Eclectic Japanese izakaya with cheap pitchers & a lively, fun atmosphere; known for unique specials & grilled miso onigiri.
This vibrant Japanese izakaya offers a uniquely fun and lively dining experience, complete with eclectic decor and a party atmosphere. It's lauded for its extensive menu of small plates and remarkably cheap drinks, making it a popular spot for groups and students. While many rave about its energetic ambiance and budget-friendly offerings like the Grilled Miso Onigiri, a few suggest the quality isn't what it used to be.
This Japanese izakaya is known for its extensive and affordable menu, with the Grilled Miso Onigiri being a standout favorite. While praised for its unique offerings like pig brain and testicles, and for its cheap drinks, some customers have noted a decline in food quality over time. It's recommended for those looking for a fun, group-friendly dining experience with budget-friendly options.
"The Grilled Miso Onigiri is a highly recommended favorite among patrons."
Customers generally have a positive view of the restaurant, praising its lively atmosphere, affordable prices, and unique izakaya experience. However, some feel the quality has declined over the years.
Important Note
One commenter suggests the restaurant quality has declined significantly over the past 20 years. Another notes that while chazuke is available, its quality might not be great.
"Kenka is highly recommended for its very cheap beers, costing only $1.50, and pitchers for $8. The food is also described as cheap and amazing, especially when enjoyed after several beers."
Positive"After a disappointing experience at Japan Fes, the user recommends Kenka on St Marks as a better place to sample a variety of Japanese food, implying better authenticity and experience."
Positive"Kenka is listed as one of several recommended Japanese Izakaya options."
Positive"Kenka is suggested as a restaurant option."
Neutral"Says the grilled miso onigiri is their favorite thing at Kenka, which they get every time."
Positive"tiggat suggests Kenka on the Lower East Side."
Neutral"The author describes Kenka as a very fun group destination, highlighting its unique decor, large affordable izakaya menu, drinks, music, unusual specials, and cotton candy machine."
Positive"The author concurs that Kenka stands out among New York City izakayas for being particularly lively and relatively inexpensive. They also note its popularity with students, who frequent it with a heavy drinking emphasis."
Positive"The author states that Kenka is one of a kind in NYC, implying its unique appeal and irreplaceability compared to other establishments."
Positive"The author expresses that Kenka was significantly better 20 years ago. This suggests a perceived decline in the restaurant's current quality compared to its past."
Negative"The original poster, No_Cartoonist_2123, reported enjoying Kenka multiple times for its cheap beer pitchers, inexpensive food, and fun atmosphere. They are seeking recommendations for other NYC places with a similar budget range and exciting ambiance."
Positive"The commenter expresses appreciation for seeing Kenka on the user's list, calling it a lovely NYC place."
Positive"The commenter includes Kenka in a suggested itinerary, placing it after Chinatown stops and before Union Square."
Neutral"The commenter advises getting a bit tipsy before and after visiting Kenka, suggesting it's much better experienced as a 'party'."
Positive"The user included Kenka Japanese on their planned itinerary."
Positive"Kenka used to be open until 3 AM but now closes at 11 PM or midnight on weekends."
Negative"Kenka has chazuke on their menu but the quality might not be great."
Negative
