Izakaya Restaurants in New York, NY

“I wouldn’t call Katana a dive bar, but on a Tuesday night it felt like a great neighborhood bar. Relaxed atmosphere. Was surprised at how small it was but that added to the chill vibe. I bet on a Thirsty Thursday and the weekend that all changes, but the bartenders and the craft cocktails will be just as great.“

“Ended up here accidentally on a layover: Hands down, the best ramen I’ve ever had (springy, slurpy perfection), amazing cocktails (if you like gin the Japanese 75 is a must try!), and whatever the whipped cream, creme brûlée’d banana dessert was tasted like heaven. I even ordered another tonkotsu ramen to go (all the way to Florida) to bring back to my fiancé. They separated all of it, packaged it so it wouldn’t leak, and wrote directions on specific timing for heating up each item! Very impressive service. I’ll be back again!“

“Ramen is good ! Soup is good not so oily Yakitori good with Asahi Beeru !“

“Best Filipino Fusion, Try the Cebuano Longganisa. Perfect“

“A Katsu That Will Change You- Konban NYC

Konban NYC delivers a beautiful balance of comfort and creativity, where every dish feels both familiar and elevated. The intimate setting pairs perfectly with their modern take on Japanese-inspired small plates.

To start the konban corn ribs were a fun and indulgent surprise—sweet, crunchy, and dusted with a cheesy umami powder that made it impossible to stop eating. The cucumber katsuobushi offered a nice contrast—cool, refreshing, and subtly savory thanks to the bonito flakes and kombu powder.

The shishito peppers were blistered to perfection and seasoned with an umami powder that elevated the simple vegetable into something deeply satisfying.

Lastly the karaage, a standout and table favorite —lightly battered and perfectly crisp, served with a rich black pepper mayo that gave each bite a peppery, creamy kick. The tenderloin katsu was equally impressive—juicy, tender pork wrapped in a delicate, golden crust, paired with a trio of condiments: tonkatsu sauce, a dab of wasabi, and a touch of truffle salt. Each combination brought out something different, but all were excellent.

To finish, the mazemen stole the show. The spicy pork sauce, rich almond butter, and thick noodles created a luxurious, nutty, and spicy balance—comforting yet bold, with the pat of butter melting into a luscious coating.

Overall, Konban NYC feels like a place that takes its flavors seriously while keeping things relaxed and fun. Ideal for sharing plates, sipping sake, and lingering a little longer than planned. Here are too more nights with friends and food at Konban 🥰“

“Great sushi! Great ramen!“

“It was a cool place great food and atmosphere“

“We had a 4:30 PM reservation but lined up early and were lucky to get it.

The ambiance is effortlessly cool.
The sesame cabbage ($8) was beautifully balanced, and the burger ($35) was exceptional — the A5 Wagyu patty simply melts in your mouth, complemented by the umami-rich Parmesan and perfectly layered house-fermented slaw and aioli.

They first brought only one burger even though we ordered two but THANK GOD the kitchen had one more left.

Fair warning: it’s very rich and heavy — if you’re not ready for an indulgent meal, this one’s not for you.“

“What a fun experience and great food! They easily and very kindly accommodated my request of no raw fish (currently pregnant). We may have gotten the best seat in the house right at the bar facing the kitchen. Would an absolutely try this place again next time we're on the city.“

“最高でした！ 日本でもここまでの居酒屋は無いと思います！“

“A delightful small cozy place, with a varied menu. Everything we had was top-notch delicious!! This one gets 5 stars from me“

“Fun spot!“

“The waiter was very polite and kind.
The food was authentic Japanese cuisine, but the portions were quite small. I should have asked for white rice when the baked fish was served.
I think this restaurant is especially good if you enjoy drinking sake.“

“The hype is real! Their soba noodles had a perfect chewy texture and their sauce was very flavorful. The Green Basket was def a hidden gem and must try-their dip was soo good (chili garlic crispy with pork bits). Their service was great and it was very clean and spacious inside. Would def come again.“

“Just saw an amazing Broadway show and came here not expecting anything and was blown away... all the sushi - ikura, uni, toro was so fresh and delicious. You have to try their pork & chive dumplings that the chef finishes off with this yellow, mild cheese sauce - its the best!“

“Came for lunch with my friend earlier this week and it was great. We got both the lunch special (I got the oyakodon with kara-age and he got the gyudon with sweet potato fries) as well and some skewers and beer. They run a happy hour from 12 to 6 pm which is great if you like Japanese beer (and I do). There also a complimentary miso soup at the beginning of the meal. All the food was good (the kara-age was portioned into larger piece than I'm used to but it was still juicy and tasty) and big portions on the rice bowls. You can get the skewers grilled with salt or tare and they come with a wedge of lemon you can squeeze over it. If you do get skewers, I recommend eating them ASAP because they cool off quicker than the rest of the food (not their fault or anything, just the nature of it).

There was only one waiter who doubled as the hostess while we ate (it was pretty quiet when we were there, but it's probably busier during dinner and the weekend) and service was quick and friendly. They also run some promotion where if you can stop a big stopwatch at exactly 8.88 seconds you get your meal free but we stopped too early at 8.73. Music was audible (mostly kpop and jpop/rock I think) but not overwhelming and you can still hold a conversation. Seems like a great place for a date, casual dinner, or just chilling after work so I'd definitely come again“

“I love the atmosphere and the customer service they provide! The food was good and differently one of my favorite place to eat in New York city!“

“One of my favorite Japanese Restaurants, wish they were open later but the selection of Izakaya Yakitori and Sushi & Sashimi Japanese home style cooking is top notch ! Sake selection on point. Must have All Yakitori, Tako Taro Salad, Hama Kama, Hamachi + Maki Rolls as well as Hot Pots + Ramen. Prices are reasonably and affordable doesn't break the bank. Must have list! Arigato !“

“Cool Japanese bar/restaurant! I think the vibes are great here and the have a really cool interior. The food however was just very normal and a bit overpriced for my taste/the portion sizing. I think this would be a great place for drinks and maybe 1-2 small apps. But the pricing is still a bit steep
for even beer - would recommend this place if you’ve enjoy cool cocktails and a darker atmosphere/vibey music.“

“ニューヨークで超落ち着く日本料理屋さんです。最高でした！日本の皆様にもぜひ紹介したいです！“

“Fantastic experience for a romantic dinner. We sat at the bar and the sushi chef immediately started a welcoming rapport describing the drinks and menu items. We had delicious sushi a la carte and fantastic sake. Highly recommend for a nice dinner and sitting at the bar to get to know the amazing staff here.“

““I recently visited Toribar in New York City, and it was an amazing experience! This yakitori bar offers a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of skewers. The chicken was perfectly grilled, tender, and flavorful. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the dining experience even better. Highly recommend this spot for anyone who loves authentic yakitori!! 👍“

“My friends and I go here regularly and sit at the bar to eat and drink or I will bring my kids and sit in the main dining area. I have been going there for over 14 yeats. It is one of my go to places in NYC. They have a wide variety in their menu so they offer something for everyone from basic rolls and sashimi, ramen, skewers, and sushi and rice bowls. There are many additional items on the menu and I have tried nearly everything over the years and nearly everything is tasty. I would never say 100% of any menu at any restaurant is tasty as we all have our own taste buds. But I guarantee you that Sake Bar Hagi has multiple items on their menu that will appeal and be tasty to each individual taste. Also their wide variety of items wards of food taste fatigue that happens when you go to one restaurant on a regular basis. I would highly recommend this restaurant.“

“Celebrated a joint birthday celebration here. The food is delicious and service is amazing! Staffs especially May is very friendly! First time to try this restaurant and the staffs already made us feel at home. Will definitely come back soon! Thank you Yezo Isakanaya for a good and wonderful service!“

“Hands down the best Japanese restaurant (non sushi) I have been to in the USA. The staff are so friendly and deliver an incredibe customer experience. The food is delicious and comes out so quickly! My new favorite place. I can't wait to come back.“

“Cute neighborhood authentic ramen place! The line outside made us originally avoid going, but their efficient process moved everyone quickly without a long wait. Lively inside but you can still have a conversation. Service was genuine & friendly.“

“Randomly stumbled upon this place at 1pm on a Sunday looking for somewhere that wasn't crowded. It was immediately a vibe with the music they were playing. We got a seat close to the street to people watch lol. The specialty rolls didn't come with a lot of pieces BUT it was of great quality and super delicious. We got the chicken katsu with the egg and that was so flavorful. Paired with the thai ice tea?? Delicious.“

“We had mostly Yakatori. They were really good. Also tried the ramen soup. That was also very tasty.
I also loved the pictures on the wall.
I saw a couple order a dish that comes with cotton candy that lights up. I have to try that next time.“

“The beef bibimbap is amazing.“

“Heno Heno is one of my favorite low-key spots in Hell’s Kitchen to wind down after work. It’s a cozy, local Japanese izakaya that feels like a hidden gem. I usually go for the fried fish cake with cheese inside.. crispy on the outside, gooey and savory inside. The rainbow roll is fresh and satisfying too.

Nothing fancy, but that’s exactly what I love about it. Just good food, a quiet vibe, and a welcoming, neighborhood feel. Perfect for solo dinners or a relaxed catch-up with a friend.“