
Third-generation sushi chef Kunihide “Nakaji” Nakajima brings his legacy to the Bowery with his debut namesake restaurant. The dual-concept space – tucked away in the Canal Arcade – features authentic edomae-style sushi omakase, rare Japanese whiskies, and craft cocktails in a sleek setting.
Intimate, wood-accented venue for curated omakase sushi meals served at a chef’s counter.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 48 Bowery, New York, NY 10013
Phone: (646) 478-8282
Website: http://www.nakajinyc.com/
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Order and Reservations
Reservations: nakajinyc.comresy.com
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Reviews
The quality of the ingredients is top-notch. Especially the various shellfish. Every dish showcases the freshness and vibrant flavors of the season.
The decor is tastefully done, with a special emphasis on the stunning flower arrangements. A specialist visits regularly to refresh them in creative ways, making each visit slightly different and adding a unique touch to the ambiance.
Food had highs and lows. Pickled ginger was sliced unevenly by chef in large chunks. The unagi in the soup had many bones to chew through and was overcooked. Tamago was unrefined.
Uni, salmon roe, and the bluefin tuna jawline were delicious, and the rice and yuzu accompanying many of the pieces were great.
Despite attracting a spread of solo diners, couples, and small groups, you become one larger group over the course of the meal. I felt completely entranced during the 2+ hour dining experience and pleasantly sated at the end.
Everyone at the establishment was kind, attentive, and totally attuned to each client‘s vibe (more casual with some and more stoic with others).
My Favorites
• Japanese King Salmon
• Rosy Sea Bass
Loved this place!
Don’t get me wrong, the service was above average and attentive. But that isn’t the quality bar that must be met for this price. It felt like “trainee interns” — not seasoned vets of Four Seasons — but that is the level it needs to be at this price point. Again, service was overall on point, knowledgeable, pleasant, etc — but not remarkable in any way, as it needs to be at this level.
And regarding quality, as an example, I’d expect each slice of ginger to be sliced in an intentionally perfectly consistent way, not haphazardly sliced and uneven. To some, that may sound like not a “big deal” but it serves as an easily understood example of the overall general lack of craft in terms of fit and finish in every course that was served — a lack of elegance, craft and care that you should absolutely expect at this price point, especially at the best Japanese sushi counters, and which is, sadly, lacking at Nakaji. 職人じゃねぇ高すぎ
There are plenty of sushi counter experiences at much lower prices that have “very good” sushi, but again, you’re paying a premium here for an outstanding, memorable and special experience that is a cut above. Nakaji simply doesn’t live up to that higher standard. There is no “wow factor” here, sadly, other than the price. The first dish was a teacup portion of unremarkable udon. “interesting, I guess this is a slow build to a crescendo later, how exciting,” we thought. Nope.
Keep in mind, I’ve paid more for cuisine at this tier and walked away feeling it was worth every penny, and I’ve experienced the spontaneous bouts of joy and gratitude that such tables & counters routinely inspire. And I’ve eaten at places at a fraction of the price that didn’t offer the atmosphere, but whose passionate chefs have quite obviously endeavored to create something exceptional.
At this price point, I have had meals that are still in my memory and have made my life richer, for which I felt lucky to have experienced — high art practiced by talent and organizations operating at a level that is rare. Nakaji offers none of that. I do not recommend.
Nakaji is the epitome of overrated. Perhaps for good reason: Its reputation and high ratings are based on years of very good service at much lower prices (they’ve recently raised prices significantly). Though it’s hard to imagine even at half the price it would be above a 4-star.
Value was 1 star, quality was 3 at best. Avoid.
2 dinners (one of us got the uni upgrade), no drinks, no tea (costs extra!), and default tip displayed on the machine = $761.25