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New Yorkers 1st Choice

Top 10 spots for authentic unagi to enjoy in New York City

Based on 678 Reviews
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01
Fuku Omakase image 1
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🎯 Authentic
🍣 Unagi
❤️ Intimate
🤙 Casual
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Small counter seating with an open sushi bar creates an intimate atmosphere where guests watch chefs at work. The vibe is casual and relaxed, featuring a playlist of late 90s and early 2000s R&B and pop music. Limited to about 8-9 seats, the space feels like a cozy hole-in-the-wall with a straightforward setup.

People are saying

"The sushi is fresh and delicious in a cozy spot."

"The place is small and intimate but the one-hour limit feels rushed."

"I loved the authentic, fresh sushi and the amazing fish quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required as there are only around 10 seats available.

2

You will be turned away if you don’t have a reservation.

3

The last seating is at 9 PM, so plan accordingly.

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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
🛋️ Cozy
🌙 Late Night Spot
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Izakaya-style space filled with authentic Japanese decor and retro anime visuals playing behind the bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and charming, closely resembling izakayas in Japan. Regulars enjoy anime-inspired cocktails and a lively vibe with a DJ and classic anime movies on TV.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so authentic, it makes you miss Japan."

"It feels like a real Japanese izakaya with authentic food."

"It's a cozy spot I love for authentic Japanese food and vibes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a meal, especially for large groups.

2

Happy hour offers $4 Sapporo and runs daily from 12pm to 6pm.

3

Free parking at the meter is available after 7 PM.

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Sozai Japanese Restaurant (Izakaya Ramen) image 1
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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
🛋️ Cozy
🥘 Food
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Japanese restaurant blends authentic izakaya flavors with a warm, stylish vibe. Unagi dishes, especially the Unagi don, offer true traditional taste. Private booths and a large sake and whisky bar create a comfortable, inviting space for all diners.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic and amazing."

"The food and vibe feel truly authentic Japanese."

"The food tastes amazing and genuinely authentic."

Good to know

1

Make sure to book your table to avoid long wait times.

2

Be prepared for a long wait (45 minutes to an hour) if you don't have a reservation.

3

The restaurant is welcoming for large parties, accommodating up to ten guests.

04
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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
🍽️ Lunch Spot
🏷️ Affordable
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Small, clean space creates an intimate eating environment with picnic-style tables and extra seating in the back. Atmosphere stays calm and cozy with relaxed, elegant vibes suitable for casual meals or dates. Music and free snacks add to the comfortable ambiance.

People are saying

"The food here tastes so authentic, like real Taiwanese flavors."

"The food tastes truly authentic and delicious."

"The dishes have authentic flavors and look great."

Good to know

1

You can get a set meal with sides and bubble tea for under $15.

2

The restaurant only offers take out after 7:40 PM.

3

There is limited seating, so it is better to take out.

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Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill image 1
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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
🥘 Food
🛋️ Cozy
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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.

People are saying

"I found the Thai ramen to be a must-try dish with authentic flavor."

"I love how authentic and flavorful the food is."

"The flavors are bold, fresh, and truly authentic."

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.

06
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🎯 Authentic
🍣 Unagi
🛋️ Cozy
🍽️ Dinner Spots
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Tiny space delivers intimate atmosphere with a humorous, chill vibe that feels like a performance. Sushi preparation acts as a live show, enhancing the serene and elegant setting. Guests enjoy fresh, luxurious sushi paired with an excellent sake selection.

People are saying

"The cozy spot offers amazing sushi at great prices."

"The fish quality here is top notch."

"The unagi with foie gras was a favorite for my son and friend."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential given Zen Sushi's popularity and limited seating.

2

The 14 course omakase is priced at $89, which is a great deal for NYC.

3

Expect to spend around $180 per person for a full dining experience.

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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
🎌 Japanese Food
🥟 Gyoza
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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.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be surprisingly authentic, just like in Japan."

"I love the cozy, authentic vibe here."

"The ramen tastes truly authentic and flavorful."

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.

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🎯 Authentic
🍣 Unagi
🍞 Toast
🍚 Fried Rice
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Japanese restaurant offers a stylish and cozy interior with tasteful decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The ambiance feels effortlessly welcoming and suits intimate dinners or wine nights. Tables sit close together, creating a lively yet comfortable setting.

People are saying

"The food is fresh and delicious with a cozy vibe."

"The staff are friendly and make the experience special."

"I can't wait to come back and try more."

Good to know

1

Manhatto has not obtained their liquor license yet, so plan accordingly for drinks.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of food offered.

3

The lunch special includes soup, salad, and an entrée at a great value.

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Shinzo Omakase image 1
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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
❤️ Intimate
🛋️ Cozy
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Tiny omakase bar offers intimate counter seating with chefs preparing sushi in view. Unagi shines with rich, buttery texture alongside fresh seafood like sablefish. Genuine service and a BYOB policy create a relaxed, authentic dining experience.

People are saying

"I had an amazing and memorable omakase experience."

"The sushi was fresh, flavorful, and satisfying."

"The omakase here is authentic and carefully crafted."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation at least a week in advance to secure a spot.

2

The price for the omakase is $69, which is considered a good value.

3

This restaurant is BYOB with no corkage fee.

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🍣 Unagi
🎯 Authentic
🏷️ Affordable
❤️ Intimate
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Intimate sushi spot with about 12-16 counter seats and BYOB policy including a chiller for drinks. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with dimmed lighting and music for celebrations, creating a comfortable and intimate setting. Counter service allows watching chefs prepare food, adding to the engaging experience.

People are saying

"The unagi with banana was a surprisingly creative pairing."

"I found the flavors here to be really authentic and amazing."

"I love the authentic Japanese flavors here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The dining experience is strictly limited to one hour.

3

The restaurant is BYOB with no corkage fee.