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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Hell's Kitchen

Japanese lunch spots

A midday break is defined by a Japanese meal that fits into a busy schedule.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
East Japanese Restaurant image 1
East Japanese Restaurant image 2
East Japanese Restaurant image 3
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Japanese restaurant

Spacious and spotless setting with cozy, serene vibes and light jazz music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. The place draws a mix of diners seeking authentic Japanese hand rolls and gluten-free buckwheat soba noodles in an upscale yet approachable environment.

Hand rolls feature omakase-level fish with fresh, authentic flavors. The meal ends with 100% buckwheat soba noodles and green tea mochi for dessert.

Fresh and tasty six roll lunch specials stand out here. Lunch options include hand roll specials and a weekday lunch course at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The 100% buckwheat soba noodles were so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the fresh, authentic Japanese hand rolls and soba."

"This Lunch Spot has authentic, hand-rolled sushi made by Japanese craftsmen."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak hours.

2

The $53 omakase course offers a great value for high-quality sushi.

3

Lunch courses are only available on weekdays, so plan accordingly.

02
Manhatto image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a stylish and cozy interior with tasteful decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The ambiance feels effortlessly welcoming and suits intimate dinners or wine nights. Tables sit close together, creating a lively yet comfortable setting.

Omakase-grade fish shines in the sashimi and kaisen don. The wagyu carpaccio and truffle ramen stand out for their rich flavors. Chicken katsu curry and wagyu ramen offer solid, high-quality options.

Lunch offers reasonable prices with a lunch special that includes soup, salad, and an entrรฉe. The quality matches the value, making it a solid choice around midday.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The duck pasta with miso butter was to die for."

"The Hell's Kitchen roll at this Lunch Spot is delicious and memorable."

Good to know

1

Manhatto has not obtained their liquor license yet, so plan accordingly for drinks.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of food offered.

3

The lunch special includes soup, salad, and an entrรฉe at a great value.

03
Suram Sushi & Ramen image 1
Sushi restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a modern, clean design with a welcoming, cozy atmosphere and spacious interior including a private room for gatherings. The environment feels comfortable and warm, with seating options that provide views of the city. The place maintains a spotless, well-organized open kitchen visible to diners.

Sushi and ramen stand out with a wide variety and exceptional quality. The chicken ramen is particularly notable for its rich flavor. This spot consistently delivers a solid Japanese food experience.

Offers a quick lunch with inexpensive prices and phenomenal food. Atmosphere suits both dates and working during lunch.

People are saying

"The ramen here is seriously good and not salty at all."

"I thought the sushi here was the best I had ever eaten."

"This lunch spot's sushi is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not honor online reservations.

2

The room can be booked for special events.

3

The entrance is actually in 10th not 37th as it appears on the map.

04
Omakase by Kun Tsuki image 1
Sushi restaurant

Newly renovated interior creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere with phenomenal dish presentation. The menu features diverse sushi selections including uni with tempura leaf and bold-flavored mackerel and tuna. Dining experience combines fresh ingredients with attentive explanations from chefs.

Offers a $45, 10-course omakase with fresh, expertly prepared sushi including ikura, uni, toro, and scallop. The sushi is authentic, beautifully presented, and paired with a delicious appetizer and dessert.

Offers a 10-course lunch special for $45 featuring a delicious appetizer, eight pieces of expertly prepared nigiri, and a sweet dessert. The lunch omakase provides exceptional value and a memorable tasting experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"I considered this the best omakase experience in the city."

"The lunch omakase is a tremendous value."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $45 lunch tasting menu that includes 10 courses.

2

For $85, you get 18 courses with unlimited sake and 50% off all extra pieces.

3

If you have a shellfish allergy, be extra mindful.

05
Monkey Sushi & 3 Chick Sushi image 1

Small takeaway spot offers fresh sushi, affordable prices, and a varied menu including boba and dim sum. Atmosphere feels happy and cozy with limited seating and a young staff. Promotions like buy-one-get-one free on drinks add to its appeal for quick bites.

Freshness stands out with sushi that is flavorful and well made despite low prices. Alongside sushi, onigiri, gyoza, and soup dumplings offer solid variety.

Offers sushi with lunch specials, dim sum, and boba all in one spot. Serves as a convenient place to have lunch and take a break.

People are saying

"I really liked their milk teas and passion fruit green tea."

"This Lunch Spot has great food and you get a lot for the price."

"I found the Japanese food here to be the best for the price."

Good to know

1

Delivery is fast, typically within 30 minutes.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Online ordering is available for convenience.

06
Papa San image 1
Peruvian restaurant

High ceilings and industrial design create a spacious, bright setting with open kitchen views and abundant plants. The atmosphere varies from cozy and inviting to loud and chaotic, influenced by a mismatched, rave-style music playlist. The place suits groups and dates looking for a lively, modern vibe.

Peruvian Japanese cuisine shines with Whole Chicken Experience for Two featuring bone broth, Yakitori skewers, and Oyakodon. Shareable appetizers like rock shrimp tempura and blue crab maki offer unique, intense flavors.

Offers a solid lunch option with a convenient spot in midtown Manhattan. Serves meals suitable for a midday break.

People are saying

"The Wagyu here is amazing, truly a stunning meal."

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen and ceviche, is delicious."

"You have to try the burger sando at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Expect to pay around $20-$30 per dish, with small portion sizes.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

07
Ari Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, modest sushi restaurant offers fresh sashimi and creative rolls with a hip music backdrop. Atmosphere stays cool and cozy, with a quiet vibe outside peak hours. Tables sit close but the space feels unpretentious and clean.

Sushi here is fresh and melt in your mouth with creative rolls. Ramen broths are flavorful, and bento specials offer solid lunch and dinner options.

Lunch specials offer excellent prices and solid taste. Bento combos provide a great deal for an affordable midday meal.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is super fresh and melts in your mouth."

"This lunch spot has really fresh sushi and sashimi."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available during lunch hours.

2

The prices are excellent, especially for lunch specials.

3

A convenience fee is added to the order even if paying cash.

08
Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill - Columbus Circle image 1

Sushi restaurant inside a hotel lobby offers a traditional Japanese experience with chefs preparing food at the counter. The atmosphere is luxurious and cozy but can be noisy, especially in booth areas. A hidden rooftop bar provides city views and a great sake selection.

Sushi here features very high grade fish with fresh, hearty rolls like the Dragon roll. Unique options include amberjack and oyster tempura, alongside vegan vegetable sushi wrapped in cucumber topped with avocado.

Offers a perfect lunch experience with a relaxed vibe after a walk through Central Park.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The fried chicken here is juicy, crunchy, and has just the right kick of spice."

"This lunch spot's food was yummy and beautifully plated."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended as this place is very popular and can get crowded.

2

To enter the restaurant, go through the Columbus Circle Hotel next to the bagel joint and the door is on the right.

3

The prices at Blue Ribbon are about 30% more than a typical mid-level sushi restaurant on the Upper West Side.

09
SHIN ROKKO image 1
Tonkatsu restaurant

Spacious, clean interior with a modern and intimate design creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Energy stays chill, making it suitable for friends gathering and enjoying authentic tonkatsu. Pairing meals with ice-cold beer or happy hour sake adds to the relaxed vibe.

Pork katsu stands out with its thin coating and juicy, soft meat that melts in your mouth. Miso soup and fresh edamame and cucumber complement the authentic Japanese flavors.

Lunch offers multiple set options around $20, featuring dishes like pork loin Tonkatsu and oyako don. Specials provide great value compared to dinner prices.

People are saying

"The food here is beautiful, fresh, and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's pork cutlet is so moist, tender, and crispy."

"I thought the katsu was some of the best Japanese food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM with drinks for $4 or $5 and appetizers for $4.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

3

The restaurant offers a lunch menu where all items are $20.

10
Sushi Damo image 1
Sushi restaurant

Intimate sushi restaurant with low lighting and soft sounds creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Seating includes bar and window options with views of chefs preparing sushi. The vibe suits casual dates and local crowds seeking fresh, high-quality sushi.

Sushi here is exceptionally fresh with a great selection of rolls and appetizers like rock shrimp tempura and garlic shrimp. Prices stay affordable for the neighborhood, and the sushi and ramen both taste very good.

Great midday sushi lunch specials come with a reasonably priced menu offering solid options. The lunch menu includes dishes like chicken teriyaki with veggies and strawberry lemonade.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has fresh, flavorful sushi and great vegetarian options."

"I found the ramen here to be delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

The restaurant's closing time can vary, so check before your visit.

3

Iced tea refills are charged, so consider this when ordering.

11
KOHOKU-KU RAMEN image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy space mimics a Japanese street alley with authentic decor like paper lamps shaped as cats and goldfish, wooden and brick walls. Atmosphere feels traditional and intimate, enhanced by chill Japanese-style music playing in the background. Frequented by those seeking highly praised ramen paired with imported beer and sake.

Ramen stands out with its mackerel ramen and veggie tempura that deliver unique flavors. Yakitori also features as a notable dish alongside consistently excellent ramen.

Lunch offers special deals like curry rice with breaded chicken for 12.99. The spot serves quick snacks and weekday lunch specials in a small ramen and tempura setting.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The ramen here is amazing, especially the spicy broth."

"This ramen lunch spot has a delicious, authentic Japanese taste."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is available Monday through Friday.

2

A 20% tip is automatically added to the bill.

3

The restaurant requires one entree per person for ordering.

12
SESAMO - Italian Restaurant Hell's Kitchen image 1

Cozy Italian restaurant blends rustic and Asian modern styles with a fun outdoor patio and bar seating. Atmosphere feels romantic and relaxing with enjoyable music and a premium ambiance. Space is intimate with tables close together, attracting groups and couples alike.

Crunchy matcha tiramisu balances sweetness with matcha bitterness. Tonkatsu bread with miso sauce blends savory and sweet flavors. Nigiri, ragu, and tempura chicken parmesan also stand out.

Lunch offers a great menu with consistently good dishes. Weekday options include happy hour deals that add value to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is masterfully prepared and perfectly executed."

"The Japanese food here has really friendly staff and amazing service."

"The pasta dishes here are outstanding, especially the duck ragu."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers during the week.

2

The restaurant has late night hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 2am.

3

Bottomless brunch is available on weekends with a set price.

13
Kyoto Hibachi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers clean and modern interior with limited seating focused on takeout and quick meals. Atmosphere feels bright and casual, attracting those seeking affordable, fresh sushi and hibachi with generous portions. Ordering often requires advance placement due to preparation time.

Sushi here is super fresh and offers great value compared to pricier spots. The hibachi dishes and tempura, especially the soft shell crab tempura, come out crispy and well-prepared.

Lunch offers a $15 bento box with protein, vegetables, two dumplings, rice, and four pieces of sushi. Sushi lunch options come at a casual price that feels like a dinner deal.

People are saying

"The sushi here is super fresh and a great value."

"I ordered takeout here more than ten times."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the hibachi, is so good and enough for two meals."

Good to know

1

Check your receipt for a possible added tip without your knowledge.

2

The pricing is excellent, with affordable portions.

3

Reading your receipt carefully is recommended.

14
TORIBRO Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Tiny space with authentic design offers a cozy, lively vibe. Chicken paitan ramen delivers a unique broth while curry ramen packs a mind-blowing flavor. Perfect for lunch with rich, filling broth that satisfies every bite.

Chicken paitan ramen stands out with a broth that gives the dish a unique character. The curry ramen offers a spectacular, mind-blowing flavor that feels authentic and distinct.

Lunch features rich broth that stands out. The ramen is filling enough to enjoy every last drop.

People are saying

"I've never tasted ramen like this before; it's exceptional."

"The ramen here has a really rich broth and flavorful soup."

"This Lunch Spot's ramen broth is rich, creamy, and full of umami."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 12-6:30 pm with $3-4 discounts on beers and sake.

2

Expect to wait for a table due to limited seating, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a cash discount for payments made in cash.

15
IPPUDO Westside image 1
Restaurant

Ramen restaurant features an open kitchen and long bar seating that evoke a Japanese dining experience. The atmosphere is lively and crowded, with close seating that makes conversations audible between tables. An outdoor bar area offers a place to wait, adding a social element to the visit.

Broths have rich flavor that rivals ramen in Japan. The ramen offers a semi-hip environment with friendly service and is known for its tasty noodles.

Lunch here is known for fast and efficient service, making it easy to get a quick meal. Tables are usually available without a wait, even on weekends.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a deep, rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles."

"The ramen here has a fantastic, rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles."

"The ramen at this lunch spot is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

You should make a reservation because the restaurant is always busy.

2

Make sure you arrive early because usually, thereโ€™s a long wait to get in especially on a weekend.

3

If you don't have a reservation at Ippudo, you should plan on waiting for a table, sometimes up to an hour.

16
In Common NYC - A Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy cafe with warm wooden decor and natural light creates an inviting atmosphere. Tables sit close together, making the space feel cramped and congested. Music features a strong playlist with artists like Chet Faker and Jungle, adding to a relaxing vibe.

Eggplant katsu stands out with a crispy texture and rich flavor, especially in the sandwich version. Matcha also features as a notable drink option.

Offers a laid-back vibe with a charming cafe setting. Serves fresh ingredients suitable for quick, light lunch or breakfast meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The shakshuka at this Lunch Spot was incredible."

"The Japanese food, especially the eggplant katsu sandwich, is delicious."

Good to know

1

You pay at the counter on your way out.

2

No laptops are allowed in this place.

3

The kitchen closes at 2:30 PM.

17
Shinn WEST image 1
Sushi restaurant

Two large sushi bars seat about 30 people in a bright, open space with an intimate design. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, fitting for one-on-one conversations or small groups. Fresh fish and high-quality omakase pair well with top shelf sake and a great drink menu.

Omakase offers a 13-course menu with fresh, delicious sushi that rivals high-end spots. The nigiri features ingredients that perfectly complement each fish, and the price is notably affordable.

Lunch features an 8 nigiri and 1 hand roll special priced at $38. Service starts late at 2pm, and prices can exceed $100 per person including tip.

People are saying

"I found the Omakase experience to be beautifully curated and worth the price."

"The Japanese food here is a great value for the quality."

"The omakase here made me crave more tuna pieces."

Good to know

1

You definitely need to arrive on time as they do NOT wait for you to start.

2

The omakase sushi place has a one hour seating time.

3

The $69 omakase at Shinn East provides amazing value for the price.

18
Raku image 1
Restaurant

Communal seating at a long shared table creates a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere where conversations overlap. Minimalist decor with light wood slats and curved pastry seating adds a sleek, Japanese-inspired touch. An attached French patisserie offers a unique dessert experience alongside the main dining area.

Udon here stands out with its springy, al dente noodles that hold up well in broth. The tempura is light and crispy, especially good with the broth and noodles. The Kaisen Don offers generous cuts of fresh fish making it a solid choice for sushi lovers.

Lunch offers a tendon lunch set with crispy tempura over rice and a bowl of light, chewy udon. Booth seating is available even on weekends around 2pm.

People are saying

"The udon noodles are so thick and chewy."

"The udon noodles here are so chewy and have a fantastic broth."

"The Lunch Spot's tempura is light, crispy, and delightful."

Good to know

1

If your plans are more set in stone or if you're visiting during peak hours, get a reservation.

2

There's a 90 minute seating limit due to the constant flow of people waiting for a table.

3

The hostess informed a few people that there would be a 20-30 minute wait for a table.

19
Kyuramen - Times Square image 1
Ramen restaurant

Japanese aesthetic with private booths and curtains creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Lighting and bamboo decorations add to the authentic vibe. Staff use call buttons for discreet service, enhancing a relaxed dining experience.

Ramen stands out with its absolutely delicious broth and noodles. Gyoza also offers a notable flavor that complements the meal well.

Ramen serves as a quick lunch option with a delicious and perfect meal for cold days. It fits well for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The ramen here is rich, flavorful, and very satisfying."

"The ramen here is savory, rich, and very satisfying."

"The ramen broth at this Lunch Spot is flavorful and the pork is tender."

Good to know

1

The table behind the counter is reserved between 4-5 PM.

2

The restaurant has a promotion where if you finish the bowl, they offer a gift card for a free side at your next visit.

3

The restaurant is open until 2 AM.

20
Elephant Ear image 1
Thai restaurant

Boho chic design creates a tropical, relaxing atmosphere with comfortable seating and attractive lighting. Interactive hibachi chefs provide live entertainment including jokes and musical acts, adding energy without overwhelming noise. Late hours suit those seeking a chill spot after shows.

Udon noodles stand out as a favorite, especially the fried and stir-fry beef versions. Dumplings, including pork soup and pan-fried pork buns, come fresh and tasty alongside dishes like chicken teriyaki and garlic ribs.

Quick service and low crowd levels make lunch here smooth and easy. The food stands out with outstanding quality and a relaxed atmosphere even during later lunch hours.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings here are amazing, juicy, and flavorful."

"The service at this lunch spot is swift and attentive."

"The Japanese food, especially the dumplings, is amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The Hells Kitchen musical is currently showing on Broadway.

2

Elephant Ear is open until 12:00 AM.

3

Elephant Ear can accommodate last minute reservations for large groups.

21
Sunac Natural Market | Midtown west Deli | Supermarket image 1

Buffet-style serve-yourself setup anchors a clean space with tables and stools for dining. A salad bar, fresh juice, and hot grill offer variety alongside a sandwich bar and pastries. The atmosphere balances a self-service restaurant vibe with a minimal market at the back.

Offers a wide variety of Japanese dishes including sushi, shrimp onigiri, and beef bulgogi. The deli area features freshly made hot food and salads alongside prepared dishes and sandwiches.

An endless selection of products fuels a lunch and dinner buffet that draws workers from nearby offices. Staff from the Javits Center often recommend it as a reliable lunch spot just two blocks away.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has a fantastic selection of hot meals and deli options."

"This market has a fantastic juice, smoothie, and coffee bar."

"Their sushi and warm foods to go were delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch and dinner buffet in the afternoon/evening.

2

The deli counter closes at 9:30 PM, even though the shop closes at 10 PM.

3

Everything is available 7 days a week.

22
Real Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen image 1

Small, cramped space with shared tables creates a close, bustling environment. Atmosphere feels like a Shanghai dumpling joint with authentic decor and a behind-the-scenes movie playing on the wall. Noise level rises when crowded, making it lively but tight.

Ramen features chewy hand-cut noodles with a simple but delicious broth. Soup dumplings stand out as a must-have, and the spicy beef ramen offers a unique flavor different from typical bowls.

Food arrives quickly, making it a convenient lunch spot in midtown. The menu offers authentic dishes that work well for a fast office lunch or a late meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're amazing."

"The ramen here is amazing, especially the pork soup."

"The soup dumplings at this Lunch Spot are amazing and very reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

They only accept payments in cash.

2

A 15% service fee is included in the bill.

3

You have to queue outside during busy hours.

23
The Jin image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, narrow space with wall-to-wall windows that open for fresh air creates a cozy, modern vibe. Frequent Korean music and a unique menu display on the wall add to the atmosphere. Delivery riders nearby bring occasional noise, but the place feels warm and inviting.

Chicken katsu stands out with its rich flavor. Other dishes include tteokbokki, short ribs, and pork belly.

Lunch offers good prices and a variety of dishes that invite repeat visits. It suits both quick meals and group gatherings after events.

People are saying

"The Bulgogi beef here is amazing and blew my taste buds away."

"The katsu and tteokbokki here are delicious."

"The food at this lunch spot is insanely delicious."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 9:45 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect to spend $20-30 per person for a meal.

3

No reservations are required at The Jin, making it easy to drop by.

24
Churrascaria Plataforma Steakhouse image 1

U-shaped tables and a large open salad bar create a spacious, comfortable dining area with Brazilian-style sword service for meats. Live band plays Bossa, Samba, Cha Cha, and jazz, adding a lively, noisy atmosphere. Decor includes carpeted floors, flat screen TVs, and a performance studio, blending traditional and modern elements.

A buffet offers sushi, shrimp cocktail, fried rice, and tortellini alongside a salad bar. Sushi stands out as surprisingly delicious and draws positive attention.

Lunch offers great deals on weekdays with a cheaper price compared to dinner. Meals provide ample portions that keep you full for the entire day.

People are saying

"The Salad Bar here is huge and so fresh."

"The Japanese Food here offers incredible and varied cuts of meat."

"This lunch spot's meat selection and quality were unmatched."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially during events.

2

The meat festival offers an all-you-can-eat experience, so come hungry.

3

During Restaurant Week, a three-course meal is available for $60.

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