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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Midtown East

Sake date spots

You want a date spot where the sake is as carefully considered as the atmosphere.

Based on 665 Opinions
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01
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Underground sushi counter with intimate seating and perfect lighting creates a homey, modern atmosphere. Hip hop music plays softly, adding to the relaxed yet refined vibe. Chefs prepare food openly, fostering a friendly and attentive environment.

Sake here is impeccable with a top-notch selection that pairs beautifully with the food. The wine and sake pairing complements meals perfectly.

Midtown transforms into a slice of Tokyo with authentic ambiance. Staff provide detailed tea guidance, making it easy to explore flavors together.

People are saying

"I loved how fresh the sushi tasted."

"The staff's knowledge really helped me make an amazing sake selection."

"The vibe here is phenomenal, making it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Jōji is located in the basement of the building, one floor down in the same building where Summit is.

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Spacious Thai spot offers great sake on tap and a full bar with large drinks. Cozy garden seating and dim lighting create a modern, chic vibe perfect for dates. Friendly staff add warmth with personal stories.

Great sake comes on tap during happy hour. Hot sake pairs well with dishes like chicken wings and pork chops, all rated highly for flavor.

Modern, chic, and cozy atmosphere with dim lighting sets a perfect mood for date nights. Friendly staff share stories that add a personal touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the pho bo."

"I love the cozy vibe that makes date nights special."

"You've got to try the sake, it's great on tap."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour features $3 Sapporo beers from 11 AM to 6 PM.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special with a free appetizer on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 4 PM.

3

There is a $20 all-you-can-drink beer special available.

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Small space with minimal, clean decor creates a calm, authentic atmosphere that feels cozy and intimate. Light, savory broths and perfectly chewy udon noodles define the dining experience. Bar seats facing the window offer a spot for people watching in a peaceful setting.

Sake here offers high-quality options at affordable prices. The hot sake is warm and smooth, making it a cozy choice, and the Platinum Sake stands out as a notable selection.

Udon soup with shrimp and egg offers a comforting, flavorful option, enhanced by a touch of chili oil. Japanese IPA pairs well, making it a solid choice for a casual date night with great food at a great price.

People are saying

"I love the cozy vibe and tasty food here."

"The food here is delicious and comforting for a great date spot."

"Their udon noodle soup is flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The menu features dishes priced between $10-20.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

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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.

An amazing sake list offers a wide variety that appeals even to those who don't usually drink sake. Bottles are available to take home, adding to the experience.

A cookie with ice cream arrives as a sweet surprise for special occasions. The scallop stands out as a memorable dish noted for its quality.

People are saying

"The sushi is fresh, creative, and delicious."

"The sake and sushi here are fantastic."

"You have to try the scallop here; it's some of the best I've ever had."

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.

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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.

An extensive drink menu features a large selection of Japanese sake and plum wine. Each sake order comes with two smooth servings, complementing dishes like curry udon and honey toast.

Jazz music sets a romantic tone for date nights or small group hangouts. The ambience feels intimate and cozy, making it a solid choice for a cute date spot.

People are saying

"The wait for these Date Spots is about an hour, but it's worth it."

"The sake here is great in this cozy, intimate spot."

"They have a huge variety of smooth sake and whiskey."

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.

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Sushi restaurant offers a bright, welcoming space with a quiet, calming atmosphere that feels like a small oasis away from the city bustle. The interior is sophisticated and modern, featuring thoughtful design and playing great house music that enhances the dining experience.

Happy hour features $5 Sapporo and excellent sake specials. The sake and wine list offers a solid selection for dinner.

Small and cozy setting suits intimate conversations. Works well for lunch dates or casual evenings with a friend.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious for a date spot."

"I love this spot for date nights."

"You can taste a variety of sweet and dry sake before ordering."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 Sapporo and great Sake.

2

The happy hour deal costs $10 for a draft beer and 1 hand roll.

3

The lunch special includes 3 hand rolls for $15.

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Speakeasy bar with an intimate, cozy atmosphere and Japanese-inspired design creates a hidden, inviting space. Seating includes vintage-style couches and clean, comfortable arrangements ideal for quiet conversation. Cocktails feature Japanese flavors and careful craftsmanship, complementing the overall refined vibe.

Japanese sake stands out with a solid selection. Sake cocktails offer a unique twist, though the extra umami martini mainly tastes like sake without much else.

Offers a Japanese style speakeasy vibe that suits a date night well. Serves as a fun spot to impress or relax with a drink after work or during a night out.

People are saying

"The sake here is great and goes down smoothly."

"It's a gorgeous, cozy space perfect for date spots."

"It's the perfect place to impress a date."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid a wait.

2

The location is not wheelchair accessible.

3

Customers have to climb several stairs to access the venue.

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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.

A diverse and impressive sake selection offers something new to try regularly. Creative cocktails and excellent Japanese sake pair well with meals.

Scenic atmosphere with Japanese decor and lucky cats creates a charming setting. Anime references add a unique touch, making it a solid choice for date nights.

People are saying

"The food at these Date Spots is great, especially the skewers."

"They had an excellent collection of sake."

"I loved the hot sake and their sake variety."

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.

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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.

An extensive sake list offers a well curated variety. The sake highball stands out as a refreshing choice, and mixing beer with Born Special sake creates a smooth, crisp fusion flavor.

Quiet atmosphere suits intimate date nights and relaxed hangs with friends. Space feels cozy and welcoming for a low-key outing.

People are saying

"The live jazz band was great and the vibe is fantastic."

"The live jazz music here makes for a great date spot."

"They offer lots of drinks and refreshing sake highballs."

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.

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Counter seating surrounds chefs working with precision, creating an intimate and lively atmosphere. The space feels cozy and warm, inviting focus on each beautifully crafted course. Fresh, high-quality sushi pairs with suggested sake, offering an elevated yet welcoming dining experience.

Endless pours of premium sake flow effortlessly, enhancing the celebration. Flavor combinations come with suggested sake pairings that impress.

Offers a thoughtfully curated sushi menu ideal for date nights. Suitable for both intimate dinners and group gatherings.

People are saying

"The omakase has fresh fish and amazing flavors."

"This sake offers a thoughtful, curated journey for omakase fans."

"This omakase is a thoughtfully curated date night with inspired, exquisite bites."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 10-course lunch omakase for $59.

2

A 13-course option is available for $79.

3

The full experience includes 17 courses for $109.

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Cozy underground setting with a serious Kyoto old Japanese feel creates an authentic, speakeasy atmosphere. Loud groups mix with quiet diners, giving a lively yet intimate energy. Extensive, rare sake selection and beautifully presented dishes add to the distinctive experience.

More than 200 sake references create a paradise for sake lovers. Sake flights offer a nice tasting option, and a sake expert helps pick bottles that match your taste.

Offers a quiet atmosphere suited for intimate conversations. Works well for date nights and business dinners with a cozy vibe.

People are saying

"The yuzu sake was a delightful balance to the flavorful dishes."

"The sake list is huge and impressive."

"The Date Spots here have buttery perfection, like the black cod."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for visiting the restaurant.

2

International customers are required to pay in cash due to payment system limitations.

3

Get there early as they are busy.

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Small, intimate ramen shop with tight seating and a classic Japanese vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and authentic, encouraging quick dining. Known for exceptional ramen flavors and a notable sake selection.

Dessert sakes include nigori with rice grains and jelly sake, offering unique textures. Hot sake is available, and the overall variety of sake pairs well with the food.

Good for dates with a relaxed vibe. Offers a setting that works well for couples.

People are saying

"I loved this place for ramen."

"The ramen here is so amazing, I cried."

"It's our go-to spot for dates and takeout."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait for a table if you are a party larger than 1 during busy hours.

2

The restaurant is open till 3am during the week and weekend.

3

You will likely have to wait for a table at 7pm on a Saturday.

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Small dining space seats eight people closely, creating an intimate atmosphere with low lighting and smooth jazz. Sushi preparation happens live, showcasing the chef's precise technique and fresh ingredients. The vibe is focused and quiet, with conversations audible from nearby tables.

They serve their own Shiro Sake that pairs well with the Omakase. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive about sake options.

Sushi quality stands out with fresh, expertly prepared dishes. Seating happens quickly, but the atmosphere lacks romantic vibes for a date.

People are saying

"The nigiri here is outstanding, with creamy textures and fresh fish."

"I loved pairing my meal with crisp sake."

"The food here is incredible, especially the wagyu topped with uni."

Good to know

1

The omakase experience is priced at around $155 per person.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand for seating.

3

Parking is available at a garage around the corner.

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Small sushi counter with 12 seats offers close interaction with chefs and detailed explanations. Atmosphere ranges from lively and fun to chill and relaxing, suitable for groups rather than intimate dining. Music varies, sometimes including loud Chinese tunes, creating a unique and casual vibe.

Unlimited sake pours come with the 14-course omakase, which also includes sushi and other drinks. Generous servings keep the sake flowing throughout the meal.

Affordable omakase makes for a relaxed date night. The setting suits intimate dinners or small groups well.

People are saying

"You get unlimited sake and beer with the omakase for $98."

"The all-you-can-eat sushi here is surprisingly good quality for the price."

Good to know

1

The pricing is great for what you get, especially for AYCE options.

2

Expect larger rice portions with the unlimited dinner option.

3

The experience may not be worth $100 per person if you don't drink alcohol.

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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.

$5 canned sake pairs with $1 dumplings and $5 small plates. Waitstaff recommend sake based on your food choices, making it easy to find a good match.

Coat check and a lounge offer a relaxed start while waiting for a date. Staff bring easygoing energy and help with table changes, making the night flow smoothly.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and easy to talk to for Date Spots."

"You can get canned sake for just $5 during happy hour."

"TAO Uptown is perfect for date nights and celebrations."

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.

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Midtown East, New York

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