Here's What You Need To Know About Yusho's Decor

by Susan Stapleton Mar 11, 2014, 4:30am PDT

More information dropped today about Yusho, the Japanese-inspired grill and noodle house by Charlie Trotter alum and Chicago chef Matthias Merges and the most exciting restaurant opening this spring. The restaurant, opening on the new The Boulevard in front of Monte Carlo, plans a mid-April bow.

The 250-seat restaurant gets its inspiration from vintage industrial spaces, Japanese ramen shacks and anime. Merges' wife Rachel Crowl of FC Studio is behind the look of the space. An exposed kitchen takes center stage with tables situated for prime views, although a few are tucked away for more intimate experiences.

Exposed brick walls, natural wood surfaces, stained concrete floors and warm-hued upholstery reflect, all used to highlight the restaurant's open-flame cooking style. Chicago artist Sarah Becan, who created an entire comic book series based on the restaurant, brings her watercolor paintings to the space. Becan started her artwork series as a fan of the Chicago outpost and has since become an integral part of the story at Yusho. Bright barstools and chairs pop against the industrial feel of the space.

At the bar, handcrafted libations in the vein of Merges' Billy Sunday in Chicago as well as Japanese sakes and beer take center stage.

Also included, an outdoor patio for al fresco dining.