Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in NoLita | Upscale Japanese Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in NoLita | Upscale Japanese Food

• Postcard — Japanese · rated 5/5: This whimsical sanctuary invites guests to slow down over artfully layered lattes and velvety fruit-infused milks that swirl with the vibrant sweetness of strawberry and red bean. From the nostalgic fizz of a melon cream soda to the crisp clarity of a slow-steeped cold brew, every sip serves as a colorful, liquid memento of a sun-drenched afternoon.
• Batsu — Japanese · rated 5/5: Batsu hums with a spirited, modern energy, blending the meticulous artistry of a sushi bar with the soulful, golden-brown decadence of expertly fried chicken. Cool, clean notes of premium sake cut through the savory warmth of the kitchen’s bold offerings, creating a sensory playground where delicate sashimi and crunchy, spice-dusted poultry share the spotlight. This lively haunt invites guests to lose track of time amidst a backdrop of clinking glasses and vibrant plates, offering a dining experience that is as refined as it is unapologetically fun.
• Sōrate — Japanese · rated 5/5: Sōrate invites guests into a tranquil, minimalist sanctuary where the ancient ritual of Japanese tea is performed with modern elegance and quiet precision. Vibrant clouds of emerald matcha are whisked to a delicate froth in ceramic bowls, while the nutty aroma of roasted hojicha and the deep, oceanic notes of superior gyokuro fill the air. Whether exploring a flight of rare shade-grown powders or savoring a steaming pot of sencha, the experience is a sensory immersion into the refined soul of traditional tea culture.
• Matchaful — Japanese · rated 5/5: This bright, minimalist sanctuary celebrates the vibrant art of Japanese green tea, where the rhythmic sound of bamboo whisks creates a serene backdrop for wellness-focused indulgence. Velvety lattes and botanical-infused elixirs showcase the deep, umami richness of ceremonial-grade matcha, paired with wholesome, plant-based treats that nourish both the body and the palate. Every emerald-hued bowl serves as a mindful escape from the city's bustle, inviting guests to slow down and savor the clean, earthy elegance of sustainably sourced tea.
• Sushi 295 Mercer — Japanese · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Sushi 295 Mercer offers an intimate dining experience with just four seats at the sushi bar. Specializing in omakase and Japanese fare, this hidden gem is loved for its incredibly fresh sushi, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. With a BYOB policy and dishes like fatty tuna and yellowtail hamachi, customers enjoy high-quality meals at exceptional value.
• Kabisera — Filipino · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Canal Street Market, Kabisera offers a delightful experience of Filipino comfort food in a laid-back ambiance. This casual eatery is perfect for lunch or dinner, featuring popular dishes like pork adobo, spam musubi, and various ramen options. With vegan choices available, it's well-suited for solo diners and families alike. Rated 4.8 stars, Kabisera also offers catering and accepts various payment options, ensuring a convenient visit.
• YUBU SoHo — Korean · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of SoHo, YUBU SoHo serves up delightful Korean comfort food, including yubu-wrapped sushi, quick bites, and coffee. With a menu brimming with healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options, this casual eatery is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Fans rave about the spicy chicken, salmon, and crabmeat yubu. With friendly staff and a cozy ambiance, it's a charming spot where most meals cost between $10-$20.
• Go Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Located at 37 Allen St, New York, Go Sushi offers a delightful dining experience featuring freshly made sushi rolls with high-quality fish and great presentation. With an impressive 4.8 rating, this establishment provides excellent service for dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. Whether you're visiting late night or during the day, Go Sushi consistently delivers on quality and taste.
• Simple NYC: Best Chef Made Poke Bowl in NYC — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the vibrant Bowery neighborhood, Simple NYC is a trendy poke bar offering healthy, quick bites for lunch and dinner. The cozy eatery specializes in vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, with popular items like ahi tuna, salmon bowls, and bento boxes. Perfect for solo diners, patrons appreciate the high-quality service and great tea selection. Meals are reasonably priced between $10-20.
• SANUKI UDON — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Steam rises in fragrant clouds from bubbling vats of dashi, where the rhythmic slap of hand-kneaded dough signals the arrival of thick, chewy Sanuki-style noodles. Diners find comfort in bowls of golden broth topped with lacy tempura, savoring the satisfying tug of each strand in a space that hums with the soulful warmth of a traditional Japanese noodle house.
• Izakaya Juraku — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Step into a lively sanctuary where the warm glow of lanterns and the rhythmic sizzle of the robata grill set the stage for an evening of spirited connection. Small plates of charcoal-kissed skewers and umami-rich comforts arrive in a steady stream, perfectly complemented by a curated selection of sakes that flow as freely as the conversation. This vibrant hideaway captures the soulful energy of a Tokyo night, offering a sensory journey through Japan’s most beloved pub traditions.
• Batsu — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Batsu transports guests to a world of refined simplicity, where the clean lines of a minimalist interior set the stage for the vibrant artistry of Japanese culinary tradition. From the delicate precision of hand-carved sashimi to the smoky allure of charcoal-fired skewers, every dish celebrates the harmony of seasonal ingredients and time-honored techniques in an atmosphere of quiet, sophisticated elegance.
• Yuki Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Step into a serene sanctuary where minimalist design meets the vibrant, jewel-toned artistry of the sushi counter. Each bite offers a masterclass in balance, pairing the melt-in-your-mouth richness of pristine sashimi with the delicate warmth of hand-pressed rice for an experience that celebrates the pure essence of the ocean. This intimate space invites diners to linger over the rhythmic precision of the chefs, turning a simple meal into a graceful ceremony of flavor and tradition.
• O Ramen & Dim Sum M Yuki Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Chinatown at 37 Allen St, New York, O Ramen & Dim Sum M Yuki Sushi offers a cozy setting perfect for families. Specializing in Japanese cuisine, the menu features popular dishes like roast pork ramen and scallion pancakes, alongside sushi and dim sum. The staff are often praised for their generous and patient service. Open daily from 10:30 AM to 1:00 AM, this spot is a delightful find for flavorful, budget-friendly meals ranging from $10-$20.
• Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Nolita, Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar is a warm, brick-lined haven offering a delightful array of ramen, sushi, and Japanese-inspired comfort foods. With a cozy ambiance perfect for families and solo diners, patrons can enjoy a diverse menu featuring vegetarian options and happy-hour specials. Renowned for its fresh ingredients and friendly service, Zutto provides a memorable dining experience.
• Ramen Ishida — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: This intimate, minimalist sanctuary invites diners to settle into a narrow counter where the rhythmic clatter of noodle baskets and the gentle simmer of pots create a focused, soulful soundtrack. Crystalline chicken broths are elevated by the earthy perfume of truffle and the delicate snap of thin, artisanal noodles, resulting in a bowl that feels both profoundly traditional and strikingly modern. Each slurp reveals a masterclass in balance, providing a serene escape where the complex depth of umami meets the quiet elegance of Japanese craftsmanship.
• Momofuku Ko — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Diners are drawn into a moody, minimalist theater where a sleek wrap-around counter provides a front-row seat to the meticulous choreography of the open kitchen. The experience celebrates the art of the unexpected, blending disciplined Japanese techniques with bold, imaginative influences to create a multi-course journey that is as intellectually stimulating as it is delicious. Each dish arrives as a miniature masterpiece, balancing refined elegance with a vibrant, modern energy that redefines the traditional omakase.
• Okiboru — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Okiboru invites guests into a sleek, contemporary sanctuary where the art of the noodle is reimagined through their signature tsukemen. Thick, chewy strands of house-made noodles are served alongside bowls of velvety, umami-rich broth simmered to a concentrated perfection, inviting a rhythmic dance of dipping and savoring. The minimalist atmosphere hums with the focused energy of the open kitchen, creating an immersive experience that celebrates bold textures and deep, soul-warming flavors.
• Zest Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Zest Sushi radiates a modern, high-energy glow where the sharp precision of the blade meets a playful explosion of bright, citrus-forward flavors. Each plate arrives as a vibrant canvas of shimmering sashimi and inventive rolls, balancing the clean simplicity of the ocean with bold, zesty accents that dance across the palate in a sleek, minimalist setting.
• DokoDemo — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: DokoDemo captures the electric pulse of a Tokyo night market, where the rhythmic clatter of spatulas on the teppan grill creates a vibrant soundtrack for an evening of casual indulgence. Savory clouds of steam rise from golden takoyaki and hearty okonomiyaki, each dish finished with a delicate dance of bonito flakes and rich, umami-laden sauces that transport diners to the heart of Japan’s bustling street food culture.
• Kyuramen - Chinatown — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Welcome to Kyuramen - Chinatown, a delightful gem located at 132 Bowery, New York, NY. With a stellar 4.6 rating based on 1529 reviews, this ramen restaurant offers a perfect blend of authentic and modern decor. Ideal for families, it features attentive service and a flavorful menu. Enjoy an array of ramen dishes, vegetarian options, and delectable desserts. Free street parking and credit card payments accepted. Reserve your spot now and savor a memorable dining experience! 🌟🍜
• Juku — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Located at 32 Mulberry St, New York, Juku offers an extraordinary dining experience with its upscale, 10-seat omakase sushi bar helmed by renowned chef Kazuo Yoshida, and the unique speakeasy-style basement lounge, Straylight. Popular dishes include Hokkaido uni and Miyazaki A5 wagyu sashimi. With an impressive 4.6-star rating and exquisite service, Juku is a must-visit for sushi and cocktail enthusiasts. Reservations required.
• Temakase - Handroll Bar — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Discover Temakase - Handroll Bar, a trendy East Village spot known for its fresh, made-to-order handrolls and extensive Japanese and Asian fusion menu. Popular dishes include spicy tuna crispy rice and blue crab. Enjoy knowledgeable and rapid service in a cool bar top setting. Gluten-free options, delicious cocktails, and set menus complement the vibrant atmosphere. Open for lunch and dinner, with prices between $30-50.
• Blue Ribbon Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Soho, Blue Ribbon Sushi offers a serene dining experience that combines traditional charm with modern offerings. This cozy, cedar-clad sushi bar serves a menu featuring fresh fish flown in daily, complemented by a fine selection of sake, wine, and cocktails. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, it's an ideal spot for sushi enthusiasts looking to enjoy high-quality dishes in New York City.
• Marufuku Ramen — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Fragrant plumes of steam rise from bubbling cauldrons where rich, milky tonkotsu broth simmers for hours to achieve a velvety, soul-warming depth. This minimalist sanctuary brings together the artistry of Hakata-style ramen, pairing ultra-thin artisanal noodles with melt-in-your-mouth chashu and perfectly jammy eggs for an experience that feels both deeply traditional and vibrantly modern.
• Raku Soho — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Step off the bustling Soho streets into a minimalist sanctuary where the air is thick with the comforting, umami-rich aroma of simmering dashi. Hand-crafted udon takes center stage with its signature silken chew, served in oversized bowls alongside delicate, lace-like tempura and refined small plates. It is a masterclass in Japanese soul food, offering a warm and rhythmic escape that balances modern urban energy with focused, timeless craftsmanship.
• Raku East Village — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: A serene sanctuary of blonde wood and minimalist elegance, where the air is thick with the comforting steam of oversized bowls and the deep, smoky aroma of traditional dashi. Velvety, hand-crafted udon noodles take center stage, offering a soulful, chewy bite that transforms a simple meal into a meditative experience amidst the vibrant pulse of the East Village.
• Temakase — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Temakase invites guests into a sleek, minimalist sanctuary where the rhythmic snap of toasted nori and the warmth of seasoned rice provide a sensory backdrop for pristine seafood. This intimate counter experience transforms the hand roll into a curated ritual, delivering each bite at its peak of freshness to celebrate a delicate balance of buttery textures and clean, vibrant flavors.
• Kimura — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Kimura unfolds as a serene, wood-clad sanctuary where the delicate aroma of toasted nori and the rhythmic precision of the chef’s blade set the stage for an evening of quiet artistry. The kitchen honors the seasonal soul of Japanese cuisine, balancing the ethereal lightness of pristine sashimi with the deep, grounding umami of slow-simmered broths. This intimate retreat invites diners to slow down and savor the harmony of tradition and modern refinement in every meticulously plated bite.
• Sushi by M — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Step into an intimate, minimalist sanctuary where the rhythmic precision of the chef’s blade takes center stage at a sleek wooden counter. Each hand-pressed piece of nigiri arrives as a delicate jewel, balancing the buttery richness of pristine seafood with the subtle tang of seasoned rice to create a fleeting, perfect harmony of flavor. This immersive dining experience celebrates the quiet elegance of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, turning every meal into a focused, sensory journey through the sea.