Izakaya Zest

247

449

1081

7 months ago

I popped in here a while back when the winds were starting to blow right in to your spine in New York and that strange turn of the season craving of obscure and specific foods started to hit me. I originally made my way here to satisfy a deeply unsettling oyster craving that lead me to a frantic google maps search and a very mission-based military walk straight to Zest Ramen's doors. The oysters were fresh, briny and delicious and served with care. I loved ordering half a dozen of the ones from Washington too, God knows pacific cold water oysters are my literal dream come true and I will devour them any chance I get no matter where in the world I am. While I was seated here I thought why not treat myself to a nourishing bowl of Ramen too. As a muslim, ramen can be a real hit or miss experience since the option to go pork-free really shrinks a lot of the menu options to just a handful. However, my waiter delivered the bowl of chicken ramen with perfection and even added chilli oil on my request. When I tell you the textures and flavors of this ramen bowl were absolutely out of this world!! The sweet corn, savory and spicy clear broth, thin and succulent noodles and the most tender slice of teriyaki style chicken - Oooo the chicken. When I tell you this is the juiciest, most moist piece of chicken breast to ever touch my lips. I think they marinate it in soy for 40 million years because the way it was so sweet and umami and melted in my mouth?? Un-REAL! Waiter was super kind and checked up on me frequently. The establishment was beaming with patrons and dimly lit - a perfect setting for a casual weeknight dinner. If you happen to be in the area, make sure to check this establishment out. You will not regret it at all!! read more

Izakaya Zest - Chicken ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Oysters - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Estee A.

77

395

457

11 months ago

We were a group of 10 people that arrived at 6pm for their happy hour. I got my usual 3 salmon avocado rolls, delicious! Service was average, I like that they have pitchers of water and containers of utensils/napkins on the tables. Would return for their happy hour, nice little 1.50 discount on items. I do remember when they had it for $5 read more

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Danielle W.

0

6

5

4 months ago

Absolutely the best sushi, fried rice and Ramen I've ever had in the city. I came here for a happy hour and went to zest sushi and then was told to come to their sister restaurant because they had to wait and probably some of the best food I've had in the city. Jane is the best!!! So fresh insane deals before 7 and great vibe read more

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Cyrus A.

356

1010

1894

2 years ago

Zest has quality ramen at an affordable price, hard to not like this place! I had the spicy tonkotsu ramen, and it hit the spot. Good broth, good spiciness, quality ingredients. The space is very small, and service isn't the fastest even with a limited number of tables. But hey, quality ramen takes time. Solid option for the area overall! read more

Izakaya Zest - Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Luke W.

82

99

297

1 year ago

The service at Zest is exceptional. Our server was both hospitable and patient with us as we were deciding what to order. The inside of restaurant is on the cozier side, but there was plenty of seating available. There was also a coat rack which was super convenient. The ramen was classic and the noodles were yummy. The matcha IPA was also an interesting drink. It was very layered, the initial taste is IPA like and the after taste is when you taste the matcha. Overall, the service was what shined the most here. read more

Izakaya Zest - Shoyu Ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Green Tea - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Taylor B.

0

3

4

11 months ago

From 3:30-7PM everyday, Zest Ramen offers a variety of foods to try out with their Happy Hour menu. This time around, me and my partner decided to get a couple apps and a couple of cocktails. The drinks were light and fruity while the apps were yummy and warming. We rounded out our meal with a couple of entrees. The Gyu Don I got was slightly sweet and savory, pairing deliciously with the tart pickled radish and yolky egg. My partner got the Tonkotsu Ramen. He says he liked it, and that's all I could really get out of him. If you want good vibes and a fun happy hour, Zest Ramen is definitely a great choice! read more

Izakaya Zest - Dumplings - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Gyu Don - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Cocktails - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Kelly L.

14

188

529

1 year ago

Zest Ramen strikes a fine balance of warming ramen, yummy sides, a cozy setting, and great service. We started off with a few appetizers : Purple Fries, Fried Squid Tentacles, Jalapeno Wings, Salmon Dream Carpaccio and White Tuna Jalapeno. They are all amazing ! Then we ordered Spicy Miso Ramen and Tonkotsu Ramen--a rich, creamy broth with just the right kick. The noodles had that perfect springiness. They have Happy Hour $6 food and drinks daily from 3.30pm to 7pm. If you're craving ramen or want a relaxed Japanese-style meal in NYC, this spot is worth adding to your rotation. Highly recommended ! There are two locations : 249 Broome St and the one I went is in Eldridge Street. read more

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Danielle D.

Elite 23

14

170

398

1 year ago

Zest Ramen is an absolute gem. I tried their omakase set and every bite quite literally melted in my mouth--fresh, high-quality cuts that felt like a true treat. Their ramen was just as impressive: rich, flavorful broth with perfectly cooked noodles and melt-in-your-mouth pork that hit all the right notes. The service was warm and attentive, and the dimly lit ambiance gave the place a cozy, intimate vibe--perfect for a chill night out. Whether you're a ramen lover or in the mood to splurge on a solid omakase experience, Zest delivers. Will definitely be back. read more

Izakaya Zest - Omakase set - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Jenny P.

0

16

17

8 months ago

It was amazing! We were looking for a quick lunch and stumbled on this place. The food was delicious. The service was fast, the server had patience for our group and the food came out quickly. The happy hour was amazing. Would recommend. And the music was perfect. read more

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Esther L.

5

265

979

1 year ago

Such a hidden gem with $16 for good quality ramen , can't beat this! Comparable to other brand name ramen shops at 2/3 of the price. The dessert was also pretty yummy and affordable! Space was a bit crowded but cute dreamy ambiance read more

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John C.

20

74

222

9 months ago

We were the first people who showed up early so maybe we didn't get the best quality. We had ramen and the kasu don. The ramen soup was very good and the noodle was perfect. The kasu don was a little more wet than I'm used to and hence minus a star. Still worth the trip. read more

Izakaya Zest - Chicken Katsu Don - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Sarah W.

Elite 23

31

169

213

8 months ago

So goood! I went here the Wednesday before thanksgiving and it was on the empty side which now that I've had the food, I'm surprised! My husband and I shared a few sushi rolls and the Tan Tan ramen special. Everything was delicious! The inside is simple. Service was great! Enjoyed our drinks as well. read more

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Monica L.

34

490

1067

3 years ago

Good solid ramen Went on a weekday for late lunch and the place was pretty empty so service was attentive and fast. The broth was hearty, chashu was tender. Overall a complete ramen with all you need at a good price read more

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Mabel W.

Elite 25

122

65

64

1 year ago

Loveeed the kaishin don so much! It was a diy hand roll type of thing. The oysters were also super fresh. The purple fries were so yummy with the sauce. I loved everything I got. The ramen was also super flavorful. The server was super kind and attentive and inside was super cute. I also tried matcha beer for the first time and it was super interesting but I liked it! read more

Izakaya Zest - Kaishin Don - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Katherine M.

201

12

16

11 months ago

Happened to walk by this restaurant so we decided to try it. The food and service here is good but seems like there is a lack of communication between staff. We ordered clams and oysters and had two different staff inform us they no longer had clams. We ordered and the karaage and takoyaki which were both delicious. Chicken was well seasoned and juicy and takoyaki had adequate pieces of octopus. For entree, we ordered a spicy tonkotsu and a chicken katsu. The ramen was cooked just right with a good bite to it and the chicken katsu is one of the best I've had in the city. Many places don't do an oyakodon justice but I would return just for it. Would recommend! read more

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Veronica H.

302

112

241

4 years ago

Loved this cute little place! They have happy hour that ends at 7pm (our gyoza was $5!!!), which was a really nice surprise. Nomz: I had the pork tonkotsu with a side of chili sauce. The ramen was $15 which is a steal for NYC, it was a pretty sizable portion with lots of noodles. The broth was very good, a little heavier than I'm used to but not overwhelmingly so. The pork gyoza was a deal and yummy! Drinks: I got the HH sake, warm. It was just right for me, not overly dry or sweet. Also, it was served in a container with warm water, which is what you want to see amiright??! Service: So good, the waiter was super nice and patient with us. Ambiance: It was a really cute and cozy place. We saw people on a date date and a friend date so it's multifunctional! Nope or Dope: Dopeeee, can't wait to go back and try the spicy version of the tonkotsu ramen. read more

Izakaya Zest - Cute inside - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Tonkotsu Ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Hot Sake - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Pork Gyoza - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Cemby K.

24

154

278

3 years ago

The service was good and our waiter was tentative. The restaurant was cute with small candlelights and the wall was decorated with Japanese decor. The food was good: the ramen was spicy but we asked for their chili sauce to give it a little bit more of a kick. The gyu bowl was flavorful and you can taste a hint of ginger that wasn't overpowering. The squid was top notch and the sauce on too was to die for! I also ordered a specialty drink but can't remember the name, sunset something, but they weren't shy w the alcohol I definitely recommend giving this small restaurant a try! read more

Izakaya Zest - Gyu Don Rice Bowl - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Squid Tentacle On Skewer - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Katarina L.

Elite 26 All-Star

2221

952

2999

3 years ago

Incredibly cozy space, wonderfully kind staff, and absolutely delicious food... I think that just about sums it up. Okay, I'll go into a bit more detail. We popped in, no reservation on a Saturday night and luckily got there just before a mini rush. It was absolutely frigid outside but luckily we were plopped right next to a radiator so I was so incredibly toasty. There were only about 10 or so tables, but they were able to accommodate everyone from singles to big groups of 8 or so, so don't count them out if you have a group. We started with a couple appetizers: the pork belly bun and the takoyaki (octopus balls). Both were so tasty and perfect starters. The takoyaki had so much flavor, a delicious sauce and big chunks of octopus. The pork belly bun was also great but my favorite will always be anything with octopus in it. But then on to the main course, the highlight on a freezing cold day, the ramen! I got the shoyu and loved the lighter broth. The pork belly was so soft and delicious and the curly noodles were amazing. I wish I could make my stomach bigger on command so I could have finished everything, but the portion was huge so I did leave half behind. Thank you for a delicious dinner!! I would recommend this quaint spot to anyone that needed a ramen rec. read more

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Amanda D.

176

419

1186

4 years ago

Stopped in for a solo happy hour date recently. Just like their sister restaurant, Zest Sushi, this spot has a crazily affordable happy hour. Started with a house cold sake, it comes in a cute little bottle, you get about 4 glasses out of it. Sweet and smooth, you can tell it's not the best but for $5 there is no beating that! I didn't have time to sit and enjoy ramen so I went with pork gyoza and Thai shrimp rolls. The gyoza are chewy with a great pan fried bottom. Inside wasn't that filled but they are a solid pick. The Thai shrimp rolls were awesome. So crunchy!!! Crunchy in the best way though. The filling had chopped up pieces of shrimp and some veggies, tasty! Next time will definitely get the ramen, each one that came out smelled great. One thing I wasn't a fan of was that for HH they have a oyster special. They shuck them fresh, but I saw the guy that shucked them wasn't wearing gloves. Kind of gross seeing as most people out there mouth on the shell to shoot them back. read more

Izakaya Zest - Thai Spring Roll (Thai shrimp roll) - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Sake - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Pork Pan Fried Gyoza - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Happy Hour menu - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Bre Y.

114

229

141

3 years ago

Some friends and I came in on Friday night with a 7pm reservation. It is a smaller space and the rest of the tables were full, so definitely consider booking ahead during prime times. The ambiance was cozy and the service quick and friendly. We had the gyu don, the tonkotsu ramen, the yuzu salt ramen, and an order of pork gyoza. The gyoza were flavorful and fresh, and I would get them again. The ramens were both amazing. The broths' both had a depth and complexity of flavor while not being overly salty. The noodles and the meats were cooked perfectly, as were the softboiled eggs. The gyu don was tender and flavorful with a perfect runny egg to open over top. Portions were hearty and we left full. Definitely check it out! read more

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Dicky F.

2

15

13

2 years ago

I called ahead on a Friday night and they managed to squeez us in. My wife got the Tonkashu and I got the spicy. Delicious ramen! Fast and friendly service. I would definitely come back read more

Izakaya Zest - Wiped clean! - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Ethan D.

0

1

0

8 months ago

Chicken katsu was soggy and flavorless. The service was okay except for the fact that you are forced to give a tip to their liking. They should be grateful they even get a tip at all. They will harass you for a large tip and insult you if you don't tip to their liking. Steer clear from this mediocre place. read more

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Matthew S.

262

1849

3187

4 years ago

Since I had not had ramen in quite some time, I knew that if I came here and had a bowl, that my stomach would be able to handle it. Needless to say, that theory was proven correct. Starting with the Shrimp Shumai, six beautifully wrapped shrimp sitting in a tangy sauce, these tasted fresh and could easily be one of those things you could eat 100 of and still feel good. The price of these are high, so unless I am with a large party, I will likely avoid getting this again. It is an unnecessary expense that only makes your stomach bigger and your wallet thinner. As for my ramen choice, I went with the Tonkotsu Ramen with extra noodle (always get extra noodle if you are given the option). The ramen comes out fast, and looks attractive. In general, ramen is a visually appealing dish, but this one looked splendid. It also is benefitted by the fact that Tonkotsu Ramen is known for its milky white broth due to the pork bones breaking down in the water for a significant amount of time; there is no milk in this broth at all. Speaking of pork, the pork chashu is beautifully cooked and not too dense, and the amount is perfect. The noodles are perfect, and they definitely taste fresh, in a milled out sort of way. Getting the extra noodles is also the right move because it is like getting two ramen bowls for the price of one; you get lots of noodles to keep your strength going - if you still have it. If you still some reserves in the tank, make your way over to their sister sushi restaurant, Zest Sushi, only about a 10 minute walk from this restaurant. My only complaint is the hours. They are open from noon until 4, then close for a half hour and reopen for dinner at 4:30. They then stay open until 10 or 11. That is not reflected anywhere on their website or here on Yelp, so when I came at 4 and found they were closed, it was upsetting to be turned away. Be current on your hours please. That minor blip aside, I am happy with the food I got here and will return to try another bowl. read more

Izakaya Zest - Tonkotsu Ramen with extra noodle - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Shrimp Shumai - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Michelle M.

56

57

33

3 years ago

Came in on a somewhat cold Saturday to warm up! Place was empty when we arrived (around 4:30), but a few people trickled in soon after. It was a cozy and dimly lit space, but had very cool/chill vibes. The host/waiter sat us promptly and gave us water right away while we looked at the menu. Tried their Pork Belly Bun and it was definitely one of the best I had! Full of flavor, fluffy bun, and crisp veggies for that lovely contrast. We ordered the Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen and loved it! Good amount of spice and a huge pile of noodles, just how I like it. Noodles were cooked perfectly; not too soft, not too hard. Definitely give this place a try if you're in the area! read more

Izakaya Zest - Pork Belly Bun - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Kenny Z.

796

50

85

3 years ago

This spot is nice for LES, slightly quiet on a Saturday night but probably because of the heavy rain before we went. We got the shoyu and miso ramens to try different broths, since the shoyu is made of chicken broth and miso is pork broth. However, the miso was very salty and the flavor was a little off. The pork was good, but the bean sprouts tasted weird, as did the bamboo shoots in the shoyu ramen. Service was good, but I don't know if I'd recommend this place or check it out again unless we come for cheaper options during happy hour. read more

Izakaya Zest - Shoyu Ramen Miso Ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Kim M.

167

161

504

3 years ago

Tucked in alongside nondescript merchants in China Town, this is a fantastic hidden gem. Happy hour is a huge value - lots of apps and drinks for $5 . We ordered ramen and extra eggs - did NOT DISAPPOINT! Huge portions and Ana zing flavor profiles. Service was fast and friendly - will be back! read more

Izakaya Zest - Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen Yuzu Salt Ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Sapporo & cold sake - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Ada R.

Elite 19

273

328

185

2 years ago

It's a gem in the neighborhood. The ramen is on point. They also have happy hour from 5-7pm. $5 for all appetizers. Very friendly staff. Highly recommended. read more

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Hillari S.

167

337

1023

3 years ago

One of the VERY few places with a cute/modern atmosphere that feels clean in Chinatown. We love walking around in the neighborhood, but the eating establishments there are usually VERY sketch. We were REALLY surprised to find this place and it turned out to be awesome in every way. Great service, food, drinks and an excellent value during happy hour. The Ramen was delicious, as was the rice bowl, the pork boa buns, shrimp shumai, an squid skewers. Highly recommend! read more

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George L.

1

99

108

2 years ago

Tonkotsu ramen is always a comfort food on any rainy day. This place always makes the best bone broth delicious and savory, slurping the noodles happily away. Noodle slurping is an appreciation of the noodle soup to the chief. The chashu was tender and flavorful with a nice burnt on the edge. The fried oysters were fresh, batter was light not heavy so you can tasted the oysters. This dish goes well with an iced cold Sapporo. read more

Izakaya Zest - Spicy Miso Ramen is on point, not too spicy that you can't finish the bowl. - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Tonkotsu Ramen has the pork favors with a hint of garlic oil. Everything about this bowl is awesome. - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Mable C.

408

316

1116

5 years ago

A few of my friends came here because a ramen restaurant that we wanted to go to that day was closed for repairs. We didn't have high expectations because there were hardly any people inside but we were craving ramen so bad after being disappointed. Inside it was small and quaint. A dark, moody vibe with candles at every table. It was freezing out so we were really looking forward to a nice, warm bowl of ramen. We ordered the spicy tonkotsu ramen. Broth was actually pretty spicy - hit me right in the back of my throat. But I just couldn't stop drinking it. I loved the cha siu that came with it. Nice fatty and juicy pieces that had such a great char to it. The char mixed with the broth and created a nice, rich flavor. I was also enjoyed the soft boiled egg, it was marinated very nicely. It was a perfect bowl of ramen and the best part about it was that it came super fast! We waited maybe 10-15 minutes and it appeared right in front of us! Price was more than fair and after peeking at the menu, it looks like they have a pretty good happy hour too. I definitely have to come back for the oysters! So happy to find a delicious ramen place that makes my wallet happy as well! read more

Izakaya Zest - Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen $16 - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Alex T.

Elite 24

7

67

116

3 years ago

5/5 experience! I visited Zest Ramen with a group of friends for their happy hour. The happy hour here is amazing - lots of drinks and apps for $5! I would recommend getting pork gyoza, and the pork bun, and would come back to try some of the other apps next time. The shrimp shumai were on the small side so I would skip them in the future. Tonkotsu Ramen was really flavorful, and you get a lot of food for the price. Service was fast, friendly, and out food came out pretty quickly. Highly recommend Zest ramen for happy hour, casual meals or date night! read more

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First L.

0

221

0

1 year ago

Pork Bao and takoyaki were good. Shigoku oysters tasted like a smaller version of blue points. Big Rock was the better of the two oysters. However, oysters weren't shucked well leaving some broken shells on the bite. Tuna Toro and wagyu with uni sushi were both excellent. Good service and happy hour prices. read more

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Jamie C.

Elite 25

21

144

375

2 years ago

Great spot for Ramen. Atmosphere is quintessential New York and the ramen is gorgeous and tasty. read more

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Amanda L.

484

410

1161

6 years ago

Delicious ramen and great happy hour deals. I came here with a group of friends and the staff were incredibly accommodating. They rearranged and combined tables for us in their outdoor dining space. They have plenty of happy hour deals ranging from appetizer items to sushi to beer, wine and sake. They also have a happy hour ramen + appetizer combo which is what I chose. I got the pork bun and tonkotsu ramen (without veggies). The pork bun was ok, I've definitely had better but the tonkotsu ramen was definitely the star. It had a rich, umami filled broth that would warm anyone up when outdoor dining on a cold day and the noodles were cooked to perfection. read more

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Cristina G.

391

731

1493

6 years ago

Loved the ambiance and the dim lighting, and maybe it's what we ordered, but the food kind of fell flat. I ordered ramen as my main which was okay, although kind of flavorless. The edamame we had to start was good. No issue there. The fried oysters were NOT what I expected though, and something I would definitely not order again. If I'm not mistaken, I've been to Zest Sushi? They were actually pretty good. I'd come back again but I'd order different items to try. I won't give up on Zest just yet! read more

Izakaya Zest - Edamame and 4 Fried Oyster - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Jenny N.

Elite 24

267

115

212

4 years ago

If you crave oysters and ramen, this is the spot. I've been here numerous times. I always order oysters or clams during happy hour to start my meal. I typically order the spicy miso or spicy tonkatsu ramen. The spiciness level is a bit on the spicier side for me but it is the best this way. Sometimes I would order their appetizers. We recently got the thai shrimp roll. That was cripsy and tasted good with the sauce. Beware of how hot it is on the inside! It is a fairly smaller restaurant so it can get full quickly. The waiters try their best to move efficiently. I always recommend this place to everyone. Don't forget to check into yelp for the free sake! read more

Izakaya Zest - Thai Spring Roll - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Spicy Miso Ramen and Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Clams - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Jamal A.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Amazing quality Japanese dishes. Very ambient atmosphere, comfortable lighting. The specialty rice dishes were outstanding, as was the ramen. Added bonus: raw bar! read more

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Donald K.

2

28

555

4 years ago

3/5 Zest (26th Bowl out of 100) Tontotsu - $15. Broth - 3/5. Creamy but salty. Cha shu - 5/5. IT MELTS IN YOUR MOUTH!!! Noodles - 4/5. Thin noodles. Absorbs the broth very well but again, the broth was too salty. When eating ramen, I'm looking for this harmonious combination where each component enhances the other. No part should be better than the other. In this case, the cha shu was the best but the broth was lacking. Side Notes: Pork Buns - has a Vietnamese influence with it spicy Mayo, radish, carrots mixed in it, giving it a nice crunchy texture. I had to take a second bite, forgetting to critique the actual pork belly. It's lean and tender but wish it had more fat. Purple Fries - Their unique appetizer with the honey mayo. Hate to say it but nothing special in taste but great for photos! read more

Izakaya Zest - Menu - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - Purple Fries - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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Nancy N.

44

62

26

4 years ago

We're always on the hunt for good spicy tonkotsu to rival our fave spot in LA. This one was decent but the soup base had hints of seafood more than rich bone flavor (maybe it was the fake crab swirl thingy that tricked my brain). There wasn't really a lot of spice to it but the overall broth was creamy and buttery (and not too salty). The egg and chasu in it were delicious. There was construction in front of the shop but it was too nice of a day NOT to sit at table closest to the sidewalk (besides it added some nice flare to the outside pic). We were uneasy by their health scores but we didn't see anything terrible in the front of the house, and restroom is one of the cleanest we've used in the city. read more

Izakaya Zest - Not sure how long that construction will be out front - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

Izakaya Zest - spicy tonkotsu with unnecessary fake crab garnish - Izakaya Near Me - New York, New York

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More info about Izakaya Zest

112 Eldridge St
New York, NY 10002
Lower East Side
Directions
(212) 226-2801
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Full menu

Hours

What time does Izakaya Zest open?

Izakaya Zest opens at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Izakaya Zest close?

Izakaya Zest is closed on Monday.Izakaya Zest closes at 10:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Izakaya Zest closes at 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon ClosedTue-Thu, Sun 12:00 PM - 10:00 PMFri-Sat 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Payment methods

Does Izakaya Zest take Bitcoin?

No, Izakaya Zest does not take Bitcoin.

Does Izakaya Zest take credit cards?

Yes, Izakaya Zest takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Izakaya Zest have catering options?

Yes, Izakaya Zest does have catering options.

Does Izakaya Zest have a drive thru?

No, Izakaya Zest does not have a drive thru.

Does Izakaya Zest have a happy hour?

Yes, Izakaya Zest has a happy hour.

Does Izakaya Zest serve alcohol?

Yes, Izakaya Zest serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Services

Is Izakaya Zest by appointment only?

No, Izakaya Zest is not by appointment only.

Indoor Amenities

Does Izakaya Zest allow dogs?

No, Izakaya Zest does not allow dogs.

Does Izakaya Zest have TVs?

No, Izakaya Zest does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Izakaya Zest have bike parking?

Yes, Izakaya Zest has bike parking.

Does Izakaya Zest have outdoor seating?

Yes, Izakaya Zest has outdoor seating options.

Does Izakaya Zest have parking?

Yes, Izakaya Zest has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Izakaya Zest wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Izakaya Zest is wheelchair accessible.

Does Izakaya Zest allow outdoor smoking?

Yes, Izakaya Zest allows outdoor smoking.

Does Izakaya Zest have free WiFi?

No, Izakaya Zest does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Filled with a passion for Asian cuisine and a zeal for serving, Zest Ramen is putting a modern spin on Japanese cuisine. As ramen connoisseurs, we strive to source only the freshest ingredients to create masterpieces that are filled with savory broths and flavorful toppings. Join us for our happy hour that runs 3:30-7 PM six days a week for delicious discounts on our menu. Begin with edamame or pork belly buns, and end with a simmering bowl of Shoyu or Spicy Miso ramen. With every bite, you'll become inspired, sharing in our zest for the savory flavors of Japan.

History

Established in 2017.

Zest is run by a team of enthusiastic and experienced restaurant staffs. We specialized in both Japanese and Thai Cuisines. Whether you have a special occasion to celebrate or just in the mood for some Asian food, Zest will be able to accommodate your needs.

Meet the Manager: John C.

John has extended experiences as a restaurant chef and manager. He believes that great food and customer service are the keys to success in any restaurant business.

More Info

Health Score

Izakaya Zest Reviews in Other Languages

French
1 Review

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hour wait for walk-in party of 2 on Saturday night @7 so sat down at 8…read more its a bit loud inside so if youre more sensitive to noise youll want to bring ear plugs. - kimchi udon: texture is creamy. cheesy. if you dont like cheesy, you wont like this. some of asparagus was stringy but mushroom, udon and kimchi bits were good. - garlic fried rice: the favorite of the night. not too oily! we got sushi set and izakaya set too and preferred the sushi. were good/decent but nothing super special. service was prompt and came by often to refill waters which was nice!

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4.5 / 5.0 - I'd visited the Gallery quite some time ago and the atmosphere changes regularly…read moredepending on the exhibit, so it was interesting to see a different layout. I came for dinner this week with visitors from Japan, who were impressed by how authentically Japanese and delicious everything was. Unfortunately, I don't have photos, but we chose the restaurant week menu, which included: 1. Japanese potato salad 2. Choice of kushiage, chicken nanban or kinpira salad--I chose kushiage, which came with 3 pieces 3. Choice of kaisen don, signature burger or shoyu ramen--the burger looked very tasty, but I was in the mood for Japanese food, so I chose the kaisen don 4. Homemade soft serve with choice of strawberry, mango or melon sauce--I chose melon, which was nice We also tried sparkling tea from Copenhagen, which was very refreshing. The restaurant was busy but the servers were friendly and we had a wonderful meal. Looking forward to trying more dishes next time.

I've been to The Gallery twice now; once for a nice dinner, and once for the restaurant week menu…read more First, I'll say this place really delivers an experience, not just a meal. The interior is beautiful, with plants and art creating a serene atmosphere that somehow matches the menu. Well worth a visit for the setting. The food itself is good, on both occasions I felt the sashimi was well prepared and fresh. Other dishes didn't blow me away; the udon was fine (and it's cool that they bring it over a flame, so that it finishes cooking right in front of you). Overall worth a splurge for the unique experience more than the food, it's a nice place for a relaxing dinner in an intimate setting.

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Wow! This makes you feel like you've been transported straight to Tyoko! The place is roomy, homey,…read moreand beautiful. They have spots to sit that are traditional and quaint. The restrooms are beautiful and small! The food was all so well cooked and delicious. You can order small portions of food like 4 pieces of Shiitake ($4 for four) mushrooms or shishito peppers. They have little skewers of beef or chicken. There's even a salmon option. All of them were cooked perfectly. We got the ramen for my little girl- she loved it. We got fried rice, sushi, etc. it was all beautifully cooked and reasonably priced for NY. The service was fit for our conversation. We were catching up and enjoying the vibes.

The creamy udon was insanely good. I come back for this dish and this dish only. Everything else…read morewas good, but the udon is what made this place really worth it. It's smaller portions so I do think this place is more suitable for 2 people over bigger parties. Service was ok. Sat on quickly, the server got us what we needed but wasn't as attentive compared to other places I have been. They made sure we had everything so I still left happy. Ambiance was really cool. Two floors, clean, and spacious.

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(137 reviews)

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Food/drinks: seriously a hidden gem!! They have a frozen beer perfect for the summer weather &…read moreeverything we got was super delicious and easy to share with a big group! Atmosphere: very dark inside and vibey, not too loud Service: very quick, order on iPad & great for big groups Price: hidden gem pricing!! Very affordable!

Such a vibey place! They greet you at the table with some crackers, and you order everything on the…read moretablet. Absolutely loved all the dishes and everything -- the beef sukiyaki was everything. It was my first time trying a sukiyaki, and was super flavorful. Be sure to get a side of white rice! Afterwards, we mixed the rice with the broth, and the raw egg, which was delish. We also got the yellowtail sashimi, and was honestly pretty good! I wish they gave more ginger and wasabi, but overall this was such a filling meal. Staff were super friendly and nice as well!

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Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor! Our shrimp tempura is light, crunchy, and dangerously addictive!

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- recommend: sashimi appetizer, cream udon, fried rice -…read moreattentive pleasant staff - casual hole in the wall, happened upon it by chance and happy we did - everything was great, 1 small shared plate, 2 apps and 2 entrees was more than enough for 2 hungry adults - warm comforting meal without being overly heavy

I give my people a lot of flack for being uncreative with their restaurant names, but this…read moreredundantly named East Village izakaya called....well....Izakaya might just take the cake (Japanese people always gotta be surpassing other Asians, SMH). Anywho, redundancy aside, I get the appeal. Food is cheap and tasty. The Clam Sake was a comforting bowl of chewy molluskss mixed with butter. The Mushroom Garlic Fried Ricewas starchy, crunchy and garlicky. Even my Calpico-Hi was like a throwback to my childhood, except with ethanol added. And those lemon tower drinks....mmm, so refreshing on a humid night. Decor is bare bones, with chairs and furniture as uncomfortable as the real izakayas in Piss Alley, but with more English spoken. In these tariff-filled shrinkflation times, it's nice to have one spot in the city that manages to be authentic, delicious and affordable.

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Konban

4.4

(476 reviews)

1.7 mi

Every dish was honestly very delicious!…read more Corn ribs -- good flavor and reminded me of elote Niku udon -- hand pulled noodles were indeed very good and the broth is very light, it also comes with a few chunks of beef that are very tender Mazemen -- also made with hand pulled noodles, not too saucy and mild spice, sweet and meaty flavors Pork loin katsu -- prob one of the best katsus ive had, it didnt taste greasy or heavy at all and the breading was light and crispy. The pork wasnt dry and was quite soft. I did wish it came with some rice or something bc it's only 5 pieces that goes by quickly. My mom and aunt also thought the food tasted good and they're generally pretty picky!

I'm always on the search for good katsu and was looking forward to trying this spot! This is a bit…read moreof a belated review, but I'm glad to see that the standout dishes from my winter visit are still featured on their summer menu. 3 of us shared a few orders of their tenderloin ($18) and pork loin ($20) katsu, eggplant agebitashi ($18), sabazushi ($22), truffle rice, and niku udon ($24). The katsu was very, very moist on the inside, with a crispy batter that was so light it was almost flavorless. I honestly couldn't really tell the difference between the tenderloin and pork loin. Overall the dish had a very light flavor and I added quite a bit of sauce and wasabi. Some of the less memorable dishes were the eggplant agebitashi and truffle rice. The eggplant agebitashi tasted like a cross between an eggplant parm and a bolognese. The truffle rice had a very strong truffle flavor that ended up overpowering everything else in the dish. I thought the slices of raw button mushrooms were a little strange. I really enjoyed the sabazushi. The pieces of mackerel were thick and carried a lot of that characteristic mackerel oily flavor, but the oiliness was cut by enough vinegar to balance everything out. The niku udon was also a surprise hit. The noodles were wide, flat, super slurpy, and the broth carried a deep umami flavor. Overall, I had a pretty solid experience here.

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Kazumi Popup

(17 reviews)

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Kazumi is a lovely pop up restaurant with an intimate space and attentive service. The menu is…read moresmall but every dish is wonderfully designed with unique flavor pairings. Half of their menu is vegan-friendly. Spoiler alert: they will open a permanent location in June/July! ＊Chicken Karaage*** This chicken karaage was TO DIE FOR -- the caramelized sugar lemon on the side took it to a whole new level. The boneless chicken was so tender and juicy with a thin deep-fried batter. The meat was extremely refreshing after squeezing the lemon and dipping in honey mustard sauce. ＊ Handrolls - Salmon Yuzu, Tuna, Yellowtail** Y'all need to order their handrolls! The sashimi piece was thick and long enough to cover the vinegar rice. It would be a pain to pick which handroll I like more. They layered up the flavors of each piece with house sauces, shiso leaf, fried leek, avocado etc. Wish they would add a handroll set in the future. ＊Pork Cutlet Curry The curry was a blend of shredded meat, mashed potatoes, tomatoes and grapes (yes grapes!). The pork loin cutlets were crispy and not heavily breaded. The meat was a bit dry, yet it was cut in thin slices so it didn't bother me much. I found the multigrain rice even more enjoyable than white rice with its crunchiness. ＊Matcha Crème Brûlée** WE LOVED THIS. Matcha flavor is strong. The caramelized top and creamy matcha custard complemented really well. Trust me, their crème brûlée is the best dessert to finish off your meal. ＊Vegan Matcha Cheesecake This cheesecake was homey and light. Matcha flavor was tasteable but not very strong. The raspberry compote added a nice touch to it. I liked the crunchy biscuit layer on the bottom. ＊Yuzu White Peach Sparkling ＊Virgin Green Tea Mojito Their Japanese-inspired mocktails were great and not too sweet (very rare for mocktails). Very refreshing to drink along with your meal.

A cute neighborhood spot for casual lunch. The restaurant is very small, 4-6 tables, but it's cozy…read more The menu is simple and no fuss which I liked not being overwhelmed with options. Starting off with the Agedashi Tofu: Three pieces of tofu in tsuyu sauce. Light and crispy, with a savory but not too salty broth. It came with fried enoki mushrooms. Some grated radish would've been a nice touch. Chicken Karaage: This was my personal favorite. The chicken pieces were tender and juicy, while crispy on the outside. The portion came with a decent amount of chicken which was shareable between three. Shoyu Ramen: Not a standout dish, but seeing as it's not specifically a ramen restaurant, it was standard! Not amazing but not bad. Pork Cutlet Curry: As someone who loves Japanese curry, this hit the spot! Warm flavorful curry with crispy tonkatsu. However, I think it would taste better served with fluffy white rice! Also I think it was served with a side of grapes which was seemed odd unless it's a new food trend I'm unaware of. Overall, would definitely come back! They seem to do fried foods well, hopefully they can introduce tempura or a katsu sando would be amazing.

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(85 reviews)

1.5 mi

Cozy spot with intimate vibes, fabulous drinks, and decadent burgers. The friendliest staff too…read more I got a foie gras burger and a cocktail. While a little bit on the saucy side (which my sister told me is typical of Japanese style burgers), it was juicy and full of flavor. The cocktail was well made, aromatic, and well balanced. The fries were the only thing average about the entire experience but the honey mustard dipping sauce had me polishing off most of the fries anyway.

Really enjoyed my meal at Hall recently. It's a small space, but wasn't too crowded at opening, and…read morewe were greeted by the friendliest staff who took our jackets and allowed us to pick our seats. My husband and I opted to share a foie gras burger with mentaiko fries. The foie gras burger was delicious - juicy, cooked perfectly (medium rare), and very flavorful meat. Toppings (including tomato and lettuce) were super fresh and a good amount of foie gras as well. The mentaiko fries were delightfully crisp with a generous serving of the mentaiko sauce. Drinks were great, as expected.. but the real star is the burger. Absolutely looking forward to returning to try a different one!

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Towa

Wonderful experience for our group to celebrate a birthday dinner! First this restaurant is very…read moreunassuming, simple doors that take you to the open sushi chef counter followed by small tables in the back. The restaurant was full at the counter however only a few tables in the back. Our server was often always standing next to our table, attentive and observant with our needs. I really liked that we had the option to get as many omakases as we wanted and/or order as many a la carte menu items. Many Japanese omakase restaurants do not allow this! And I never understood this either. We ordered 3 omakases to share amongst 2 people, and then a ton of a la carte dishes to share. Which were such a beautiful compliment to our omakase dishes. We got the "O" which was a 9 course meal with some cooked and raw options. From the a la carte menu, we ordered the chicken karaage, agedashi tofu, hamachi kama, clay pot rice with salmon and roe, sukiyaki noodles, 2 different rolls (tuna and salmon) and of course the uni taster (which were 3 different kinds of sushi from California and 2 from Hokkaido). The agedashi tofu was the worst amongst our group for a weird texture, definitely did not feel like tofu. The best dishes were the uni taster, chicken karraage, and hamachi kama all from the a la carte menu. And from the omakase, definitely the sushi platter (which were 10 pieces of sushi) and the soba noodles were so amazing! The sushi rice here were so delicious! This is how you can tell a authentic sushi restaurant vs not. Overall, definitely recommend and absolutely order a la carte to get a full tasting of the dishes.

Great value for food here!…read more We were able to get a last minute reservation and this place did not disappoint! We both got one of the course sets and it left us full, the price was definitely worth it for quality sushi with different variety of fish and dishes. Would love to come back and try other courses as well! They also have a counter with omakase it seems.

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Came here on a Saturday evening and no wait . Nice little spot in koreatown that feel authentic! I…read moregot brussel sprouts app which was very saucy and full of flavor- great start!!! 10 skewers was just enough for me and my GF, i was satisfied with the experience!

Came in on a really cold day for lunch. It wasn't too crowded…read more Service was quick and attentive. Didn't have to wait long for service. Food also came out quickly. I got the chicken bento which was chicken, meatballs, and zucchini on skewers. Also, comes with a side salad and miso soup. Everything was very tasty and was filling for lunch. Menu also has other options including ramen, several skewer options and variety of drinks.

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Monkey Bar

(507 reviews)

3.0 mi

Monkey Bar became one of my favorite Midtown restaurants because its modern history ran almost…read moreperfectly alongside my years in New York. I arrived in 2008 with very little, and when Graydon Carter revived the restaurant in 2009, I was beginning a rise of my own, first at a large global bank and then, to my astonishment, at one of the city's most powerful investment firms. The suits were daily, the walls were gold, and the pressure was so consuming that even success could feel like a form of attrition. After a few years, I moved to a smaller firm with Southern roots, where the culture was more humane, the work gave me greater autonomy, and I produced some of the strongest results of my career, even within an industry still governed by fear, greed, and status. Inside, the red booths, low lighting, generous spacing, and hand-painted monkey murals made lunch feel ceremonial without becoming stiff. The room was timeless and handsome, with polished service, quality food, and the subtle assurance of a place where you could be proud to bring someone important. I especially remember sitting in one of those booths with two mentors, each only a few years older than I was and therefore close enough in vintage to feel relatable, trustworthy, and genuinely within reach. One had entered my life after I left the larger firm and helped me understand an earlier chapter that had also ended abruptly and, at the time, felt deeply unfair; the other had guided me through the smaller firm where I finally found a more sustainable way to work. Over that long lunch, I introduced them, we discussed several promising ideas, and for a moment my career seemed to have reached the point where relationships, experience, and opportunity were finally converging. One of those ideas consumed an extraordinary amount of my time and energy, and I believed it might become the foundation of my next chapter. Instead, the arrangement eventually turned on me, the role I thought I had earned never materialized, and the business itself sputtered. My professional life, financial footing, and pride all collapsed just as COVID was beginning. Then Monkey Bar closed in 2020, which made the ending feel almost unnervingly complete: the restaurant, the city, and the version of myself built around New York finance all went dark at once. For years, I experienced that ending as devastating and unfair; now I can see it as wisdom delivered through an unnecessarily rough process. The restaurant's later revival by a Chicago hospitality group feels fitting because it still honors tradition and ceremony while allowing the old forms to evolve into something healthier, looser, and more current. I have not been back since that lunch, but a return now would feel like visiting the museum of my past, not reclaiming a life that asked too much, gave too little, and finally lost its hold on me. Even now, I remember Monkey Bar as a great Midtown lunch in a memorable room, surrounded by the residue of old ambitions and the gratitude of having survived them. The cocktails were sharp, the service was impeccable, and the dining room carried that glamorous old New York energy without feeling trapped by it. I remain deeply fond of the place, partly for what it was and partly for what it witnessed. Some restaurants become attached to a chapter of your life, and Monkey Bar holds mine with unusual grace.

The truffle monkey bread while a total carb and calorie bomb was delicious and left a lasting…read moreimpression. It featured a crispy, sugar-glazed exterior and a soft, chewy interior, topped with truffle cheese and served with a truffle butter dip; the pairing was superb, and it tasted great both on its own and with the dip. For the main course, I ordered the miso-glazed black cod. The flavor was flawless, and while the portion was small (which was acceptable), the pool of broth accompanying it was completely unnecessary; it was inedibly salty, so what was the point of serving it? After finishing the fish, I was left with a plate full of broth, rendering the plate unusable. Plus, it was overpriced; for this dish, you're better off going to Strip House Strip House remains the undisputed king of this dish in New York. A friend ordered the chicken parmesan. It was just average. Another friend ordered the short rib stroganoff. The flavor was decent, but it was far too rich and heavy. As someone whose palate is split 50/50 between Western and Chinese cuisine, I could manage only five bites at most. If you have a palate that prefers 100% Chinese food, proceed with caution on this dish. Friends ordered sides of mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. These are dishes originally meant for low-income Americans to fill up on cheaply; there's no limit to how good they can be, but also no floor to how bad they can get. Both were on par with the average quality found in upscale restaurants. Honestly, these are two dishes I would never order myself. To sum up: the atmosphere was great. It's also hard to get a reservation; the place was packed when we had lunch at 2 PM. Aside from that monkey bread, I didn't feel like anything else justified the price or offered something you couldn't find elsewhere. I don't quite get the hype. Perhaps I just didn't order the right dishes; maybe next time I'll try the burger and the steak.

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Came here for lunch when my friend was in NYC for the day during July 4th weekend. We sat at the…read moreback bar and he had the chicken pot pie which was huge and even some other people at the bar wanted ti take a picture of it because they could not believe how big it was. I ordered the pretzel which was good. We both also had some beers and cocktails. I had the bees knees which was ok and he had some whiskey I think and we both had a beer. He had the Fraunces tavern option on tap and I had a Narragansett summer one. The bartender seemed fine and nice. Ambiance here is as it is an old tavern it sure has that feeling to it. There are many rooms and dinning options within this tavern. I have only sat at the bar area the times that I have been here.

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Shuka

Snagged a reservation for 5:30 and so glad I did! Staff was…read morekind and attentive, and made sure our little table felt comfy with the amount of food we ordered. The best thing to order is the shuka feast so you can try a little bit of everything! We deff went home feeling full and happy. Best halloumi cheese I've ever had in my life-make sure you order it!

I ordered the lamb kebab. It only comes with half a pita! You pay $30 and don't get a whole piece…read moreof pita even though one pita would be the right amount of pita for a kebab. Just give me a pita! What is that about? But okay, I ordered an extra pita, I'm still hopeful. But out of the 5 pieces of lamb in my kebab, two were *grisly*! They don't give you a sharp knife, so you kind of have to bite off pieces; but when a piece is grisly you can't tear off a piece and end up with a full piece in your mouth, chewing for many minutes around the grisly center. Everyone knows what this is like and it's to be expected in life, but NOT at a high-end restaurant where you've paid a significant margin above the average meal, and don't even get a full pita. Guys, do some QC and soul-searching - and be generous with pita.

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Chi Restaurant & Bar

Chi Restaurant offers an extensive, authentic menu that's divided out by type of food - chicken,…read morebeef, pork, vegetable, etc. Everything is also labeled for dietary restrictions. Service is very fast and they kept the water flowing (spicy dishes really are spicy!), and the portions are huge. Though you have to pay extra for white rice ($3 a bowl), the overall value was reasonable for the main dishes. The restaurant is dark and elegant inside, with a large tv over the bar that was showing sports when we were there. It had a nice ambience.

Located on the Westside behind Port authority. This un suspecting authentic Chinese restaurant sits…read morein a busy block. They have a banner for great HH specials that can only be redeemed at the bar (until next time). The space is large and modern. Suitable for big groups, date night, pre show, post showing dining. The staff is extremely friendly and attentive. The food: Soup dumplings- had a nice glisten to the outer bun. The under carriage held firm and with a delicious soup bro inside. Fish filet with ginger and scallion- nice portion size and a flavorful and clean dish. Braised pork belly- jam packed in flavor and cooked so tender from the meat to the fat. The pan fried noodle- normally a favorite in Chinese restaurants. This didn't hit its marks. There wasn't much noodles. The outer brim wasn't crispy. And it was a lot of sauce. The protein was scarce. And they had more veggies than protein. We were a table of 5 including a 6 year old. And everybody left full. And satisfied.