Konnichi wa / Great Outdoors

Introduction

Welcome to the Big Apple, where you can find some of the best Japanese food around!

From Madison Avenue to Union Square to Bryant Park, New York City is home to some of the most renowned Japanese restaurants in the world, including Tokyo.

From Michelin-starred establishments to small family-owned eateries, you can find a variety of delicious and authentic Japanese dishes in the city.

Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or just looking for a new culinary experience, NYC has something for everyone.

Here's a look at some of the best Japanese restaurants in New York City and the popular dishes they serve.

Watch this video on Japanese omelette w/ fried rice and ramen!

Introduction to Japanese Restaurants in NYC

New York City is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, but few can match the diversity and flavor of Japanese cuisine with its a la carte menus, hinoki counter, street-style yakitori, and shojin ryori.

From traditional dishes to creative fusion fare, Japanese restaurants in NYC offer a plethora of flavors and ingredients that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and are often featured in the New York Times.

Whether you're looking for an upscale dining experience with guests or just want a quick bite to eat at the sushi bar, you can find something to satisfy your cravings.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to small family-owned eateries, here's a look at some of the best Japanese restaurants in NYC and the delicious dishes they serve.

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Best Japanese Restaurants in NYC

When it comes to Japanese restaurants, NY has plenty of options to choose from.

For an upscale dining room experience, there's Sakagura, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the East Village. Here, you can enjoy a traditional kaiseki menu featuring a seasonal menu with seasonal ingredients and creative dishes that will delight your palate.

Another Michelin star restaurant is Yopparai, located in the Lower East Side. This restaurant specializes in Japanese izakaya pub fare, with a seat counter and focus on small plates, sake, and craft cocktails for excellent beverage pairing.

If you're looking for more casual fare, there's Raku in the East Village. This hip spot serves up tasty ramen, sushi, and other small plates in a cozy atmosphere.

Tsukimi, located in the West Village, is another popular spot for ramen and sushi.

For a unique experience, head to Sushi Yasaka in the Upper East Side and try the omakase menu, where the chef will customize each dish to your liking.

Kaoru, located in Midtown East, is another great option for sushi. This restaurant has a chic and modern atmosphere and serves up some of the freshest sushi in the city.

Kaikagetsu NYC, located in the East Village, is a unique Japanese restaurant that combines traditional Japanese flavors with modern techniques. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes, from tempura and tataki to ramen and sushi.

For a more elevated dining experience, head to Gosuke-Akimitsu. This Michelin-starred restaurant in the Upper East Side offers a tasting full menu featuring seasonal ingredients and creative dishes.

For a unique and upscale dining experience, there's NONONO in Midtown West. This unique restaurant specializes in Japanese kaiseki cuisine, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes.

Kimura in Williamsburg is another great option for Japanese cuisine. Here, you can enjoy a variety of small plates and creative dishes in a modern and cozy atmosphere.

Finally, for an unforgettable experience, head to Sushi Nakazawa in the West Village. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an omakase menu featuring the freshest sushi around. The chefs here will create an unforgettable meal that you won't soon forget.

Popular Japanese Dishes in NYC

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, NYC has something for everyone.

From classic dishes like miso soup and tempura to creative fusion fare, there's a variety of dishes to choose from. Some of the most popular dishes include ramen, sushi, sashimi, tempura, tataki, and yakitori.

Ramen is a popular dish that is served in a variety of styles, from classic shoyu to spicy miso. Sushi is another popular option and is served in a variety of styles, from traditional nigiri to creative maki rolls with rice.

Sashimi is a type of raw fish, usually served with soy sauce and wasabi.

Tempura is a popular dish made with a light batter and deep-fried vegetables or seafood.

Tataki is a type of seared fish, usually served with a ponzu sauce.

And yakitori is skewered chicken that is grilled over a charcoal fire.