Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Washington Square | Upscale Japanese Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in Washington Square | 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Vinyl Steakhouse — Steakhouse · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 35 W 19th St, Vinyl Steakhouse combines an upscale dining experience with the ambiance of vinyl records playing in the background. This stylish spot serves steak, sushi, and seafood along with delightful cocktails and wine. Known for its exceptional service, the restaurant provides a unique and inviting atmosphere perfect for special occasions. Open for dinner throughout the week, Vinyl Steakhouse invites you to savor its gourmet offerings. Secure your spot with a reservation today!
• 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.
• Futago — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Futago captures the spirited essence of an Osaka yakiniku house, where the intoxicating aroma of premium wagyu searing over tabletop grills fills the sleek, energetic space. It is a place of communal celebration, where guests master the flame to transform marbled cuts into succulent, charred perfection, all while immersed in a vibrant atmosphere that honors the bold flavors and interactive joy of Japanese barbecue.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• MakiMaki — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the rhythmic dance of the sushi knife meets a sleek, modern aesthetic bathed in a warm, inviting glow. The art of the roll is elevated to a sensory performance here, pairing buttery slices of pristine seafood with crisp, toasted nori that shatters with every delicate bite. It is a space where traditional craftsmanship finds a playful, contemporary pulse, inviting diners to linger over meticulously crafted plates that celebrate the pure, clean essence of the sea.
• 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.
• Chacha — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Jamaica, Queens, Chacha is a delightful fast-food restaurant offering a diverse menu and a welcoming atmosphere. Conveniently located at 8630 102nd St, this spot is perfect for lunch or dinner, with dining options available both indoors and for takeout. With a high rating of 4.6 from satisfied patrons, Chacha promises a flavorful experience that keeps customers coming back. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
• 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.
• SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: This minimalist sanctuary strips away the artifice of traditional dining, inviting guests to surrender to a curated journey where the focus remains solely on the purity of the catch. Each bite celebrates a delicate harmony of temperatures, pairing loosely packed, warm rice with chilled, melt-in-your-mouth fish that dissolves on the palate with effortless grace.
• 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.
• Pokeworks — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Bright and modern, this coastal-inspired sanctuary invites you to build a personalized feast from a vibrant palette of the sea’s finest offerings. Glistening cuts of pristine fish are tossed with zesty house-made sauces and crisp, colorful vegetables, resulting in a refreshing bowl that bursts with clean, umami-rich flavors. It is a place where the artistry of Japanese tradition meets a breezy, contemporary energy, turning a quick meal into a sensory journey through the Pacific.
• 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.
• Karakatta — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into Karakatta feels like discovering a vibrant Tokyo hideaway where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered broths and toasted spices. Guests are treated to bowls of steaming ramen featuring springy, hand-pulled noodles bathed in rich, velvety soups that balance delicate umami with a bold, signature heat. The intimate space hums with a modern energy, offering a soulful dining experience where traditional Japanese craftsmanship meets a fiery, contemporary spirit.
• Mikaku — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Mikaku unfolds as a serene sanctuary of Japanese craft, where the minimalist glow of warm wood and the focused precision of the open kitchen create an atmosphere of quiet elegance. Diners are treated to a sensory dance of textures, from the buttery silk of hand-pressed nigiri to the deep, complex layers of umami found in every steaming, aromatic bowl. It is a destination that honors the seasons, transforming the finest ingredients into edible art that lingers on the palate long after the final course.
• Marumi — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Marumi captures the quiet elegance of Japanese tradition, where minimalist decor provides a calm backdrop for the vibrant artistry unfolding at the sushi bar. From the delicate char of grilled skewers to the pristine freshness of hand-pressed nigiri, every dish is a sensory celebration of texture and balance that transports guests to the heart of a bustling Tokyo neighborhood.
• Yokoya — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Yokoya invites guests into a serene, wood-accented haven where the quiet precision of the sushi counter meets the comforting warmth of traditional kitchen craft. Each dish serves as a masterclass in balance, pairing the delicate, sea-swept freshness of premium fish with the deep, soul-stirring umami of slow-simmered stocks to create a dining experience that feels both timeless and intimately personal.
• Ogawa — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into Ogawa reveals a minimalist haven of Japanese artistry, where the soft glow of lanterns illuminates the focused grace of chefs at work behind a pristine cypress counter. The experience unfolds as a rhythmic progression of flavors, from the buttery melt of ocean-fresh sashimi to the subtle, toasted notes of premium nori, all harmonizing to celebrate the soul of traditional craftsmanship.
• 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.
• Mikaku Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Nestled on Kenmare Street in Nolita, Mikaku Sushi offers a delightful array of custom and traditional sushi rolls alongside beloved Japanese staples like miso soup, teriyaki, and gyoza. This cozy eatery welcomes solo diners for lunch, dinner, and late-night bites, with fast service and delivery options available. Patrons rave about the fresh ingredients and inviting staff, making it a must-visit sushi spot in Manhattan.