An authentic Tokyo jazz lounge experience w/ Japanese cuisine. Get ready for a vibe that transports you, but be prepared for lines.
Experience a slice of Tokyo in the heart of NYC at this Japanese izakaya and jazz club. Patrons rave about the authentic ambiance, with one user describing it as feeling like walking into a Tokyo jazz lounge. While the food receives general praise and is described as Asian-leaning, the real draw is the immersive atmosphere that transports you.
The food is described as Asian-leaning and Japanese, with mentions of sushi and izakaya-style small plates. While not the primary focus of most reviews, it's generally well-regarded. Some users have also mentioned seeing dessert dishes, like French toast, that resembled items they've had elsewhere.
"Specific dishes are not frequently highlighted, but the overall cuisine is Japanese izakaya style. The experience itself, including the jazz music and atmosphere, is what draws most patrons."
Customers generally have a positive sentiment towards the restaurant, praising its authentic Tokyo jazz lounge atmosphere and Japanese cuisine. However, a significant recurring theme is the long wait times, even on weeknights.
Important Note
The most significant caveat is the consistently long wait times, even on weekdays. It's advised to arrive early or consider off-peak times. The restaurant may also have specific closing dates, as noted around the Christmas holiday period.
"The user recalls that Tomi Jazz Bar did not have waits between 2016-2018 and wonders when it became so popular."
Neutral"The user suggests that Tomi Jazz Bar should start taking reservations to manage the wait times."
Neutral"The user lives near Tomi Jazz Bar and used to frequent it, but believes the wait is no longer worth it if it exceeds 15 minutes."
Negative"The wait at Tomi Jazz Bar is a constant barrage of tourists. The best times are Sunday-Tuesday for the late show, but other venues are recommended as alternatives."
Negative"The user is asking for recommendations for chill but viby places near Grand Central for casual work drinks, as they are concerned about the wait at Tomi Jazz Bar."
Neutral"The wait to get into Tomi Jazz Bar is still crazy and has been for the past few years. It's recommended to get there early at opening or go to a nearby bar."
Negative"Even on a Tuesday, there was a 40-minute wait to get into Tomi Jazz Bar."
Negative"The original poster acknowledged that Tomi Jazz is closed but mentioned they have found an option for Christmas Day and will consider visiting Tomi Jazz on a future trip."
Neutral"Tomi Jazz is noted to be closed from December 25th to January 3rd."
Negative"The commenter offered to get tickets for the original poster's family to Smalls and Mezzrow after they confirmed their arrival date, suggesting they focus on restaurants in the West Village."
Positive"The original poster decided to rearrange plans to potentially visit Tomi Jazz on the 24th, noting its menu is Asian-leaning, and seeking an alternative for Christmas Day."
Neutral"The commenter offered tickets to Smalls and Mezzrow for Christmas shows after learning the original poster was arriving on 12/24, suggesting these as classic local jazz spots."
Positive"Tomi Jazz is suggested as a possible option for Christmas Eve, noting a $10 cover charge and first-come, first-served seating, which could be enjoyable for the original poster's daughter."
Positive"Regarding seating at Tomi Jazz, if you arrive a little before 7pm or 8:30pm, you should be able to get a seat without issue."
Neutral"The commenter suggests visiting "No Work Allowed" instead, as it's next door with no line, better music, and a better vibe. They describe Tomi Jazz as very packed and not cozy or quaint, while "No Work Allowed" offers a more intimate feel, though it can still be loud due to the jazz."
Negative"Bar Tomiño is recommended as a great spot for a Spanish-style lunch."
Positive"Tomi Jazz previously offered an experience that felt like walking into a Tokyo jazz lounge."
Positive"This restaurant is listed as a repeat spot."
Positive"The commenter notes that Tomi Jazz can have long lines but is a cool NYC experience."
Positive"Tomi Jazz is mentioned, with a note about potential lines."
Positive
