Top 16 Japanese restaurants in Midtown NYC
In the heart of New York City, Midtown is a bustling hub filled with skyscrapers, tourist attractions, and a thriving food scene. Among the various dining options, Japanese restaurants in Midtown NYC stand out as a popular choice for both locals and visitors. These establishments offer a range of authentic and innovative Japanese cuisines, including sushi, ramen, and yakitori, attracting food enthusiasts and Japanese cuisine lovers to the area. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, Japanese restaurants in Midtown NYC cater to all tastes and budgets.
- 1. Izakaya MEW
- 2. Sakagura
- 3. Hatsuhana
- 4. HAMA
- 5. Imasa Nori Sushi Izakaya
- 6. Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant in Midtown
- 7. Tsushima
- 8. Nobu Fifty Seven
- 9. Sushi Yasuda
- 10. ICHIRAN Ramen NY Times Square
- 11. Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill - Columbus Circle
- 12. Kurumazushi
- 13. Kobeyaki - Bryant Park in Midtown
- 14. Sushi & Co - Midtown
- 15. Hana Michi
- 16. Sushi Ann in Midtown
1. Izakaya MEW
Casual spot for friends with cold beer and good food.

Izakaya Mew is a spacious Japanese restaurant tucked away in the heart of Manhattan, offering a lively and energetic atmosphere that is particularly popular among young customers. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and high-quality food, making it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience.
With a focus on traditional Japanese izakaya fare, Izakaya Mew offers a diverse menu featuring ramen, sushi, dumplings, and fried chicken, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The lively ambiance is enhanced by the restaurant's upbeat music and bustling crowds, creating a festive atmosphere that is perfect for sharing good food and drinks with friends. Additionally, the frozen beer slushies are a unique and playful touch, adding to the overall enjoyment of the dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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2. Sakagura
Hidden gem offering a taste of Tokyo in NYC.

Sakagura, nestled in the heart of Manhattan, boasts an impressive selection of sake and an array of authentic Japanese tapas-style dishes. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including the popular karagi, as well as vegetarian dishes that are equally delightful. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish that emerges from the kitchen.
The service at Sakagura is exceptional, with staff that are both knowledgeable and attentive. The interior is tastefully designed, creating an appealing atmosphere that is perfect for a prix fixe meal or a family dinner with children. Sakagura's dedication to providing an authentic Japanese culinary experience, coupled with its excellent service and cozy ambiance, makes it a standout dining destination in Manhattan.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
3. Hatsuhana
Experience the true essence of sushi.

Hatsuhana, located in Midtown East, is a well-regarded sushi restaurant that caters to a variety of customers, particularly those seeking a reliable lunch spot for business meetings. The restaurant offers an impressive quality-to-price ratio, ensuring that diners receive high-quality sushi at reasonable prices. Additionally, Hatsuhana is known for its consistent availability of seating, allowing customers to walk in and be seated promptly without the need for reservations.
During a recent visit, a craving for sushi prompted the author to seek out a quality sushi spot. After consulting Zagat, Hatsuhana was chosen for its promising balance between quality and affordability. Upon entering the establishment, the formal atmosphere, marked by a host donning a suit, instantly reminded the author that they were no longer in California. Despite feeling slightly out of place, the author requested a seat at the bar, where the friendly host swiftly accommodated their request, leading to a pleasant and satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. HAMA
The New Tradition: Quality Ingredients, Fresh Fish

This Japanese restaurant, located directly across from Rockefeller Center, offers a dining experience that is not to be missed. The sushi and sashimi are incredibly fresh, and the artful presentation of the dishes makes for an eye-catching and enjoyable meal. The flavors are delicious and satisfying, making this a standout spot for Japanese cuisine.
The food at this establishment is consistently high-quality, with fresh ingredients and bold, delicious flavors. Many patrons have praised the affordability of the menu, making it a great option for those looking for a delicious meal at a reasonable price. However, some guests have noted that the service can be slow at times, so it may be worth planning ahead for a leisurely dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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5. Imasa Nori Sushi Izakaya
A cozy gem near Broadway with fabulous sushi

This affordable sushi restaurant is a true gem, offering a cozy and friendly atmosphere for its patrons. The service is exceptional, with staff warmly welcoming guests and providing excellent care throughout the dining experience. The sushi and sashimi are especially notable, with each piece being incredibly fresh and full of flavor. Even those who are typically hesitant about raw fish will find themselves delighted by the offerings. The chicken teriyaki and Japanese-style Caesar salad are also not to be missed, bursting with flavor and sure to satisfy.
This restaurant has quickly become a new favorite, with the reviewer visiting twice in the same week. The speedy service, combined with the delicious and fresh dishes, makes for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Additionally, the prices are very reasonable for New York, making it an excellent choice for those looking for high-quality sushi at affordable prices. Located near The Ed Sullivan Theatre, this restaurant is a must-visit for both tourists and locals alike. The gracious manager and wonderful dining experience will have guests eager to return.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant in Midtown
Delicious Japanese cuisine served late into the night.

Dining at Ai Ki Ya NYC was a truly delightful experience. The moment you step in, you are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The food was exceptional, with each dish prepared with great care and attention to detail. We tried the Sukiyaki & Soymilk nabe lunch, unagi don, pork katsu with miso sauce, and potato salad. Each dish was bursting with flavor, but the pork katsu with miso sauce was particularly memorable. The juicy pork was perfectly complemented by the sweet and savory miso sauce, making for a truly unforgettable dish.
The menu at Ai Ki Ya NYC offers a wide variety of options, from skewers and ramen to katsu, gyuudon, sushi, and appetizers. Each dish is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The quick and efficient service was also appreciated, with our food arriving in a timely manner. Overall, we were very impressed with our dining experience at Ai Ki Ya NYC and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a delicious and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
7. Tsushima
Experience Japan in the heart of New York City.

This Japanese restaurant is a must-visit for any sushi or Japanese food lover. They offer an impressive a la carte menu that features a variety of both fusion and traditional sushi options, as well as more authentic Japanese dishes that may be less familiar to some. Each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the unique umami flavors that Japanese cuisine is known for.
Despite being located miles away from Japan, this restaurant successfully captures the essence of Japanese culinary traditions. Its fusion offerings showcase a modern take on classic dishes, while the traditional options remain true to their origins. The quality of the ingredients and attention to detail in each dish make it easy to see why this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The welcoming atmosphere and knowledgable staff only add to the overall positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
8. Nobu Fifty Seven
Signature new style Japanese cuisine by Chef Nobu

Nobu is a restaurant that consistently delivers a top-notch dining experience. The flavors and textures of each dish are expertly crafted, resulting in a truly delightful meal every time. The level of service is also commendable, with staff who are attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly.
The menu at Nobu features an array of exquisite offerings that are sure to impress. From the tangy edamame choclo to the delicate fluke sashimi, each dish showcases the restaurant's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Popular choices such as the baby spinach salad, rock shrimp tempura, and spicy tuna crispy rice offer a diverse range of flavors and textures that keep the dining experience interesting. Meanwhile, signature dishes like the black miso cod and lobster tempura truffle amazu ponzu showcase the chef's creativity and skill, resulting in a truly unforgettable meal.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
9. Sushi Yasuda
Pure, uncompromised traditional sushi

A sushi restaurant, inconspicuously named, provides an exceptional variety of fresh and unique fish to its customers. This establishment sets itself apart by offering a diverse range of fish types, each with distinct levels of freshness. The menu features unfamiliar names, inviting patrons to discover and savor new flavors, such as the sweet anago and rich unagi kuro, rare delicacies that surpass the typical sushi offerings found in other restaurants.
Sushi Yasuda, an establishment dedicated to delivering superior sushi and authentic Japanese ambiance, is a must-visit for sushi connoisseurs. Its omakase, a chef's choice tasting menu, highlights the chef's finesse and the freshness of the ingredients. By selecting this option, diners can indulge in a curated culinary adventure that emphasizes the true essence of traditional Japanese sushi.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
10. ICHIRAN Ramen NY Times Square
Mindful dining in individual Ramen Focus Booths

ICHIRAN is a must-visit for ramen lovers, offering an incredible tonkotsu ramen experience. The broth is rich and creamy, with a depth of flavor that is unmatched. The noodles are perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of bite. The chashu pork is tender and flavorful, adding a satisfying savory element to each slurp of ramen.
Dining at ICHIRAN is a unique experience, with individual booths that allow you to focus solely on your meal. The service is speedy, and the staff is efficient, ensuring a seamless dining experience. The ramen here lives up to the hype, delivering an unforgettable taste with every bowl. Whether a seasoned ramen enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of noodle soups, ICHIRAN is sure to impress. With its top-notch quality and exceptional dining experience, it's no wonder this ramen joint is renowned as one of the best in NYC.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
11. Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill - Columbus Circle
Authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern twist.

Sushi at Blue Ribbon West 58 Street is renowned for its freshness and high quality. The restaurant's staff are friendly, knowledgeable individuals who contribute to a pleasant dining experience. In particular, the sushi and sashimi have received consistent praise from customers.
On a recent visit, the excellent food was complemented by exceptional service from a waiter named Chi. His personable and knowledgeable demeanor made for a fun and enjoyable dining experience. It is rare to find such outstanding service, and Chi's contribution added significantly to the overall quality of the meal. The appetizers, sashimi, and sushi were all top-notch, continuing Blue Ribbon's tradition of serving delicious and fresh seafood.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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12. Kurumazushi
Authentic sushi experience in Midtown Manhattan.

Kurumazushi offers an exceptional sushi experience, known for its delicious and fresh offerings which rival other top sushi spots in New York City. The establishment's traditional menu, paired with the expertise of its head chef, guarantees an authentic and satisfying Japanese culinary adventure.
Kurumazushi's sashimi is an unforgettable highlight - it is a perfect example of traditional sushi craftsmanship. The fine quality of the sashimi served at this esteemed eatery is arguably the best in New York City, providing diners with an authentic and unforgettable Japanese culinary pleasure. Lovers of sushi and sashimi will be thrilled with the impeccably fresh and flavorful offerings at Kurumazushi.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
13. Kobeyaki - Bryant Park in Midtown
Innovative Japanese food in a casual setting.

The burgers offered by this establishment are consistently enjoyable, featuring a satisfying crispy exterior and a well-cooked, solid interior. For instance, the spicy tuna burger is a popular selection among patrons, known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Other popular dishes include the grilled chicken bowl, which boasts tender, juicy chicken atop a bed of fresh vegetables, and the unique Kobeyaki burger, which offers a delicious fusion of flavors and textures.
This eatery is not only known for its delicious offerings but also for its affordability and quick service. Customers rave about the generous portion sizes and reasonable prices, making it an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying meal. Popular sides include the sweet potato tempura fries, which are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, as well as the refreshing seaweed salad, bursting with savory flavors and a variety of textures. Whether you're in the mood for a filling burger or a health-conscious bowl, this establishment has something for everyone.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
14. Sushi & Co - Midtown
Home of Natural Black Rice Sushi.

A positive experience was had at Sushi & Co. The establishment offers a fast-casual dining experience, with staff efficiently seating customers in appropriate table sizes. The Nigiri box was a standout, featuring fresh and delicious sushi.
The udon, taken away, was a pleasant surprise in terms of quality for a fast-casual restaurant. However, the California roll and dumplings were merely average in taste. Overall, the sushi and udon dishes were enjoyable and showcased the restaurant's commitment to offering fresh and flavorful options.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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15. Hana Michi
Delicious Japanese cuisine in the heart of NYC.

This establishment exudes an authentic and relaxed atmosphere, with friendly waitstaff who contribute to an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant offers a diverse menu, featuring both Korean and Japanese cuisine. A popular menu item is the chicken udon, which comes highly recommended, as is the cranberry soju.
Frequented by Koreans after shopping in NYC, this establishment has earned a reputation for its authentic and extensive menu, featuring Japanese and Korean specialties. From sushi to takoyaki, kotsu, and soba noodle soups, the menu offers a wide range of options to satisfy any palate. The restaurant's popularity among locals is a testament to its quality and authenticity.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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16. Sushi Ann in Midtown
Experience authentic Edomae sushi with a NYC twist

A wonderful experience awaits at this establishment, where customers have the option to sit at a table or at the bar next to the sushi chefs. For those still learning the art of sushi, the table may be the better option, while the bar offers a front-row view of the sushi-making process for the more experienced.
Upon entering, one is immediately transported to a serene and bamboo-filled space, creating a dedicated sushi den. Despite the formal atmosphere, the kitchen staff is approachable and engaged with the guests, creating a friendly and respectful ambiance. The sight of the focused and skilled sushi chefs at work is an added bonus to the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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