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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Union Square

Japanese food and seafood

Made for those who prioritize the precision of Japanese culinary traditions with a specific emphasis on the quality of the oceanโ€™s harvest.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Edo Sushi image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Cozy, rustic space with cramped seating and dim lighting creates an intimate atmosphere. Lunch hours bring loud, crowded energy while jazz music plays at a comfortable volume. Sushi quality is fresh and tasty, complemented by good sake options.

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.

Fish comes in incredibly fresh and superb quality. Rice to fish ratio stays balanced, making the seafood stand out even at higher prices.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and spectacular."

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

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and high-quality."

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.

02
Sushi Aozora image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalistic space with dark wood and stone details creates a warm, serene atmosphere centered around an intimate sushi counter. The vibe is calm and elegant, attracting those seeking refined Japanese omakase with precise technique and fresh ingredients. The setting balances tradition and modernity, offering a thoughtful, paced dining experience.

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.

Fish arrives very fresh and is prepared with delicate precision. The omakase balances richer and lighter bites to keep flavors engaging.

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.

03
Mission Ceviche Union Square image 1

Peruvian restaurant with chic minimalist decor and nautical accents creates a laidback yet sophisticated atmosphere. Live DJ and vibrant bar energize the space, while authentic ceviche and expertly crafted cocktails define the culinary experience.

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.

Red snapper stands out as a top fish here. The shrimp tempura with mahi mahi roll shines as a flavorful dish. The arroz con mariscos blends grilled octopus and fish into a risotto-like texture.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is bursting with fresh, authentic flavors."

"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
Barn Joo Union Square image 1

Two-level Korean restaurant with large bar area and inviting decor offers an energetic, loud atmosphere that suits lively nights. Guests enjoy interactive wheel spin for prizes and a mix of casual dining and drinks. The space balances cozy ambiance with a fast-paced, fun vibe.

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.

Fresh oysters get shucked right in front of you and come at $1 each during happy hour. Other seafood options include creamy shrimp udon and bulgogi tacos, all served with good size and quality.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is elevated and creative."

"Our server Anthony was so sweet and attentive with our seafood."

"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.

05
Martinyโ€™s image 1
Cocktail bar

Two-story cocktail bar with exposed brick and wood aesthetics creates an intimate, nostalgic atmosphere. Upstairs lounge offers comfortable seating and a cigar-bar style vibe, while downstairs buzzes with bartender interaction. Space is small and cozy, emphasizing inventive cocktails and a classic, calm mood.

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

Oysters stand out with rich flavor and fresh texture. Small bites like Wagyu Sando and Karaage pair well with caviar and drinks, creating a unique seafood experience.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is magically crafted and exceptionally good."

"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 and a dingy basement atmosphere. Offers a relaxed, unpretentious vibe with excellent fresh sushi featuring large, tender pieces. Outdoor seating provides a nicer setting compared to the indoor area.

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.

Fresh fish melts in your mouth with a taste like the ocean. Portions are generous and include sea urchin, fatty tuna, and shrimp, though cuts are thinner and less uniform than before.

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

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

Space features unique textured walls and a beautiful bar with ample seating arranged tightly for group dining. Atmosphere ranges from hip and lively to noisy, with music and chatter filling the air. Decor varies across floors, creating distinct visual experiences within the same venue.

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.

Seafood offerings include fresh sashimi platters with salmon, tuna, and uni, plus large portions of salmon sushi. Dishes like shrimp tempura roll and fried oysters come with balanced flavors and textures, while udon options feature rich, seafood-forward broths with ingredients like uni and scallops.

People are saying

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

"The service here is so friendly and accommodating."

"The seafood here is amazingly fresh and delicious."

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
Pokeworks image 1
Poke bar

Small space offers cozy seating and a modern yet welcoming atmosphere with a quiet, pleasant vibe. Casual setup suits quick, grab-and-go dining with friendly, warm energy from staff. Focus on fresh poke bowls with notable vegan and seafood options.

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.

Fish stays very fresh and tastes amazing. Shrimp tossed in chili oil adds a spicy kick. Proprietary sauces and hand-cut vegetables complement the seafood well.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

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.

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Union Square, New York

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