Clubtastic Japanese Izakaya Chain Zuma Eyeing Former Bin 36 Space

Zuma, a clubby and pricey Japanese restaurant chain with nine locations across the globe — including Miami, New York, London and Hong Kong — could be coming to the former Bin 36 space in River North.

Jay Z, Kim Kardashian and other celebs of that ilk have known to hang their hats at Zuma. Bin 36 vacated the space on Dec. 20, leaving the 9,100-square-foot space empty. But Crain's reports Zuma will close a deal shortly and move in as the next tenant. Their arrival would mean news for Chicago's growing izakaya lounge scene, as Zuma is known for its robata grill and signature drinks. Some are located inside hotels, and the Chicago locale would draw customers from Hotel Sax at 338 N. Dearborn St.

Zuma recently opened in New York, and promises a decadent time, as the New York menu features a $158 "premium" omakase selection. Their first U.S. location opened in 2010 in Miami.

The scenester crowd is quite a contrast from Bin 36's regulars. Before closing up shop last year, Bin 36 owner Dan Sachs told Eater Chicago that the rent would double in 2015 for the first time in Bin's 15 years of business. He guessed Bin's replacement would have a more corporate feel. Looks like he was right.

Meanwhile, new Bin owner Enoch Shully says everything's on schedule as work continues on the new Bin 36 outpost in the West Loop at 161 N. Jefferson St. There might be more news to share next week, he says.