New York City is a hub for diverse and authentic cuisines from around the world, and Japanese cuisine is no exception. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and exquisite presentation, Japanese cuisine has become a favorite among New Yorkers. From sushi and sashimi to ramen and udon, the city has a plethora of Japanese restaurants to choose from. In this blog article, we will explore the best Japanese restaurants in New York City, where you can indulge in some of the most delicious and authentic Japanese dishes the city has to offer.
Mei Jin Ramen
Address: 1574 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Phone: +1 (212) 327-2800
Website: meijinramen.com
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Mei Jin Ramen, located on 2nd Avenue in the Upper East Side, is a hidden gem serving up some of the best ramen in the city. The restaurant has a great bar area, offering craft cocktails, Japanese whiskies, sake, and Japanese beers, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. The atmosphere is fun and lively, with good music and a great vibe.
The food at Mei Jin Ramen is fantastic, with great prices, especially during happy hour, and really friendly service. The ramen dishes are a standout, with the pork extra tender, and the noodles cooked to perfection. The seasonal dishes are also highly recommended, such as the pumpkin tempura. The sushi is also a must-try, with fresh salmon rolls that are the best the reviewer has ever tasted.
The staff at Mei Jin Ramen are attentive and kind, always ready to offer excellent advice on sake and the menu. The service is fast and friendly, and the drinks are creative and refreshing. Mei Jin Ramen is a convenient location in the heart of the Upper East Side, and with its delicious food and great service, it is definitely worth a visit.
Izakaya MEW
Address: 53 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: +1 (646) 368-9459
Website: mewnyc.com
Details: $$, Izakaya restaurant
Izakaya MEW is a hidden gem located in the basement of a building, with a small entrance that can be easy to miss. However, once you find it, you’ll be rewarded with top-quality Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere is bustling and lively, with a cool vibe that makes it a great spot for a night out. The service is excellent, with attentive staff who are always willing to help.
The menu at Izakaya MEW is extensive, with a huge variety of dishes that are all top-quality and delicious. The sushi and sashimi dishes are standouts, with fresh fish that melts in your mouth. The hotate and yellowtail carpaccio are also highly recommended. The garlic rice, kimchi cream udon, and tuna tataki are must-try dishes, as well as the Sexy Roll. The restaurant also has a nice selection of sake and wine, as well as a unique frozen topped beer.
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The staff at Izakaya MEW are friendly and welcoming, offering excellent service that is both quick and attentive. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff are always on hand to help. The prices are also very reasonable, making it a great spot for a meal with friends or family. If you’re looking for authentic Japanese cuisine that is both delicious and affordable, Izakaya MEW is definitely worth a visit.
Momosan Ramen & Sake
Address: 342 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Phone: +1 (646) 201-5529
Website: momosanramen.com
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Momosan Ramen & Sake is a fantastic Japanese restaurant located in the heart of New York City. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot to visit with friends or family. The staff are friendly and attentive, providing fast and friendly service that is always appreciated.
The menu at Momosan Ramen & Sake is extensive, with a wide variety of dishes that are all delicious and authentic. The ramen is a standout, with the spicy tonkotsu ramen being a must-try dish. The pork gyoza and soft shell crab bao are also highly recommended. The portions are large, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a meal in the city.
The food at Momosan Ramen & Sake is fresh and tasty, with a great selection of sushi, ramen, and other Japanese dishes. The restaurant also has a great selection of drinks, including sake and sake sangria. The restaurant has been recommended by many visitors, who have returned multiple times to enjoy the delicious food and great service. Overall, Momosan Ramen & Sake is a great spot to visit for anyone looking for authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of New York City.
Hatsuhana Sushi Restaurant
Address: 17 E 48th St, New York, NY 10017
Phone: +1 (212) 355-3345
Website: hatsuhana.com
Details: $$$, Sushi restaurant
Hatsuhana Sushi Restaurant is an authentic Japanese restaurant located in New York City that has been serving top-notch sushi for over four decades. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a traditional Japanese decor that transports diners to Japan. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent service that is attentive and engaging.
The menu at Hatsuhana Sushi Restaurant is extensive, with a wide variety of sushi options that are all fresh and delicious. The “Box of Dreams” is a standout dish, featuring nine different types of sashimi that are all amazing. The bento boxes are also highly recommended, offering a unique and delicious way to try different sushi pieces. The quality of the fish is top-notch, with each dish prepared with expertise and care.
The pricing at Hatsuhana Sushi Restaurant is fair for the high quality of the food and overall experience. The restaurant is well-organized, making ordering easy for both sushi aficionados and beginners. The restaurant is spacious with two floors, including a sushi bar located on the second floor. The warm washcloths provided to encourage diners to use their fingers make for a unique and authentic experience. Overall, Hatsuhana Sushi Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine in New York City.
Hakata Ippudo NY
Address: 65 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003
Phone: +1 (212) 388-0088
Website: ippudony.com/location
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Hakata Ippudo NY is an authentic Japanese restaurant located in New York City that specializes in delicious ramen dishes. The atmosphere is bustling and energetic, with friendly staff and a great vibe that makes for a fun and lively dining experience. The restaurant is well-organized, making ordering easy and service prompt and courteous.
The menu at Hakata Ippudo NY is extensive, with excellent appetizers like the pork buns and spicy octopus grill. The ramen dishes are the highlight of the menu, with a wide variety of options that are all flavorful and delicious. The vegetarian options are particularly noteworthy, with the wasabi shoyu and NY Akamaru being standouts. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure that diners get their drinks and appetizers quickly.
The pricing at Hakata Ippudo NY is reasonable, making it a great choice for authentic Asian food without breaking the bank. The restaurant can get crowded and a bit noisy, but the energy and lively atmosphere make it well worth it. The traditional Japanese sitting can be a unique experience, with the possibility of sharing a table with strangers. Overall, Hakata Ippudo NY is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious, authentic ramen in New York City.
Ivan Ramen
Address: 25 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002
Phone: +1 (646) 678-3859
Website: ivanramen.com
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant
Ivan Ramen is a must-visit Japanese restaurant located in New York City, known for its delicious and innovative ramen dishes. The restaurant’s atmosphere is lively and buzzing, with friendly and efficient staff that make the dining experience even more enjoyable. The menu is extensive, offering a wide variety of options that cater to all tastes.
The food at Ivan Ramen is exceptional, with standout dishes like the tonkatsu ramen and wagyu pastrami bao. The appetizers, like the fried chicken and pork buns, are also noteworthy. The restaurant’s staff is knowledgeable and helpful, providing great recommendations and making sure that diners have a memorable experience. The value for money is also excellent, making it an affordable option for Michelin-level food.
The atmosphere at Ivan Ramen is fun and energetic, with an open kitchen that allows diners to see their food being prepared. The restaurant can get busy, so it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance. Families are welcome, and there’s even a small terrace for those who prefer to dine outside. Overall, Ivan Ramen is a fantastic dining destination for those who love delicious and innovative ramen dishes in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Sakagura
Address: 211 E 43rd St B1, New York, NY 10017
Phone: +1 (212) 953-7253
Website: sakagura.com
Details: $$$, Japanese restaurant
Sakagura is a hidden gem of a Japanese restaurant located in the basement of an office building in New York City. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a friendly and attentive staff that makes diners feel right at home. The menu is extensive, offering a wide variety of fresh and delicately prepared dishes that cater to all tastes.
The food at Sakagura is exceptional, with standout dishes like the marinated maguro and black miso cod. The sashimi is always fresh, and the cooked dishes like the chawan mushi and fried chicken are also noteworthy. The sake selection is impressive, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to choosing the perfect pairing. The presentation of the dishes is also excellent, adding to the overall dining experience.
The service at Sakagura is exceptional, with staff members who go out of their way to make diners feel welcome and comfortable. The restaurant offers a great prix fixe menu, which includes gifts and a personalized menu with the diner’s name on it. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends. Overall, Sakagura is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Japanese food, an impressive sake selection, and exceptional service.
Sushi Yasuda
Address: 204 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017
Phone: +1 (212) 972-1001
Website: sushiyasuda.com
Details: $$$$, Sushi restaurant
Sushi Yasuda is a New York City institution that offers outstanding sushi at a reasonable price point. The atmosphere is no-frills, with a focus on the quality of the food. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the tables are spaced and separated by unobtrusive dividers, making it a comfortable dining spot for anyone looking for authentic sushi.
The sushi at Sushi Yasuda is exceptional, with a focus on freshness and quality. The attention to detail in every department is riveting, and the traditional sushi cuisine is beautifully prepared. The service is excellent, with staff members who are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. The sushi rice is also noteworthy, with an excellent texture that complements the freshness of the fish.
The decor is minimalist and modern, with clean lines that create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The menu is focused on sushi and sashimi, beautifully prepared with fresh ingredients. The complimentary eggplant marinated in bonito sauce is a standout appetizer, and the eel dishes and king salmon are spectacular. The desserts, particularly the red bean mochi, are also noteworthy. Sake or white wine are the drink choices, which complement the sushi perfectly. Overall, Sushi Yasuda is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic and delicious sushi in New York City.
15 EAST @ Tocqueville
Address: 1 E 15th St, New York, NY 10003
Phone: +1 (212) 647-1515
Website: 15easttocquevillenyc.com
Details: $$$$, French restaurant
15 EAST @ Tocqueville is an elegant and refined restaurant in New York City that offers top-class food, service, and an extensive wine list. The staff is beyond attentive, and the atmosphere is warm and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for fine dining and special occasions.
The menu is impressive, with a focus on Japanese cuisine, seafood, and classic dishes with an innovative twist. The sashimi appetizer is delicate and refined, and the pasta with uni is a standout dish. The warm pieces of omakase are to die for, and the rice is exceptional. The seafood dishes, such as the tuna tartare, lobster, and black sea bass, are also standout dishes. The desserts, including the chocolate soufflé and sticky date pudding, are delicious and not too sweet.
The restaurant is understated and beautiful, with high ceilings and a warm, comfortable atmosphere. The sommelier is helpful, and the wine list is extensive. The staff is polite, attentive, and eager to please, making the dining experience exceptional. The tasting menu is an unbelievable value, with refined and classic dishes that have an innovative twist. Overall, 15 EAST @ Tocqueville is a must-visit for anyone looking for top-class food, service, and a warm and comfortable atmosphere in New York City.
Nobu Fifty Seven
Address: 40 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: +1 (212) 757-3000
Website: noburestaurants.com/fifty-seven
Details: $$$$, Restaurant
Nobu Fifty Seven is an outstanding Japanese restaurant in New York City, which offers excellent food, service, and a pleasant atmosphere. The staff is very professional, attentive, and friendly, making the dining experience exceptional. They provide excellent recommendations and are always willing to help to ensure customers have the best experience possible.
The menu is a mix of traditional Japanese dishes with an American touch, creating an excellent combination of flavors and artistic presentations. The yellowtail jalapeño is spectacular, and the crispy rice with spicy tuna is a must-have. They also offer vegetarian options such as the hearts of palm salad and warm mushroom salad, which are delicious and satisfying.
The ambiance and decoration of the restaurant are wonderful, with a pleasant and energetic atmosphere. The lighting is a bit low, creating a romantic setting, and the music adds to the overall experience. The cocktails are imaginative and strong, and the wine list is excellent. The House-made Sake cocktail is a must-try.
Overall, Nobu Fifty Seven is a top-quality restaurant that never disappoints. The food preparation and quality are outstanding, the service is excellent, and the ambiance is wonderful. The restaurant is perfect for special occasions, and the staff is accommodating and attentive to customers’ needs. It is highly recommended to anyone looking for an exceptional Japanese dining experience in New York City.
Nobu Downtown
Address: 195 Broadway, New York, NY 10007
Phone: +1 (212) 219-0500
Website: noburestaurants.com/downtown
Details: $$$$, Japanese restaurant
Nobu Downtown is a Japanese restaurant located in New York City that offers an unforgettable dining experience. The food is incredible, and the service is outstanding, making it one of the best restaurants to visit in the city. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including sushi, tempura, teriyaki salmon, and vegetable maki, all of which are delicious and worth trying.
The restaurant has a beautiful interior, with cool columns and lighting, creating a nice ambiance. The staff is very attentive, and the service is exceptional. They are accommodating and always willing to help, making the dining experience memorable. The outdoor dining area is charming, and even on a Monday night in late September, the restaurant was busy, indicating its popularity among customers.
The yellowtail jalapeno, new style sashimi, lobster tempura, rock shrimp tempura, and brussels sprouts are some of the dishes that customers rave about. Additionally, the black cod miso is a must-try, as it melts in your mouth and has an unreal flavor. The sushi prepared by the sushi chef is also outstanding, and the vegetarian options are delicious.
In summary, Nobu Downtown is a fantastic restaurant that offers excellent food, service, and ambiance. The staff is attentive and friendly, and the menu is outstanding, with a variety of options to choose from. The restaurant is perfect for special occasions or a night out with friends and family. Highly recommended to anyone looking for an unforgettable Japanese dining experience in New York City.
Natsumi
Address: 226 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: +1 (212) 258-2988
Website: natsuminyc.com
Details: $$, Sushi restaurant
Natsumi is a Japanese restaurant located in the theater district of New York City. It offers an outstanding dining experience with fresh sushi and sashimi, flavorful teriyaki salmon, and a variety of soups, salads, and appetizers. The pre-fixe menu is an excellent option for those looking for a quick meal before a show. The food is well-paced, executed, and delicious.
The restaurant has a lovely atmosphere, with fashionable and plush seating, creating a comfortable ambiance. The staff is friendly, attentive, and accommodating, making the dining experience enjoyable. The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails, including spiritual cocktails, and a great selection of sake.
Natsumi is a hidden gem that offers great lunch specials and incredible appetizers, such as Shumai, edamame, and dumplings. The restaurant is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and is conveniently located near theaters, making it a perfect pre-theater dinner spot. The sushi is marvelous, and the seafood, whether hot or cold, is some of the best around. Overall, Natsumi is a well-rounded restaurant that offers a broad array of dishes, making it an ideal spot for those with different tastes.
In summary, Natsumi is a fantastic Japanese restaurant that offers fresh and flavorful food, excellent service, and a comfortable ambiance. The pre-fixe menu is an excellent option for those looking for a quick meal before a show. The staff is friendly and accommodating and offers a great selection of cocktails and sake. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a great Japanese dining experience in the theater district of New York City.
Bond Street
Address: 6 Bond St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: +1 (212) 777-2500
Website: Bondstrestaurant.com
Details: $$$$, Japanese restaurant
Bond Street is a trendy Japanese restaurant in Manhattan that offers an incredible dining experience. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate ambiance, perfect for a date, anniversary, or intimate celebration. The staff is attentive, present, and truly excellent, providing a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
The food at Bond Street is outstanding, with fresh and flavorful sushi and sashimi, including the highly recommended tuna tarts and yellowtail sashimi. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including the braised lamb shank, strip steak, and crispy spicy tuna, all of which are phenomenal. The chef prefers the full order upfront, ensuring a well-paced and enjoyable dining experience.
The restaurant also offers great cocktails, including the shishito jalapeño margarita, and excellent desserts like the green tea Mille crepe and Bond St donuts. The staff is knowledgeable about the spirits and food, making recommendations that enhance the dining experience. Although the prices are a little steep, the food, service, and ambiance are worth it, making Bond Street one of the best meals in recent memory.
In summary, Bond Street is a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Manhattan, offering authentic New York sushi and an outstanding dining experience. The food is excellent, the staff is attentive and knowledgeable, and the ambiance is cozy and intimate. Highly recommended for any sushi lover or those looking for a great Japanese bar and restaurant experience.
Zuma
Address: 261 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
Phone: +1 (212) 544-9862
Website: zumarestaurant.com/locations/new-york
Details: $$$$, Japanese restaurant
Zuma is an outstanding Japanese restaurant located in Midtown Manhattan that provides a special atmosphere, excellent service, and exceptional food prepared by a team of professionals led by a talented chef. The restaurant offers a contemporary Japanese cuisine that is perfect for sushi lovers and those who appreciate delicious and beautifully presented dishes.
The staff at Zuma are attentive, friendly, and provide top-class service to guests. The restaurant is also kids-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families. While the prices are a bit on the higher side, the dining experience is well worth it, with delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
The menu at Zuma is extensive, with a variety of options ranging from dumplings, soft shell crab, tenderloin steak, mushroom rice, tofu salad, beef skewers, and more. The drinks are also fantastic, with excellent cocktails and a great selection of whiskey and Prosecco. The restaurant offers private event spaces, making it a great place to celebrate special occasions.
Overall, Zuma is a must-visit Japanese restaurant in Manhattan, providing an exceptional dining experience that is sure to impress. The ambiance is beautiful and sexy, making it a great place to see and be seen. Whether you visit with a large group or for a romantic dinner, Zuma is an experience that you won’t forget.
Wasabi Sushi & Bento
Address: 561 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Phone: +1 (212) 575-1410
Website: wasabi.uk.com
Details: $$, Sushi restaurant
Wasabi Sushi & Bento is a great Japanese restaurant that offers a quick and healthy meal in a comfortable and clean atmosphere. The staff are friendly and provide excellent service, making it a great option for those looking for a quick bite to eat. The menu provides a wide range of hot and cold options, including sushi, udon, katsu curry, and other pre-made dishes, making it easy for customers to find something that suits their taste.
The food at Wasabi Sushi & Bento is fresh and full of flavor. The sushi is particularly good, with each piece individually wrapped and very fresh. The restaurant also offers a great variety of warm and cold dishes, giving customers plenty of options to choose from. The prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for those who want to eat healthy without spending a fortune.
The atmosphere at Wasabi Sushi & Bento is comfortable and clean, with a spacious seating area and a friendly staff. It is a great place to stop for a quick meal before a long journey, and it is conveniently located close to Penn Station. The restaurant is a perfect spot for sushi lovers who want to have a quick lunch or dinner. Overall, Wasabi Sushi & Bento is a great place to get fresh and healthy Japanese food, with a great variety of options and excellent service.
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best Japanese restaurants outside of Japan. Whether you’re looking for traditional sushi and sashimi or more contemporary Japanese dishes, you’re sure to find a restaurant that satisfies your cravings. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems in the city’s many neighborhoods, there is no shortage of options for Japanese food lovers. So next time you’re in the mood for some delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine, be sure to check out one of these fantastic restaurants.
