booooooo I will not be returning. Such a shame with the relaxed atmosphere and being so close to home. I tried to discuss their Yelp reviews and the issues other customers expressed with regard to the horrid table service and reduced quality, but the only management that was available at the time spoke little English. The man he directed me to did nothing but make excuses. "We get busy...Sometimes, it's like that.", etc. Last time I was here, I had to instruct them on what goes into a VERY common fruity frou-frou cocktail...and I don't think my waiter smiled once the entire time. If you are on the near Southside, pass and go to "Chi Tung" in Evergreen Park, Sesame Inn's sister restaurant "Sushi Thaime"in Oak Lawn or "Woow"(Formerly Big Tuna) in Orland. The food and service outshines Sesame Inn by far.
(1)
DeeDee L.
Sesame Inn is a neighborhood staple, and my extended family in Beverly have been coming here for as long as it's been around. Ive got nothing much to add to all the other nice reviews of the place, really. Just wanted to add another set of stars to the place and wish them continued good business for years to come. Since I moved out of the neighborhood, I want to be sure they continue to have plenty of customers, so I can always come back! : )
(5)
Alzetta H.
Have been here numerous times. Have only had the sushi, shrimp fried rice and Mongolian beef. Have returned repeatedly chasing the same taste of the Mongolian beef from the first visit. It is on the verge of being inconsistent.
(3)
annette m.
Come on Southside...this is far better than ChiTung. Tried this place for the first time..as close as you can get to the quality in Chinatown.
(4)
Colleen M.
This place has awesome food! This is one of my favorite places to get sushi by my house. I love the atmosphere and the staff is very friendly. Food comes out fast!
(4)
Michael K.
Bruce and company are world class!!!
(5)
Amanda L.
Hailing from Oak Lawn, my family and I have been dining at Sesame Inn for years. The food is always fresh and absolutely delicious. I've never had a bad experience. The owner is an extremely kind and hard-working man. I've seen him assist the staff in waiting tables on particularly busy nights. He checks on the customers to see if they are satisfied with their meals, which is a personal touch that definitely does not go unnoticed. Some of my favorite items include the crab angle, pot stickers, sesame chicken, orange chicken, chicken pad thai (ask for a spicy preparation if you want a nice kick), and Godzilla sushi rolls. Yum! :)
(5)
Rocky G.
Thank God for Groupon, we have been to many nice restaurants, and like the Sesame Inn we have found many new places in our own back yard. Tonight was our 5th visit to Sesame Inn, and being Lent and Friday, Daisy had the Walnut Shrimp, I had the Mongolian beef but asked for the more spicy version. this is a nice family owned business with great service and prices and constantly great food. Around the corner is a big Chinese, Thai place that we will NEVER eat at again, go the extra block north and turn right on 95th about 2 blocks past the tracks on the right, I wouldn't steer you wrong
(4)
Melissa B.
This place is OK, but it has nothing on Chi Tung. The staff is friendly and the inside is really clean. I've never seen a long wait, so I'm thinking it's a good place to go if you're in a hurry. The food isn't bad. It's just always a step below the competition in the area.
(3)
Jack H.
This is the spot for sushi on the south side of Chicago. Chi Tong sucks, sorry but it does. It's loud, cramped and the sushi is dry and rubbery. Bruce, the owner of Sesame Inn, is always here and works so hard to have fresh fish and entrees. If you want amazing food in a nice quite atmosphere Sesame Inn is the spot.
(5)
Stephanie R.
I love Bruce. Hands down, one of the nicest, most genuine restaurant owners I have ever met. I used to go here once a week for dinner with my dad - 10 years ago! - and I am still a loyal customer. Bruce remembers me, remembers my dietary restrictions and my food is always wonderful. The sushi is some of the freshest on the south side and when I come in, I ask Bruce to get creative and it always ends up being delicious. Their seaweed salad and octopus is always fresh. The chinese food is delicious as well and I highly recommend the Mongolian Beef. its very spicy but totally delicious. The place is never that busy and I feel like the food is definitely a step above its nearby rival.
(5)
Betsy T.
I can't believe it took me this long to discover Sesame Inn. It's been down the street from me for half of my life, yet I somehow continued to be sucked into the bright and shiny Chi Tung. I brought a Groupon and had a girls' night out, complete with cocktails, sushi, edamame, and fried rice. Everything was out of this world. Probably the best fried rice I've had in my entire life. The sushi was very fresh and the selection was huge. (We ended up splitting a sampler boat) The service was excellent. Very attentive, yet not in your face. Our waitress was super sweet....I can't wait to go back!
(5)
Dragana M.
I've dined here before & the food was good. Came in today...horrible service...stood at the front hostess place to be seated. 2 people ahead of me & the lady was on the phone for about 15minutes. We almost walked out. Finally someone came to seat us. Inappropriately dressed for work-tank top that showed too much, sweats pants with rips in them. & to top it off food service was really slow. (15min to get some sushi-another 30 to get our main dishes) & the restaurant was dirty. Very disappointed.
(2)
Sevun H.
Went in this evening with my partner and must say everything we had was very delicious. The crab rangoon was lovely and was served with sweet and sour and some sort of wasabi dipping sauce on he side. I loooooved the wasabi sauce! The sweet and sour was excellent as well. Had the orange chicken and it won me over from first bite! I'm usually not an orange chicken kind of person but I decided to give it a try. The batter was not thick and heavy like some other places. Very light, and I would most certainly order it again. Even the white rice it was served with was very well prepared. Also had shrimp fried rice and shrimp and black bean sauce. They were also very delicious and to be honest all my dishes tasted better than anything I have ordered from their competitor around the corner. My only negative is for 10 bucks I was expecting more fried rice. My partner actually polished it off in one sitting and normally we always would have had leftovers. But maybe it was just so good he ate more than usual? I would go there again and would recommend them to others.
(4)
Andrea E.
Its simple.......it blows away Chi-tung. Best place around!
(5)
Alison B.
I have never eaten here -- only ordered out. Based on the other reviews, it would seem they serve better food to their dine-in customers. The Mongolian Beef is 12 bucks but the serving size feels like the lunch portion at another location -- it really only serves one person. And the beef is ok -- I wouldn't call it a "specialty." One night I ordered pickup cashew nuts chicken -- it came with diced microwaved chicken meat, what seemed to be frozen cubed vegetables, and raw cashew nuts thrown into the sauce. I would have rather they told me they didn't have any than make me a last-minute terrible version. The last time I ordered Beef Pad Thai the meat looked like the same consistency as the other beef (including the rather orange color) but upon eating a few pieces and closer inspection, the meat turned out to be pork. I have yet to find decent Chinese food on the south side -- I wouldn't care about portion size if the food was good. The food has been "meh" and sub par several times. We're not likely to go back.
(2)
Christina D.
I regularly go to Sushi Thaime and saw from the website they had the same owners. The food was really good, I had Shrimp Chow Mein and my boyfried had Pad Thai. We both liked our food, the portions are also pretty big. I really didn't care for Sushi Thaime's Chinese dishes but love the sushi. I was really happy to see that Sesame Inn had good food. I will definitely go to Sesame Inn again.
(4)
Adam W.
We are regulars and much prefer it to the competition. In particular we love the szechuan beef and szechuan green beans. One gripe, however, for takeout orders they are really stingy with the rice they give you. With an order of two full meals they just give one thing of rice, which is not nearly enough to cover both entrees. Drives me crazy.
(4)
Eleanore B.
This place looks so elegant and the staff is very accommodating. it rarely gets busy, but hopefully soon enough everyone will come to their senses and try this place. The sushi is always tasty to me, crispy veggies and fresh seaweed and I'm not even picky with my food but this just stands out to me. don't believe me? try for yourself. Definitely a nice place for a date too!
(5)
Phyllis S.
I've been a fan ever since Bruce and Betty opened the place. I was so thrilled to have a sushi joint in Evergreen Park, that for years I made it my personal business to bring every one I knew there, so they could check it out. NO ONE has ever complained! As far as sushi goes, Sesame Inn TOTALLY kicks Chi Tung's ASS! Now, it's not super-traditional food. (After all, this IS the South Side.) Over the years there's been some experimentation to see what the locals tend to like, and I think they've done a good job walking that line between giving folks what they want and offering new taste experiences. I've never had a bad meal, the wait-staff is friendly and I like the new(er) decor. Also, for those who want something to do on New Years Day, I HIGHLY recommend the All-you-care-to-eat Buffet for about $13. Since I've moved out of the neighborhood, its what I come back for every year. I am a little bummed that they serve mochi ice cream, instead of just the ice cream that they used to have, but oh well..
(5)
Bob D.
My sons chicken teryaki was pretty good if you like that sort of thing, a large enough portion he had lunch from it. The server was an asshole. Just a tyrannical jackass. Condescending to the extreme. The sushi is amateurish, it almost seems like they are having do it yourself sushi classes and sending the food out to the dining room. Uneven, unbalanced, bland, low quality overcooked rice. Did I mention the server was a dick. The sole piece of sashimi I tried was gutsy on my part. One of my creeds is to avoid sushi in the burbs, especially the southern burbs. I can only blame myself for the player to be named later replacement to my hamachi. A flavorless dense sinewy piece of mystery fish. Thanks bungholes. The only reason I am offering 2 stars is because single star reviews get buried by Yelp.
(2)
Joseph B.
My daughter choice for her 21th birthday. Didn't care for the one male waiter that was serving us but the food made up for his rudeness.
(4)
Phil M.
The sushi was ok- I've had better but the host was extremely unfriendly and seemed to not want to communicate. I'll go elsewhere for my sushi fix.
(2)
Michelle S.
Waitress and service was friendly and welcoming. However we wanted Sapporo beers and she informed us they were all out...? And when we ordered salads, she informed us they were out of ginger dressing. We were very much looking forward to both so we were disappointed and confused as to how/why they didn't have either of these. We ordered orange chicken, which was not very good. It was fresh but just didn't taste great. They do give you a huge portion though! I may give this place another chance in the hopes they are fully stocked and have a better dish to offer.
(2)
Tracy T.
I went to Sesame Inn because I purchased a Groupon and I was glad I did, I ordered the orange chicken, my husband had the Egg Foo Young and my son had the tempura shrimp. I must say that everything that I mentioned above was great. The restaurant is small but we went right before closing so it wasn't crowded at all. The service was nice as well as the atmosphere. Will be back.
(4)
John C.
Freshly prepared food quiet atmosphere. No MSG.
(4)
Sarah S.
Ordered take out from this place... but decor looked very nice.. so next time I will dine in. For my first visit I ordered a variety of Chinese and Thai dishes.. all to my delight. Pineapple fried rice, Thai fried rice, General Tsos chicken, cashew shrimp, and chicken with vegetables... all were very tasty. The eggrolls were average, but good and not overly greasy. For take out service they use good packaging and heavy bags so they don't break thru. Plenty of sauces to go with the meals and oh yes.. fortune cookies :) my fav The 2 people I dealt with were polite and gave great service I will be back for sure to sit and enjoy the atomsphere
(4)
JC W.
I first started going to Sesame Inn when they first opened back in early 2000, I enjoy the atmosphere, service and food. Bruce and Betty are the best. I will go in and sit at the sushi bar drink some Sake while talking to Bruce and watching him make my sushi. I always ask if the oyster are fresh, He makes the best oyster shooters when they are in season. Sesame Inn is so much better than Chi Tung, Sesame Inn service is the best hands down. Come and taste this southside treat
(5)
Dorin C.
Great food, great sushi! I used to think Chi Tung was the only place to go for Chinese in EP, but after going to Sesame Inn (and Sushi Thaime) I hardly ever eat Chi Tung. The food is great, the prices are great, and the owners are really nice people. This is a great place for a casual dinner with family or friends.
(4)
Nick G.
I've been here several times, and tried many times. One thing I'm not a fan of here, is the sushi. I had a few pieces of chewy stringy fish that just completely turned me off; I couldn't finish my meal. I didn't really care for the seaweed salad either, which is saying a lot because it's my favorite appetizer before having sushi. I wouldn't come here for sushi again.
(2)
Nakia H.
As much as I wanted to try the food at this establishment, which I had heard great things about, it has yet to happen. I called and spoke with the manager to inquire if they delivered to my address, after he happily assured me they did, I told him I would call back in 5 minutes after getting everyone's order together, and 2 minutes later, my cell phone rings, and it is the manager, who informs me that neither of his drivers will deliver to my address because they are afraid of being robbed. EXCUSE ME???!!!??? Did I honestly just hear what I thought I heard this man say to me? I could be mistaken, (though I don't believe I am), but isn't this a form of discrimination?? I have NEVER had an issue of any establishment of any sort delivering to me. And I must say, I am still extremely shocked by this. I would have fully understood if he had informed me that I was out of his delivery boundaries, but the reason you give a paying customer is, your driver is afraid of being robbed, and as the manager, you tell me there is nothing you can do about it. If giving you '0' stars was an option, that's definitely what you would have received. My dollars will never make their way into your establishment! Thanks for completely insulting me Sesame Inn. In that department, you would receive 5 stars...
(1)
Jason A.
Finally tried this place after years of driving past it. Service was friendly and fast. Chicken & Pineapple fried rice! It actually had big, tender, juicy pieces of chicken. Fresh, crunchy carrots, a few other veggies and eggs, it was moist and delicious! Best fried rice I've ever had! The sushi was the second best I've ever had. Way better than any other option on the South Side. The fish was the most fresh I've had in Chicago. The super white tuna was top quality, I can't wait to go back! The rolls had a generous amount of fish in them. I'd say the fish and rice were in about equal proportions, not the tiny dot of pink you see most places. Tamago (Japanese sweet omelette) is the sushi that sushi chefs are judged by, because a lot of care goes into making such a simple sushi. A lot of places buy it frozen and thaw it, and to me, that reflects the pride they take in their work. The tamago was made on site, fairly sweet, some of the best I've had, and you couldn't even see the layers. The chef obviously has had a good deal of training, and takes pride in his work. I'm not much of a decor person, but the interior was very nice and very clean. I can't believe there's so many people at Chi Tung, this place blows it away!! I didn't even like Chi Tung, this place I LOVE!!
(5)
Laura M.
Finally. I haven't had much luck with nearby sushi places (nor nail salons) and I am hoping that Sesame Inn will remain consistent when I do repeats. It is fresh, normal size (not like Chi-Tung), and tasty. The place is pretty hip in design for the south suburbs, and the service was nice. I am SO relieved that I found a sushi place instead of making a trek to the city. The sushi lunch menu is available M-Sunday and I found it to be quite affordable. Let's see: miso soup, cucumber salad, house salad with ginger dressing, chinese beef sticks (son ate them all), california roll, ebi fry roll, tekka roll, crazy roll, ebi fry plate, hot tea, and small sake. Total with tax: $47.85.
(4)
Megan B.
I have eaten at Sesame Inn a few times and it keeps getting better! I shared the sampler sushi plate with a girlfriend and we still had food left over. It was so delicious I wish that I could have finished it. As for the service, the wait staff was very attentive and helpful. Sesame Inn is definitely my new favorite sushi place!
(5)
Alicia S.
This is specifically written for the new years day buffet. The advertised price was 14.95 not bad but the choices were limited. There were a total of 5 dishes served no including the sushi buffet bar which need to be replenished. I was a little disappointed in the choices for buffet. drinks were not included and served in red solo cups were 1.99 per cup. Our brunch total 41.00. For that price, we could have eaten at a local sushi hibachi restaurant
(2)
Paul S.
Ordered a dish called Singapore something. It was supposedly only mildly spicy but the dish had clumps of curry that made my stomach feel - well - not good. Perhaps it was a bad day for the cook as all of the tables were filled and the people seemed to like their meals. Once I get the taste of curry out of my mouth I will likely try the Sesame Inn one more time.
(3)
A C.
I'm disappointed that I had to delete my old review of this place and drop it from 5 star to a single star. This place had gone downhill. I mean wow. WOW. The older sushi chef used to make delicious and fresh sushi, well blended,clean, well put together. His son(?) Not so much. Not only was my Philly roll made incorrectly (no avocado!! And no cream cheese on some of the rolls!), when I asked the waiter about it, I was yelled at! He said it depends on where you go. Umm, dude, I usually go here. AND it's on the menu. Come on now. The waiter did not check on us at all, was very rude to us when he did interact with us, and gave us our total written on a scrap of paper rather than a receipt. The food itself was NOT fresh, not even the rice!! And oddly cold; I've never had frozen sushi before. I left the sushi to-go platter on the table by accident; when my boyfriend went back in to get it, he was met with glares, no "good bye" or "thank you." I'm sorry, are we inconveniencing you by eating at your restaurant?? So bummed this place has gone down hill. This was me giving it a last chance, since my last few had been rather poor as well (their spicy rolls are just freaking strange, it tastes like mexican food!) I don't know if the old guy is in charge anymore, but it seems like who ever is now is simply going to run it into the ground.
(1)
Neko Mimi M.
By far, not the best sushi I've ever had. But sushi is so darned hard to find on the south side, and this place is miles ahead of Chi Tung in the sushi department that I'd feel guilty for giving them less than 4 stars. I've eaten here regularly since they opened. The fish is always fresh, and they have plenty of non-sushi items to choose from if you are with someone who's squeamish. They also have some non-Japanese fare, for the less adventurous. Waitstaff is polite and they do their best to be attentive under difficult circumstances (see below). The chef-owner is friendly, and will often chat up customers when business is slow. The space is clean and recently remodeled. Favorites: Chop Chae (a Korean fried noodle dish), Soba noodles, most of the house specialty maki. They do a decent handroll spicy tuna. And the unagi don is fantastic. Issues: Staff is often light even when the restaurant is busy, so plates can be slow to come out of the kitchen. The menu is rather limited, so if you have an adventurous palate, you may find them lacking. They are also often out of the stronger tasting fish such as saba (mackerel) because apparently non-asian south siders don't care for it (as per the owner).
(4)
Janene M.
I will not be returning here. My sister and I were looking for a new place for sushi. I had egg rolls, which were extremely dry, the house salad, which was fine, and lastly ebi tempura rolls. They do not have Japanese soy sauce only Chinese low sodium soy sauce. How can you serve sushi and not have Japanese soy sauce?? Chinese soy sauce totally ruins the flavor of the rolls. It is too salty, even if it is low sodium. Overall, the food just tastes ok. I would have been more satisfied going to Chi-Tung.
(2)
edith S.
A calming oasis Like coming for the lunch specials. Always have been met at the door with a friendly smile. Never a wait. also family friendly
(5)
Keith O.
This place is great -- and has been around awhile. I've visited twice lately (for dinner entrees) and probably 3-4 times for lunch about 7 years ago (when I worked nearby). The food quality is wonderful -- different from the busier, popular Asian-cuisine restaurant nearby -- and the service is just as good. My only concern -- largely from my most recent visit on a Saturday evening for dinner -- was that the place was NOT busy at all, and so the staff (with nothing much to do) were just kind of lined-up, standing around, and staring at the customers eating. This made it kind of awkward and uncomfortable, but as long as the food was good we didn't mind. At least the staff were nice and welcoming (if not bored)! I'll definitely go again for a quality, quieter alternative to the other local place. Thanks Sesame! :)
(4)
Mark C.
Good Food, Poor Service I feel a little sorry for the chef/owner, Bruce. He is the very kind man with a baseball hat and black apron who raced around as my wife and I were finishing our meal all the time with a big smile on his face. He asked us how our food was, apologized when we asked for water (and immediately got it for us) and thanked us for coming. Our waiter (a tall black-haired man with glasses) was much less neighborly. We entered and we had to find a greeter (who turned out to be the man with the glasses) who simply pointed at a table for us to go to. He then served us water in plastic cups shaped for tropical drinks which were stylish but held very little water. Over 20 minutes later he returned to simply ask what we wanted and advised us to order appetizers and main courses all at once. All this done without so much as a "Welcome" or a smile. Throughout the evening I asked him 3 or 4 times for a water refill which simply got us a head nod, an "okay," and the old brush-off (kind Bruce finally got us water after asking him once). When the meal was over, that black-haired waiter simply lobbed us the bill in the black binder from two tables away without so much as a "thanks for coming". My wife and I agreed that the food was good and it arrived quickly (after waiting over 20 minutes to make the order). My wife thought the food was just a tad bit cool. After looking around on the way out I noticed two thing. 1: We were the only ones with water in plastic tropical drink cups. 2: The black-haired man seemed to be the only waiter in the entire restaurant I hope before we come back again (which we plan to return again) that more waiters are hired so that tall black-haired man with glasses can smile and refill water in regular water glasses.
(3)
Noah C.
We don't eat Chinese food very often but when we do we come here. Last Friday night we had the worst service ever at Sesame Inn. The waiter was outright rude. I don't think we'll be back. Usually we are treated well here but this waiter was so rude that it has ruined this restaurant for us.
(1)
Keith M.
This place is phenomenal! Everything I've had there has always been better than good.
(5)
Ben V.
We ordered a diversity of items from their pan-asian menu and they all met our satisfaction. The place has a nice decor and was not busy when we were there. We'll come here again.
(4)
Maya R.
Love,love,love this place! The food is so fresh and ready in minutes! The menu is extensive and so much better than chi-tung.
(5)
Janet H.
I've been dining here for a few years, and have seen a steady decline in service. I tell you, the food is really delicious. My friends and I have ordered almost every dish and appetizer, and we've enjoyed them all. I don't think much of the sushi, to be honest. Go out to Orland - Ichiro and Fuji are better by a landslide. Or SakeBob in Oak Forest. What I base my review on today is the downslide in service when you dine in. No matter what time of day, no matter how busy - one waiter. For at least a dozen tables. Last Sunday I arrived at 4:30pm for an early dinner with 3 friends. We couldn't believe how long we sat before our drink order was taken. That waiter was running his behind off, so I know it wasn't that he was ignoring us. There were about 6 other tables dining. He took our drink orders and I look over at the sushi counter and the female owner had just arrived. She stood behind the counter laughing and chatting with her chef husband. She clearly saw the number of diners and the one waiter there. The only time she left her post behind her husband was when she sat at the table by the register, reading the newspaper. Is serving her customers beneath her? Terrible management. One other mention - the attire of the bus-staff. My favorite was a girl in sweat pants down on her hips, a hoodie and her hair in a crappy bun on top of her head. She literally looked like she came up from the basement after a nap. I won't be dining in any more. Take-out, if that.
(2)
Jackie B.
The food I ordered yesterday wasn't greatest I had shrimp and veggie tempura it was ok crispy duck very dry ad the sauce was extremely salty and I mean extremely salty could eat it shrimp fried rice was ok the general tso chicken was excellent I asked for extra spicy cause I like the hot peppers only two were found in the dish I only gave two stars because of the general tso but other than that I did not enjoy the food at all ad I don't think I will be going back ever again
(2)
Kelly W.
As part of a combined birthday party with my aunt, we were debating on where to go. I voted for Mexican food but my aunt suggested Sesame Inn. As I have never been here but absolutely love Chi-Tung, we decided to give this place a shot. It was a Friday night and the place was busy (as expected). However, they seemed extremely understaffed. They had 1 hostess, 1 bus boy, and 1 waiter. To start off the meal, our crab rangoons were forgotten and our edamame was served ice cold (yuck). We also ordered some sushi and it was not the best. I ordered a spicy tuna roll and the tuna was minced and had the texture of cat food. When it was time for the entrees, we ordered a bunch and shared within the group. My cousin and I split the General Tso chicken which ended up being the favorite out of all of them. I tried the Mongolain beef and was not a big fan. When I left, I seemed hungrier than usual after eating Chinese food and felt some-what disappointed. Although many people seem to enjoy this place, I'd choose Chi-Tung any day!
(2)
Sarah S.
I always leave here happy. The staff is outstanding! Great place for a calm, relaxing meal. I will bring anyone here who 'loves Chi Tung' and show them what they are missing. The only reason I bring up Chi Tung is because it is nearby the Sesame Inn and always over packed, loud and rushed. I used to go there because I liked the food until a friend suggested Sesame Inn. I am definitely a convert and do not ever need to look back as far as Asian cuisine in the area goes.
(5)
Liz H.
I really wanted to like this place since there are not a lot of Thai restaurants in the area but Sesame Inn is just average. The won tons are overpriced; the Satay chicken is okay; the tempura shrimp was large but a bit oily; and the chicken corn soup was bland. The chicken pad Thai was disappointing because the egg was overlooked, there was hardly any peanuts and no scallions. It was spicy and the chicken was well cooked. The best entree was the Yu Shang beef - a sweet/spicy sauce that was just right. I would go back again to try more entrees.
(3)
John S.
The Sesame Inn is the first place I ever heard of General Tso's chicken. A friend who used to live nearby would always order it when we came here, and I was so interested in it that I have since ordered the General Tso's fake chicken from a few places in San Francisco. The food I've had here has been good. It's not excellent, but it's not bad either. What I like most about this restaurant is its atmosphere. I'm used to really run down and really busy Chinese restaurants. This one is very calm inside, and I always seem to feel strangely relaxed immediately after being seated.
(4)
Kai Z.
I love Sesame Inn! Authentic? No, not really. It's pretty much Americanized Chinese food, but that doesn't mean it doesn't taste good and this place has variety out the wazoo, so there is something for everyone. I LOVE their Mongolian beef, Szechuan green beans, and the hot and sour soup. The sushi is good as well - delicious, fresh, affordable. Bruce (the owner) is awesome. He is always friendly and welcoming to the customers, always willing to talk with you, and greets me with a fist tap every time I come in. That's quality service.
(5)
Lana C.
I like the orange shrimp, which I order with fresh shrimp instead of fried. The pad thai is also great. Sushi is good, not the best I ever had, but I like it nonetheless. I come here regularly and get good service and good food.
(4)
Elizabeth K.
Stopped out of the blue and was pleasantly surprised. Nice atmosphere great food definitely will be going back.
(4)
Rahshonda K.
The curry chicken was really good! Sushi was not the best. My friend and I went around lunch time and it was not a lot of people in there which was surprising. Staff is very nice and the place is very quiet. Prices were good as well.
(4)
Andy S.
I have been coming here for years. It is probably one of my favorite Chinese restaurants in the South Side of Chicago. It also has the best Sushi in the South Side, but doesn't outshine those that you would find up north. Not only is the sushi great here, but also affordable! And in larger amounts than given in places like kamehachi or Tamarind. As far the Chinese cuisine goes, you get your money's worth. Unlike Yang's, Sesame Inn gives you a larger quantity of what you order and also much better quality. You don't have that gooey gelatin stuff on the Chicken with the assorted vegetables. You get plenty of Meat and a good balance of all the vegetables advertised on here. The egg rolls are the best. I urge northsiders to come check out what the South Side has to offer. Bruce is a friendly man and will always go out of his way to accommodate you and your party.
(4)
Jose J.
Good fresh Sushi Awesome service and really nice atmosphere Sushi isn't to expense either
(4)
Tina B.
Gross. All of the food tasted bad and looked, well, gross. Like you couldn't really discern what it was exactly or what meat was being used. And there were flies all over the place. And - AND - everything took a long time. And, even though we were the only ones in there during the height of lunch time, we had to go looking for our server to pay. And it wasn't cheap! DAYUMN y'all! Eeew. I would never go back there and it makes me throw up a little bit in my mouth every time I pass it on the street.
(1)
Melicious J.
I seriously visit this place like once a week!!! I know everyone goes to Chi Tungs,but I prefer to not have to wait 40 mins + for a table. I think Sesame Inn had just as good ( if not better on some dishes) Good than Chi Tungs. The atmosphere is very laid back and quiet. Service is quick and very friendly. I order a range of things from Sushi, to Orange Chicken to Pad Thai, so I have tried most dishes and can't say that I have ever had anything that I didn't like from there.
(5)
LeKesha T.
Too many people have been sleeping on this spot. The owner usually greets you when you come in, the sushi rolls are monstrous and the sesame chicken is totally divine! They have had plenty of offers on Groupon for a $15 for $30 deal, so an inexpensive way to get some delicious Chinese/Japanese cuisine. By the way, did I tell you about their miso soup?! Ah man, the stuff that the end of a cold is made of... just UM, UM, UMMMMM! Okay, Im gonna go now... but check them out. You won't be disappointed!
(5)
Randy N.
This is a very nice, neighborhood oriented place. Personal and professional service with a wide ranging menu that includes Chinese, Japanese and Thai. This also means it is not too deep on any cuisine, so they may not have what you are looking for. The items they do have are all above average, and even have a $1 per-peice Sushi menu. All are very fresh, delivered in a fast, friendly manner. The owner is almost always there, and makes sure you are happy. Way, way better than near-by competitor Chi-Tung...if you like Chi-Tung, you will think you have gone to heaven at Sesame Inn.
(4)
Tim W.
Best Lunch Sushi on the south side. The salmon practically melts on your tongue and the rice doesn't fall apart when eaten as two pieces...the assembly is perfect. I like the wonton & miso soups as well as the fried wonton. Crazy noodle with Chicken is my favorite dinner dish (similar to Thai Lad Nar) although I generally visit for lunch for sushi. Tina (review below) might find herself more at home at Chi Tung up the street as she appears to prefer American-Chinese style over traditional Chinese. I've been a customer for years (at least three, since I moved to Evergreen Park) and both Sesame Inn and Chi Tung are among the cleanest restaurants I've ever been in. Update Dec 2012 I've found myself going to Sesame Inn less and less over the past year. The sushi (the main reason I go) quality has suffered. A fierce turnover of sushi chefs and wait staff hasn't helped, either. The sushi rice doesn't hold together as well with the new chefs preparations' and the last time I ordered Edemame there were around a dozen beans on a plate. I almost never see the owner anymore.
(3)
Jahi J.
If the first thing I remember is the service that usually means the food wasn't that great. The place was busy, that's a good thing but the service shouldn't suffer significantly because of it. So the food, I wanted fried rice with my orange chicken, I'll pay extra, but you can't substitute? Is it because you're busy? The orange chicken was better than Panda Express but what is that saying? My friend's pad looked good and plentiful. My thai iced tea was weak.
(3)
Tracy H.
Consistently good food (don't have any experience with the sushi), decent service, casual atmosphere, reasonable prices, never really crowded. A great alternative to Chi Tung. I would, however, steer clear of that dessert.
(4)
Jamie L.
I heart Sesame Inn! We get delivery, pick up and we dine in - i agree - the salmon is fantastic! Tina also says "y'all" in her review, she is probably used to eating carp in the south...
(5)
Robin W.
Sesame Inn is a family owned business that I've been supporting for years! They've been able to hold on even though the massive Chi Tung (serving Chinese, Thai, AND Japanese cuisine) opened down the street. Where Chi Tung falls short, married Bruce and Betty pick up the slack at Sesame... great authentic sushi rolls, Real Crab (Chi Tung uses flavored pollack sticks), fantastic Rangoon, dumplings, noodle dishes, and of course loving, welcoming service! I really wish people would drive an extra block north of Chi Tung and give Sesame a try!
(4)
Steven M.
This place was the best around. But the hillbilly's around here would rather go with popular than good.
(5)
Elizabeth C.
We moved to Evergreen from the Northside. We love the neighborhood but the cuisine is lacking. Pizza, burgers, hot dogs...and that's about it. The first time I ordered Sesame Inn I was not too impressed. The food was not bad- just not to my liking. At any rate we didn't order again for several months. Then a friend who grew up in the neighborhood kept urging us to go back and try the Sushi and so finally on Friday night we did. I am very glad we did. The food was excellent-especially the sushi and I agree that yes...it does kicks Chi Tungs Ass! The restaurant had a calming energy and was very clean. Service was good. I am a fan. One thing I think they should incorporate into their menu is brown rice. I would probably order from them a minimum of once a week if I could have brown rice instead of white.
(4)
Steven C.
This place is the shit! They used to have a really good lunch special where you could eat all the sushi that you wanted for only $15. I think me and my friend Steve had our fair share before they took it off the menu because of us. Anyway this place is amazing and they remodled the entire place to look like some kind of Chinese palace, pretty cool. Food's good and Bruce the guy who runs this place is the man. Eat here for sure!
(5)
Samantha J.
Let me start off by saying I did have high hopes for this place because an old friend always raved about their sushi. I picked up a Groupon and headed over there for some dinner with my mom. We ordered 4 rolls and somehow the bill still came out to 50$ even with the 30$ off from the Groupon. And let me tell you, the sushi was by no means worth that ridiculous price. 50 dollars for 4 rolls of sushi and 2 waters is insane. Not to mention the rolls were almost laughably huge (you couldn't fit them in your mouth hardly) and I think it was because they didn't want to give you as many (those rolls only had like 5 pieces of sushi and were apparently 14 dollars.) Overall the quality was just not great, they had no flavor whatsoever and the eel sauce and rice were both bitter. I also really disliked the spicy sauce they used for the spicy tuna, etc. because it tasted really fake like you could find it at a grocery store. They don't skimp on the fish for their benefit it was loaded with tuna over the top for the Kamikaze roll. But I just really didn't care for any of it and will not be returning there again. Another low point was the service. The waiter seemed rude and took forever to first approach the table. Then when he did he took our orders and we didn't see him again until we had to wave him down so we could pay. When we needed water refills someone came out of the kitchen and brought it to us. It was one of the worst waiters I've ever had. And being a waitress I understand it can be difficult but they weren't very busy and he was just plain rude. So the combination of terrible service and extremely bland sushi killed this place. I always go to Big Tuna (Now known as Woow Sushi) in Orland and they blow this place out of the water. For only ten dollars from 11am-2:30pm you can get a 3 roll lunch special for ten dollars and every roll they have on that list (I've tried just about them all) blow this place out of the water. they even have an all you can eat special for 20$ there int he same time frame. Honestly, Woow Sushi is amazing and I don't think I've ever had better sushi than there and it's only in Orland. I'd say people looking for good sushi should try it there. (PS they give you a free edamame appetizer after 4pm since the prices are slightly more expensive when not on the lunch special. )
(1)
Margaret B.
My favorite Chinese place; no, wait, one of my favorite places, period. The General Tso's chicken and the shrimp pad thai are religious experiences. Their New Year's buffet (January 1st, that is - I haven't managed to get there for Chinese New Year) is a real treat, but get there early - they get crowded very quickly.
(5)
Jay B.
The Sesame Inn at first glance doesn't look like much, but once you sit down and your food arrives you get a full understanding of why loyal customers stay loyal. The menu consists of Korean, Chinese and sushi dishes. The sushi here is very fresh and prepared by the owner Bruce himself. The non-sushi dishes are prepared by the owner's wife Betty and are always fresh and plentiful. The service here is excellent. They do have a full liquor list available. *EDIT: They are no longer doing the sushi buffet but have now implemented a sushi deal with $1 peices and $4 maki rolls. Still more than worth every cent even full price!
(5)
Johnny A.
This is just about as good as it gets for south side Asian food. The sushi is pretty dang good too! It far outshines its' rival Chi-Tung. Better service, atmosphere, and food. Try it!
(5)
Kevin O.
My first reaction when opening the take-out bag was, "Where's the rice?" I ordered a small Sesame chicken and it came with a mini container of rice. But, it was a perfect size for one person. A little more rice would have been great. But, the sesame chicken was really good... not overcooked like most places. A little more spice in the sauce would have made it the best I ever had, but it was an A. Can't wait to try it again.
(4)
D P.
Better than Chi Tung. After CT opened again, it hasn't been as good. Sesame Inn is awesome. No waiting, polite staff, GREAT food. Best Pad Thai I have had. Good sushi as well. Kinda hoping this place stays under the radar, so it doesn't get too crowded. I order from here nowadays, rather than Chi Tung. Price is cheap-moderate -- depends on what you get!!
(5)
Marcos L.
This place is perfectly acceptable. And would somebody please tell TIna B. that that little shtick about how "throwing up a little bit in my mouth" stopped being cute or funny about 15 years ago? If I have to read another review wherein the reviewer thinks he/she is being clever by saying this, I'm going to throw up and not in my mouth either. Lordy. Here's a good rule of thumb: If you learned it from television, it doesn't make you look smart to say it. Not the first time, not the hundredth.
(4)
Nicki C.
I have been going to Sesame since it first opened a few years back. I am a HUGE sushi person, and the customer service is just as important as the food. I will say, I am treated better and food isn't as expensive as a nearby sushi restaurant that I will leave nameless. I am always greeted with a smile and a hello from Bruce, the owner and sushi chef. I enjoy sitting at the sushi bar and watch Bruce's magic at work. I used to travel to the northside of Chicago (my old stomping grounds) to find a sushi joint, but I don't have to travel that far anymore.
(4)
Annie W.
While Chi-tung does have good Chinese food, the sushi and thai at Sesame Inn are far better. Totally fresh and super afordable. The service is great too. They don't advertise as much so they are really a hidden gem. It's a bit small but that makes it cozier. I haven't been in since they remodeled but I plan on going tonight. Highly recommended if you are looking for fresh sushi!
(5)
Tina C.
I would say that this is the best place to get Sushi. Bruce is the owner at he always smiles, and gets to know each and every customer. A great place to go.
(5)
B. J.
I'll never order from there again, but not just because the food is mediocre. After my last delivery, a pack of cigarettes I left outside near my door mysteriously went missing. They were there immediately before the teen-aged delivery driver showed up; gone when I went out for a fix 15 minutes later. The entrance to my home is well off the street and secluded, so it's unlikely someone else came along and pinched my smokes. I called the restaurant to inquire and he denied taking them. While I can't prove he's the culprit, I'm too distrustful now to take a chance that something else will turn up missing the next time I get a yen for Chinese so it's Chi Tung from here on out (whose food, btw, is extraordinary).
(1)
kina r.
I dine here once or twice a week. This IS the freshest sushi on the south side. The fast and friendly service is always a plus. The owner Bruce and/or his wife are always on hand to greet you and make sure you are enjoying dining experience. My family went tonight for the New Year's buffet, and everything was delicious. I especially liked the happy family and the ebi tempura rolls.
(5)
angela p.
I love this place a lot. It's nice, relaxing and everyone there is very friendly. The food's great, too!
(5)
Shawn L.
Love this place. Not quite on a par with Chi Tung but it's never crowded and its usually quiet. Good food at good prices.
(5)
Yuki C.
This is a great place for a date. No wait, amazing food. It beats Chi-tung for atmosphere and service.
(5)
andrea l.
Definitely would prefer this place over chi tung, not to knock that place either though. Had the fried rice, gyoza, crab rangoon, mongolian beef, and some sushi. THe fried rice didn't have the same grease level as the fried rice I am used to and you could actually taste the flavor of all that goodness. The appetizers were great as well. I'm not a big mongolian beef fan overall but this seemed to be as good as all the others I have had, a little less savory and a little sweeter in fact than others. The server even helped us out and found a way to make our meal cheaper by ordering it a different way, classy! Sesame Inn is a great space, amazing bathrooms, polite/helpful service, and decent parking. I've yet to find better in the area!
(4)
rose f.
the owners are really friendly and the sushi is good. i think its much better than 'that other place' in evergreen park.
(4)
Gregg W.
We're relatively new transplants from the north side, and every time we eat here we wonder why there aren't more customers in the place. We always get a range of dishes, usually at least one Japanese, one Chinese and one Thai, we mix it up, and everything is always excellent. Service is very polite and efficient. Prices are ridiculously low compared to north side joints.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
The popularity of Chinese food in America can be adjudicated by the appearance of China Town in many major cities in the United State of America. The popular trend of ordering or opting for Chinese take away food isn't unknown in America. Chinese take away food comes to rescue when you're too tired from work or too exhausted to cook. No one can resist the temptation of eating spicy noodles, shrimp, chicken, beef or pork cooked in the sweet and spicy sauce. The cooking method of authentic Chinese food is a lot different compared to what is served in America.
Generally, Chinese use dark meat small bones and organs to cook dishes but this changes when you are eating American-Chinese fusion food prepared using white boneless meat cooked with broccoli, carrots and onions. Back in China, the food is less spicy and oily as they favor steaming and braising method for cooking the most popular dishes. So, if you have a taste for authentic Chinese food, then try finding a real Chinese restaurant in the city. You can also try the most popular fusion Chinese food like Pecking Duck, Chicken Feet, Hot Pot, Shrimp Dumpling Soup, Mapo Tofu, Wontons, Chop Suey, Egg Rolls and not to forget Fortune Cookies.
There are not many restaurants in America serving authentic Chinese food. A little research on Restaurant Listings directory can help you locate the best Chinese restaurants in the city. Chinese cuisine is continuously evolving, and you can find a variety of dishes categorized as the food for lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, vegan, vegetarian, and diabetic friendly. So, if you have a group of friends with different taste patterns, save the hassle and visit the nearest Chinese restaurant in your city.
Mark D.
Excellent quality Chinese food at a reasonable price. Whenever I want to take my family out for an elegant Chinese dinner we go to Sesame Inn. The menu selection is excellent and prices reasonable. The customer service is fast and friendly and the wait time to be seated is never long. This place has the best quality orange chicken I have ever tasted. My wife and 3 kids agree. Highly recommended!
(5)Jen B.
Poor Service from our Server but amazing Food! It saddens me that just about every restaurant we visit in Chicago has employees with terrible customer service skills. No greeting, warm welcome or any kindness of any sort from our Server. Just dry ROBOTIC. Thank you Mr. Roboto
(3)Brett H.
Very disappointed by their handling of an online order (through their website). Apparently the order never actually showed up in their computer's print out so we waited for 90 minutes for a delivery that never came. No big deal. Accidents happen. It was the next part of the story that accounts for my two star rating... I called 15 minutes before closing time on a Sunday and simply asked if something may be wrong with my order. I advised that I had my confirmation number but was told repeatedly I must have ordered from elsewhere and nothing was in the computer. I then drive to the restaurant and show the usual "manager" (?owner?) both my order number email receipt and my charged bank statement. I am still told to follow up and he seemed confused that his restaurant even had its own website. I pushed and only after another 5 minutes was my order actually found. The end result was a voided transaction and no food after 2 hours of waiting. It's sad that this is something I'm writing a Yelp review about because I've been coming to Sesame Inn for nearly 3 years and I am pretty surprised by the lack of trust of my concern, lack of follow through, or even a sincere apology (re:comp'd order) for a issue like this. Mistakes happen: it's okay, really, but own an honest mistake and make it right and you'll have a happy customer. Otherwise...
(2)Denise D.
I have tried this place several times now, and either they've upped their game or I was there on a bad day. I like going for lunch where there are sushi specials and you get that cute sheet of paper to mark off which items you'd like. My only complaint, but it's a big one, is their spicy tuna roll. I LOVE spicy tuna rolls, but there's is bad. Really bad. The tuna isn't bad, but whatever they use to make it spicy sure is. Most places sort of chop up the tuna and combine with a spicy sauce for the spicy tuna roll, but here they keep the tuna intact and spread or sprinkle a spice mix unevenly into the roll. Some bites are fire hot, some bites have no spice. The consistency of the bites with the spice is weird, almost sandy. It's very unpleasant. There are still plenty of yummy choices, though, and I'm always content with everything else.
(4)aj b.
Kamikaze roll was bad. Fish is not fresh. Roll is tiny for 12 bucks that they charge!!! Cucumber roll tasted frozen. Terrible sushi. We won't be back, for sure. This is a picture of the meal for 30 bucks minus small appetizer. Ridiculous!
(1)Jeudi J.
Better than previous visits for sure. Got a roll with very nice tempura shrimp inside, eel and avo outside with eel sauce; just delicious. Spicy tuna roll with tuna and salmon on top could have used a little something to snazz it up, but was fresh and good with quite a lot of fish. And the pad Thai with shrimp was really luscious, with quite a few medium shrimp and very saucy, like I prefer. Had an expired Groupon and they gave me the value I paid without a problem, and service was good. I think they're getting better with time and now I know a couple things I really like there, for next time.
(4)Stephanie H.
Decided to give this place a try after a few disappointing trips to Chi Tung. I was not disappointed. The food was delicious and the service was great. I will definitely be returning.
(5)Dreena L.
This restaurant was not even worth dining in. The outside of the place was nice seemed kind of like a small intimate establishment. My boyfriend and I walked in was greeted with the smell of cleaning products mixed with cooked food and a hint of staleness. Not great for me but my boyfriend suggested we give it a try. So the hostess directed us to our table and it was sticky and wet. Asked if we can get some napkins to wipe it down. We waited for about ten minutes prior to our waiter coming over to see about us and he was very standoffish. He didn't say hello, sorry about the wait, what can I get for you...etc...etc...etc...he just said, "Are you ready to order?" He actually looked as if he was over it already and didn't want to be there. Actually he is the same guy that all the other reviewers have been complaining about so I'm shocked he is still working there. Maybe it's a family owned restaurant #shrug. We ordered water and told him we were still looking at the menu but I couldn't take it anymore. I had to leave. I am a stickler about service and I give you what you give me so we left and went to my absolute favorite spot in Homewood (Asian Harbor check them out) for better service and quite possibly better food.
(1)Sarah L.
I have been here several times, and this place is the definition of hit or miss. It's definitely preferable to Chi Tung on busy nights, but can't beat Sushi Thaime for the Sushi. The food is either absolutely fantastic or highly questionable, no consistency whatsoever. The service, however, is deplorable. The same server, a man in his 30s(?) with a hair style that yearns to be anywhere but in a suburban restaurant, is awful. It takes the staff forever to seat you (if you don't give up and seat yourself) let alone bring you water, ask about beverages, etc. Please promote the busboy, he's the only one who gives a damn.
(3)J Ted A.
Amazing! Went for the first time 2 days ago...for lunch. The price is fantastic and the food even better. Do the lunch menu.
(5)Glenn H.
Good food, not crowded, reliable quality.frindly service. Especially like the hot and sour soup.
(4)Emily A.
I have been coming here for years with my family and boyfriend. Love that they offer a Groupon. I typically opt for the pad thai with tofu (spicy) or vegetable maki, but I branched out and tried the Beverly maki roll on my last visit. Hands-down, best roll I have tried in the south suburbs. Although the service is a little slow, I always enjoy my meal.
(4)Chris C.
Came here with the family as only some like Sushi. Came early on Sunday evening and it was empty, service is pretty slow as they are very focused on take out customers, but the kids like the Japanese Sprite. The quality of the fish was not great, but it was alright and the chicken dishes that the others had was good.
(4)Keith P.
Great little place. Usually gets the overflow when Chi Tung is too crowded, but don't let that take away from how good they are. Great food, Great prices !
(5)Sam O.
Went in with a groupon. The sushi was bland. Service was ok. I may try them again but not sure.
(2)Serena M.
I really love this place but the last time I went I was really disappointed in the duck. Which I was really looking forward too.the duck wasn't crispy like the description says. It was really rubbery and it looked undercooked. Other then that service and the sushi was awesome. Please try the Thai ice tea very yummy if your looking to try "new things"
(2)Patricia M.
I've driven past this place for years. Dined at Sesame Inn for the first time last night. Nice, clean place. Good fresh sushi! I loved the Godzilla Maki' Service was a little slow (not at all crowded either) and could have been a little friendlier. Tried a new cocktail advertised on the tables...horrible & expensive. I will go again.
(3)Tamara M.
I enjoyed this place, I found them off of Groupon and decided to give them a try and I am happy I did. The crab Rangoon (even though it had another name. It still was a crab Rangoon) was delicious, the sesame chicken was flavorful and yummy. the pad Thai wasn't bad and the egg roll was delicious. I had no complaints of this place because I ordered dishes that I assumed would be hard for them to mess up. The waitress seemed to have a attitude problem but I didn't really pay her no mind so it was whatever. I cant say if I would go back to, its more of if I'm in the neighborhood and I wanted Chinese food then I may stop by
(3)David N.
A solid back-up plan when Chi Tung is filled to capacity. All of our visits have come during the lunch rush, and we've yet to be disappointed. Quality sushi rolls and generous lunch portions make it an easy, Chi Tung-less pill to swallow. Service can be a bit slow, and ticket times are longer than most, but the food has always been excellent, and we have yet to put up with an annoying crowd. For my money, this place is spot on, and a worthy adversary for its nearby counterpart.
(4)Danielle K.
Groupon brought us to this restaurant for a date night. Hostess could use some help with her greeting skills, but hostess is also the phone receptionist for to-go orders, and the pick up cashier. We were not greeted as we walked in because she was on the phone, then when she was finished she said "oh just sit there" and walked away. We sat down and were greeted by a very friendly waitress, then ordered drinks and apps. Appetizers arrived (potstickers and crab angle) and it was all GOOD!!! Very fresh and hot, not sitting under heat lamps before service. Entrees came I had sushi and husband had Mongolian beef. Everything was great!!! Sushi was fresh and the Mongolian beef was not short on taste. A great menu with lots of variety to choose from, big portions. We will definitely return to the restaurant, but maybe on a not so busy night.
(3)Tonya H.
I was deceived into thinking that the food was good by the number of patrons. The Crazy Noodle dish was swimming in a bland cooking oil. Drink a bottle a bottle of Wesson and save 10 bucks. Wanted to run home and vomit what I did eat.
(1)barry s.
Tried them in mothers day when the power was out at chi-Tung.. The egg rolls were like the frozen ones at sams club, only deep fried. The sushi was not as fresh as chi Tung. The meal tasted similar to something you would get at the mess hall while serving in the marine core. Never again. I don't know how this place stays in business.
(1)Raphael M.
Sushi is great. Service is not the greatest though. Waiter is not really interested in serving. But looks at you like you are crazy
(3)Buttermilk P.
We wanted to make sure the first time wasn't a fluke. It wasn't. This time we had Pad Se Ew w/ chicken, General Tso's Chicken and Shrimp Egg Foo Young. Good grief. This confirmed my original belief that this was the best Chinese and Thai food I ever had. The flavors are like a symphony in your mouth and the portions are generous (although the gravy on the Egg Foo Young was a tad bit salty for our taste). One of the things we appreciate the most about the Sesame Inn is that its consistency affords us the confidence to experiment with the menu. You know how some places only do certain things well and if you stray from what you know, you'll be sorry? Not here. We were talking about what we would try next time, a few minutes after we started eating. Aug. 2014 My wife and went back to Sesame Inn again. This time we ordered Thai Curry Fried Rice w/Chicken and Orange Chicken......................I wanted to bust through their kitchen doors and start kissing people. The food here is soooo good! Ironically, I get sad every time we visit this place. Why? There is another Asian restaurant about a 1/2 mile away from Sesame that is extremely popular. They recently built a brand new facility from the ground up and their parking lot is a city block long. The place is always jam packed. Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, you name it, you can't get in the door it's so full With all seriousness, I don't get it. The food is.....I've had better food at the local hole in the wall take-out joint. They can't light a match to Sesame Inn. They're not in the same hemisphere. Yet the owner of Sesame is doing everything short of giving his food away to drum up business. I guess that's life. I'm just glad we found Sesame Inn. They have definitely earned my continued support.
(5)Gina V.
I visited for the first time on Wednesday when I wasn't feeling well. I got a very simple order of chicken fried rice to go. It was done quickly. When I got home to eat it, I found it to be exactly what I needed. It was very tasty. It tasted fresh and was perfect. I will be back!
(5)Ro D.
The sister restaurant to the Oak Lawn Sushi Thaime. The sushi rolls were not as tightly wrapped, but the taste was incredible. We had the sushi boat with 4 nigri and 4 sashimi. The Chinese beef sticks were succulent with flavor, no need for any sauce accompaniment. The Highlight of our meal was the Spicy Crab dish. Wow!! I'm definitely a fan as long as this stays on the menu. The owner is very friendly, he greets each regular customer with a warm welcome. The service though good is a bit slow, but in a close atmosphere like this, it's worth the wait. Cheers!
(3)C M.
Sushi is decent. The rolls are really basic, but they have cheap lunch specials. I don't know how other people said that the orange chicken was good. I wouldn't recommend that or their fried rice.
(3)Agnes L.
Look for this restaurant on Groupon, as they often have offers. My most recent visit was a $30 value that I bought for $15, which yields enough food for three to four people. (I took home plenty of leftovers.) My friend and I ordered the Tom Yum soup with shrimp for two, PanangNu Thai beef curry and the Szechuan chicken. All ingredients were very fresh, most especially notable was the crisp broccoli accompanying the chicken. All meat was tender. And all spice levels were just right with enough kick to jump start my taste buds but not burn them. In comparison to other Asian cuisine in the area, I would say that Sesame Inn is comparable to its biggest competitor, Chi-Tung, in value and quality. The biggest plus to coming here over Chi-Tung is that there isn't much of wait. Sesame Inn's partner restaurant down the road on 95th is Sushi Thaime. The space is much larger at Sesame Inn than Sushi Thai Me, thus better for groups. At Sesame Inn, I highly suggest getting their Chinese and Thai food over the sushi. (In prior visits, I've had dishes from each section of the menu.) To be honest, I'm always a little wary of sushi at places that also have Chinese food because preparing sushi is a patient art - a drastically different process than cooking a quick stir-fry.
(4)John D.
AWFUL. On a recommendation from a couple of friends, gave it a try. Egg rolls are chewy and bland. The meat was more like bland steamed taco meat than anything remotely resembling what an egg roll should be. Pineapple fried rice with chicken... the rice was still white, barely fried. The chunks of vegetables were close to raw. In fact, the onions were so close to raw that the were way, way strong. Overpowering raw. Wife had Pad Thai. Bland, with an odd sauce. Honestly, we threw both dishes out after a few bites and are waiting for Chi Tung to deliver as I type this. Careless preparation, just slap it in the pan and call it a day. If you want bland rice with raw vegetables, this is the place for you....
(1)Hungry M.
Had a very nice time here. Cannot say enough about Bruce. Very friendly, professional and courteous. We had the 12 piece sashimi platter, a California roll, the orange chicken and the sesame chicken, all outstanding. Very affordable even without our Groupon coupon with knocked off $15. If I am in the area again, I will stop in with hesitation.
(4)Yuri L.
Nope, not good at all. For one, the service was horrible, the waiter looked like he wanted to die than be at work dealing with people. The busboy was a lot more attentive than him. One of the girls that worked there, I think she was just coming in to check on things started to seat people, in her PJs which had a huge hole by her ass. Sushi was disgusting, I saw that my order was up by the bar, and say there for 20 minutes before being brought to my table. My boyfriend got a different dish, and i kept picking off his plate because I was grossed out by the sushi. He only thing I likes were the potstickers. Good thing we had a groupon for this place. Otherwise I would had been more upset to have spent money on this place.
(2)TK M.
My husband and I were in the area and Yelped this spot. The food and service is just so-so. If you are a sushi aficionado, you could be very disappointed. We have no idea how this place received 4 stars.
(2)Susan H.
I used to enjoy going here. Sadly, the quality just isn't there these days. Swung by to grab some sushi (place was a ghost town) and the rice tasted sour and my rolls were far too sticky. They fell apart to boot. Booooooo I will not be returning. Such a shame with the relaxed atmosphere and being so close to home. I tried to discuss their Yelp reviews and the issues other customers expressed with regard to the horrid table service and reduced quality, but the only management that was available at the time spoke little English. The man he directed me to did nothing but make excuses. "We get busy...Sometimes, it's like that.", etc. Last time I was here, I had to instruct them on what goes into a VERY common fruity frou-frou cocktail...and I don't think my waiter smiled once the entire time. If you are on the near Southside, pass and go to "Chi Tung" in Evergreen Park, Sesame Inn's sister restaurant "Sushi Thaime"in Oak Lawn or "Woow"(Formerly Big Tuna) in Orland. The food and service outshines Sesame Inn by far.
(1)DeeDee L.
Sesame Inn is a neighborhood staple, and my extended family in Beverly have been coming here for as long as it's been around. Ive got nothing much to add to all the other nice reviews of the place, really. Just wanted to add another set of stars to the place and wish them continued good business for years to come. Since I moved out of the neighborhood, I want to be sure they continue to have plenty of customers, so I can always come back! : )
(5)Alzetta H.
Have been here numerous times. Have only had the sushi, shrimp fried rice and Mongolian beef. Have returned repeatedly chasing the same taste of the Mongolian beef from the first visit. It is on the verge of being inconsistent.
(3)annette m.
Come on Southside...this is far better than ChiTung. Tried this place for the first time..as close as you can get to the quality in Chinatown.
(4)Colleen M.
This place has awesome food! This is one of my favorite places to get sushi by my house. I love the atmosphere and the staff is very friendly. Food comes out fast!
(4)Michael K.
Bruce and company are world class!!!
(5)Amanda L.
Hailing from Oak Lawn, my family and I have been dining at Sesame Inn for years. The food is always fresh and absolutely delicious. I've never had a bad experience. The owner is an extremely kind and hard-working man. I've seen him assist the staff in waiting tables on particularly busy nights. He checks on the customers to see if they are satisfied with their meals, which is a personal touch that definitely does not go unnoticed. Some of my favorite items include the crab angle, pot stickers, sesame chicken, orange chicken, chicken pad thai (ask for a spicy preparation if you want a nice kick), and Godzilla sushi rolls. Yum! :)
(5)Rocky G.
Thank God for Groupon, we have been to many nice restaurants, and like the Sesame Inn we have found many new places in our own back yard. Tonight was our 5th visit to Sesame Inn, and being Lent and Friday, Daisy had the Walnut Shrimp, I had the Mongolian beef but asked for the more spicy version. this is a nice family owned business with great service and prices and constantly great food. Around the corner is a big Chinese, Thai place that we will NEVER eat at again, go the extra block north and turn right on 95th about 2 blocks past the tracks on the right, I wouldn't steer you wrong
(4)Melissa B.
This place is OK, but it has nothing on Chi Tung. The staff is friendly and the inside is really clean. I've never seen a long wait, so I'm thinking it's a good place to go if you're in a hurry. The food isn't bad. It's just always a step below the competition in the area.
(3)Jack H.
This is the spot for sushi on the south side of Chicago. Chi Tong sucks, sorry but it does. It's loud, cramped and the sushi is dry and rubbery. Bruce, the owner of Sesame Inn, is always here and works so hard to have fresh fish and entrees. If you want amazing food in a nice quite atmosphere Sesame Inn is the spot.
(5)Stephanie R.
I love Bruce. Hands down, one of the nicest, most genuine restaurant owners I have ever met. I used to go here once a week for dinner with my dad - 10 years ago! - and I am still a loyal customer. Bruce remembers me, remembers my dietary restrictions and my food is always wonderful. The sushi is some of the freshest on the south side and when I come in, I ask Bruce to get creative and it always ends up being delicious. Their seaweed salad and octopus is always fresh. The chinese food is delicious as well and I highly recommend the Mongolian Beef. its very spicy but totally delicious. The place is never that busy and I feel like the food is definitely a step above its nearby rival.
(5)Betsy T.
I can't believe it took me this long to discover Sesame Inn. It's been down the street from me for half of my life, yet I somehow continued to be sucked into the bright and shiny Chi Tung. I brought a Groupon and had a girls' night out, complete with cocktails, sushi, edamame, and fried rice. Everything was out of this world. Probably the best fried rice I've had in my entire life. The sushi was very fresh and the selection was huge. (We ended up splitting a sampler boat) The service was excellent. Very attentive, yet not in your face. Our waitress was super sweet....I can't wait to go back!
(5)Dragana M.
I've dined here before & the food was good. Came in today...horrible service...stood at the front hostess place to be seated. 2 people ahead of me & the lady was on the phone for about 15minutes. We almost walked out. Finally someone came to seat us. Inappropriately dressed for work-tank top that showed too much, sweats pants with rips in them. & to top it off food service was really slow. (15min to get some sushi-another 30 to get our main dishes) & the restaurant was dirty. Very disappointed.
(2)Sevun H.
Went in this evening with my partner and must say everything we had was very delicious. The crab rangoon was lovely and was served with sweet and sour and some sort of wasabi dipping sauce on he side. I loooooved the wasabi sauce! The sweet and sour was excellent as well. Had the orange chicken and it won me over from first bite! I'm usually not an orange chicken kind of person but I decided to give it a try. The batter was not thick and heavy like some other places. Very light, and I would most certainly order it again. Even the white rice it was served with was very well prepared. Also had shrimp fried rice and shrimp and black bean sauce. They were also very delicious and to be honest all my dishes tasted better than anything I have ordered from their competitor around the corner. My only negative is for 10 bucks I was expecting more fried rice. My partner actually polished it off in one sitting and normally we always would have had leftovers. But maybe it was just so good he ate more than usual? I would go there again and would recommend them to others.
(4)Andrea E.
Its simple.......it blows away Chi-tung. Best place around!
(5)Alison B.
I have never eaten here -- only ordered out. Based on the other reviews, it would seem they serve better food to their dine-in customers. The Mongolian Beef is 12 bucks but the serving size feels like the lunch portion at another location -- it really only serves one person. And the beef is ok -- I wouldn't call it a "specialty." One night I ordered pickup cashew nuts chicken -- it came with diced microwaved chicken meat, what seemed to be frozen cubed vegetables, and raw cashew nuts thrown into the sauce. I would have rather they told me they didn't have any than make me a last-minute terrible version. The last time I ordered Beef Pad Thai the meat looked like the same consistency as the other beef (including the rather orange color) but upon eating a few pieces and closer inspection, the meat turned out to be pork. I have yet to find decent Chinese food on the south side -- I wouldn't care about portion size if the food was good. The food has been "meh" and sub par several times. We're not likely to go back.
(2)Christina D.
I regularly go to Sushi Thaime and saw from the website they had the same owners. The food was really good, I had Shrimp Chow Mein and my boyfried had Pad Thai. We both liked our food, the portions are also pretty big. I really didn't care for Sushi Thaime's Chinese dishes but love the sushi. I was really happy to see that Sesame Inn had good food. I will definitely go to Sesame Inn again.
(4)Adam W.
We are regulars and much prefer it to the competition. In particular we love the szechuan beef and szechuan green beans. One gripe, however, for takeout orders they are really stingy with the rice they give you. With an order of two full meals they just give one thing of rice, which is not nearly enough to cover both entrees. Drives me crazy.
(4)Eleanore B.
This place looks so elegant and the staff is very accommodating. it rarely gets busy, but hopefully soon enough everyone will come to their senses and try this place. The sushi is always tasty to me, crispy veggies and fresh seaweed and I'm not even picky with my food but this just stands out to me. don't believe me? try for yourself. Definitely a nice place for a date too!
(5)Phyllis S.
I've been a fan ever since Bruce and Betty opened the place. I was so thrilled to have a sushi joint in Evergreen Park, that for years I made it my personal business to bring every one I knew there, so they could check it out. NO ONE has ever complained! As far as sushi goes, Sesame Inn TOTALLY kicks Chi Tung's ASS! Now, it's not super-traditional food. (After all, this IS the South Side.) Over the years there's been some experimentation to see what the locals tend to like, and I think they've done a good job walking that line between giving folks what they want and offering new taste experiences. I've never had a bad meal, the wait-staff is friendly and I like the new(er) decor. Also, for those who want something to do on New Years Day, I HIGHLY recommend the All-you-care-to-eat Buffet for about $13. Since I've moved out of the neighborhood, its what I come back for every year. I am a little bummed that they serve mochi ice cream, instead of just the ice cream that they used to have, but oh well..
(5)Bob D.
My sons chicken teryaki was pretty good if you like that sort of thing, a large enough portion he had lunch from it. The server was an asshole. Just a tyrannical jackass. Condescending to the extreme. The sushi is amateurish, it almost seems like they are having do it yourself sushi classes and sending the food out to the dining room. Uneven, unbalanced, bland, low quality overcooked rice. Did I mention the server was a dick. The sole piece of sashimi I tried was gutsy on my part. One of my creeds is to avoid sushi in the burbs, especially the southern burbs. I can only blame myself for the player to be named later replacement to my hamachi. A flavorless dense sinewy piece of mystery fish. Thanks bungholes. The only reason I am offering 2 stars is because single star reviews get buried by Yelp.
(2)Joseph B.
My daughter choice for her 21th birthday. Didn't care for the one male waiter that was serving us but the food made up for his rudeness.
(4)Phil M.
The sushi was ok- I've had better but the host was extremely unfriendly and seemed to not want to communicate. I'll go elsewhere for my sushi fix.
(2)Michelle S.
Waitress and service was friendly and welcoming. However we wanted Sapporo beers and she informed us they were all out...? And when we ordered salads, she informed us they were out of ginger dressing. We were very much looking forward to both so we were disappointed and confused as to how/why they didn't have either of these. We ordered orange chicken, which was not very good. It was fresh but just didn't taste great. They do give you a huge portion though! I may give this place another chance in the hopes they are fully stocked and have a better dish to offer.
(2)Tracy T.
I went to Sesame Inn because I purchased a Groupon and I was glad I did, I ordered the orange chicken, my husband had the Egg Foo Young and my son had the tempura shrimp. I must say that everything that I mentioned above was great. The restaurant is small but we went right before closing so it wasn't crowded at all. The service was nice as well as the atmosphere. Will be back.
(4)John C.
Freshly prepared food quiet atmosphere. No MSG.
(4)Sarah S.
Ordered take out from this place... but decor looked very nice.. so next time I will dine in. For my first visit I ordered a variety of Chinese and Thai dishes.. all to my delight. Pineapple fried rice, Thai fried rice, General Tsos chicken, cashew shrimp, and chicken with vegetables... all were very tasty. The eggrolls were average, but good and not overly greasy. For take out service they use good packaging and heavy bags so they don't break thru. Plenty of sauces to go with the meals and oh yes.. fortune cookies :) my fav The 2 people I dealt with were polite and gave great service I will be back for sure to sit and enjoy the atomsphere
(4)JC W.
I first started going to Sesame Inn when they first opened back in early 2000, I enjoy the atmosphere, service and food. Bruce and Betty are the best. I will go in and sit at the sushi bar drink some Sake while talking to Bruce and watching him make my sushi. I always ask if the oyster are fresh, He makes the best oyster shooters when they are in season. Sesame Inn is so much better than Chi Tung, Sesame Inn service is the best hands down. Come and taste this southside treat
(5)Dorin C.
Great food, great sushi! I used to think Chi Tung was the only place to go for Chinese in EP, but after going to Sesame Inn (and Sushi Thaime) I hardly ever eat Chi Tung. The food is great, the prices are great, and the owners are really nice people. This is a great place for a casual dinner with family or friends.
(4)Nick G.
I've been here several times, and tried many times. One thing I'm not a fan of here, is the sushi. I had a few pieces of chewy stringy fish that just completely turned me off; I couldn't finish my meal. I didn't really care for the seaweed salad either, which is saying a lot because it's my favorite appetizer before having sushi. I wouldn't come here for sushi again.
(2)Nakia H.
As much as I wanted to try the food at this establishment, which I had heard great things about, it has yet to happen. I called and spoke with the manager to inquire if they delivered to my address, after he happily assured me they did, I told him I would call back in 5 minutes after getting everyone's order together, and 2 minutes later, my cell phone rings, and it is the manager, who informs me that neither of his drivers will deliver to my address because they are afraid of being robbed. EXCUSE ME???!!!??? Did I honestly just hear what I thought I heard this man say to me? I could be mistaken, (though I don't believe I am), but isn't this a form of discrimination?? I have NEVER had an issue of any establishment of any sort delivering to me. And I must say, I am still extremely shocked by this. I would have fully understood if he had informed me that I was out of his delivery boundaries, but the reason you give a paying customer is, your driver is afraid of being robbed, and as the manager, you tell me there is nothing you can do about it. If giving you '0' stars was an option, that's definitely what you would have received. My dollars will never make their way into your establishment! Thanks for completely insulting me Sesame Inn. In that department, you would receive 5 stars...
(1)Jason A.
Finally tried this place after years of driving past it. Service was friendly and fast. Chicken & Pineapple fried rice! It actually had big, tender, juicy pieces of chicken. Fresh, crunchy carrots, a few other veggies and eggs, it was moist and delicious! Best fried rice I've ever had! The sushi was the second best I've ever had. Way better than any other option on the South Side. The fish was the most fresh I've had in Chicago. The super white tuna was top quality, I can't wait to go back! The rolls had a generous amount of fish in them. I'd say the fish and rice were in about equal proportions, not the tiny dot of pink you see most places. Tamago (Japanese sweet omelette) is the sushi that sushi chefs are judged by, because a lot of care goes into making such a simple sushi. A lot of places buy it frozen and thaw it, and to me, that reflects the pride they take in their work. The tamago was made on site, fairly sweet, some of the best I've had, and you couldn't even see the layers. The chef obviously has had a good deal of training, and takes pride in his work. I'm not much of a decor person, but the interior was very nice and very clean. I can't believe there's so many people at Chi Tung, this place blows it away!! I didn't even like Chi Tung, this place I LOVE!!
(5)Laura M.
Finally. I haven't had much luck with nearby sushi places (nor nail salons) and I am hoping that Sesame Inn will remain consistent when I do repeats. It is fresh, normal size (not like Chi-Tung), and tasty. The place is pretty hip in design for the south suburbs, and the service was nice. I am SO relieved that I found a sushi place instead of making a trek to the city. The sushi lunch menu is available M-Sunday and I found it to be quite affordable. Let's see: miso soup, cucumber salad, house salad with ginger dressing, chinese beef sticks (son ate them all), california roll, ebi fry roll, tekka roll, crazy roll, ebi fry plate, hot tea, and small sake. Total with tax: $47.85.
(4)Megan B.
I have eaten at Sesame Inn a few times and it keeps getting better! I shared the sampler sushi plate with a girlfriend and we still had food left over. It was so delicious I wish that I could have finished it. As for the service, the wait staff was very attentive and helpful. Sesame Inn is definitely my new favorite sushi place!
(5)Alicia S.
This is specifically written for the new years day buffet. The advertised price was 14.95 not bad but the choices were limited. There were a total of 5 dishes served no including the sushi buffet bar which need to be replenished. I was a little disappointed in the choices for buffet. drinks were not included and served in red solo cups were 1.99 per cup. Our brunch total 41.00. For that price, we could have eaten at a local sushi hibachi restaurant
(2)Paul S.
Ordered a dish called Singapore something. It was supposedly only mildly spicy but the dish had clumps of curry that made my stomach feel - well - not good. Perhaps it was a bad day for the cook as all of the tables were filled and the people seemed to like their meals. Once I get the taste of curry out of my mouth I will likely try the Sesame Inn one more time.
(3)A C.
I'm disappointed that I had to delete my old review of this place and drop it from 5 star to a single star. This place had gone downhill. I mean wow. WOW. The older sushi chef used to make delicious and fresh sushi, well blended,clean, well put together. His son(?) Not so much. Not only was my Philly roll made incorrectly (no avocado!! And no cream cheese on some of the rolls!), when I asked the waiter about it, I was yelled at! He said it depends on where you go. Umm, dude, I usually go here. AND it's on the menu. Come on now. The waiter did not check on us at all, was very rude to us when he did interact with us, and gave us our total written on a scrap of paper rather than a receipt. The food itself was NOT fresh, not even the rice!! And oddly cold; I've never had frozen sushi before. I left the sushi to-go platter on the table by accident; when my boyfriend went back in to get it, he was met with glares, no "good bye" or "thank you." I'm sorry, are we inconveniencing you by eating at your restaurant?? So bummed this place has gone down hill. This was me giving it a last chance, since my last few had been rather poor as well (their spicy rolls are just freaking strange, it tastes like mexican food!) I don't know if the old guy is in charge anymore, but it seems like who ever is now is simply going to run it into the ground.
(1)Neko Mimi M.
By far, not the best sushi I've ever had. But sushi is so darned hard to find on the south side, and this place is miles ahead of Chi Tung in the sushi department that I'd feel guilty for giving them less than 4 stars. I've eaten here regularly since they opened. The fish is always fresh, and they have plenty of non-sushi items to choose from if you are with someone who's squeamish. They also have some non-Japanese fare, for the less adventurous. Waitstaff is polite and they do their best to be attentive under difficult circumstances (see below). The chef-owner is friendly, and will often chat up customers when business is slow. The space is clean and recently remodeled. Favorites: Chop Chae (a Korean fried noodle dish), Soba noodles, most of the house specialty maki. They do a decent handroll spicy tuna. And the unagi don is fantastic. Issues: Staff is often light even when the restaurant is busy, so plates can be slow to come out of the kitchen. The menu is rather limited, so if you have an adventurous palate, you may find them lacking. They are also often out of the stronger tasting fish such as saba (mackerel) because apparently non-asian south siders don't care for it (as per the owner).
(4)Janene M.
I will not be returning here. My sister and I were looking for a new place for sushi. I had egg rolls, which were extremely dry, the house salad, which was fine, and lastly ebi tempura rolls. They do not have Japanese soy sauce only Chinese low sodium soy sauce. How can you serve sushi and not have Japanese soy sauce?? Chinese soy sauce totally ruins the flavor of the rolls. It is too salty, even if it is low sodium. Overall, the food just tastes ok. I would have been more satisfied going to Chi-Tung.
(2)edith S.
A calming oasis Like coming for the lunch specials. Always have been met at the door with a friendly smile. Never a wait. also family friendly
(5)Keith O.
This place is great -- and has been around awhile. I've visited twice lately (for dinner entrees) and probably 3-4 times for lunch about 7 years ago (when I worked nearby). The food quality is wonderful -- different from the busier, popular Asian-cuisine restaurant nearby -- and the service is just as good. My only concern -- largely from my most recent visit on a Saturday evening for dinner -- was that the place was NOT busy at all, and so the staff (with nothing much to do) were just kind of lined-up, standing around, and staring at the customers eating. This made it kind of awkward and uncomfortable, but as long as the food was good we didn't mind. At least the staff were nice and welcoming (if not bored)! I'll definitely go again for a quality, quieter alternative to the other local place. Thanks Sesame! :)
(4)Mark C.
Good Food, Poor Service I feel a little sorry for the chef/owner, Bruce. He is the very kind man with a baseball hat and black apron who raced around as my wife and I were finishing our meal all the time with a big smile on his face. He asked us how our food was, apologized when we asked for water (and immediately got it for us) and thanked us for coming. Our waiter (a tall black-haired man with glasses) was much less neighborly. We entered and we had to find a greeter (who turned out to be the man with the glasses) who simply pointed at a table for us to go to. He then served us water in plastic cups shaped for tropical drinks which were stylish but held very little water. Over 20 minutes later he returned to simply ask what we wanted and advised us to order appetizers and main courses all at once. All this done without so much as a "Welcome" or a smile. Throughout the evening I asked him 3 or 4 times for a water refill which simply got us a head nod, an "okay," and the old brush-off (kind Bruce finally got us water after asking him once). When the meal was over, that black-haired waiter simply lobbed us the bill in the black binder from two tables away without so much as a "thanks for coming". My wife and I agreed that the food was good and it arrived quickly (after waiting over 20 minutes to make the order). My wife thought the food was just a tad bit cool. After looking around on the way out I noticed two thing. 1: We were the only ones with water in plastic tropical drink cups. 2: The black-haired man seemed to be the only waiter in the entire restaurant I hope before we come back again (which we plan to return again) that more waiters are hired so that tall black-haired man with glasses can smile and refill water in regular water glasses.
(3)Noah C.
We don't eat Chinese food very often but when we do we come here. Last Friday night we had the worst service ever at Sesame Inn. The waiter was outright rude. I don't think we'll be back. Usually we are treated well here but this waiter was so rude that it has ruined this restaurant for us.
(1)Keith M.
This place is phenomenal! Everything I've had there has always been better than good.
(5)Ben V.
We ordered a diversity of items from their pan-asian menu and they all met our satisfaction. The place has a nice decor and was not busy when we were there. We'll come here again.
(4)Maya R.
Love,love,love this place! The food is so fresh and ready in minutes! The menu is extensive and so much better than chi-tung.
(5)Janet H.
I've been dining here for a few years, and have seen a steady decline in service. I tell you, the food is really delicious. My friends and I have ordered almost every dish and appetizer, and we've enjoyed them all. I don't think much of the sushi, to be honest. Go out to Orland - Ichiro and Fuji are better by a landslide. Or SakeBob in Oak Forest. What I base my review on today is the downslide in service when you dine in. No matter what time of day, no matter how busy - one waiter. For at least a dozen tables. Last Sunday I arrived at 4:30pm for an early dinner with 3 friends. We couldn't believe how long we sat before our drink order was taken. That waiter was running his behind off, so I know it wasn't that he was ignoring us. There were about 6 other tables dining. He took our drink orders and I look over at the sushi counter and the female owner had just arrived. She stood behind the counter laughing and chatting with her chef husband. She clearly saw the number of diners and the one waiter there. The only time she left her post behind her husband was when she sat at the table by the register, reading the newspaper. Is serving her customers beneath her? Terrible management. One other mention - the attire of the bus-staff. My favorite was a girl in sweat pants down on her hips, a hoodie and her hair in a crappy bun on top of her head. She literally looked like she came up from the basement after a nap. I won't be dining in any more. Take-out, if that.
(2)Jackie B.
The food I ordered yesterday wasn't greatest I had shrimp and veggie tempura it was ok crispy duck very dry ad the sauce was extremely salty and I mean extremely salty could eat it shrimp fried rice was ok the general tso chicken was excellent I asked for extra spicy cause I like the hot peppers only two were found in the dish I only gave two stars because of the general tso but other than that I did not enjoy the food at all ad I don't think I will be going back ever again
(2)Kelly W.
As part of a combined birthday party with my aunt, we were debating on where to go. I voted for Mexican food but my aunt suggested Sesame Inn. As I have never been here but absolutely love Chi-Tung, we decided to give this place a shot. It was a Friday night and the place was busy (as expected). However, they seemed extremely understaffed. They had 1 hostess, 1 bus boy, and 1 waiter. To start off the meal, our crab rangoons were forgotten and our edamame was served ice cold (yuck). We also ordered some sushi and it was not the best. I ordered a spicy tuna roll and the tuna was minced and had the texture of cat food. When it was time for the entrees, we ordered a bunch and shared within the group. My cousin and I split the General Tso chicken which ended up being the favorite out of all of them. I tried the Mongolain beef and was not a big fan. When I left, I seemed hungrier than usual after eating Chinese food and felt some-what disappointed. Although many people seem to enjoy this place, I'd choose Chi-Tung any day!
(2)Sarah S.
I always leave here happy. The staff is outstanding! Great place for a calm, relaxing meal. I will bring anyone here who 'loves Chi Tung' and show them what they are missing. The only reason I bring up Chi Tung is because it is nearby the Sesame Inn and always over packed, loud and rushed. I used to go there because I liked the food until a friend suggested Sesame Inn. I am definitely a convert and do not ever need to look back as far as Asian cuisine in the area goes.
(5)Liz H.
I really wanted to like this place since there are not a lot of Thai restaurants in the area but Sesame Inn is just average. The won tons are overpriced; the Satay chicken is okay; the tempura shrimp was large but a bit oily; and the chicken corn soup was bland. The chicken pad Thai was disappointing because the egg was overlooked, there was hardly any peanuts and no scallions. It was spicy and the chicken was well cooked. The best entree was the Yu Shang beef - a sweet/spicy sauce that was just right. I would go back again to try more entrees.
(3)John S.
The Sesame Inn is the first place I ever heard of General Tso's chicken. A friend who used to live nearby would always order it when we came here, and I was so interested in it that I have since ordered the General Tso's fake chicken from a few places in San Francisco. The food I've had here has been good. It's not excellent, but it's not bad either. What I like most about this restaurant is its atmosphere. I'm used to really run down and really busy Chinese restaurants. This one is very calm inside, and I always seem to feel strangely relaxed immediately after being seated.
(4)Kai Z.
I love Sesame Inn! Authentic? No, not really. It's pretty much Americanized Chinese food, but that doesn't mean it doesn't taste good and this place has variety out the wazoo, so there is something for everyone. I LOVE their Mongolian beef, Szechuan green beans, and the hot and sour soup. The sushi is good as well - delicious, fresh, affordable. Bruce (the owner) is awesome. He is always friendly and welcoming to the customers, always willing to talk with you, and greets me with a fist tap every time I come in. That's quality service.
(5)Lana C.
I like the orange shrimp, which I order with fresh shrimp instead of fried. The pad thai is also great. Sushi is good, not the best I ever had, but I like it nonetheless. I come here regularly and get good service and good food.
(4)Elizabeth K.
Stopped out of the blue and was pleasantly surprised. Nice atmosphere great food definitely will be going back.
(4)Rahshonda K.
The curry chicken was really good! Sushi was not the best. My friend and I went around lunch time and it was not a lot of people in there which was surprising. Staff is very nice and the place is very quiet. Prices were good as well.
(4)Andy S.
I have been coming here for years. It is probably one of my favorite Chinese restaurants in the South Side of Chicago. It also has the best Sushi in the South Side, but doesn't outshine those that you would find up north. Not only is the sushi great here, but also affordable! And in larger amounts than given in places like kamehachi or Tamarind. As far the Chinese cuisine goes, you get your money's worth. Unlike Yang's, Sesame Inn gives you a larger quantity of what you order and also much better quality. You don't have that gooey gelatin stuff on the Chicken with the assorted vegetables. You get plenty of Meat and a good balance of all the vegetables advertised on here. The egg rolls are the best. I urge northsiders to come check out what the South Side has to offer. Bruce is a friendly man and will always go out of his way to accommodate you and your party.
(4)Jose J.
Good fresh Sushi Awesome service and really nice atmosphere Sushi isn't to expense either
(4)Tina B.
Gross. All of the food tasted bad and looked, well, gross. Like you couldn't really discern what it was exactly or what meat was being used. And there were flies all over the place. And - AND - everything took a long time. And, even though we were the only ones in there during the height of lunch time, we had to go looking for our server to pay. And it wasn't cheap! DAYUMN y'all! Eeew. I would never go back there and it makes me throw up a little bit in my mouth every time I pass it on the street.
(1)Melicious J.
I seriously visit this place like once a week!!! I know everyone goes to Chi Tungs,but I prefer to not have to wait 40 mins + for a table. I think Sesame Inn had just as good ( if not better on some dishes) Good than Chi Tungs. The atmosphere is very laid back and quiet. Service is quick and very friendly. I order a range of things from Sushi, to Orange Chicken to Pad Thai, so I have tried most dishes and can't say that I have ever had anything that I didn't like from there.
(5)LeKesha T.
Too many people have been sleeping on this spot. The owner usually greets you when you come in, the sushi rolls are monstrous and the sesame chicken is totally divine! They have had plenty of offers on Groupon for a $15 for $30 deal, so an inexpensive way to get some delicious Chinese/Japanese cuisine. By the way, did I tell you about their miso soup?! Ah man, the stuff that the end of a cold is made of... just UM, UM, UMMMMM! Okay, Im gonna go now... but check them out. You won't be disappointed!
(5)Randy N.
This is a very nice, neighborhood oriented place. Personal and professional service with a wide ranging menu that includes Chinese, Japanese and Thai. This also means it is not too deep on any cuisine, so they may not have what you are looking for. The items they do have are all above average, and even have a $1 per-peice Sushi menu. All are very fresh, delivered in a fast, friendly manner. The owner is almost always there, and makes sure you are happy. Way, way better than near-by competitor Chi-Tung...if you like Chi-Tung, you will think you have gone to heaven at Sesame Inn.
(4)Tim W.
Best Lunch Sushi on the south side. The salmon practically melts on your tongue and the rice doesn't fall apart when eaten as two pieces...the assembly is perfect. I like the wonton & miso soups as well as the fried wonton. Crazy noodle with Chicken is my favorite dinner dish (similar to Thai Lad Nar) although I generally visit for lunch for sushi. Tina (review below) might find herself more at home at Chi Tung up the street as she appears to prefer American-Chinese style over traditional Chinese. I've been a customer for years (at least three, since I moved to Evergreen Park) and both Sesame Inn and Chi Tung are among the cleanest restaurants I've ever been in. Update Dec 2012 I've found myself going to Sesame Inn less and less over the past year. The sushi (the main reason I go) quality has suffered. A fierce turnover of sushi chefs and wait staff hasn't helped, either. The sushi rice doesn't hold together as well with the new chefs preparations' and the last time I ordered Edemame there were around a dozen beans on a plate. I almost never see the owner anymore.
(3)Jahi J.
If the first thing I remember is the service that usually means the food wasn't that great. The place was busy, that's a good thing but the service shouldn't suffer significantly because of it. So the food, I wanted fried rice with my orange chicken, I'll pay extra, but you can't substitute? Is it because you're busy? The orange chicken was better than Panda Express but what is that saying? My friend's pad looked good and plentiful. My thai iced tea was weak.
(3)Tracy H.
Consistently good food (don't have any experience with the sushi), decent service, casual atmosphere, reasonable prices, never really crowded. A great alternative to Chi Tung. I would, however, steer clear of that dessert.
(4)Jamie L.
I heart Sesame Inn! We get delivery, pick up and we dine in - i agree - the salmon is fantastic! Tina also says "y'all" in her review, she is probably used to eating carp in the south...
(5)Robin W.
Sesame Inn is a family owned business that I've been supporting for years! They've been able to hold on even though the massive Chi Tung (serving Chinese, Thai, AND Japanese cuisine) opened down the street. Where Chi Tung falls short, married Bruce and Betty pick up the slack at Sesame... great authentic sushi rolls, Real Crab (Chi Tung uses flavored pollack sticks), fantastic Rangoon, dumplings, noodle dishes, and of course loving, welcoming service! I really wish people would drive an extra block north of Chi Tung and give Sesame a try!
(4)Steven M.
This place was the best around. But the hillbilly's around here would rather go with popular than good.
(5)Elizabeth C.
We moved to Evergreen from the Northside. We love the neighborhood but the cuisine is lacking. Pizza, burgers, hot dogs...and that's about it. The first time I ordered Sesame Inn I was not too impressed. The food was not bad- just not to my liking. At any rate we didn't order again for several months. Then a friend who grew up in the neighborhood kept urging us to go back and try the Sushi and so finally on Friday night we did. I am very glad we did. The food was excellent-especially the sushi and I agree that yes...it does kicks Chi Tungs Ass! The restaurant had a calming energy and was very clean. Service was good. I am a fan. One thing I think they should incorporate into their menu is brown rice. I would probably order from them a minimum of once a week if I could have brown rice instead of white.
(4)Steven C.
This place is the shit! They used to have a really good lunch special where you could eat all the sushi that you wanted for only $15. I think me and my friend Steve had our fair share before they took it off the menu because of us. Anyway this place is amazing and they remodled the entire place to look like some kind of Chinese palace, pretty cool. Food's good and Bruce the guy who runs this place is the man. Eat here for sure!
(5)Samantha J.
Let me start off by saying I did have high hopes for this place because an old friend always raved about their sushi. I picked up a Groupon and headed over there for some dinner with my mom. We ordered 4 rolls and somehow the bill still came out to 50$ even with the 30$ off from the Groupon. And let me tell you, the sushi was by no means worth that ridiculous price. 50 dollars for 4 rolls of sushi and 2 waters is insane. Not to mention the rolls were almost laughably huge (you couldn't fit them in your mouth hardly) and I think it was because they didn't want to give you as many (those rolls only had like 5 pieces of sushi and were apparently 14 dollars.) Overall the quality was just not great, they had no flavor whatsoever and the eel sauce and rice were both bitter. I also really disliked the spicy sauce they used for the spicy tuna, etc. because it tasted really fake like you could find it at a grocery store. They don't skimp on the fish for their benefit it was loaded with tuna over the top for the Kamikaze roll. But I just really didn't care for any of it and will not be returning there again. Another low point was the service. The waiter seemed rude and took forever to first approach the table. Then when he did he took our orders and we didn't see him again until we had to wave him down so we could pay. When we needed water refills someone came out of the kitchen and brought it to us. It was one of the worst waiters I've ever had. And being a waitress I understand it can be difficult but they weren't very busy and he was just plain rude. So the combination of terrible service and extremely bland sushi killed this place. I always go to Big Tuna (Now known as Woow Sushi) in Orland and they blow this place out of the water. For only ten dollars from 11am-2:30pm you can get a 3 roll lunch special for ten dollars and every roll they have on that list (I've tried just about them all) blow this place out of the water. they even have an all you can eat special for 20$ there int he same time frame. Honestly, Woow Sushi is amazing and I don't think I've ever had better sushi than there and it's only in Orland. I'd say people looking for good sushi should try it there. (PS they give you a free edamame appetizer after 4pm since the prices are slightly more expensive when not on the lunch special. )
(1)Margaret B.
My favorite Chinese place; no, wait, one of my favorite places, period. The General Tso's chicken and the shrimp pad thai are religious experiences. Their New Year's buffet (January 1st, that is - I haven't managed to get there for Chinese New Year) is a real treat, but get there early - they get crowded very quickly.
(5)Jay B.
The Sesame Inn at first glance doesn't look like much, but once you sit down and your food arrives you get a full understanding of why loyal customers stay loyal. The menu consists of Korean, Chinese and sushi dishes. The sushi here is very fresh and prepared by the owner Bruce himself. The non-sushi dishes are prepared by the owner's wife Betty and are always fresh and plentiful. The service here is excellent. They do have a full liquor list available. *EDIT: They are no longer doing the sushi buffet but have now implemented a sushi deal with $1 peices and $4 maki rolls. Still more than worth every cent even full price!
(5)Johnny A.
This is just about as good as it gets for south side Asian food. The sushi is pretty dang good too! It far outshines its' rival Chi-Tung. Better service, atmosphere, and food. Try it!
(5)Kevin O.
My first reaction when opening the take-out bag was, "Where's the rice?" I ordered a small Sesame chicken and it came with a mini container of rice. But, it was a perfect size for one person. A little more rice would have been great. But, the sesame chicken was really good... not overcooked like most places. A little more spice in the sauce would have made it the best I ever had, but it was an A. Can't wait to try it again.
(4)D P.
Better than Chi Tung. After CT opened again, it hasn't been as good. Sesame Inn is awesome. No waiting, polite staff, GREAT food. Best Pad Thai I have had. Good sushi as well. Kinda hoping this place stays under the radar, so it doesn't get too crowded. I order from here nowadays, rather than Chi Tung. Price is cheap-moderate -- depends on what you get!!
(5)Marcos L.
This place is perfectly acceptable. And would somebody please tell TIna B. that that little shtick about how "throwing up a little bit in my mouth" stopped being cute or funny about 15 years ago? If I have to read another review wherein the reviewer thinks he/she is being clever by saying this, I'm going to throw up and not in my mouth either. Lordy. Here's a good rule of thumb: If you learned it from television, it doesn't make you look smart to say it. Not the first time, not the hundredth.
(4)Nicki C.
I have been going to Sesame since it first opened a few years back. I am a HUGE sushi person, and the customer service is just as important as the food. I will say, I am treated better and food isn't as expensive as a nearby sushi restaurant that I will leave nameless. I am always greeted with a smile and a hello from Bruce, the owner and sushi chef. I enjoy sitting at the sushi bar and watch Bruce's magic at work. I used to travel to the northside of Chicago (my old stomping grounds) to find a sushi joint, but I don't have to travel that far anymore.
(4)Annie W.
While Chi-tung does have good Chinese food, the sushi and thai at Sesame Inn are far better. Totally fresh and super afordable. The service is great too. They don't advertise as much so they are really a hidden gem. It's a bit small but that makes it cozier. I haven't been in since they remodeled but I plan on going tonight. Highly recommended if you are looking for fresh sushi!
(5)Tina C.
I would say that this is the best place to get Sushi. Bruce is the owner at he always smiles, and gets to know each and every customer. A great place to go.
(5)B. J.
I'll never order from there again, but not just because the food is mediocre. After my last delivery, a pack of cigarettes I left outside near my door mysteriously went missing. They were there immediately before the teen-aged delivery driver showed up; gone when I went out for a fix 15 minutes later. The entrance to my home is well off the street and secluded, so it's unlikely someone else came along and pinched my smokes. I called the restaurant to inquire and he denied taking them. While I can't prove he's the culprit, I'm too distrustful now to take a chance that something else will turn up missing the next time I get a yen for Chinese so it's Chi Tung from here on out (whose food, btw, is extraordinary).
(1)kina r.
I dine here once or twice a week. This IS the freshest sushi on the south side. The fast and friendly service is always a plus. The owner Bruce and/or his wife are always on hand to greet you and make sure you are enjoying dining experience. My family went tonight for the New Year's buffet, and everything was delicious. I especially liked the happy family and the ebi tempura rolls.
(5)angela p.
I love this place a lot. It's nice, relaxing and everyone there is very friendly. The food's great, too!
(5)Shawn L.
Love this place. Not quite on a par with Chi Tung but it's never crowded and its usually quiet. Good food at good prices.
(5)Yuki C.
This is a great place for a date. No wait, amazing food. It beats Chi-tung for atmosphere and service.
(5)andrea l.
Definitely would prefer this place over chi tung, not to knock that place either though. Had the fried rice, gyoza, crab rangoon, mongolian beef, and some sushi. THe fried rice didn't have the same grease level as the fried rice I am used to and you could actually taste the flavor of all that goodness. The appetizers were great as well. I'm not a big mongolian beef fan overall but this seemed to be as good as all the others I have had, a little less savory and a little sweeter in fact than others. The server even helped us out and found a way to make our meal cheaper by ordering it a different way, classy! Sesame Inn is a great space, amazing bathrooms, polite/helpful service, and decent parking. I've yet to find better in the area!
(4)rose f.
the owners are really friendly and the sushi is good. i think its much better than 'that other place' in evergreen park.
(4)Gregg W.
We're relatively new transplants from the north side, and every time we eat here we wonder why there aren't more customers in the place. We always get a range of dishes, usually at least one Japanese, one Chinese and one Thai, we mix it up, and everything is always excellent. Service is very polite and efficient. Prices are ridiculously low compared to north side joints.
(5)