NY's top Modern Japanese restaurants
Güncelleme Tarihi:
NEW YORK - One of the most apparent situations that the financial crisis has hit New York City and its citizens is the availability of tables at top-notch restaurants. While only a few months ago patrons had to wait for weeks to get a reservation at say Nobu Tribeca, presently walking in, customers are seated almost immediately.
No one-hour lines in front of Blue Ribbon Sushi or the even the legendary Tomoe Sushi, where a 45-minute waiting line always forms. Needless to say, the quality and service is still outstanding at many of these high-end Manhattan Japanese eateries. Here is a list of the first-rate favorites.
1. Blue Ribbon Sushi
Best Raw Fish in Town: This tranquil restaurant, which is located on a calm street in SoHo, has enjoyed huge popularity since its establishment 15 years ago. Even today it is still no doubt regarded as one of New York City's top sushi bars. The décor is simple, cozy and rustic, yet might be a bit stuffy and cramped for some. The raw fish is excellent. A few popular notable dishes include the Shrimp Shumai; Lobster Sashimi Platter; melt-in-your-mouth Dragon Roll; the Blue Ribbon Roll-lobster, shiso, and black caviar. Prices are steep, but worth the succulent, blissful pieces of raw fish. The sake selection is also fabulous.
119 Sullivan Street (between Prince and Spring streets)
Tel: +1 212.343.0404
2. Sushi of Gari
Taste fit for sushi snobs: With three locations now throughout Manhattan and a causal warm atmosphere, Sushi of Gari sets the stage in New York for Japanese fine dining. The “omakase” is a must-try here. Originally omakase is a Japanese phrase that translates as "It's up to you." Used at sushi restaurants, it means leaving the selection to the chef. Gari specializes in the superb taste of Signature Sushi by Chef Masatoshi Gari Sugio. From the freshest and top-quality selection of seafood, chef Gari combines a complete meal for his guests. Expect to pay around $100 per person on omakase. From the a la carte menu, the rolls are remarkable but might not be worth going to if one does not order the omakase. Sushi of Gari is pricey, but if you are a sushi snob, you won't be disappointed.
347 W 46th St. (between 8th and 9th Ave)
Tel: +1 212?517?5340
3. En Brasserie
The latest contemporary Japanese brasserie: In a city like New York, big is always regarded as good. Consequently the dining area of this hip contemporary Japanese brasserie in Tribeca is humongous! Dining tables are spread in various corners, a long dining bar lies near the cooking quarters and a communal dining area is set around an exotic fountain in the center of the restaurant. En Brasserie’s culinary area of expertise is its fresh tofu made in various fashions and prepared fresh five times throughout the evening. Other dishes include Esoteric Sashimi made from a root-vegetable paste called Konnyaku; the fabulous New York?style Japanese dish Miso Black Cod; fresh Yuba Shimi, sautéed Duck Breast, and Shiso sorbet. Although En is pricey, it still does not compare to the fees of other extravagantly expensive Japanese culinary establishments in New York City.
435 Hudson St. (at Leroy St.)
Tel: +1 212-647-9196
4. Nobu:
Celebrated but the hype appears to be over: The excitement over Nobu and its celebrity chef and restaurateur, Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, seems to be left back in the early to middle 2000’s. With his fusion Japanese dishes and innovative blends with Peruvian and Argentinean influences, Nobu instantly became an international hit. Yet now tables are more readily available and Nobu’s dishes seem to somewhat disappoint. A number of platters are still notable; however in general Nobu Tribeca has unfortunately lost its allure. Some signature dishes are the Sashimi Salad with Matsuhisa Dressing; Rock Shrimp Tempura with Creamy Spicy Sauce; Broiled Black Cod with Miso ? chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s most signature dish; Beef Teriyaki with Pepper Sauce. For dessert Gingerbread cake with Ginger is admirable but the ginger bread is not overpowering.
105 Hudson St (between Franklin St & Moore St)
Tel: +1 (212) 219-0500
5. Megu Restaurant:
Best Japanese That Isn’t Sushi: With two locations in Manhattan, one in Midtown and other in Tribeca, Megu (which means blessing in Japanese) is set on a two level structure. The lively and vibrant downtown spot, which is a $6 million restaurant, was designed by celebrated Japanese designer Yasumichi Morita. Upon arriving, customers are greeted by exciting cries of “Irrashaimase!” (Welcome!). The menu is extensive but also confusing. One of the best bets and favorites here is the Kobe beef Châteaubriand with fresh wasabi and saké juices. In addition the maki rolls and chef’s selection of raw fish are noteworthy. For dessert the French-inspired Japanese desserts, Bitter Chocolate Soufflé with warm ogura azuki cream is outstanding. Be warned as the prices here are steep and somewhat unreasonable.
62 Thomas St. (W. Broadway & Church St.)
Tel: +1 212-964-7777