5 Best Izakayas In New York

5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Sozai (Japanese Izakaya Ramen) restaurant

1. Sozai (Japanese Izakaya Ramen)

4.6

Exceptional(20)

Price: Expensive

• Izakaya • Rockefeller Center

Booked 57 times today

Sozai, nestled in the vibrant Rockefeller Center in New York, is a top-tier destination for authentic Izakaya cuisine. Known for its lively ambiance and exemplary service, Sozai offers an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Japanese gastropub culture. Guests rave about the "impeccable presentation, taste, and speed" of dishes, highlighting favorites like the spicy ushi ebi and miso black cod. The atmosphere is both authentic and inviting, perfect for any occasion from casual outings to special celebrations. Enthusiastic patrons recommend securing a private booth to fully enjoy Sozai's offerings, including a diverse sake selection and innovative dishes like the delectable crab croquettes with mentaiko sauce. With glowing reviews and a commitment to quality, Sozai stands out as a must-visit for Izakaya enthusiasts in the heart of New York.

2. Wokuni

4.8

Exceptional(1298)

Price: Expensive

• Izakaya • Murray Hill

Booked 56 times today

Wokuni, nestled in the bustling Murray Hill neighborhood of New York City, is renowned for its exceptional sushi cuisine, which has earned it glowing reviews and a spot among the top Michelin-rated sushi joints in NYC. The restaurant stands out for its commitment to quality, with fish flown in nearly daily from Tokyo, ensuring an authentic and fresh dining experience. Diners consistently rave about the "off the charts good" sushi and the "excellent food served by highly knowledgeable staff in a beautiful setting." The remarkable freshness of the sushi, combined with the restaurant's ability to provide a "wonderful omakase experience" where "the courses and amount of food far exceeded expectations," makes Wokuni a must-visit for sushi connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. The attentive service and elegant ambiance further enhance the dining experience, making every meal memorable.

3. Yopparai

4.6

Exceptional(504)

Price: Very Expensive

• Izakaya • Lower East Side

Booked 4 times today

At Yopparai on the Lower East Side, New York, revel in an authentic Izakaya experience that consistently impresses even the most discerning diners. Praised for its "legit" and "authentic cuisine," Yopparai offers a delightful array of traditional Japanese dishes, from homemade tofu to intricately prepared sashimi and sushi. The extensive sake selection complements each dish, enhancing the dining experience in an atmosphere that evokes true Japanese charm. Guests love the intimate tatami seating and the knowledgeable staff, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. One diner raved, "Felt like I was in Japan and not in the middle of NYC." Whether you're seeking a memorable omakase or just a cozy night out, Yopparai promises an unforgettable journey through Japanese culinary excellence.

4. Lucky Cat

4.7

Exceptional(3)

Price: Moderate

• Izakaya • Midtown East

Booked 8 times today

The Lucky Cat is situated in Midtown NYC, a vibrant center of Japanese business and culture. Our large beckoning cat, an emblem of Japan's Maneki Neko tradition, warmly welcomes everyone. The restaurant is operated by chef and partner Koji Kagawa, embracing the 'Izakaya' concept—an informal Japanese gastropub typically frequented after work for drinks. Our menu offers authentic dishes served in a tapas style, perfect for sharing. Come and unwind with us! Irashaimase!

5. Wano

4.4

Awesome(52)

Price: Expensive

• Izakaya • Midtown East

Booked 1 time today

Nestled in the heart of Midtown, WANO New York is a vibrant beacon of contemporary Japanese Izakaya culture, bringing a slice of Tokyo's spirited dining scene to the Big Apple. At WANO, every dish tells a story, crafted with the finesse of traditional techniques and the flair of modern innovation. Our Izakaya is a celebration — of flavors that sing, of company that warms the heart, and of the Izakaya tradition that pulsates through the city's veins.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Izakayas in New York

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

5 restaurants available nearby

1. Sozai (Japanese Izakaya Ramen)

2. Wokuni

3. Yopparai

4. Lucky Cat

5. Wano

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable