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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Midtown East's best

Cocktails and Japanese food

A cocktail paired with Japanese food creates a focused, intentional atmosphere for the evening.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated May 2026
01
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Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style space filled with authentic Japanese decor and retro anime visuals playing behind the bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and charming, closely resembling izakayas in Japan. Regulars enjoy anime-inspired cocktails and a lively vibe with a DJ and classic anime movies on TV.

Cocktails here feature anime-inspired themes like Sailor Moon and Naruto, each crafted with a well-balanced, unique flavor. Prices stay affordable during happy hour, with specials on specialty cocktails and beers.

Ramen stands out with rich, authentic flavors, especially the chicken ramen. The takoyaki also offers a notable taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and authentic Japanese."

"It's a cozy spot with a great atmosphere and eclectic decorations."

"You have to try the ramen; it's the best Japanese food I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a meal, especially for large groups.

2

Happy hour offers $4 Sapporo and runs daily from 12pm to 6pm.

3

Free parking at the meter is available after 7 PM.

02
Palladinoโ€™s Steak & Seafood image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space offers stunning views over Grand Central Station with rich, deep colors and a beautiful bar. Atmosphere blends sophistication and warmth, creating a remarkable setting for meals and cocktails. Different rooms provide varied experiences, suited for casual dinners or dates.

Cocktails come with great quality and are served with professional knowledge. The service adds to the experience with charismatic attention.

Sushi stands out with options like the Bluefin Tuna Roll and a creative Steak and Egg Sushi Roll. Unique dishes include the Deli Roll with pastrami and sauerkraut, plus family-style sashimi and sushi tacos.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"Chef Sam Hazen's Japanese Food is phenomenal and creative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand shortly after opening.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments only.

03
Crave Sushi Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Elegant space features dimmed lights and an octopus mural, creating a cozy vibe with perfect lighting. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting without loud music, fostering a sleek and pleasant dining experience. The energy suits those seeking a refined yet friendly setting for sushi.

Speciality cocktails offer perfect balance and a touch of 90s nostalgia with drinks like the lychee martini and Midori sour. The menu includes savory cocktails, an extensive sake selection, and Japanese whiskeys.

Sushi here stands out for its spectacular nigiri and fresh sashimi. Signature dishes include scallop nigiri with brown butter, spicy Maine lobster roll, and dressed bigeye tuna wasabi sashimi, all priced well for the quality.

People are saying

"The sushi service here is friendly, prompt, and truly exceptional."

"The Japanese Food here is amazing, with staff who are super friendly and attentive."

"You've got to try their perfectly balanced, delicious cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted bites and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

Reservations are not required on Wednesday nights.

3

The total bill for two people averages around $120, including tip.

04
Yezo Thai Isankaya image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space combines cozy Thai dining room style with Japanese decor and Thai movie posters. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting with live jazz music that supports conversation. Seating uses tiny kitchen stools, adding to the casual, intimate vibe.

Cocktails feature melon-er and soo soo, both visually striking and tasty. They pair well with meals and desserts, adding a delicious complement to the dining experience.

Flavors focus on Yezo Yakitori and dishes like tako wasabi, kai yang, and crying tiger. The salad offers a wasabi kick with ponzu, all served in an Izakaya style setting.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious and fresh food here."

"I thought their cocktails were killer."

"The Japanese food, especially the sukiyaki hot pot, is so delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has live jazz music from 8-9pm on Fridays.

2

There is a lunch special available.

3

Yezo Thai Isankaya does not have liquor but offers BYOB for beer and wine.

05
Point Seven image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a beautifully renovated space with stunning flying fish lighting and a gold shell wall behind the bar. Atmosphere feels stylish and elevated, perfect for business meals or after-work drinks with a crowd from midtown finance. Music can be loud, but the layout provides good table spacing for privacy and a welcoming vibe.

Non-alcoholic cocktails taste delicious, a rare find. The Lost At Sea cocktail stands out with perfectly mixed flavors.

Unrolled spicy tuna sushi and ceviche stand out with fresh flavors. Bento box sushi offers great quality, while Martingale Side Cars and Nigiri deliver solid options.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and felt made just for me."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the nigiri, was truly delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on Fridays and Mondays.

2

Reservations are suggested, especially for pre-theater dinner between 5 PM and 7 PM.

3

Drinks are half price only for bar food during happy hour.

06
Bar Orai image 1

Apartment-style bar with live jazz and vinyl records creates a moody, soulful vibe. Cozy, upscale decor features Japanese whiskey and creative cocktails. Space feels intimate and relaxed, ideal for quiet listening or dates.

A well-curated selection of whisky, bourbon, and cocktails stands out here. The cocktail list features hand-crafted drinks like the matcha cocktail and melon prosciutto, all served with attention to detail.

Shrimp comes out crispy and flavorful in the ebi katsu, served on soft milkbread. Drinks include a matcha cocktail and a melon prosciutto that stand out.

People are saying

"The Japanese whiskey here pairs perfectly with the chill vinyl jazz."

"The cocktails here are fresh, appealing, and well-crafted."

"The Japanese food here, especially the Mentaiko Mac n Cheese, is creamy and a little spicy."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because the bar gets packed on weekends.

2

The bar has a wait time of 2 hours during peak hours.

3

Bar Orai does not accept cash; credit cards only.

07
Sushi Ginza image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a clean and inviting atmosphere with comfortable decor and outdoor terrace seating that catches a good breeze. The vibe ranges from calm and relaxing to casual and clubby, suitable for dining alone or with company. Friendly service complements the overall experience.

Fabulous cocktails crafted by the owner shine here, with the Zen Garden standing out. The cocktail menu pairs well with elevated sushi and a great wine list.

Sushi here features extremely fresh sashimi that melts in your mouth and crispy rock shrimp tempura lightly sauced for perfect texture. The menu includes special sushi rolls and hand rolls with high-quality ingredients and great flavor balance.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and fatty, it's amazing."

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

"I thought the cocktails were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

2

The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours.

3

Affordable lunch options are available on attractive plates.

08
Crave Fishbar image 1
Seafood restaurant

Upstairs seating offers a cozy, maritime-themed space separated from the lively double bar area. The atmosphere blends sophistication with relaxation, supported by creative cocktails and fresh seafood. Noise levels can be high, especially near busy tables, but the overall vibe remains welcoming.

Happy hour features delicious cocktails paired with oysters. The cocktail menu is broad and impressive, including non-alcoholic options like blueberry fauxjito and cucumber lemonade.

Fusion of cuisines blends sushi, Thai, Italian, and American flavors. Dishes like warm crab sushi roll, grilled octopus, and salmon sashimi stand out for freshness and generous portions.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the oyster happy hour here."

"The calamari here is amazing and stole the show."

"The Japanese Food here is served by super friendly and attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get very busy during happy hour and dinner.

2

Oyster happy hour is every day from 4-6pm.

3

The happy hour is $35 for a bottle of prosecco and $2 per oyster.

09
The Lobster Club image 1
Japanese restaurant

Space blends traditional Japanese elements with contemporary design, featuring a golden bar and rose gold velvet chairs that create an elegant, luxurious vibe. Lighting and playlist foster a lively yet intimate atmosphere, attracting a trendy crowd. High top booths near the cocktail lounge highlight the restaurant's architectural beauty and cinematic feel.

An impressive selection of cocktails, sake, and wines stands out here. The Cucumber Shisho Cocktail with Tequila and a unique take on an old-fashioned highlight the lovely bartenders' craft.

Pork gyoza stands out as a must-try dish. Sushi arrives incredibly fresh and looks like an art form on the plate.

People are saying

"The Wagyu skirt steak was tender and flavorful."

"The nightlife here has a stunning, luxurious atmosphere with thoughtful lighting."

"The wagyu sliders and sushi here are amazing Japanese food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure a table.

2

An appropriate dress code is required to enter the restaurant.

3

Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the quality of the food.

10
No Work Allowed image 1

Basement-level jazz club with intimate vibe and low lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. Live jazz bands play classic tunes with welcoming, talented musicians. Unique decor and a sake bar complement the music and add to the distinctive experience.

Cocktails come layered and balanced with an unexpectedly bold taste. The pineapple prik glua stands out as a fantastic choice, priced at $16.

Small bites like edamame and purple sweet potato tempura come in crisp golden batter. The menu blends Japanese izakaya dishes with unexpected Thai influences, featuring items like Saba ramen.

People are saying

"The food here is great and really yummy."

"I loved the cocktails and the live jazz music here."

"The live jazz music here is absolutely spellbinding."

Good to know

1

The jazz band starts at 8 pm on Thursday nights.

2

Expect a $15 minimum spending per person with no cover charge.

3

The venue is usually packed during jazz performances on weekends.

11
Tomi Jazz image 1
Jazz club

Small basement jazz club with live Japanese jazz bands playing close to diners creates an intimate atmosphere. Dim lighting and walls lined with books and knickknacks add to the cozy, eclectic vibe. Cocktails and Japanese-inspired dishes complement the engaging musical experience.

Cocktails here show skill and precision in their preparation, especially when made at the bar. The zen matcha cocktail stands out as a particularly excellent choice among the yummy cocktails offered.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines with uni croquettes and cod udon pasta standing out. Solid dishes include curry udon, honey toast dessert, and matcha ice cream with red bean paste.

People are saying

"The live jazz here is incredible, complementing the amazing Japanese-Italian fusion dishes."

"The Japanese food, especially the okonomiyaki, tasted just like Japan."

"The cocktails here are strong and well balanced."

Good to know

1

Arriving at 4:30 PM guarantees a seat even on the busiest days.

2

There is a $10 live music cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

You should come during weekdays before 5:30 PM to avoid long waits.

12
Reserve Cut image 1
Kosher restaurant

High-end kosher steakhouse with elegant vintage-modern decor and a spacious, beautifully designed dining room featuring a bar and fireplace. Atmosphere is vibrant and lively, often very noisy due to closely packed seating. Offers luxurious ambiance with sophisticated lighting and impressive wine displays.

Cocktails offer a well-crafted and enjoyable experience with a perfect balance of flavors. Some drinks could use a bit more alcohol for a stronger kick.

Sushi stands out with its freshness, flavor, and beautiful presentation. Gyozas also deliver solid taste, while steaks come across as average in quality.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the Wagyu steak."

"The sushi rolls here are delicious and impressive."

"I liked the great cocktails they served."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least 30 minutes before dining.

2

Expect to pay around $1000 for two people.

3

A cancellation fee of $50 per person applies.

13
Crab House NYC image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers an intimate setting with private booths and a sea-inspired aesthetic. Atmosphere features soft old school R&B music that encourages singing along, creating a lively yet cozy vibe. Known for fresh lobsters and crabs, it combines great food with a vibrant musical backdrop.

House special cocktails come in bowl-shaped glasses with a generous amount of alcohol. Options include the lobster claw cocktail, Mai Tai, and Scorpio Moon, all paired well with seafood dishes.

Seafood dishes like crab legs, shrimp, and sushi show clear freshness and quality. Healthier sides include broccoli, seaweed salad, and edamame.

People are saying

"The bottomless seafood here is fresh, made-to-order, and flavorful."

"You can get unlimited seafood, especially lobster and snow crab."

"The Japanese food here is fresh, flavorful, and a great value."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation before visiting to avoid a long wait.

2

The wait time for a party of 2 on a Saturday night at 5 pm is 3 HOURS.

3

You have 2 hours to eat as much as you wish.

14
TAO Uptown image 1
Pan-Asian restaurant

Large space features a huge Buddha statue and Zen-inspired decor creating a luxurious atmosphere. Multiple bars and a lounge area offer places to wait and socialize before dining. Crowded seating and a lively vibe make it a classic trendy mega venue.

Skilled mixologists craft exceptional cocktails that stand out as works of art. The menu offers a variety of delicious drinks, including $5 sake and cocktails available in the lounge.

Gyoza stands out with a crispy, flavorful bite. Sushi includes smoked salmon rolls with wasabi sauce and fresh cod, offering a rich taste experience.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have excellent, flavorful dishes perfect for sharing."

"The Japanese Food here has a stunning, vibrant atmosphere."

"The cocktails here are expertly recommended to match your preferences."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as they get filled quickly.

2

Happy hour offers $15 for three tiny martinis and $1 dumplings.

3

The restaurant had a special offer of two courses for $30 during restaurant week.

15
Gu Japanese Fusion Sushi & Bar image 1

Modern design combines with spacious seating and a lively but not noisy vibe. Air conditioning keeps the atmosphere comfortable while close tables encourage a social setting. The space suits dinners with friends or intimate gatherings.

Happy hour offers $7 cocktails that are both strong and surprisingly good.

Sushi and sashimi come fresh and delicious with a good variety to choose from. The yellowtail toro sushi and salmon poke bowl stand out for their quality and quick service.

People are saying

"The sushi and sashimi here are so fresh and delicious."

"The service at these dinner spots was amazing and attentive."

"I found their happy hour cocktails to be a great deal at $7."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is every day from 3-10 PM with $7 drinks.

2

They have a late night happy hour that makes meals affordable.

3

Gu Japanese Fusion allows customers to customize their orders, like choosing 'no salt'.

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