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Best Creative Japanese Restaurants in East Harlem

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nobu Fifty Seven restaurant
1. Nobu Fifty Seven
4.7
Exceptional(6082)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Midtown West
Booked 266 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
4.7
Exceptional(77)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Midtown East
Booked 10 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(1149)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Upper West Side
Booked 12 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 Sushi on Me - Jackson Heights restaurant
4. Sushi on Me - Jackson Heights
4.9
Exceptional(597)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Jackson Heights
Booked 6 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 Kawachiya NYC restaurant
5. Kawachiya NYC
5.0
Exceptional(13)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Murray Hill
Booked 3 times today
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 Restaurant Nippon restaurant
6. Restaurant Nippon
4.8
Exceptional(776)
Price: Expensive
• Creative japanese • Midtown East
Booked 6 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 Tokugawa - Madison restaurant
7. Tokugawa - Madison
4.7
Exceptional(58)
Price: Expensive
• Creative japanese • Upper East Side
Booked 11 times today
Coming Soon!
A photo of U Omakase restaurant
8. U Omakase
4.9
Exceptional(226)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative japanese • Greenpoint
Booked 3 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.
A photo of Luna Asian Bistro & Rooftop Lounge restaurant
9. Luna Asian Bistro & Rooftop Lounge
4.3
Awesome(242)
Price: Moderate
• Creative japanese • Astoria
Booked 2 times today
Luna Asian Bistro & Rooftop Lounge in Astoria offers an exceptional Creative Japanese dining experience that truly stands out in the bustling cityscape. Patrons rave about the "excellent tempura sampler, sushi 🍣 & sashimi" and the flavorful teriyaki, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity in its cuisine. The rooftop setting enhances each dining experience, offering breathtaking views of Manhattan, making it "now my favorite Japanese restaurant in the Queens area." Guests consistently praise the inventive dishes like the 'Lady Gaga' roll and the atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a romantic sunset or a vibrant night out, Luna Asian Bistro delivers both splendid food and enchanting views, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of Creative Japanese cuisine.
A photo of Legacy Records restaurant
10. Legacy Records
new
(0)
Price: Expensive
• Creative japanese • Hell's Kitchen
Located in Hudson Yards near the Javitts Center, Legacy Records by Chef Ryan Hardy delivers a unique fusion of Japanese-influenced Italian cuisine, celebrated for its sashimi-style crudo, handcrafted pastas, and aged meats, including the signature duck dishes. Guests enjoy an extensive curated wine list by the World’s Best Sommelier, along with a standout cocktail program crafted by master mixologists and brought to life by our talented beverage team. With its sophisticated atmosphere, Legacy Records offers an elevated dining experience ideal for memorable gatherings and high-profile events.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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