Department of FoodieDepartment of Foodie
Snazzy, compact Japanese cafe showcasing high-end coffee & sandwiches, plus sake & beer at night.
What to order: OMURICE ORIGINAL TOMATO SAUCE · KATSU SANDWICH · GREEN TEA HOT CAKE · Siphon CoffeeFrom Google Maps reviews.
NYC has no shortage of Japanese restaurants, but the ones that really taste like Japan are few, and the ones that get the whole feel right on top of that, the Showa-era room, the service, all of it, you can count on one hand. You could tell the bartender was newer, though only in small ways, because the service itself was smooth and the timing already had a polish to it. She was warm in just the right measure, friendly without overdoing it, happy to answer questions and point you toward somethin
The menu changed 2 months ago and they no longer serve souffle pancakes (sad). Came on a Sunday at 1 pm and we were seated immediately. The food was plated well but not particularly outstanding. The hayashi omurice was good. They didn't give us a fork to cut the pancakes with, which we originally thought was just how they operate, but later saw the table next to us had one. Servers could be a bit more attentive. Otherwise nice atmosphere. Bill came out to ~$64 before tax and tip
Food was pretty expensive for the quality/ taste. The atmosphere is really nice and cozy. When we got our food there was a sticker on the dried orange slice and a hard chunk in the omelet rice. The dishes were on the salty side, not rich in flavor, and very one dimensional. There’s better places in nyc that are more worth the price. Service is mediocre, staff aren’t really attentive but is friendly.
From the May 6, 2025 health inspection. Lower-priority items are listed after the serious ones.
Hot food was held below 140°F, cool enough for bacteria to grow.
Single-use items were reused or left unprotected.
Shelves, ledges, or equipment exteriors aren't clean or easy to clean.