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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Midtown South

Affordable Japanese food

Made for those who want to enjoy Japanese cuisine regularly without the premium price tag.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
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Sushi restaurant

Basement setting with Japanese brutalist design creates a spacious, elegant dining area centered around counters where chefs prepare omakase. Atmosphere balances homey, approachable vibes with lively energy, allowing for intimate yet relaxed conversation. The experience features fresh, high-quality sushi served in a no-frills environment without rush.

Omakase here features creative, high-quality sushi with some pieces expertly torched by skilled chefs. The experience offers great value and stands out for its unique, well-crafted dishes.

Offers an affordable omakase experience that feels special without a high price tag. Combines quality and value for those seeking budget-friendly sushi options.

People are saying

"The Omakase here is amazing, with unique flavor combinations."

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

"I found the omakase here to be affordable and full of delicious bites."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle).

2

A standard timed dining experience reservation is needed.

3

The Omakase is $75 per person for 13 courses.

02
Hanaya Omakase image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi counter with minimalist design creates an intimate, serene atmosphere focused on craftsmanship. The space feels unassuming yet warm, allowing attention on fresh, high-quality fish and precise preparation.

Omakase offers a 13-piece set with fresh, huge fish at a good price. The sushi is consistently high quality and tasty.

Offers very affordable prices for omakase in NYC. The dining experience matches the affordable style without cutting corners.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is unreal, with extraordinary, pristine fish."

"The atmosphere here is so intimate and cozy."

"I found the omakase experience to be affordable for NYC."

Good to know

1

The omakase meal costs $75 for 13 courses.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended for busy times.

3

The dining experience lasts approximately 75 minutes.

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Sendo image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny upstairs sushi bar seats about 10 people along a beautiful marble bar with a cozy, traditional Tokyo vibe. Music features early to mid 90s rap and R&B, creating a unique speakeasy atmosphere. Sake selection is concise and well-paired, enhancing the intimate omakase experience.

Fresh fish and perfectly balanced nigiri and handrolls define the sushi here. The omakase offers high-quality sashimi at a very affordable price, with friendly chefs and authentic service.

Fresh, authentic sushi comes at affordable prices here, with omakase sets ranging from $33 to $48 even at dinner. The high quality fish and value stand out for the price.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is good and surprisingly affordable."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and the fish is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary at Sendo due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait of 1 hour and 40 minutes for seating.

3

A QR code is available to join the waitlist remotely.

04
Tatsuda Omakase image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant seats about a dozen people around an L-shaped bar with intimate setting and tasteful decor. Atmosphere feels romantic and cozy, with soft lighting and a relaxed vibe that contrasts city bustle outside. Complimentary sake and optional pairings enhance the affordable omakase experience.

Omakase here offers a serene zen environment with a fast service pace. The sushi, including fantastic sablefish, delivers great value for the price.

Offers affordable high-quality omakase with pricing that fits typical NYC ranges. Sushi maintains good quality without high cost.

People are saying

"The Omakase experience here is intimate and wonderfully cared for."

"The Japanese food, especially the omakase, was amazing and a great find."

"I found the omakase here to be high-quality and affordable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed for a visit, preferably made via Resy.

2

The omakase offers 14 courses for just $90 before tax and tip.

3

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite sake or wine.

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Sushi & Co image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a modern, clean, and spacious environment with heated seats and green decor including bonsai trees and lanterns. The atmosphere stays quiet and cozy with cool music and nature videos on a TV wall. Sushi stands out as exceptionally good, often regarded as the best in Midtown.

Fresh and incredible sushi captures authentic Japanese flavors closely. Udon soup offers a very flavorful complement, all served in a cozy spot with cool music.

Prices stay consistently affordable here. The 4 roll box comes at a budget-friendly rate.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is super fresh and beautifully presented."

"I found the prices here to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers seasonal specials that change regularly.

2

You order at the entrance, which may speed up service.

3

Expect additional charges for each option chosen, like $3 for salad.

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Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with a clean, industrial aesthetic and a cozy vibe. Spacious dining area includes partitioned seating and a connected coffee shop. Atmosphere feels efficient yet comfortable, blending quick service with a relaxed space.

Tonkatsu stands out with its super crunchy texture and is served hot. The in-house tonkatsu sauce is exceptional, balancing vinegary and sweet flavors. Croquettes and udon also feature as solid options.

Prices stay incredibly affordable for Korean food here. Lunch sets offer good portions and fresh, tasty meals without extra costs like tipping.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and a great deal for the price."

"I found the food here to be tasty and affordable."

"The Japanese food, especially the tonkatsu, is amazing and super crunchy."

Good to know

1

The prices are very affordable, with nothing above $12.

2

Expect limited food options after 1pm, as items sell out quickly.

3

Lunch hours can get busy, leading to faster sell-outs of food.

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DAO Dim Sum & Chinese Cuisine image 1

Chinese restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with soft lighting and spaced-out seating that avoids crowding. Background music blends relaxing jazz with Chinese and Cantonese songs, creating a nonchalant yet classy atmosphere. Interior features beautiful decor and a spacious layout uncommon for similar venues.

Mochi ice cream stands out as a delightful dessert, especially the green tea flavor. The chicken gyoza and pork bao buns come hot and tasty, while the bento box signature platter offers a good variety to sample.

Lunch specials offer very affordable prices with large portions. Dim sum and other dishes come piping hot and deliver good value for the cost.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is great, especially the dumplings."

"I found the lunch specials to be surprisingly affordable and delicious."

"The gyoza here are super tasty and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $4 beers and $5 wines from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Lunch specials provide good value, with vegetarian options available.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly and suitable for family dining.

08
Handroll Bar Rolling image 1
Japanese restaurant

Modern Japanese restaurant with a sleek, clean design and plenty of seating including a sushi counter for close-up dining. The atmosphere is cozy and laid-back with a fresh, vibrant vibe suitable for casual meals or celebrations. Shochu highball cocktails add a distinctive touch to the experience.

Sushi hand rolls come fresh to order with high-quality fish, seasoned rice, and crisp nori. The menu includes a 6 handroll set and udon dishes, all offered at reasonable prices.

Hand roll set offers superb quality at very affordable prices. Meals are simple, tasty, and competitively priced for solo diners.

People are saying

"The fish for this Lunch Spot is so fresh and flavorful."

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

"I found the hand rolls to be affordable with superb quality."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is only $28 and includes 4 Hand Rolls and Yuba Udon.

2

The lunch special does not apply on Sundays.

3

Customers are allowed to swap any of the handrolls in the set menu.

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Izakaya restaurant

Basement setting with a small, cramped entrance and closely packed tables creates an intimate but noisy environment. Loud modern hip hop and R&B music energizes the space, making conversation difficult. Crowds gather early, drawn by frozen beer, authentic Japanese food, and a vibrant bar scene.

Sushi here features fatty tuna rolls that melt in your mouth and fresh sashimi with clean flavors. The creamy kimchi udon blends spicy and rich tastes, while yaki udon offers a unique mix resembling lo mein and fried rice sticks.

Prices stay very affordable even with generous portions. The menu offers delicious dishes that fit a relaxed, cozy setting without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"You have to try the kimchi cream udon; it's so creamy."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and well-cooked."

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner times to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a wait of over an hour during peak hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant charges $20 per person if you can't make your reservation.

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Sushi By Bou - NOMAD NYC @ Hotel32|32 image 1

Small sushi bar seats about 12 with chefs preparing meals in an intimate setting. Cozy speakeasy upstairs features 90s hip-hop music and a private rooftop terrace with views of the Empire State Building. Atmosphere combines mood lighting and a hip-hop inspired aesthetic creating a unique dining experience.

Omakase features a 12-course meal with standout dishes like salmon roe, chopped tuna, scallop, toro with truffle shavings, and BBQ eel. The sushi includes nigiri and cocktails crafted by skilled chefs known for their precision and quality.

Omakase costs about $60 for 12 pieces, making it a good deal compared to other options. The overall experience stays satisfying and affordable.

People are saying

"The Japanese food omakase here is a fun, upbeat culinary show."

"The seafood here is so fresh and amazingly prepared."

"I found the omakase experience to be affordable at $60."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required and must be prepaid before your visit.

2

The omakase experience lasts 30 minutes and includes 12 pieces of sushi.

3

Occasional promotions offer the omakase for $50, making it more affordable.

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Ramen restaurant

Small, dark space with loud music creates a club-like vibe rather than a traditional ramen shop atmosphere. Contemporary Japanese decor and stylish lighting set a modern tone. Crowded and lively, it attracts a hip crowd enjoying high-quality cocktails and classic tonkotsu ramen.

Ramen here stands out with smoked dashi and tonkotsu broth that offer unique, rich flavors. Steamed buns and matcha kakigori with azuki beans add authentic touches from Japan's seasonal treats.

Bills come to about $50 each including tax and tip, which is more affordable than many Michelin Star spots nearby. Prices stay reasonable for lunch as well.

People are saying

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

"The ramen here is delicious with a rich broth."

"I found the prices here to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because it gets very busy.

2

Expect a 60-90 minute wait on prime busy weekend evenings.

3

The happy hour goes from 2:30 to 5:30 PM from Monday to Friday.

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Growl Growl - New Style Hot Pot Bowls 新派麻辣烫 image 1

Asian hot pot restaurant offers wide broth variety and fresh ingredients in a clean, cozy space with complimentary dessert bar including soft serve ice cream. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly with modern, tasteful decor featuring hanging fabrics and plants. Customers customize sauces and enjoy authentic Sichuan flavors alongside globally inspired options.

Broth options include sukiyaki, which tends to be sweet and may not suit all tastes. Bowls with sukiyaki broth can cost around $40.

Food offers great value with prices that stay low. The overall experience is very affordable without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"The broth was rich, flavorful, and comforting."

"The Japanese Food here has so many different broths to choose from."

"I found the food to be amazing and very affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers nearly 80 premium ingredients to customize your hot pot.

2

Expect a 20% discount during the soft opening period.

3

Complimentary ice cream dessert is provided to every customer.

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NONONO image 1
Japanese restaurant

Multi-level layout with modern industrial design and dim lighting creates a chic, lively atmosphere. Two counter bars and an open kitchen add to the vibey interior, attracting groups and solo diners alike. Seating includes bar seats for walk-ins and private nooks, offering varied dining experiences.

Ramen here stands out as exceptional and among the best ever tasted, rivaling those in Japan. Yakitori offerings include a favorite skewered udon that draws repeat visits.

Pricing stays extremely affordable compared to New York standards. Lunch sets come as affordable, delicious, and sharable options with a casual vibe.

People are saying

"The skewers, ceviche, and corn at these dinner spots are all delicious."

"The Japanese food, especially the yakitori and udon, was flavorful and interesting."

"I found the Japanese dishes to be fun and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with $9 beer and $5 whiskey highball.

2

Brunch menu is available on Saturday afternoons.

3

Reservations are highly recommended as walk-in wait times can exceed 90 minutes.

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Teppanyaki restaurant

Teppanyaki grills sit in a cramped, clean space with Japanese design elements. Chefs perform loud, engaging hibachi shows featuring flames and playful tricks. The atmosphere mixes quiet dining areas with bursts of energy from the cooking stations.

Soup dumplings and fried udon stand out with great flavor and good value. The menu includes miso soup, vegetable steamed dumplings, and vegan pumpkin mochi cake, all cooked well and tasty.

Prices stay very affordable even in a busy area. Meals offer a good balance of taste, quality, and price with affordable dumplings and portion sizes.

People are saying

"I found the soup dumplings to be amazing."

"The Japanese food, especially the soup dumplings, was delicious."

"I found the prices to be affordable and appropriate for the meal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for teppanyaki to ensure a spot.

2

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to the bill for all parties.

3

A 3% surcharge applies if you pay by credit card.

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Kosher restaurant

Spacious kosher restaurant with two floors of seating and a self-serve setup featuring a pizza bar, salad bar, and sushi. Atmosphere feels airy and friendly, resembling a casual business lunch spot rather than a formal dining experience. Plenty of seating and amenities like WiFi and outlets support a relaxed, easygoing vibe.

Freshness stands out in the sushi, which comes with crisp, clean flavors. Salads and white pizza also share that fresh dairy quality, making the Japanese food here varied and satisfying.

Prices stay affordable while the food remains fresh and delicious.

People are saying

"It's a great kosher place with delicious food."

"The sushi here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the food to be fresh and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is kosher and offers a variety of options for kosher consumers.

2

A regular lunch in the cafeteria costs $35, with pizza slices at $6.

3

Parking in the area can be difficult to find.

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Le Botaniste image 1
Restaurant

Space blends art deco and botanical-inspired design with bright natural light creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Seating is ample with a secret back area adding privacy. Energy feels like visiting friends, with thoughtful details and organic, plant-based menu options.

Prices stay consistently affordable while offering healthy and delicious food options. The atmosphere matches the value with a clean and beautiful setting.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is so flavorful and healthy."

"The Tibetan Mama was a warm, gently spiced bowl with fresh vegetables."

"I found the food here delicious, healthful, and affordable."

Good to know

1

The entire menu is 100% plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free.

2

Expect a 20% service charge automatically added to takeout orders.

3

The establishment avoids single-use plates and silverware for dine-in.

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Red Poke image 1
Poke bar

Minimalist poke bar offers bright, cozy dining with a friendly, upbeat vibe and family-friendly energy. Guests customize orders on erasable sheets, enhancing a chill, approachable atmosphere. Eco-friendly bowls and thoughtful design add to a clean, pleasant space.

Poke bowls come out super quick with unique sauces like wasabi mayo. Soba noodles and bulgogi add a Korean twist that sets it apart from typical poke spots.

Meals come out quick and stay affordable. Options feel fresh and healthy without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The poke here is quick and tasty with great homemade sauces."

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

"I thought the poke bowls were top notch."

Good to know

1

There are not many tables available, so customers should go early or be prepared to wait.

2

You need to grab a menu and a marker to order and turn it in to pay and receive the food.

3

The restaurant has a chart depicting the dietary information for all ingredients.

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Watami Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious sushi restaurant with clean, modern decor and butterfly-themed accents creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Quiet and relaxed vibe suits those seeking a personalized dining experience with comfortable seating options. High-quality sushi served with care offers an authentic taste of Japan at reasonable prices.

Sushi here is incredibly fresh and offers rare cuts of sashimi you won't find elsewhere. Prices stay affordable while delivering great value and flawless taste.

Sushi comes at affordable prices well below $50 to $100. The food stays delicious without high costs.

People are saying

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

"The sashimi here is so fresh, it practically melts in your mouth."

"The sushi was affordable and delicious."

Good to know

1

The price for the omakase is $48 for 10 pieces and a roll, which includes uni.

2

The 13-course Omakase is priced at $75, which feels like a steal for high quality in NYC.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of options including a la carte, rolls, appetizers, and set sushi menus.

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Fushimi Times Square image 1

Entry features Torii gates and atmospheric lighting creating a mini Kyoto vibe. The lively atmosphere includes a DJ and dance floor, blending dining with club energy. Sushi stands out as exceptionally fresh and high quality.

Sushi here stands out with exceptional quality and a memorable omakase experience. Dishes like crispy rice toro and fresh sashimi highlight the menu.

Trendy spots offer affordable prices with lunch specials that cost less than similar places. Food quantity matches the price, keeping it budget-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and artfully presented."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"I found this place to be affordable and didn't sacrifice quality."

Good to know

1

The early dinner special is offered Mondays to Thursdays from 3 to 6 PM for $38.99.

2

Happy hour at Fushimi is from 4pm to 7pm at the bar.

3

The restaurant does not require a reservation for two people and can accommodate walk-ins.

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Sunrise Mart 日系スーパー image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store combines supermarket and restaurant with separate entrances and upstairs seating area. Atmosphere feels cozy and friendly with Pokémon Mart music playing, creating a unique vibe. Offers wide selection of Japanese groceries and ready-to-eat meals, attracting those seeking authentic pantry essentials.

Frozen okonomiyaki cooks well after pan frying and onigiri offers a large size with good value. Beef niku soba and pork katsu don deliver rich flavors, while mochi features a perfectly thin skin and balanced sweetness.

Affordable Japanese takeout includes hand rolls around $15 and casual meals. Coffees and matcha lattes also come at budget-friendly prices near Bryant Park.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh sashimi and udon at this lunch spot."

"I thought the Japanese food, especially the onigiri, was a must-try."

"I found the Japanese food here to be authentic and affordable."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 7 PM.

2

You need to order your food at the register first and then pick it up.

3

The market stays open until 8 PM.

21
Bread & Butter image 1
American restaurant

Multiple seating areas include a large space in the back with comfortable seating. Atmosphere varies from cozy and welcoming to feeling like a small supermarket with dingy tables. Food preparation happens in front of customers with options like salad, sandwich, and hot and cold food bars.

Menu includes sushi, spicy beef teriyaki, and hot dishes like Udon and fried rice. Prepared foods cover a wide range from sandwiches to pizza, with options for veggies, meats, and greens.

Prices stay affordable for New York, making it a solid spot for fast and affordable food. The menu offers a wide choice of tasty options without breaking the bank.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and really good quality."

"I tried the vegetarian sushi and it was as expected."

"I thought the food and drinks were very affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24 hours a day.

2

Bathroom access is only granted to paying customers.

3

You pay by weight for the food you take.

22
5 Napkin Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger restaurant with butcher shop decor and an open layout featuring large windows for people watching. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy during dinner to loud and busy near Times Square. Outdoor terrace seating with heaters adds a comfortable option for cooler weather.

Menu blends Japanese flavors with American classics like burgers and sushi. The katsu burger stands out with crunchy kimchi and buttery chicken, though the katsu sando sometimes has overcooked chicken.

Quality food comes with affordable prices here, which is rare for Midtown. Happy hour offers affordable beers that add value to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is attentive and professional."

"I found the prices to be affordable, especially during happy hour."

"The Japanese food here is delicious with a great variety."

Good to know

1

Booking a reservation is recommended to avoid a wait.

2

Five Napkin has 2 Happy Hours most days: M-F from 3-6 and S-Th 9-close.

3

Going during Happy Hour makes the food much cheaper.

23
Hotel 32 32 image 1

Building resembles a converted apartment complex with small hallways and tiny balconies. Atmosphere includes outside noise and a cigarette and weed aroma. Sushi offerings stand out as an excellent culinary feature.

Private sushi chef crafts exceptionally good nigiri with a performance that adds to the experience. The sushi combines skill and showmanship for a memorable meal.

Rooms offer very affordable rates with plenty of space and maintain a clean, comfortable environment. Location is central and the hotel remains pleasant and serviceable for the price.

People are saying

"The beds here are so comfortable, it feels like a well-appointed apartment."

"The Japanese food here is visually appealing and off the charts."

"I found the room rates to be very affordable and pleasant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the hotel's speakeasy as it fills up quickly.

2

The hotel allows guests to hold their luggage before check-in and after check-out.

3

The hotel has a $175 incidental charge that is refundable but should be disclosed upfront.

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