Akahoshi Ramen

Akahoshi is a ramen spot that has been consistently named one of the hottest spots to dine in Chicago.  Led by the restaurant’s passionate owner (known by his Reddit username Ramen Lord), this Logan Square restaurant has an obsessive fan following, so our goal was to design a space that set the mood but ultimately let the food take the spotlight.  Nods to minimalist Japanese design are found throughout, including millwork inspired by shoji screens and a hand-applied wall finish reminiscent of washi paper.  A concise palette of natural materials has a calming effect, in sharp contrast to the dishes’ bold, exciting flavors.  A variety of seating arrangements – a communal table built of ashwood, Pullman booths upholstered in textiles by Momentum, the coveted seven-person chef’s counter made of Corian quartz - offer a unique dining experience to those lucky enough to get a reservation at this hot spot more than once.

Photos by Tara White