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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Yorkville

Japanese food and date spots

Sharing Japanese food creates an intimate setting for a conversation that lasts all evening.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Meijin image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Large space with hundreds of origami cranes hanging from the ceiling and an interior that looks into the kitchen creates a beautiful, intimate atmosphere. Karaoke and a cozy bar add lively energy, while Japanese-style cocktails and sake complement the experience. The vibe suits conversation and group gatherings alike.

Ramen here stands out for its rich flavors and authentic Okinawa style. The broth and noodles deliver a taste that rivals ramen found in Japan, with a reputation for being the best ramen on the Upper East Side.

Food comes with impressive presentation that adds a special touch to the evening. The spot suits romantic dates, girls nights, or even solo outings, making it a versatile choice for date night.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"I thought the ramen here was great."

"The ramen here is so flavorful and delicious, perfect for a date."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night with great drink deals.

2

The restaurant has a last call for orders at 3pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for groups of five or more.

02
SUKI DESU image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with bar seating and two tables creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. The vibe blends downtown energy with hip hop and ambient music, offering a stylish yet relaxed setting. Fresh, high-quality fish and unique dishes like donburi and ochazuke define the culinary experience.

Donburi bowls feature fresh sushi-grade fish and high-quality ingredients. Adding dashi broth mid-meal enhances dishes like the chirashi and sashimi rice bowls, creating an authentic Japanese flavor.

Gravel walkway and bar seating create a cozy, refined setting. The decor adds a sweet, intimate vibe ideal for date nights.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food's kaisendon was really yummy with super fresh fish."

"It's a cozy, intimate spot perfect for date nights."

Good to know

1

The seating accommodations are limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch hours on Wednesdays typically have no wait for seating.

03
Omakase Shihou - Upper East Side (Lunch Available) image 1

Intimate Japanese restaurant with bar seating and a modern Japanese decor featuring clean wood paneling and hard surfaces. Atmosphere shifts from serene and refined during quiet times to lively and loud when busy. Offers a personalized omakase experience with sushi prepared directly in front of diners.

Offers a high-end omakase experience with a variety of appetizers, sushi, wagyu, hand rolls, and dessert. The chef prepares dishes right in front of diners, providing personal attention and a well-curated tasting menu around $49 to $65.

Comfortable setting suits intimate dinners with partners or close friends. Premium omakase offers a special occasion vibe for celebrations.

People are saying

"The omakase here is great and affordable."

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

"The seafood here is the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The lunch omakase is priced at $55, with a summer special for $45 from Mon-Thurs.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for lunch omakase.

3

Expect generous portion sizes that lead to a filling experience.

04
Sushi jin image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant offers intimate, cozy atmosphere with traditional Omakase style and authentic Japanese spirit. Space feels relaxed and neighborhood-like, avoiding typical high-end pretension. Expertly crafted sushi and carefully selected sake create a world-class dining experience.

Omakase features expertly crafted sushi with courses like seared bass, fried scallop, and medium fatty tuna belly tartar. The eel is braised for five hours to achieve a satin texture and savory flavor, complemented by attentive and polite service.

Staff show kindness and remember returning couples, creating a welcoming vibe. The unique omakase offers a special experience suited for date nights.

People are saying

"The seafood here is flown in fresh from Japan and melts in your mouth."

"I thought the omakase was the best I've had."

"The omakase here is the best experience I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The omakase course is priced at $145.

2

You have to call Tuesday - Saturday, 5-10pm to make a reservation.

3

Customers have no choice in what is being served for dinner.

05
Oyishi Sushi 80 ST image 1

Small, intimate sushi spot tucked below street level offers a cozy, casual vibe with limited seating and a friendly atmosphere. Background music includes a Rihanna playlist, adding a fun touch to the experience. Known for fresh, high-quality sushi served at very reasonable prices, it feels like a hidden gem with a welcoming, unassuming environment.

Sushi here features exceptional freshness and expert preparation that rivals Tokyo standards. The omakase box offers great value and a chance to taste a variety of high-quality fish.

Offers a sit-down classic Omakase experience ideal for one-on-one dining or a friend date.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was delicious and fresh."

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

"I found the sushi here to be top-notch for a date."

Good to know

1

The prices at Oyishi Sushi are very affordable for high-quality sushi.

2

The seating area is limited, making takeout a better option.

3

Omakase boxes offer great value and a chance to taste various fish.

06
Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill image 1

Elegant dining space features floral decor with hanging flowers and butterflies, creating a cozy yet stylish atmosphere. Covered outdoor patio with heaters offers a comfortable seating option. The vibe suits celebrations and gatherings, blending Instagram-worthy aesthetics with inviting warmth.

Ramen features halal roasted pork belly and a chef's yellow curry option. The food offers authentic Thai flavors with excellent quality and service.

Dim lighting and flower and greenery decor create an intimate atmosphere. The ramen stands out as a delicious choice for a date night.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"It's a beautiful spot with a lovely ambiance for dates."

"The ramen here is rich, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with limited drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended for birthday celebrations and large groups.

3

Customers typically wait about 15 minutes for a table during peak hours.

07
Sushi by M image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious, clean, and modern space offers a minimalist decor that highlights the food. Atmosphere stays sophisticated and intimate with soft lighting and a subtle hum of conversation. The setting includes a private table for six, making it suitable for groups and dates.

Omakase features 15 expertly crafted courses with fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice. The menu offers creative variety and precise presentation, guided by friendly chefs.

Sophisticated and intimate ambiance creates a setting ideal for a first date. The atmosphere supports quiet conversation and a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The omakase here is phenomenal, with each bite getting better."

"Chef Leo's passion and mastery made the experience truly unique."

"The service here is impeccable and the staff are so welcoming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinners.

2

Omakase pricing is around $100 per person, offering good value.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and welcomes children.

08
Bobafish image 1
Asian restaurant

Spacious Asian restaurant offers a cozy yet modern atmosphere with inviting ambiance and great music. Seating includes large tables and counters, creating a relaxed vibe for enjoying savory and sweet dishes. The place stands out for its fresh, flavorful food and comfortable setting.

Teriyaki chicken shines with a creamy, flavorful bowl and shrimp option. Takoyaki and gyoza stand out, with gyoza offering a unique citrus aftertaste. Eel and pork dishes add variety to the menu.

Smoothies like mango and pineapple add a sweet touch. The spot offers boba tea options that draw couples looking for a casual treat.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was fresh and delicious."

"The teriyaki chicken rice bowl was perfect Japanese food."

"You have to try the boba here; it's cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available and are affordable with great portion sizes.

2

The lunch special costs between $10 and $12.

3

Lunch pick up takes less than 10 minutes.

09
Ikyu 一休 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers gorgeous Japanese simplicity design with lovely decor and ambiance that feels fancier than casual yet remains reasonably priced. The space includes a sushi bar with stools for solo diners and features serene music creating a relaxing atmosphere suitable for dates, small groups, or family gatherings.

Expertly prepared sushi features fresh, high-quality fish with beautiful presentation. The menu suits both sushi lovers and those interested in Asian Fusion Cuisine.

Charming, modern yet comfortable ambiance sets a relaxed tone for dates. The space suits small groups and offers a vibe that works well for various occasions.

People are saying

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

"It's a charming spot for date nights with its modern, comfortable ambiance."

"It's a wonderfully cozy and calm atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

IKYU offers a 3 roll lunch with soup or salad for $16, a great deal for fresh sushi.

2

The salmon teriyaki bento lunch special costs $21.72, tax included.

3

The prices are very reasonable, with a lot of food for less than $40 for 2 people.

10
Poke Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Outdoor setting offers a vibrant atmosphere with a friendly, cozy vibe. The place is cash only and BYOB, welcoming guests to bring their own beverages. It attracts those looking for a fun, casual sushi experience with fresh, well-regarded rolls.

Sushi here stands out for its authentic flavors and reasonable prices. The spot offers excellent sashimi and a solid selection of sushi rolls and appetizers, making it a popular BYOB choice.

Offers a cute date night vibe with a cozy atmosphere. Great for catching up and spending quality time together.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best in the city."

"The food here is fresh and extremely tasty."

"I thought the sushi rolls and appetizers were the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only, so bring enough cash for your meal.

2

Poke Japanese Restaurant is BYOB, allowing you to bring your own drinks.

3

No reservations are accepted, so expect to wait during busy hours.

11
Avoca image 1

Backyard patio offers a quaint and spacious setting with beautifully renovated interior and dog-friendly amenities. Loud music, including rap during brunch, creates a lively atmosphere that suits private events and group gatherings. The space balances sunlit outdoor areas with cozy indoor seating.

Tuna poke bowls vary here, with some featuring fresh tuna and a tangy, subtly sweet sauce that balances flavors well. Others lack sauce and taste bland or slightly fishy.

Perfect atmosphere sets the tone for a chill date night. Happy hour deals and tasty meals make it easy to enjoy time together and plan another outing.

People are saying

"The food here is super good and delicious."

"The bartenders here are hilarious and take great care of you."

"Giovani's attentive service made our Japanese food experience memorable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as this place gets booked up quickly.

2

Happy hour prices are available until dinner time on weekdays.

3

On Taco Tuesday, three tacos are available for $10.

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