New Sushi Restaurant Rolls into Darien

Jing He is on a mission to bring authentic sushi to the people of Darien — sushi that tastes the way sushi is supposed to taste.

“I thought the people here deserve better sushi,” he said.

He brought his vision of sushi to Darien when he opened Chiba Japanese Restaurant Feb. 5. 

Diners can choose from among eight signature sushi rolls that regularly appear on the menu, but He said the chef’s real specialty is designing customized rolls.

“When you call in, first we’re going to ask what you would like,” he said. “Some like salmon; some like tuna. Give us a heads up and we’ll mix up what you like.” In addition to a variety of fresh fish, the restaurant also offers an array of sauces. 

Though this is He’s first restaurant, he said his chef has 25 years of experience. Meeting with him was part of He’s inspiration for opening Chiba.

“I shared with him an idea: ‘I want people to try what I am trying,’” he said.

In addition to the signature and customized rolls, Chiba serves a long list of classic Nigiri, Sashimi and Maki, including California, Philadelphia and spicy tuna rolls. 

For those who aren’t so keen on raw fish, Chiba also serves hibachi-style grilled dishes with chicken, steak, calamari, salmon or shrimp, as well as tempura dishes.

Chiba features a lunch special with two sushi rolls for $6.95 or three rolls for $8.95. If diners order a la carte, lunch runs about $10-$15, while dinner typically costs $15 and up based on the dishes ordered, He said. Customers can eat in the small dining room or order take out or delivery.

Chiba Japanese Restaurant is located at 801 Plainfield Rd. in Darien. For more information, visit www.chibachicago.com, or call 630-850-7848.