A Filipino-Hawaiian Bodega is Chicago's Hottest Restaurant
Briefly

Kanin, a new restaurant in Chicago, opened on March 8, quickly selling out of its signature musubi within hours. Inspired by partner Julius Tacadena's childhood in Hawai'i, the menu features traditional Spam musubi alongside various innovative flavors. Despite a modest space and initial challenges, long lines formed daily, highlighting the community's eagerness for this unique culinary offering. Tacadena aims to share his cherished childhood snacks with Chicago, creating a nostalgic dining experience that resonates with both locals and students. The immense popularity reflects a broader demand for comfort food that is simple yet deeply cultural.
Kanin's musubi sold out quickly on opening day, demonstrating a unique cultural experience from Tacadena's upbringing in Hawai'i that filled a gap in Chicago's food scene.
The restaurant's success stemmed from Tacadena's childhood experiences of enjoying comfort food in Hawai'i, now translated into a menu appealing to both locals and students.
Lines have formed every morning for musubi, inspired by Tacadena's family recipes, creating a noteworthy buzz around a simple yet nostalgic food concept.
We opened at 11 on that day, at 10:30 we walked out to take a picture and there was a line; we were shook.
Read at Eater Chicago
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