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Local picks in the Theater District

Japanese food spots

Finding reliable Japanese food in the middle of the theater district shouldn't feel like a gamble.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Omakaseed Vegan by Sushi by Bou image 1
Omakaseed Vegan by Sushi by Bou image 2
Omakaseed Vegan by Sushi by Bou image 3
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Intimate 8-seat setting offers a quiet, moody vibe perfect for savoring an 11-course vegan omakase. Complex, plant-forward flavors shine in creative dishes like dehydrated watermelon, making it a hidden gem for innovative vegan food lovers. Chefs prepare each course with care, ensuring a stellar dining experience.

Complex flavors fill every course with incredible vegan food and innovative presentation. The dining experience stays stellar from start to finish.

Offers a unique vegan omakase experience with an 11-course tasting menu. Features creative dishes like dehydrated and rehydrated watermelon that stand out among sushi options.

People are saying

"The vegetarian omakase here is an explosion of unique flavors."

"The Japanese food here is an explosion of unique, well-thought-out flavors."

"The food here is a unique vegan fine dining experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can only seat 10 guests at a time.

2

The 15-course vegan tasting menu dinner costs $65 and lasts about 60 minutes.

3

Dinner for two people plus one soda totals $234.

02
ICHIRAN Ramen NY Times Square image 1

Booth seating with individual partitions creates a private, quiet atmosphere reminiscent of Japanese ramen stands. Staff serve orders through small openings, minimizing interaction and enhancing focus on the meal. The space feels cozy and organized, offering an oasis amid a busy urban environment.

Ramen here delivers amazing flavor with a rich, authentic taste that stands out among Japanese food options. The dishes consistently impress with their deep, satisfying broth and quality ingredients.

Ramen here stands out for its rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles. Every bowl delivers consistent quality that matches authentic Japanese flavors.

People are saying

"I thought this ramen was the best I ever had."

"The ramen here has a rich, flavorful broth that's the best I've ever had."

"This food's ramen broth is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

A bowl of ramen costs $22, with extras adding to the total.

2

Be prepared to wait in a 10-15 minute line before being seated.

3

The restaurant typically runs out of ramen prior to closing.

03
Ocean Prime image 1
Seafood restaurant

Upscale seafood spot shines with fresh buttery sushi and exquisite cocktails. Vaulted ceilings and private rooms create a chic atmosphere that shifts from warm to lively. Oysters and special rolls offer great value alongside top-class dishes.

Exceptional quality defines the food here, with dishes that consistently impress. The menu pairs well with crafted cocktails, creating a complete dining experience.

Sushi features fresh, buttery fish with beautiful presentation. Oysters and chef special sushi rolls offer great value and quality.

People are saying

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

"The steak was cooked perfectly and incredibly tender."

"The Japanese food here is amazing, thanks to Enver's special touches."

Good to know

1

Come on your birthday to get a free butter cake.

2

Ocean Prime offers an incredible experience during Happy Hour at 4:44 PM.

3

A special menu is available before 5:30 PM.

04
Sushi By Bou - Times Square NYC @ Sanctuary Hotel image 1

Small underground sushi bar seats about eight people around a counter where chefs prepare bites with lively interaction. Atmosphere blends intimate coziness with a speakeasy vibe, featuring a secret entrance and 90s hip hop and R&B music. The setting feels exclusive and engaging, with chefs who joke, sing, and explain each dish.

Food here is super fresh and delicious. The dining experience feels intimate with excellent quality in every dish.

Omakase here offers fresh sushi with great rhythm and energy. The dining experience feels intimate and the food quality stands out in the heart of the city.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious; the sushi melts in your mouth."

"The vibe here is intimate, with a cool, old-school hip-hop soundtrack."

"The food here was delicious and very good."

Good to know

1

The omakase experience lasts 30 minutes, perfect for a late dinner afterwards.

2

You must reserve at Sushi by Bou and let the servers and chef take care of you.

3

The restaurant only seats 8 people and requires reservations.

05
Valbella At The Park image 1

Restaurant offers rooftop terrace and outdoor bar area with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wine cellar dining room. Atmosphere feels exclusive and beautifully designed, combining open spaces with intimate rooms. Energy suits both lively gatherings and elegant dining experiences.

Food stands out with incredible flavors and phenomenal quality. Dishes come with impeccable service enhancing the dining experience.

Fresh, expertly prepared sushi stands out with a variety that complements other dishes well. The sushi station delivers consistently top-quality flavor alongside Italian options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and excellent."

"The ambiance is romantic with soft lighting and beautiful views."

"The Japanese Food here is served with such warm hospitality."

Good to know

1

Valbella at the Park has a full special menu during the Christmas month of December.

2

Expect to pay around $60 for a piece of fish and $30 for half an order of pasta.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions, especially during the holiday season.

06
MomenTea Kitchen - Time Square image 1

Asian fusion-themed space offers ample seating and a relaxed atmosphere that varies from quiet to lively depending on the crowd. The design is simple and less flashy, focusing on a casual, cool environment with a large study area. It provides a calm break from the surrounding busy neighborhood.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful with authentic Chinese dishes. Meals are well seasoned and the quality stays high every visit.

Fresh sushi rolls like California and avocado cucumber come beautifully presented and flavorful. Poke bowls pack lots of ingredients and taste vibrant, while grilled salmon offers a tender, sashimi-grade quality.

People are saying

"The sour soup with rice noodles is rich, tangy, and full of flavor."

"The food here is amazing and always good."

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi, was incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times for food preparation, especially during busy hours.

2

The restaurant allows for custom options to meet dietary restrictions.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases.

07
Gui Steakhouse โ€“ NYC Times Square image 1

Steakhouse blends traditional Korean aesthetics with mid-century modern design in a space featuring warm wood finishes and semi-open kitchen views. Atmosphere is chill and upscale with lively music and thoughtful lighting, creating a comfortable setting for conversation. A chic bar area serves crafted cocktails, adding to the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe.

Food features distinctly flavorful dishes like risotto salad, potatoes, fries, and perfectly cooked steak that melts in your mouth. Service includes helpful staff with great menu knowledge and recommendations.

Soft bread and crunchy breadcrumb coat the A5 Wagyu katsu sandwich, which features melt-in-the-mouth Wagyu beef. Pieces of caviar add a briny contrast that elevates the dish.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and has excellent flavor."

"The steak frites here is the best I've ever had."

"The Japanese food's A5 wagyu katsu sando literally melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Dress code is smart casual; no shorts or flip-flops allowed.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

08
Teriyaki R Us - Times Square image 1
Japanese restaurant

Fast food Japanese restaurant with clean indoor seating and visible food preparation offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere that contrasts with its busy surroundings. Background mariachi music adds an unusual touch to the otherwise unassuming space.

Food stands out for its fresh cooking and delicious Asian cuisine. The taste is consistently excellent and highly satisfying.

Chicken teriyaki stands out with rich flavor and pairs well with steamed rice. Bento boxes offer generous portions, including options like deluxe beef and chicken. Curry shrimp ramen noodles and salmon avocado sushi add variety with bold tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is super good and packed with flavor."

"The food here is cheap and the portions are large."

"The Japanese food, especially the bento box, is a great value and filling."

Good to know

1

The food is prepared in under 5 minutes, making it a quick option.

2

Prices are competitive for the area, but some dishes are overpriced.

3

They do not serve pork, catering to specific dietary needs.

09
Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers impressive city views and a remarkable wine cellar in a beautiful venue with multiple dining areas. Atmosphere ranges from lively and noisy in main dining rooms to more intimate settings like private party rooms and mezzanine seating. Guests often enjoy high-quality steaks paired with excellent cocktails and wines.

Food here stands out for its exceptional quality and impeccable preparation. The dining experience pairs excellent service with dishes that consistently impress.

Appetizers like meatballs, rainbow roll, and tuna tartare come with bold flavors and neat presentation. Sushi options include lobster, crab cake, sashimi, and octopus, all fresh and tasty.

People are saying

"I found the steak cooked perfectly and absolutely delicious."

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The sushi and sashimi here were the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

The Valentine's special includes a complimentary glass of champagne.

3

The New Year's Eve experience features a special menu and live music.

10
Picnic Digital Food Court - Times Square image 1

Food court uses digital ordering kiosks and locker pickup for meals, creating a contactless experience. Atmosphere feels crowded and lowkey dystopian with minimal human interaction. Seating area is decent but overall vibe suits those preferring quick, efficient dining without traditional restaurant features.

Food comes out quickly with consistently high quality across many dishes. Options range from takeout Indian at Empyrean Kitchen to Asian cuisine like Rollbl Sushi and Kibo Sushi, all served in a fully digital food hall.

Sushi here features consistently fresh ingredients and well-crafted rolls. Options include both dine-in and takeout, with notable dishes like poke bowls and a variety of sushi rolls.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really tasty and delicious."

"I thought the takeout rolls were the best in NYC."

"I thought the sushi here was just great."

Good to know

1

Picnic Digital Food Court offers takeout only; no dining space available.

2

Food is ordered via kiosks and picked up from lockers.

3

Expect higher prices compared to traditional food courts.

11
The Chemistry Room image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant blends scientific theme with creative omakase served on periodic tableware like beaker mugs. Interior features wood paneling and a bright, cool dining room with well-spaced tables. Atmosphere is sophisticated yet inviting, with an intimate setting and quiet ambiance.

Food here is consistently delicious and super fresh. Every dish delivers an exceptional dining experience.

Fresh sushi comes with a 7 course omakase that fills you up. Chefs prepare each dish with care, making the experience feel top-tier despite the higher price.

People are saying

"The omakase here is exceptional, especially at the bar."

"This is an extraordinary omakase experience for a date."

"The omakase food here is beautifully presented and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The 15-course omakase dinner lasts for 2 hours and costs $125 per person.

2

Reservations are recommended for the omakase experience, especially during busy times.

3

A burlesque show occurs at the bar on select nights.

12
Mari.ne Handroll image 1
Korean restaurant

Bar seating surrounds a narrow sushi counter in a clean, minimalist space with a chic, zen vibe. The atmosphere stays calm yet lively, attracting people who enjoy handrolls paired with Korean drinks like soju and makgeolli. The intimate setting feels cozy despite tight seating and occasional noise from an open door.

Food stands out for its freshness and deliciousness, with simple finger foods presented in a luxurious way. Menus thoughtfully consider food allergies, and prices offer good value for the quality.

Fresh hand-rolled sushi with Korean-style seasoning stands out here. The Confit Spicy Tuna Roll and sashimi specials offer bold flavors, while dishes like scallop carpaccio and shrimp tempura add variety.

People are saying

"The fish in the hand rolls tasted very fresh."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The Japanese food, especially the hand rolls, is to die for."

Good to know

1

The last seating on Saturday night is at 7:45 PM.

2

They currently do not offer reservations.

3

Expect a line; it's recommended to arrive early.

13
Poke Bowl NY image 1
Poke bar

Small indoor space with cozy seating and outdoor tables on the sidewalk creates a casual vibe. Music playlist adds to a pleasant atmosphere that suits quick, healthy meals. Bowls feature fresh, flavorful poke with unique proteins and sauces, making each order distinct.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious. The flavors stand out as excellent and amazing every time.

Fresh, generously served poke bowls feature high-quality tuna and well-prepared sushi rice. Options come fast, with perfectly balanced flavors and a clean, tasty presentation.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"The Poke here is so fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

The big bowl costs $18 and the burrito costs $16, with an extra $1 for avocado.

2

The restaurant closed inside dining 30 minutes before closing and switched to to-go only.

3

This location is very busy during lunch time.

14
RA Sushi - New York (Times Square) image 1

Large, modern space with spacious booths and a visible sushi bar creates a lively setting. Live DJ spins current pop music, adding energetic vibes suited for social gatherings. The atmosphere balances comfort and buzz, making it a popular spot for friends to enjoy sushi and cocktails.

Food features amazing sushi with fancy names and includes dishes like soba soup that stand out for their quality.

Fresh, top notch sushi features prominently alongside dishes like soba soup and miso soup. The menu includes fancy sushi names and chicken, creating a varied Japanese food experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious, fresh, and high quality."

"The bartenders here are attentive and professional, slinging drinks all night."

"The food here is amazing and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 cocktails and $6-$7 appetizers.

2

Happy hour runs on Mondays, even on Friday nights.

3

The restaurant closes at 10 P.M., which may rush late diners.

15
Yard House image 1
New American restaurant

Sprawling multi-story space with big screens and three-story cooler creates a lively, pub-like atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed yet loud, filled with sports fans watching games on numerous TVs. Tables feature self-service kiosks for easy ordering, enhancing the energetic dining experience.

American cuisine shines with consistently great food and spectacular service. The atmosphere complements the dining experience well.

Edamame stands out with its refreshing and tasty beans. Platters include poke nachos with a bit of heat and sashimi tuna, along with wings and stir fry edamame.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious and thoughtfully prepared food."

"I enjoyed the excellent selection of beer."

"They had nearly 100 types of draft beer."

Good to know

1

The open bar is available until 1 o'clock on New Year's evening.

2

Guests are asked to leave the building after the party ends at 12:30 AM.

3

Expect a crowded venue during happy hour and game nights.

16
Ootoya Times Square image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Interior feels like a hole-in-the-wall Tokyo spot with dark, classical Japanese decor and narrowly arranged tables that limit privacy. Atmosphere is cozy and calm despite close seating and occasional unpleasant odors near the kitchen. Asian guests are common, creating an authentic vibe distinct from typical city restaurants.

Food offers authentic Japanese flavors with consistently high quality and tasty dishes that feel reminiscent of Japan. Prices match the quality, making the meals worth it every time.

Sushi here comes with crunchy rice and is twice as big as usual, offering a unique experience. The tonkatsu curry features perfectly cooked katsu, juicy inside and crispy outside, alongside authentic dishes like udon and sukiyaki nabe.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be really authentic."

"The Japanese food sets here are so good and filling."

"The food here is so filling, especially the hot pot with udon."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available, but dinner offers a wider variety.

2

The restaurant does not accept reservations and tends to get packed.

3

Be prepared to wait about 30 minutes for a table during peak hours.

17
Sake Bar Hagi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese-themed space blends live jazz music with authentic decor featuring anime posters and imported items. Atmosphere stays calm and classy, offering a relaxing vibe amid the city bustle. Unique touches like a Pac-Man arcade add playful character without overwhelming the setting.

Amazing Japanese izakaya food offers a wide variety of dishes with consistent excellence. The food delivers excellent value and maintains its quality even after moving from a basement location.

Fresh yellow tail sashimi and deep fried oysters stand out among the izakaya dishes. The sushi quality is high without the fancy restaurant vibe, paired with a menu featuring Suntory Premium Malt and Japanese whiskies.

People are saying

"They pour a generous selection of sake and shochu."

"The food here is authentic and tastes like Japan."

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM with $4 drinks after work.

2

The restaurant does not take reservations; it's first come, first served.

3

Drinks are available for takeout, including beer and sake.

18
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store combines stunning design with a bar overlooking Bryant Park and a hot bar with seating upstairs. Space feels cramped and confusing, but offers amenities like a microwave and fresh organic produce. Seating areas provide great park views, though some spots appear neglected.

Offers a massive selection of organic and natural foods with many options available by weight. Prepared foods and a food buffet provide delicious and healthy choices at competitive prices. Eco-friendly efforts include reducing plastic use and encouraging reusable bags.

Sushi stands out with a large selection and generally delicious options, including chicken teriyaki. Some salmon rolls lack freshness and can smell off.

People are saying

"I found a good variety of healthy and tasty food options here."

"This grocery store is so well-stocked with fresh produce and delicacies."

"The fresh sushi here is prepared to order and delicious."

Good to know

1

The self-service buffet tray is billed by weight, not by unit.

2

Lunch options are available for around 15 USD.

3

Restroom entry requires a code from your receipt.

19
Cafe 53 image 1

Large space with indoor and outdoor seating offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Buffet options include a fruit and salad bar and a variety of snacks, with a convenience store and wine section on site. The environment stays clean and well maintained throughout.

Food offers a great variety with fresh fruits and hot, made-on-the-spot dishes. Options stay affordable while tasting excellent.

Sushi stands out with a wide variety and consistent quality for lunch and dinner. The menu also includes Shin Ramyun, Neoguri, and Udon Cup Ramen, alongside a salad bar and panini options.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast food; it was delicious and filling."

"I found a great variety of hot and cold food options here."

"I really enjoyed the good sushi here."

Good to know

1

Food is priced by weight at $12.99 for 1 pound.

2

Everything is weighed, and you need a plastic plate to fill with food.

3

Customers need to ask for a key at the counter to access the restrooms.

20
Urban Hawker image 1
Food court

Large indoor food hall offers multiple Asian vendors under one roof with a vibrant social atmosphere and lively energy. Bar and dessert stalls add variety, while seating is plentiful but sometimes crowded. Music volume can be high, creating a bustling environment suited for groups and after-work gatherings.

Authentic Singaporean flavors shine through a wide variety of dishes. The food court offers great choices in a clean environment with consistently good taste.

Sushi stands out with its beyond amazing quality. Desserts like ube mochi and pandan sesame treats offer unique flavors, while dishes such as Salmon Teriyaki and soft-shelled crab tempura provide generous portions and variety.

People are saying

"I loved the wide variety of Asian food options here."

"I found the authentic Singaporean and Malaysian flavors here to be delicious."

"I tried sushi and curry rice, and it was all very good."

Good to know

1

Urban Hawker gets extremely busy from 12 PM to 2 PM due to lunch crowds.

2

Many stalls offer 20% discounts with Apple Pay on Monday nights from 5-10 PM.

3

The stalls close at 8 or 8:30 PM, despite a 10 PM closing time.

21
Brooklyn Chop House Steakhouse Times Square image 1

Steakhouse blends American steakhouse fare with Asian dishes in a modern, hip vibe. Basement seating offers a warm, upscale atmosphere with lively music. Cocktail list is extensive, featuring standout drinks like the goddess sangria and lemon drop.

Amazing food offers a mix of authentic Chinese dishes and tasty steak. The dining experience combines great flavors with exceptional service and atmosphere.

Crispy, tempura fried filet stands out with its sliced presentation. The rock tempura shrimp also delivers a solid option, while the teriyaki noodles offer a unique twist compared to typical sides.

People are saying

"The fried rice here is so good, you'll want to keep it all to yourself."

"I found the food to be really good."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the bok choy, is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, especially for large parties.

2

Expect long wait times even with a reservation, particularly on holidays.

3

The restaurant offers a prefix menu for special occasions like birthday dinners.

22
Kinokuniya New York image 1

Three floors offer Japanese books and anime merchandise in a busy but cozy space. Small cafรฉs serve fresh onigiri and bento boxes with matcha lattes. Cozy reading corners and a cafรฉ provide a calm spot amid the lively atmosphere.

A small cafรฉ serves delicious Japanese food with a seating area. A food store upstairs offers bentos and onigiri alongside desserts.

Small cafรฉs on the second and third floors serve fresh onigiri, bento boxes, and matcha lattes. Melonpan and pastries also appear alongside these Japanese treats.

People are saying

"I found the store to be really cool with lots of anime and manga merchandise."

"The cafe food here is fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food, especially the onigiri, is always super fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

The store hosts events and book signings throughout the year.

2

You need to dispose of all food and drink before entering the bookstore.

3

There are absolutely no refunds, only store credit.

23
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Dimly lit dining room creates an intimate and classy atmosphere with live music adding a sophisticated backdrop. The space features stunning decor and a beautiful bar in a basement setting. A lively mix of families, couples, and singles fills the room, contributing to an energetic vibe.

Food features perfectly appointed dishes, including butter cake and fresh bread, paired with excellent service that enhances the dining experience.

Great sushi and seafood form the core of the menu. The wasabi horseradish Caesar stands out, while the Sushi Lobster Roll features fried rice, unripe mango, avocado, and spicy lobster sauce but lacks strong flavor.

People are saying

"The live music here is amazing, making you feel special."

"The food here is special, from the steaks to the desserts."

"I enjoyed the char on my steak and found its flavor to be good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially on holidays.

2

Live music occurs on Monday nights at 6 PM.

3

Expect high prices, with steaks averaging around $150 each.

24
Glaze Teriyaki image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with ground and upper level seating offers a chill atmosphere and plays great tunes. Crowds often gather to relax without ordering, creating a casual vibe. The spot feels like a hidden gem for simple Japanese meals.

Food comes out fresh and protein-rich with a focus on healthy, gluten-free options. Meals are packed to keep salads crisp and ready for quick grab-and-go.

Gluten-free teriyaki sauce stands out as a healthy, savory option with satisfying portions. The menu includes spicy teriyaki and vegetarian gyoza, offering quick, dependable Japanese food choices.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and tasty."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Japanese food's teriyaki sauce is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

You should go early or order ahead due to the lunch rush.

2

The restaurant offers fast casual Japanese food with balanced lunches for $15.

3

You can order through the Toast app for convenience.

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