Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Meatpacking District | Upscale Japanese Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Meatpacking District | Upscale Japanese Food

• Konban — Japanese · rated 5/5: Konban invites guests into a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the rhythmic sizzle of the open kitchen sets the stage for a modern exploration of Korean comfort. Golden-crusted cutlets and artfully plated small dishes arrive at intimate tables, offering a sensory journey through bold spices and refined textures that elevate the familiar into something truly extraordinary.
• Kawa Sushi — Japanese · rated 5/5: Kawa Sushi offers a serene retreat where the rhythmic precision of the sushi counter serves as the heartbeat of a minimalist, light-filled dining room. Each plate is a masterclass in balance, featuring buttery slices of pristine fish and hand-pressed rice that celebrate the delicate, clean flavors of the sea. It is a space where traditional artistry and modern elegance converge, inviting guests to linger over an experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
• Sushi Counter — Japanese · rated 4.9/5: Discover Sushi Counter, a charming Australian-style sushi takeaway in the heart of New York City at 119 Christopher St. Rated 4.9 with over 1,000 reviews, this gem offers fresh, affordable sushi in a cozy setting with two small tables, or ideal for a quick grab-and-go. Convenient parking and child-friendly, Sushi Counter is perfect for families and sushi lovers alike. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Maki a Mano — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of Chelsea Market, Maki a Mano offers a serene escape with its minimalist decor of stone and wood, creating a cozy atmosphere for enjoying high-quality Japanese cuisine. Specializing in handmade maki rolls, the menu showcases mainly fresh and delicious seafood. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 435 W 15th St, New York. Come experience a culinary delight!
• Kogame Ramen — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Steaming bowls of rich, slow-simmered broth and springy hand-pulled noodles take center stage at this intimate sanctuary, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of toasted sesame and soy. Guests find solace in the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen and the deep, soul-warming flavors of perfectly marbled chashu and soft-boiled eggs, capturing the heart of traditional Japanese comfort in every slurp.
• Bird Dog — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Nestled on Hudson Street in New York, Bird Dog offers a unique fusion of Southern-inspired Italian small plates in a trendy, cozy atmosphere. With a 4.6-star rating based on 662 reviews, the restaurant serves dishes like fried chicken and delectable pasta varieties, accompanied by an impressive wine selection. Enjoy happy hour, takeout options, and outdoor seating. Visit Bird Dog for an unforgettable dining experience.
• Konban — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Konban welcomes guests into a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the rhythmic sizzle of the kitchen harmonizes with a refined, minimalist aesthetic. The experience centers on the elevated art of the katsu, where golden, panko-crusted cutlets are served with a precision that honors tradition while embracing a modern, soulful energy. Every detail invites a slow, sensory appreciation of Japanese culinary craftsmanship, from the steam rising off a bowl of pearly rice to the curated selection of sakes that round out the evening.
• Umami Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Umami Sushi is a cozy sushi restaurant located in Greenwich Village, offering fresh and delicious sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese dishes. Open for lunch and dinner until late, it features a casual atmosphere ideal for a delightful dining experience. Popular items include the spicy tuna crispy rice and zuke chu toro special roll. With a friendly staff and great ambiance, Umami Sushi is a top choice for sushi lovers. Enjoy a meal for typically $30-$50.
• Asuka Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Located at 300 W 23rd St, New York, Asuka Sushi offers a relaxed atmosphere with a delightful selection of sushi and other Japanese dishes, accompanied by a full bar and intriguing cocktails. With a 4.5-star rating from over 1300 reviews, visitors appreciate the impeccable service and friendly staff. Ideal for families and groups, this wheelchair-accessible restaurant accepts reservations and offers takeout and delivery options.
• Ramen Misoya — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Tucked away in the East Village, Ramen Misoya is a cozy eatery known for its diverse selection of ramen, featuring three miso options, and a variety of toppings. With a 4.5-star rating from 858 reviews, this intimate spot also offers a selection of beer, sake, and wine, making it a perfect location for a relaxed meal. Open daily from 12:00 PM, it's a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts.
• Llama San — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Llama San offers a minimalist sanctuary where the clean lines of Japanese design meet a kitchen alive with the bright, electric energy of cross-cultural innovation. Each plate arrives as a visual masterpiece, balancing the delicate purity of fresh seafood with bold, citrus-forward accents that awaken the palate and transform the dining experience into a captivating sensory journey.
• Poke Rice — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Located at 162 West 4th Street in New York, Poke Rice offers a casual dining experience with a delightful array of poke bowls, sushi, and Hawaiian plates, including vegetarian options. Perfect for families, this highly-rated spot (4.4 stars from 386 reviews) provides quick service and fresh ingredients. Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, it features indoor seating, takeout, and delivery. Credit cards and contactless payments are accepted. Join the locals and savor the freshness!
• Kogane — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn Heights, Kogane is an inviting ramen restaurant that offers hearty, filling bowls for lunch and dinner. The diverse menu features specialties like tonkotsu and spicy miso ramen, complemented by delicious sides such as takoyaki and pork jowl buns. Cozy and casual with outdoor seating, Kogane ensures a delightful dining experience with fast, attentive service and a range of beer, wine, and sake.
• Bessou — 8a343d02-4079-4df8-aed5-590af526fa56 · rated 4.3/5: Located at Market 57, Bessou offers a modern take on Japanese comfort food in a cozy, informal setting. Highly rated with 4.3 stars from 361 reviews, diners can enjoy generous portions of flavorful dishes like karaage and tempura soba. Outdoor seating, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup are available, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. With a menu that includes wine, beer, and desserts, Bessou ensures a delightful dining experience.
• Sushi 21 — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in Midtown Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, Sushi 21 offers a delightful blend of Japanese cuisine in a casual setting. From bento boxes to sushi selections like the California and sumo rolls, the eatery has something for everyone, including healthy and vegetarian options. Ideal for a quick bite, Sushi 21 is popular for both lunch and dinner, boasting fast service and an excellent location near off-Broadway theaters.
• Kawa Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in Greenwich Village, Kawa Sushi offers an unpretentious dining experience featuring delicious sushi, sashimi, and rolls, all at reasonable prices. Popular combos and lunch specials make it a favorite for solo diners. With a cozy, laid-back setting, friendly staff, and quick service, this local gem is perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy a wide selection of beer and sake while savoring top-notch food without breaking the bank.
• Catch NYC — Seafood · rated 4.1/5: Perched in the heart of the Meatpacking District, this multi-level seafood destination pulses with a high-octane energy where industrial-chic design meets a glamorous, see-and-be-seen social scene. Shared plates of globally-inspired coastal fare—from glistening towers of chilled shellfish to innovative sushi rolls—invite a communal feast that feels both indulgent and electric. As the night unfolds across the sprawling rooftop, the clinking of artisanal cocktails and the hum of a vibrant crowd create the ultimate New York City celebration.
• Takumi Taco — Mexican · rated 4.1/5: Located in the vibrant Chelsea Market, Takumi Taco offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisine. Enjoy trendy and casual vibes with music as you savor dishes like Japanese beef curry, tuna tacos, and short rib tacos. Complement your meal with an array of drinks, from sake to cocktails. With quick service and a welcoming atmosphere, this spot is perfect for lunch or dinner. Most meals range from $10-$20.
• Sushi Para 88 — Japanese · rated 4/5: Vibrant energy fills this modern Japanese haunt, where the rhythmic tap of the chef’s knife sets the tempo for a communal feast of endless variety. Jewel-toned slices of fresh sashimi and artfully drizzled specialty rolls arrive in a continuous parade of color, offering a sensory journey through the delicate textures and bold, umami-rich flavors of the sea.
• Lobster Place — Seafood · rated 4/5: This vibrant seafood destination hums with the energy of a coastal market, where the briny scent of the ocean meets a modern, chef-driven approach to maritime classics. Succulent Maine lobster, piled high on buttery toasted rolls, shares the stage with inventive creations like crispy shrimp katsu sandwiches and zesty spicy scallop rolls that dance with Japanese-inspired brightness. From the satisfying crunch of a golden fish fry to the nourishing depth of a wild rice bowl, every dish celebrates the bounty of the sea in a space that feels both timeless and refreshingly contemporary.
• Sushi Para 88 — Japanese · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this spirited neighborhood haunt, where the air is filled with the clean scent of seasoned rice and the focused energy of chefs crafting an endless stream of colorful rolls. From the buttery melt of fresh sashimi to the satisfying crunch of tempura-topped creations, the experience is a vibrant journey through Japanese flavors designed for sharing and celebration.
• Asuka Sushi — Japanese: Asuka Sushi invites guests into a serene, light-filled space where the rhythmic precision of master sushi chefs transforms pristine catches into vibrant, edible art. Each bite offers a delicate harmony of seasoned rice and buttery seafood, creating a refined dining experience that celebrates the quiet elegance of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
• Matchaful — Japanese: Step into a serene, light-filled sanctuary where the vibrant emerald hues of ceremonial-grade matcha take center stage against a minimalist, botanical-inspired backdrop. The rhythmic whisking of bamboo brushes transforms stone-ground tea into frothy, umami-rich lattes and innovative plant-based elixirs designed to offer a clean, focused energy. This modern tea house invites a moment of mindful restoration, seamlessly blending ancient Japanese tradition with contemporary wellness in every artfully crafted cup.
• Llama San — Japanese: Llama San invites diners into a serene, minimalist sanctuary where the clean lines of Japanese design meet the vibrant, soulful spirit of Peru. The kitchen orchestrates a breathtaking dialogue between the two cultures, layering the bright acidity of citrus-drenched ceviches with the deep, umami-rich precision of traditional sashimi. Every plate arrives as a colorful work of art, offering a sophisticated exploration of bold Andean spices and delicate coastal techniques that linger long after the final bite.
• MatchaBar — Japanese: This vibrant urban sanctuary hums with the energy of a modern tea house, where the earthy, toasted aroma of premium green tea leaves fills the air. Skilled baristas whisk brilliant emerald powders into creamy, frothy masterpieces, crafting a serene yet revitalizing experience that invites guests to pause and savor a moment of mindful indulgence amidst the city's bustle.
• chalait — Japanese: Sunlight floods this minimalist, wood-accented retreat where the rhythmic whisking of vibrant green matcha creates a soothing soundtrack for the morning rush. Artfully prepared lattes and nourishing, farm-fresh bowls bring a burst of color and clean energy to the table, offering a serene space to recharge amidst the city’s hum.
• Pokerice — Japanese: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant eatery, where the scent of toasted sesame and vinegared rice sets the stage for a customizable feast of the sea. Each bowl becomes a canvas of color, piling glistening cubes of marinated fish atop garden-fresh greens and crunchy aromatics to create a bright, nourishing experience that captures the essence of the Pacific.
• Tao Downtown — Japanese: Descend into a sprawling subterranean sanctuary where a towering, multi-armed Buddha and flickering red lanterns cast a mystical glow over a high-energy dining room. The air hums with a cinematic pulse as vibrant Pan-Asian flavors and artfully plated delicacies emerge from the kitchen, creating a theatrical experience where the boundary between nightlife and fine dining beautifully blurs.
• Sushi Counter — Japanese: This intimate, light-filled space centers around a polished wooden bar where the rhythmic precision of the chef’s knife and the subtle aroma of seasoned rice invite guests into a world of artisanal craft. Each plate arrives as a minimalist masterpiece, featuring pristine cuts of seafood and hand-pressed nigiri that melt on the tongue, offering a serene escape defined by elegance and seasonal purity.
• Ramen Ishida — Japanese: Stepping into this intimate sanctuary feels like entering a focused workshop where the air is thick with the comforting, savory steam of simmering artisanal broths. The kitchen elevates the humble noodle bowl into a refined art form, balancing crystal-clear shoyu and shio bases with delicate accents like truffle oil and perfectly tender chashu. Every slurp offers a masterclass in subtlety and depth, making this minimalist space a destination for those seeking a sophisticated, soul-warming escape from the city's bustle.