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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Union Square

Japanese food

You know the difference between authentic Japanese preparation and everything else.

Based on 579 Opinions
+576
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Updated June 2026
01
Sushi Aozora image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Minimalistic space with intimate sushi counter offers a calm, elegant vibe. Edomae style sushi features fresh sashimi and perfectly balanced rice. Experience blends tradition and modernity in a paced, refined setting.

Sushi here shows artistry and discipline with a focus on Edomae style. The sashimi is incredibly fresh and the sushi rice has a slightly salty profile that balances the flavors well.

People are saying

"The Omakase is fresh, beautifully presented, and melts in your mouth."

"The atmosphere here is so calm and peaceful."

"I experienced an amazing omakase from start to finish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The omakase tasting menu changes seasonally, offering a unique experience each visit.

3

Street parking is available after 6pm near the restaurant.

02
Barn Joo Union Square image 1

Two-level Korean spot buzzes with energetic atmosphere and a lively bar. Large portions of Sashimi Bibimbap and creamy shrimp udon satisfy Japanese food lovers. Guests enjoy a fun wheel spin game while dining in a cozy yet fast-paced space.

Large portions of Sashimi Bibimbap and Japchae stand out alongside crunchy tofu and spicy bulgogi rice cake. Creamy shrimp udon and rich ramen offer hearty options, while Bing Soo dessert features ice cream, berries, mochi, and sweet red beans over shaved milk ice.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is elevated and creative."

"I found the stone bowl bibimbap with spicy pork very satisfying."

"This Japanese food made me feel like I didn't need anything else."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 3 PM to 6 PM every day.

2

Oysters are $1 during happy hour on Sundays and Mondays.

3

Draft beer is $6 during happy hour.

03
Mission Ceviche Union Square image 1

Peruvian restaurant shines with authentic ceviche and Nikkei sushi like spicy mayo shrimp tempura rolls. Chic minimalist decor with nautical accents sets a laidback yet sophisticated mood. Live DJ and vibrant bar add energetic nightlife vibes.

Nikkei sushi stands out here, especially the Peruvian-style tuna and shrimp tempura rolls. The shrimp tempura with spicy mayo is a highlight, often preferred over the shrimp alone.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is outstanding and tastes so fresh."

"The cocktails here are creative and amazing."

"The ceviche here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations may be canceled without notice, so confirm before visiting.

2

Expect high prices for dishes, reflecting elevated Peruvian cuisine.

3

Mocktails advertised may not be available, so check beforehand.

04
Edo Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy, rustic space with intimate atmosphere and fresh sushi delights fans of Japanese food. Cramped seating fills with loud, lively crowds at lunch, while jazz music adds a comfortable vibe. Good sake options round out the experience.

Sushi here is fresh and tasty with a well-balanced rice to fish ratio. The menu includes affordable, good quality sushi, Japanese soups like Tofu Udon, and options catering to gluten-free diets.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and spectacular."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with the sashimi."

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

Good to know

1

It is suggested to make a reservation.

2

The lunch menu provides great options for sushi and non-sushi items at a good price.

3

The restaurant is great for gluten-free customers.

05
Martinyโ€™s image 1
Cocktail bar

Two-story bar blends intimate atmosphere with inventive cocktails and a cigar-bar vibe upstairs. Juicy chicken karaage with dashi cream cheese and caviar highlights the Japanese food menu. Matcha tea ceremony pairs perfectly with scallops and matcha cocktails.

Juicy chicken karaage comes with dashi cream cheese and caviar, served hot. The matcha tea ceremony pairs well with scallops and matcha cocktails.

People are saying

"The cocktails are inventive, stunning, and delicious."

"The upstairs seating area is so cozy and intimate."

"The Japanese food here is excellent, but the drinks are unremarkable."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made 2-3 weeks in advance as the bar is often booked.

2

Expect cocktails to cost between $20 and $30 each.

3

You must be seated to order a drink.

06
Yama image 1
Japanese restaurant

Tiny, cramped space with outdated decor gives a dingy basement feel, but outdoor seating offers a nicer setting. Fresh sushi shines with large nigiri pieces and tender sashimi, all served in a relaxed, unpretentious vibe.

Fresh sushi features generous fish sizes and large nigiri pieces with wasabi already placed on them. Sashimi is very fresh and tender, with no odor, offering consistent quality over many years.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here has huge, fresh sushi pieces."

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

"The nigiri here is a safe, inoffensive option."

Good to know

1

There is usually a wait and no reservations are accepted.

2

They wonโ€™t take orders after 9:15.

3

The rolls are 5-6 pieces each.

07
Tsuru Ton Tan - Union Square image 1
Japanese restaurant

Unique textured walls and a beautiful bar create a lively, noisy atmosphere with tight group seating. Massive portions of fresh udon and rich Wagyu Beef Truffle Dashi shine on the menu. Bold flavors and hip decor make it a standout spot for Japanese food lovers.

Fresh udon comes in massive portions with a chewy texture. The Wagyu Beef Truffle Dashi and wagyu sushi stand out as rich, flavorful highlights. Spicy ramen also adds variety to the menu.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the udon and sushi, is amazing."

"The service here is so friendly and accommodating."

"Their broths have deep, rich, and flavorful tastes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for groups.

2

The restaurant has a B rating from the health department.

3

Happy hour runs after 8pm until closing with cheaper food and drinks.

08
15 EAST @ Tocqueville image 1
French restaurant

Dining room offers an intimate ambiance with profound silence that sharpens every sound. Sushi delivers freshness and delicious flavors, though quality can vary. Wine pairings are smooth and flavorful, enhancing the romantic and glamorous setting.

Sushi offers freshness and delicious flavors, with an option to start with sushi omakase followed by a tasting menu. Quality varies, sometimes not matching the price point expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is extraordinary, especially the pasta with uni."

"It's perfect for a romantic date night with candles and flowers."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure availability.

2

The restaurant charges a mandatory 20% tip on all bills.

3

Vegan options can be prepared on short notice if requested.

09
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Poke bar

Cozy spot offers fresh poke bowls with strong vegan and seafood choices. Sushi burritos are perfectly made even late. Casual vibe and friendly staff make quick dining pleasant and welcoming.

Poke bowls here are fresh, packed with flavor, and super filling. Sushi burritos come out perfectly made with quality ingredients, even close to closing time.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's bowls are delicious, fresh, and packed with flavor."

"The Yuzu Ponzu Salmon tasted savory and light."

"The Japanese food here is fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The Poke Bowl costs $20, while a bowl with salmon and tuna is $16.

2

The wait time for lunch is about 15 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is very clean and takes health measures seriously.

10
Poke Bowl NY image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Poke bowls feature fresh seafood like spicy tuna and teriyaki salmon with many toppings. Outdoor seating offers shaded comfort and good music for a chill vibe. Prices stay affordable while service is fast and casual.

Fresh poke bowls come with many protein and topping options, including a Teriyaki Salmon that stands out for its flavor. The menu also features a sushi burrito and a vegan tofu poke bowl, all served with crack rice, which is seasoned seafood on crispy fried sushi rice.

People are saying

"I found the poke here to be really fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot is great for a quick, tasty meal."

"You've got to try the teriyaki salmon with the Japanese food here."

Good to know

1

Ordering for pick up allows you to skip the line and get your food faster.

2

The line moves quickly during peak hours.

3

There are many options for protein and toppings available.

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Union Square, New York

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