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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the Bowery

Chill Japanese food

Made for those who demand a low-key environment while they eat their sashimi.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Zen Sushi Omakase image 1
Zen Sushi Omakase image 2
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Sushi restaurant

Tiny space delivers intimate atmosphere with a humorous, chill vibe that feels like a performance. Sushi preparation acts as a live show, enhancing the serene and elegant setting. Guests enjoy fresh, luxurious sushi paired with an excellent sake selection.

Cozy and casual atmosphere creates a relaxed vibe that feels both casual and high end. The setting is engaging yet chill, making meals feel like a lighthearted performance.

Omakase here offers a tasty sushi tasting with a 5+ star experience. The meal feels authentic and stands out as a life-changing sushi experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the fish."

"The sake service here is impeccable, always flowing."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential given Zen Sushi's popularity and limited seating.

2

The 14 course omakase is priced at $89, which is a great deal for NYC.

3

Expect to spend around $180 per person for a full dining experience.

02
Kawa Omakase image 1
Sushi restaurant

Intimate setting below street level features black stone countertops and a brightly lit white brick wall behind the sushi station. Atmosphere stays cozy and calm, balancing refinement and approachability with a friendly vibe. Diners start simultaneously, allowing the chef to serve courses in unison, enhancing the shared experience.

A relaxing atmosphere sets the tone here with a chill vibe throughout. The spot sits on a set-back garden floor level, adding to the calm feel.

Omakase features a 14-course meal with fresh, artful sushi and standout dishes like black cod with yuzu pepper sauce and maguro with wasabi. Wagyu and red snapper also highlight the menu, all served by a skilled team.

People are saying

"The omakase here is fresh, delicious, and crafted with precision."

"The omakase here is fantastic and I highly recommend it."

"The omakase here is seriously good and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

2

Expect a higher price point due to the omakase style.

3

The dining experience is typically around two hours long.

03
Conway Diner image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion restaurant offers a cozy, stylish space with natural light and beautiful outdoor seating. Atmosphere ranges from warm and welcoming to lively and loud during dinner hours. The vibe suits casual dining with a fun, energetic feel and good people watching.

Calming and relaxing atmosphere sets a chill tone. Casual dinner vibes keep things easygoing and low-key.

Teriyaki chicken stands out with its rich flavor, served with rice. The Teriyaki short rib dinner offers a hearty option. Beef udon noodles provide a satisfying, savory choice.

People are saying

"The food here is absolutely wonderful and amazing."

"The Japanese food, especially the udon noodles, was amazing."

"The atmosphere here is so chill and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The diner offers a small but focused menu for easy selection.

3

Homemade lemonade is a popular summer drink choice.

04
DokoDemo image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with wood paneling and artwork creates a calming atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and relaxed, welcoming guests who enjoy unique Japanese grill dishes with a modern twist. Seating includes bar stools and wooden tables, supporting a simple yet spacious setting.

Relaxed and friendly atmosphere sets a chill vibe. Soothing music and casual payment at the front add to the easygoing experience. Outdoor seating offers a refreshing spot to unwind.

Ramen here stands out with rich pork broth and tender noodles. The Hiroshima-yaki features a thin, crispy crepe-like layer with grilled chicken and savory sauces. Takoyaki is made in-house, noted for its authentic texture and flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and authentic."

"The Japanese food here, especially the okonomiyaki, tastes incredibly authentic."

"This okonomiyaki is crispy with great fillings."

Good to know

1

You pay at the front and they bring your food out, making it very casual.

2

The restaurant offers affordable Japanese food.

3

The menu is easy to navigate and customizable based on one's preference.

05
Yunnan Rice Noodle image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, fresh dining area with beautiful furnishings and modern Chinese music creates an energetic atmosphere. Open 24/7, it offers generous portions and clearly labeled menu options for easy ordering. The environment feels clean and relaxing, making it suitable for late-night meals.

A relaxing atmosphere sets the tone here, making it easy to unwind after activities like mahjong and board games. The spot offers a calm environment that encourages chilling out with friends.

Big noodle bowls serve ramen that can easily feed two. Takoyaki stands out as a popular choice. Other dishes include dumplings, fried tofu, and various salads.

People are saying

"The food portions here are huge for the price."

"It's a great chill spot for late-night cravings after a night out."

"I found the Japanese food here delicious, especially the rice with shrimp."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions, making it a great value for money.

2

New rice dishes are available, adding variety to the menu.

3

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

06
BAR GOTO image 1
Cocktail bar

Small, intimate cocktail bar with Japanese-inspired design and meticulous attention to detail in glassware and ice preparation. Atmosphere feels cozy and elevated, with rockabilly and classic rock music setting a chill vibe. Space often gets cramped and operates on a first come, first serve basis without reservations.

A chill vibe fills the space with a relaxed but trendy atmosphere. Thoughtfully crafted drinks complement the cozy setting perfect for unwinding.

Okonomiyaki stands out with both seafood and vegetarian options that are flavorful and well-made. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish and perfectly seasoned rice, with a variety of rolls and sashimi available.

People are saying

"The cocktails are elegant, balanced, and expertly crafted."

"I loved the chill romantic vibes and serene atmosphere here."

"The Japanese food, especially the okonomiyaki, was amazing."

Good to know

1

You must have your full party present to join the waitlist.

2

The bar does not accept reservations.

3

The bar gets busy quickly, so it is advisable to arrive early.

07
Matsunori image 1
Sushi restaurant

Intimate sushi bar seats about 10 people in a snug, chic space with a dark, Banksy-inspired decor. Atmosphere feels personalized and authentic, enhanced by BYOB policy and house-made yuzu sake. Space is tight, creating a close, interactive dining experience.

A relaxed atmosphere sets the tone with chill chefs who entertain guests. The vibe stays nice and casual, fitting for work dinners or casual date nights.

Offers a phenomenal omakase experience with 12 pieces of sushi priced at $68. The chef adapts presentation for left-handed diners and includes options like A5 wagyu for added variety.

People are saying

"The sushi here is the best I've encountered."

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh, flown in from Japan."

"This chill omakase spot has modern flavor combinations and a great price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to enjoy the omakase experience before the restaurant becomes very popular.

2

The restaurant is BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle).

3

On weekends, the omakase is $78 for one appetizer, 12 nigiri, and 1 handroll.

08
Gyu-Ichiro Japanese BBQ image 1
Japanese restaurant

Private booths with tabletop grills create an interactive and cozy dining experience. Interior features hidden lighting and intimate nooks that enhance privacy. Digital ordering via iPads streamlines service in a space known for high-quality sushi and perfectly cooked meats.

Cozy and inviting ambiance sets a great atmosphere for both casual and special occasions. It works well for a chill dinner or lunch with friends or family.

Unlimited Japanese BBQ and sushi come at about $50 per person. Fresh, buttery sashimi and tasty sushi, especially the fried sushi roll, stand out alongside high quality meat.

People are saying

"The bottomless sushi and meats were an amazing adventure."

"The sushi and sashimi here were fresh and good."

"The salmon sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch all-you-can-eat menu is available Tuesday to Thursday from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM for $29.99.

2

The dinner all-you-can-eat menu is available Tuesday to Thursday for $39.99.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

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Bowery, New York

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