Behind a door at Walter’s, this elegant Japanese izakaya serves sophisticated dishes & cocktails.
Menu — Karasu
KARASU MENU Raw Oysters 4 ea Yuzu Scallion Mignonette (gf) Hamachi 21 Pickled Ginger, Ponzu, Negi (gf) Tuna Tataki 22 Kizami Wasabi, Onion, Yuzu Shoyu (gf)
Malina
Hidden within another restaurant, this speakeasy izakaya offers a thoughtful, seasonal menu crafted by a superstar chef who began his career in Tokyo. Each dish is beautifully and deliciously prepared, complemented perfectly by cocktails mixed by their amazing bartender. The experience of おもてなし(omotenashi; Japanese hospitality) at this spot is so apparent that by the time we left, my two dinner companions had already declared they’d become regulars, eager to bring their clients next time. I cannot wait to be back next time.
… moreKamy Chong
Really cool space behind the restaurant Walters. Dark, vibey interior which really complimented the food and drinks.
Drinks were delicious, creative, and well organized. They had a wide offering of drinks and cocktails which work perfectly with the menu.
The food was so very delicious. Prepared perfectly with authentic Japanese flavors. Really enjoyed the Wagyu tartar and the winter bean salad. The unagi don was also outstanding.
Perfect for an intimate date, will be back when the occasion calls for it.
… morestephen morrison
Celebrated our anniversary here. Was perfect for us. We were looking for a place that had some elegant food without the pomp of an overly serious stuffy tasting menu place and this was exactly it. The service was great- pleasant without being overbearing. I have no idea what the negative reviews were talking about regarding service. Atmosphere wasn’t loud and overwhelming like many nyc restaurants. The food was great and cocktails were absolutely delicious. Highly recommended. Absolutely will go again!!
… moreMahadji Bahi
Tucked behind Walter’s, this moody little Japanese spot is seriously special. The interior is stylish and intimate, with a gorgeous bar and super friendly staff that make you feel right at home.
We sat at the bar and watched the magic happen, the sashimi was fresh and beautifully presented, and everything had that quiet confidence of a place that knows it’s good.
… moreBianca R
Great vibes. Intimate, cozy japanese speakeasy. Perfect for a date night. The karaage chicken is top notch, as well as the tonkatsu. Drinks are inventive and delicious too. We had a great time and would definitely come back! Shout out to our servers and thank you for a lovely night!
… moreMaria Iliakova
Grab the perched booth and enjoy a lovely view of the bar and rest of the place. The scallops, hamachi, ikura don, & black cod are works of art and taste. The sake & Japanese whiskey options rank some of the best in the area. Go, relax and enjoy the view!
… moreRob Jones
Our family followed this chef from his Michelin star recognition in Manhattan, so our expectations were high — and were greatly exceeded. Walking into this cozy Japanese speakeasy on the other side of an unmarked door inside neighbor joint Walter’s feels like walking into the Batcave through the grandfather clock in stately Wayne Manor.
Hurry before the secret is out.
Hamachi, tataki, oysters — get it all. The chef is a genius, the bartender is a gift to humanity.
… moreClaire Johnson
I had one night in Brooklyn and asked ChatGPT to create an itinerary for my day. For dinner, it suggested Karasu. Winner. It’s located at the back door of Walter’s just past the WC. It’s dimly lit and has a nice, chill mood. There was 60s and 70s R&B playing. I was there early so I ordered from the HH menu and sat at the bar. I had a glass of Oregon Pinot Noir paired with their Karasu burger (with yuzu garlic mayo, mizuna and sake braised onion) and furikake fries. Both had a nice, spicy kick to them. A delicious blend of all three. I’d highly recommend a visit especially if you show up at Walter’s with a long wait.
… moreSachit Sinha
Great food and amazing cocktails — highly recommend! We got the salmon twice; it was that good.
The only thing that dampened our experience was the hostess’s unfriendliness. She could have been more welcoming and didn’t need to remind us twice about giving up the table when the next reservation hadn’t even arrived. When we asked about getting another drink, the staff seemed reluctant to let us stay, even though the next group wasn’t there yet.
… moreCY KT
They are kinda speakeasy style, located behind another restaurant. I’ve been here a couple of times already and always had a great time. Whether it’s for drinks with small dishes or a full dinner, the service and the quality of food and drinks have never been disappointing. The atmosphere was comfortable with a touch of intimacy, plus some Japanese accent, which I absolutely love it.
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