NYC's 17 Best Japanese Restaurants Of 2024

Finding the best Japanese restaurants in NYC is a symphony of flavors, artful presentations, and cultural richness.

There are many of the best Japanese restaurants in NYC, such as Masa, Hi-Collar, Nonono, Torien, Tempura Matsui, and more!

In this article, we will explore the top Japanese restaurants in NYC that have captivated the taste buds of locals and visitors in the heart of NYC.

Bohemian

Quick Overview:

Name: Bohemian.
Location: 57 Great Jones St, New York.
Specialty: Has exclusive Japanese-inspired dining in a covert setting.
Website: Bohemian NYC (Review Link).

Bohemian is located beyond a butcher shop on Great Jones Street. It stands as a covert Japanese-inspired restaurant shrouded in mystery and exclusivity. Also, it is renowned for its clandestine nature.

If you want to secure a coveted spot at one of its 25 seats, you must obtain the contact details from a past patron or place an email inquiry.

Once you are inside, guests are welcomed into a minimalist space. The space is adorned with Zen garden aesthetics, lounge chairs, and captivating wall art. Formerly the residence of Jean-Michel Basquiat, the venue offers an intimate setting.

However, despite its VIP status, Bohemian surprises with a down-to-earth menu. They feature delectable items like wagyu beef sliders and mac and cheese.

To access Bohemian, you must navigate through a shared storefront with Japan Premium Beef, and you can locate a long hallway to the left of the butcher shop. A discreet buzzer at the end of the hall depicts the culinary secrets of Bohemians. However, they provide an experience that transcends traditional dining norms.

Cocoron

Quick Overview:

Name: Cocoron.
Location: 16 Delancey St, New York, 10002.
Specialty: Authentic soba noodles in a heartwarming setting.
Website: Cocoron NYC.

If you go to the vibrant Lower East Side, Cocoron stands as a testament. It is to the artistry of chefs Yoshihito Kida and Mika Ohie. They were born in Tokyo and Hokkaido, respectively. These culinary virtuosos crossed paths in Yakitori Totto’s and Soba Totto’s kitchens before starting their venture.

Cocoron, meaning “heartwarming,” lives up to its name! It offers a menu rich in fiber and low in fat, focusing on house-made buckwheat noodles. It is situated in the dynamic Lower East Side.

What sets Cocoron apart is its dedication to authenticity. Chef Kida’s expertise, honed in a soba restaurant back in Japan, shines through in the soba noodles. Complementing the noodles are delectable sides and appetizers, such as a cold house-made tofu featuring scallions, ginger, and bonito. These dishes showcase a commitment to both tradition and innovation.

Cocoron invites you to indulge in heart-healthy fare, combining Japanese culinary traditions with the energy of downtown New York.

Hi-Collar

Quick Overview:

Name: Hi-Collar.
Location: 214 E 10th St, NY, 10009.
Specialty: It is a Japanese-inspired coffeehouse with East-meets-West fare.
Website: Hi-Collar NYC.

Hi-Collar is situated in the heart of the East Village. It blends Japanese charm with New York City’s eclectic vibes. Also, it is named after a fashion term popular during Japan’s Jazz Age. This 11-seat coffeehouse transcends the ordinary, offering a unique East-meets-West culinary experience.

However, Hi-Collar captivates you with siphon brews and features Porto Rico and Counter Culture blends. Alongside, there are tasty dishes like omurice (rice-stuffed omelet) and katsu pork sandwiches.

What distinguishes Hi-Collar? It is its transition from a coffeehouse by day to a cozy spot for Far East beers and sake cocktails as the sun sets. The wooden counter becomes a gathering place for those seeking an evening with Japanese-inspired libations.

Fusing traditional brewing techniques with modern flavors elevates Hi-Collar to a distinctive status. It is also famous for its appeal to coffee and nightlife enthusiasts.

Japan Village

Quick Overview:

Name: Japan Village.
Location: 934 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, 11232.
Specialty: Food court featuring diverse Japanese vendors.
Website: Japan Village.

Japan Village is nestled within the expansive Industry City warehouses. It is located along the Brooklyn waterfront. Also, it beckons culinary adventurers with a feast for the senses.

Japan Village has a remarkable 4 out of 5 stars and presents a unique dilemma upon entry. You can explore whether the Sunrise Mart is laden with adorably packaged snacks and rare ingredients. It also delves into the diverse offerings of the ten vendors comprising the food court in New York.

The options are diverse and compelling, from Shokusaido’s delectable kakiage and fish patty skewers to Ramen Setagaya’s whimsical Mt. Fuji ramen. The ambiance evokes the spirit of a Kyoto market, offering both a sensory and visual feast.

The experience at Japan Village is characterized by its immersive food court concept, where visitors can enjoy a culinary journey through various Japanese specialties.

Masa

Quick Overview:

Name: Masa.
Location: Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Circle, fourth floor, New York, 10019.
Specialty: It is an exquisite and expensive sushi dining experience.
Website: Masa NYC.

Masa restaurant is located in the heart of the Upper West Side. It is a culinary maestro offering an unparalleled symphony of sushi elegance. Also, it is helmed by world-renowned sushi chef Masa Takayama. The establishment redefines luxury dining with an experience that transcends traditional boundaries.

What sets Masa apart? It has excellent and exquisite taste, but every dish’s meticulous craftsmanship stands unique. Takayama’s devotion to perfection is reflected in the use of top-grade matsutake mushrooms and rare ingredients. He showcases a commitment to culinary excellence.

The dining experience at Masa is not merely a meal; it’s a journey into unparalleled indulgence. The windowless, virtually colorless space, paired with bare tables, creates an ambiance reminiscent of a temple.

Each bite-size gift is prepared by Takayama and presented on a round slate. It allows diners to savor the sushi with a heightened sense of appreciation.

Nakamura

Quick Overview:

Name: Nakamura Ramen.
Location: 172 Delancey St, New York, 10002.
Specialty: Famous for XO miso ramen, curry-spiced ramen, and signature shoyu ramen.
Website: Nakamura Ramen.

Nakamura Ramen is situated in the busy streets of the Lower East Side. It emerges as a gastronomic gem curated by Shigetoshi “Naka” Nakamura, a luminary in the ramen world. Also, it is renowned for its artful creations.

Nakamura captured the hearts of New Yorkers in 2015 with his XO miso ramen at Sun Noodle’s Ramen Lab. In transitioning from his role as the noodle company’s corporate chef, Nakamura brings his expertise to the forefront with an 18-seat ramen-ya.

The menu features a steamy XO miso ramen, curry-spiced ramen, and the signature shoyu variety, where a proprietary soy sauce blend elevates the dish. Nakamura’s famed stock, crafted from chicken bones simmered with ginger, forms the flavorful base for the shoyu ramen, garnished with spinach, chashu (pork belly), and scallion oil.

What sets Nakamura apart? It is not the mastery behind each bowl but the intimate setting. You can savor their ramen at wood-fitted two-top tables or a no-frills counter. It enhances the experience. Nakamura Ramen isn’t merely a dining destination; it’s a culinary symphony orchestrated by a ramen virtuoso.

Nonono

Quick Overview:

Name: Nonono.
Location: New York, NY, 10016.
Specialty: Expansive yakitori-centric menu and captivating cocktail program.
Website: Nonono.

Nonono is nestled in the heart of an expansive yakitori-centric menu. It stands out as a haven for Japanese gastronomy enthusiasts. It is in an unassuming yet vibrant setting, and this restaurant has an extensive menu being located in NY. The menu includes a captivating cocktail program and prices, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

What distinguishes Nonono? It has excellent and unpretentious vibes, encouraging patrons to embark on a culinary adventure. They have an open mind and palate.

The restaurant’s ambiance is inviting and spacious, including a long, tall layout featuring a counter at the rear and a second story.

Are you on a date or part of a large group? No worries, Nonono provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. It’s a place where you’re not simply encouraged but practically compelled to try various dishes. Indeed, you can find cherished chicken chunks available in limited daily supply, adding an element exclusively to the dining experience.

Nonono is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Japanese flavors! It is presented in a laid-back atmosphere to ensure every visit uniquely explores the country’s culinary treasures.

Okonomi

Quick Overview:

Name: Okonomi.
Location: 150 Ainslie St, NY, 11211.
Specialty: Traditional Japanese breakfast and lunch, reservations-only ramen tasting for dinner.
Website: Okonomi NYC.

Okonomi is situated in the trendy neighborhood of Williamsburg. It emerges as a Japanese culinary haven, offering a unique dining experience to set it apart from the crowd.

As part of New York’s ongoing ramen mania, Okonomi introduces the concept of ichi ju san sai. It is a traditional Japanese meal featuring one soup and three side dishes.

Its approach transforms the restaurant into a hub for breakfast and lunch. However, it features broccoli rabe shiraae, roasted Spanish mackerel, and miso soup with ramp stalks. The menu is an extension of the chef’s expertise from Kinfolk Studios and Whole Foods counters. They provide a diverse and traditional Japanese culinary journey.

What makes Okonomi distinct? It is its commitment to authenticity, offering a dinner experience centered around a reservations-only and daily-changing ramen tasting.

Through the restaurant’s chestnut-walled interior and four-stool counter, you can overlook the open kitchen. It creates an intimate setting, allowing patrons to witness the meticulous preparation of each dish.

Okonomi is a cultural immersion, bringing the essence of traditional Japanese meals to the heart of Williamsburg.

Raku

Quick Overview:

Name: Raku.
Location: 342 E 6th St, New York, 10003.
Specialty: It has a Premier purveyor of udon with adventurous flavors.
Website: Raku NYC.

Raku is located in the stylish East Village. It has become the city’s premier purveyor of udon, elevating the noodle experience to new heights. The restaurant’s minimalist space is the canvas for a culinary masterpiece. However, the thick, chewy noodles take center stage.

What truly distinguishes Raku? It is their commitment to adventurous flavors. The Niku, featuring short rib and honeycomb tripe, showcases the bold approach to noodles and broths. It also includes optional toppings like grated mountain yam or pickled plum.

The experience at Raku continues after noodles! It’s a symphony of flavors and textures carefully crafted to tantalize the taste buds. If you are seeking an adventure in Japanese cuisine, Raku beckons with a menu that goes beyond the ordinary. You can also invite your friends to savor inventive combinations.

Sake Bar Decibel

Quick Overview:

Name: Sake Bar Decibel.
Location: 240 E 9th St, New York, 10003.
Specialty: Over 100 strong sake selections and an intimate and unpretentious ambiance.
Website: Sake Bar Decibel.

Sake Bar Decibel is tucked away in the East Village. It is a small yet vibrant Japanese bar, offering an authentic experience for sake enthusiasts.

What makes Sake Bar Decibel unique? It’s their extensive selection of over 100 sakes and the intimate ambiance. They provide an immersive journey into Japanese drinking culture.

However, the staff are predominantly non-English speakers. Thus, it adds an element of authenticity, encouraging you to explore the vast sake offerings with the help of fellow patrons.

This cozy spot comes alive with a distinct lack of formality. The unpretentious setting and the dimly lit ambiance create an inviting space. It unwinds and savor the diverse sake options.

Also, the lack of extensive guidance from the staff adds a touch of mystery! It encourages you to rely on recommendations from its neighbors to foster a sense of community among enthusiasts.

Shalom Japan

Quick Overview:

Name: Shalom Japan.
Location: 310 South 4th St, NY, 11211.
Specialty: Its specialty is Fusion of Japanese cuisines and playful creations like mini challah with sake yeast and matzo ball ramen.
Website: Shalom Japan.

Shalom, Japan, is located in the heart of Williamsburg. It is a rare confluence of Jewish and Japanese culinary traditions, creating a whimsical fusion feast. It was founded by chefs such as Aaron Israel and Sawako Okochi.

Shalom Japan is a playful homage to cross-cultural creativity. It blends the comfort of Jewish dishes with the precision of Japanese culinary techniques.

What sets Shalom Japan apart? It can seamlessly meld seemingly disparate flavors and ingredients. They have a steaming mini challah made with nutty sake yeast and a bone-warming bowl of matzo ball ramen featuring a rich chicken broth. However, each dish is a harmonious union of flavors from two culinary worlds.

The menu is ever-changing and inventive! It showcases the chefs’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of fusion cuisine while keeping sight of the essence of each tradition.

Shuko

Quick Overview:

Name: Shuko.
Location: 47 E 12th St, NY, 10003.
Specialty: Unconventional edomaezushi and kaiseki experience.
Website: Shuko.

Shuko is nestled in Greenwich Village. It redefines the New York sushi scene with its unconventional vibe and delectable offerings. The restaurant effortlessly blends traditional edomaezushi with a contemporary twist. It creates a sushi symphony that tantalizes the taste buds.

Shuko departs from the serene ambiance typical of sushi temples. It opts for a soundtrack featuring Jay Z and the Notorious BIG, setting a lively tone for the dining experience.

Unlike its predecessor, Neta, Shuko mandates an omakase experience. For $135, you are treated to a procession of meticulously crafted edomaezushi. Each piece is delicately lacquered with soy, offering a burst of flavor.

For true sushi enthusiasts, the $175 kaiseki menu has an array of seasonal plates. They include toro tartare with caviar, Dungeness crab salad, and innovative desserts like apple pie with bay leaf ice cream.

Shuko introduces playful additions like house-made mochi squares with pistachio miso and tempura-fried cake of scallops, carrots, and burdock. It showcases culinary creativity beyond traditional boundaries.

The dessert selection, including the crumbly apple pie, provides a surprising and delightful end to the gastronomic journey.

Sushi Ginza Onodera

Quick Overview:

Name: Sushi Ginza Onodera.
Location: 461 5th Ave, New York, 10017.
Specialty: Seasonal omakase with aged nigiri, specializing in edomaezushi.
Website: Sushi Ginza Onodera.

Sushi Ginza Onodera is nestled in the heart of New York. It stands as a testament to the artistry of sushi, offering a transcendent dining experience. This two-Michelin-starred establishment brings a unique approach to edomaezushi and elevates it to a culinary masterpiece.

Sushi Ginza Onodera employs ancient aging techniques to flavor the fish. It develops and matures the dedication to the craft, resulting in nigiri. That is fresh and reaches the pinnacle of taste through meticulous aging.

The restaurant presents a seasonal omakase that transcends the need for exotic varieties and focuses on mastery. Each piece of nigiri is carefully crafted and lacquered with soy to offer a pristine taste.

The fish used in Sushi Ginza Onodera’s creations are freshly flown in from Tokyo’s prestigious Tsukiji market. The restaurant doesn’t rely on exotic varieties. Instead, it showcases the brilliance of familiar fish through exceptional preparation.

Sushi Ginza Onodera specializes in edomaezushi, a traditional Tokyo style. It is where each piece is served atop a small bed of rice, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine.

Sushi Noz

Quick Overview:

Name: Sushi Noz.
Location: 181 E 78th St, New York, 10075.
Specialty: Edomae-style sushi with ancient aging techniques.
Website: Sushi Noz.

At Sushi Noz, the art of sushi transcends a mere dining experience. It becomes a symphony of flavors meticulously composed to delight the senses. Also, it is nestled in the Upper East Side.

The edomae-style sushi joint distinguishes itself through the craftsmanship of Chef Abe Nozomu—the ancient aging techniques employed to create an unparalleled culinary masterpiece.

Sushi Noz specializes in edomae-style sushi and has a traditional Tokyo approach where each piece of nigiri is served on a small bed of rice. This technique allows for an intimate exploration of flavors, highlighting the essence of each ingredient.

Chef Abe Nozomu employs ancient aging techniques to elevate the flavors of his creations. This meticulous process imparts depth and richness to the fish and creates a dining experience beyond the ordinary.

The nigiri at Sushi Noz is a testament to the precision and artistry of Chef Abe. Each piece is carefully crafted, offering a pristine taste. It also reflects the restaurant’s commitment to perfection.

Sushi Yasuda

Quick Overview:

Name: Sushi Yasuda.
Location: 204 E 43rd St, New York, 10017.
Specialty: Traditional sushi in a serene setting.
Website: Sushi Yasuda.

Sushi Yasuda is nestled in Midtown East. It is a tranquil oasis of sushi purity and captivates visitors with its minimalist aesthetic. They also persist in a devotion to traditional craftsmanship. This culinary haven distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to the art of sushi.

Sushi Yasuda embodies culinary serenity, providing an escape from the bustling city life. The bamboo-embellished space and counter seating offer an intimate setting. It is where you can witness and engage with the chefs, creating an immersive dining experience.

The restaurant’s commitment to traditional sushi preparation makes it a sushi purist’s paradise. The menu features a selection of meticulously crafted nigiri, showcasing buttery fluke, rich eel, dessert-sweet egg custard, and other dishes.

Sushi Yasuda offers an ever-evolving dining experience. You can visit as the chefs present a variety of seasonal and expertly prepared sushi.

Tempura Matsui

Quick Overview:

Name: Tempura Matsui.
Location: 222 E 39th St, New York, 10016.
Specialty: Japanese tempura in a traditional setting.
Website: Tempura Matsui.

Tempura Matsui is situated in Murray Hill. It transcends the ordinary with its unrivaled dedication to the delicate art of tempura. The seasoned Tokyo import Masao Matsui helms this distinguished restaurant. It takes diners on an exquisite journey of Japanese culinary craftsmanship, elevating tempura to an art form.

At Tempura Matsui, tempura is not just a dish; it’s a symphony of finesse. Masao Matsui has almost 50 years of experience. He orchestrates a culinary ballet with his cooking chopsticks, showcasing the ethereal silkiness of his batter. The restaurant’s intimate 19-seat setting is adorned with an A-frame bamboo-paneled ceiling. Thus, it provides an authentic and immersive dining experience.

The menu unfolds as a well-paced procession of exquisite tempura courses. It features delicate shrimp heads, velvety house-made tofu, and sizzling strips of sea eel. The tempura veils work wonders for seafood, preserving the natural flavors and textures.

Tempura Matsui’s ambiance mirrors a sukiya-style cottage and creates a traditional and cozy atmosphere for guests. You can also savor the nuanced flavors of each tempura creation.

Torien

Quick Overview:

Name: Torien.
Location: 292 Elizabeth St, New York, 10012.
Specialty: Yakitori – Grilled chicken skewers.
Website: Torien.

Torien isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a testament to the mastery of yakitori, the art of skewered and grilled chicken. Yoshiteru Ikegawa’s culinary prowess shines as Torien brings the famed yakitori menu from his renowned Tokyo restaurant. Also, Torishiki is in the heart of New York City.

Torien distinguishes itself by its focus on using every part of the chicken and showcasing the versatility of this poultry. Each skewer is a crafted masterpiece highlighting the flavors and textures unique to different cuts of chicken.

The yakitori experience at Torien involves cooking on charcoal grills and adds an authentic touch to the preparation. The smoky aroma and charred perfection complement the restaurant’s Japanese culinary techniques.

Guests are treated to an omakase experience! It is where the chef curates a selection of skewers, presenting the diverse flavors of chicken. Hence, it ensures a personalized and memorable dining adventure for every visitor.

How do you find the best Japanese Restaurants In NYC?

Finding the best Japanese restaurants in NYC combines research, reviews, and personal preferences.

Here are some tips on how to identify top Japanese restaurants in the city:

Read Reviews: Check online review platforms like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews for customer feedback. Look for reviews from reputable food critics and publications such as Michelin Guide, Zagat, and local food blogs.
Ask for Recommendations: You can seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues with similar tastes in Japanese cuisine. Also, use social media or online forums for suggestions from locals or food enthusiasts in NY.
Explore Michelin Guide: Check the Michelin Guide for New York City to get a curated list of restaurants with Michelin stars. Michelin-starred restaurants are often recognized for their exceptional quality and service.
Visit Restaurant Websites: Explore the official websites of Japanese restaurants in NYC. Restaurant websites often provide menus, ambiance details, and information about chefs.
Attend Food Events: Attend food events or festivals in the city. You get the opportunity to taste sample dishes from different Japanese restaurants. It allows you to discover new places and taste various styles of Japanese cuisine.
Consider Awards and Accolades: Take note of restaurants that have received awards or accolades for culinary excellence.

FAQs

What Japanese Restaurant Has 3 Michelin Stars In Manhattan?

The Masa restaurant is A Japanese restaurant with 3 Michelin stars in Manhattan. However, the Michelin Guide ratings can change, so it’s advisable to check the latest guide for the most up-to-date information.

What Is The Best Japanese Restaurant Name?

Determining the “best” Japanese restaurant can be subjective and depends on personal preferences. Some well-regarded Japanese restaurants in various cities include Jiro’s Sushi in Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro in Ginza, and Nobu in multiple locations worldwide.

Which US city Has The Best Japanese Food?

The US cities with the best Japanese food are Los Angeles, New York City, and San Francisco, known for having a diverse range of high-quality Japanese restaurants. However, The perception of the “best” can vary from person to person.

What Is The Most Expensive Michelin-Star Restaurant In Nyc?

The most expensive Michelin-starred restaurant in NYC is Masa. Some of the costly Michelin-starred restaurants in NYC included places like Per Se and Eleven Madison Par. However, for the most accurate and current information, checking the latest reviews and guides is recommended.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the quest for the best Japanese restaurants is mere dining—it becomes an immersive cultural experience. You can start from the minimalist elegance of Michelin-starred establishments to the cozy ambiance of neighborhood gems.

Each restaurant contributes a unique chapter to the story of Japanese cuisine in NYC. However, it becomes evident that the city’s best Japanese restaurants are the gateways to art, tradition, and innovation. It defines the rich tapestry of Japanese culinary mastery.

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