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Best Creative Japanese Restaurants in Upper East Side

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nobu Fifty Seven restaurant
1. Nobu Fifty Seven
4.7
Exceptional(6083)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Midtown West
Booked 203 times today
Nobu Fifty Seven, located in the vibrant Midtown West, New York, is a beacon of creative Japanese cuisine. Since its opening in 2005, this establishment has not only lived up to but surpassed the lofty expectations set by its legendary chef, Nobu Matsuhisa. With a menu that features innovative dishes like Tiradito Nobu Style and the iconic Black Cod Miso, it's no wonder the restaurant has earned three stars from the New York Times. Diners consistently rave about the experience, describing it as "always top notch" and "worth every penny." The ambiance and service complement the exquisite food, making every visit memorable. As one reviewer puts it, "Nobu is Nobu for a reason. It’s delicious."
A photo of Kawabun NYC restaurant
2. Kawabun NYC
4.6
Exceptional(77)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Midtown East
Booked 6 times today
Kawabun NYC, nestled in the heart of Midtown East, New York, offers an exceptional Japanese dining experience that seamlessly blends 400 years of traditional Kaiseki cuisine with modern elegance. Chef Yoshitaka Ito, hailing from Nagoya, crafts dishes that transport diners straight to Japan with their authenticity and culinary precision. Patrons rave about the "unmatched authenticity and intricate flavors," with dishes like the charcoal-grilled Hitsumabushi and delicately prepared Unaju receiving high praise. The ambiance of Kawabun NYC complements its cuisine perfectly, providing a serene and inviting atmosphere. With glowing reviews highlighting the "divine flavors" and "attentive service," Kawabun NYC stands as a pinnacle of Japanese gastronomy in New York City.
A photo of Sushi of Gari - Columbus Avenue restaurant
3. Sushi of Gari - Columbus Avenue
4.7
Exceptional(1150)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Upper West Side
Booked 9 times today
At Sushi of Gari on Columbus Avenue in New York's Upper West Side, Japanese cuisine is transformed into an art form. Esteemed Chef Masatoshi “Gari” Sugio revolutionized the sushi scene in 1997 by introducing his signature Gari style, which enhances each piece of sushi with unique toppings and sauces, eliminating the need for traditional soy sauce. Patrons rave about the "unbelievable meal quality" and "service," affirming that every visit is a "special culinary experience." The omakase, particularly, receives glowing accolades for its freshness and creativity, making Sushi of Gari a cherished staple for both locals and visitors seeking exceptional Japanese dining.
A photo of Restaurant Nippon restaurant
4. Restaurant Nippon
4.8
Exceptional(776)
Price: Expensive
• Creative japanese • Midtown East
Booked 4 times today
At Restaurant Nippon in Midtown East, New York, the Tempura cuisine takes center stage with its authentic flair and exquisite preparation. Since 1963, this culinary haven has been serving up traditional Edo-mae style Tempura that patrons describe as a "standout feature" of the menu. Diners rave about the "delicious and high-quality" Tempura, highlighting the dish's light, crispy texture, which perfectly encapsulates the essence of classic Japanese cooking. As one of New York's pioneering Japanese eateries, Nippon offers an experience that feels both "incredibly cozy and authentic," making every visit a memorable journey through the finest tastes of Japan. Whether you're seated in the elegant tatami room or at the bustling tempura bar, Restaurant Nippon promises an unparalleled dining delight in the heart of the city.
A photo of Kawachiya NYC restaurant
5. Kawachiya NYC
5.0
Exceptional(13)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Murray Hill
The Kawachiya room by Kawabun NYC is a premium dining experience featuring seasonal menus offered in a lunch format and a full tasting menu for dinner at our Chef's counter. We feature techniques and recipes spanning four hundred years with an eye towards innovating for New York. Located near Bryant Park and the Chrysler building in Murray Hill, Kawachiya is a hidden gem conveniently located close to Grand Central Terminal.Chef Ito Yoshitaka has been practicing his craft at the legendary Kawabun Ryotei in Nagoya, Japan since his youth. Hailing from a family of Washoku chefs, he applies his dedication and skills to bring a highly selective seasonal offering to New York to launch the first expansion of Kawabun since its founding in the early 1600s. For A La Carte service in Kawabun NYC, please visit: www.opentable.com/r/kawabun-nyc-new-york
A photo of Rabbit House Omakase and Sake Bar restaurant
6. Rabbit House Omakase and Sake Bar
4.5
Awesome(68)
Price: Expensive
• Creative japanese • Lower East Side
Rabbit House Omakase and Sake Bar, nestled in the vibrant Lower East Side of New York, is a treasure trove of Fusion / Eclectic cuisine that creatively marries Japanese culinary traditions with European influences. This intimate and cozy establishment offers a meticulously crafted six-course omakase that dazzles with its seasonal freshness and innovative pairings, as highlighted by reviewers who praised its "quirky alts on traditional Japanese dishes" and the seamless integration of unexpected flavors. The chef’s dedication to quality and authenticity shines through every dish, making each dining experience both unique and memorable. Coupled with an exceptional sake selection, Rabbit House ensures a personalized journey through flavors that is both adventurous and heartwarming. This gem is a must-visit for those looking to indulge in a culinary adventure that is as eclectic as it is delightful.
A photo of Tokugawa - Madison restaurant
7. Tokugawa - Madison
4.7
Exceptional(58)
Price: Expensive
• Creative japanese • Upper East Side
Booked 5 times today
Coming Soon!
A photo of Sushi on Me - Jackson Heights restaurant
8. Sushi on Me - Jackson Heights
4.9
Exceptional(597)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Jackson Heights
Booked 4 times today
Sushi on Me in Jackson Heights is celebrated for its exhilarating and top-tier omakase experience, which is replete with a 15-course sushi feast that has guests raving about the quality and authenticity. Reviewers consistently highlight the “amazing experience,” noting the “delicious sushi” and the “great atmosphere” crafted by fun-loving chefs and unlimited sake. One diner exclaimed, “Best food experience I’ve ever had!” underscoring the memorable combination of flavor and festivity. This hidden gem offers a unique speakeasy vibe, making each visit feel exclusive and intimate. Whether it's your first visit or your next, Sushi on Me promises an unforgettable evening where superb sushi and vibrant energy meet.
A photo of Buddha-Bar Restaurant New York restaurant
9. Buddha-Bar Restaurant New York
4.2
Awesome(345)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • TriBeCa
Booked 7 times today
At Buddha-Bar Restaurant New York, located in the vibrant TriBeCa neighborhood, the essence of Creative Japanese cuisine is taken to extraordinary levels. Guests rave about the "impeccable cuisine" and the "unique and mesmerizing ambiance" created by the stunning Buddha statue centerpiece. The menu offers an innovative blend of flavors that captivate the palate, with dishes like the King Salmon roll and the caviar with avocado being highly recommended. The restaurant's ambiance, combined with "top-notch service" and an "amazing atmosphere," ensures a dining experience that is not just a meal, but a memorable event. Whether it's for a sophisticated night out or a special celebration, Buddha-Bar is celebrated for making each visit spectacular. As one diner put it, "the food and drinks are 10/10," making it a must-visit destination for lovers of Creative Japanese cuisine in New York City.
A photo of U Omakase restaurant
10. U Omakase
4.9
Exceptional(226)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Greenpoint
Booked 5 times today
At U Omakase in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, sushi is not just food; it's an art form celebrated with every dish. This acclaimed restaurant offers an exquisite 13-course Omakase experience, curated by veteran chefs with over 40 years of experience, ensuring each course is a masterful expression of culinary excellence. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity, describing it as “one of the best Omakase” experiences and noting the “innovative, lovely, delicious, and high-quality cuisine.” The intimate setting and communal dining add to the charm, making every visit unforgettable. U Omakase is a must-visit for sushi connoisseurs seeking an authentic and memorable meal.

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Discover best Creative Japanese restaurants in Upper East Side

Explore the vibrant and innovative dining scene in the Upper East Side of New York City, where creative Japanese cuisine takes center stage. Renowned for pushing culinary boundaries, these establishments blend traditional Japanese techniques with modern flair, offering an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Each location boasts a unique approach to Japanese dishes, whether through inventive sushi creations, meticulously crafted omakase menus, or the integration of exotic ingredients like black truffles and homemade sauces. Patrons can expect not only top-tier sushi but also a range of creatively presented dishes that highlight the chefs' dedication to quality and innovation. The dining atmosphere in these restaurants complements the food, with each venue providing a sophisticated yet welcoming environment perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. As a culinary hotspot, the Upper East Side ensures every visit is both a discovery and a delight for enthusiasts of creative Japanese cuisine.

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