TLDR
Authentic, affordable Japanese small plates in a Tokyo-inspired izakaya. Consistently high quality and perfectly situated for a casual meal near transit hubs.
Instagram Posts References
The post features two distinct Japanese dishes: a chirashi bowl and an unagi dish. The chirashi bowl is presented with a variety of fresh sashimi, including tuna, salmon, and what appears to be yellowtail, arranged over rice and topped with ikura (salmon roe) and a raw egg yolk. The unagi dish consists of grilled eel served over rice with tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and pickled daikon. The presentation of both dishes is appealing, suggesting a focus on quality ingredients and careful preparation.
Details
This bustling Japanese izakaya offers a reliable and authentic taste of Tokyo, making it a favorite for both casual lunches and special occasions [1], [2]. Known for its consistent quality and approachable price point, the menu features a variety of shareable small plates that satisfy locals and visitors alike [3], [4]. While the food is highly praised, diners should be aware that the restaurant does not provide Wi-Fi, which may be a drawback for those seeking a space to work during a meal [5].
Food Overview
Specializing in Japanese izakaya-style fare, the kitchen excels at shareable plates including grilled mackerel, yakitori skewers, and okonomiyaki [7], [8], [9]. The standout dish is widely considered to be the creamy kimchi udon, which earns high praise for its unique flavor profile [5]. Fresh sashimi and chirashi bowls are also noted for their high-quality presentation and ingredients [10].
Highlights / Recommended
"The creamy kimchi udon is a highly recommended signature dish, while the softshell crab rolls, grilled mackerel, and chirashi bowls also receive frequent praise [5], [10]."
Customer Sentiment
Patrons consistently rave about the high quality and affordability of the food, often citing the restaurant as a top-tier choice in its price range [4], [6]. Feedback is overwhelmingly positive regarding the atmosphere and consistency, though some guests find the absence of Wi-Fi inconvenient for midday dining [5].
Caveats
The restaurant does not offer Wi-Fi, which some patrons find inconvenient if they are looking to use their devices during a lunch break [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MEW
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Wheres The Good Food In Midtown Thats Not 50 And
"Described as great, affordable, and consistent, specifically highlighting the lunch specials."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Restaurants Under 100 In Manhattan
"Included in a list of recommended restaurants."
PositiveFrom post: Japanese Style Bars With Cheap Drinks In The City
"Izakaya Mew is listed as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Is There Anything That Compares To The Creamy
"This user also expresses love for Izakaya Mew but notes the lack of Wi-Fi, which they find inconvenient for a lunch spot where they might want to 'doomscroll'."
PositiveFrom post: Is There Anything That Compares To The Creamy
"The original poster is asking for recommendations for dishes similar to Izakaya Mew's creamy kimchi udon, as they are a big fan but don't live near Ktown. They also praise Izakaya Mew for its consistency and amazing food."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"The user is planning a trip to NYC and included Izakaya Mew on their list of potential restaurants to visit."
NeutralFrom post: Recommendations
"This user suggested Izakaya Mew as an example of an Izakaya (Japanese tapas bar) in NYC, noting that they offer a variety of shareable small plates and are suitable for families with teenagers."
PositiveFrom post: What Are Your Favorite Midrange Price Japanese
"The original poster mentioned Izakaya Mew as a restaurant they really liked."
PositiveFrom post: Carbonara Udon
"This user mentioned izakaya mew has a 'kimchi cream udon' that they tried."
NeutralFrom post: Husband Is Corporate Attorney Originally From New
"Izakaya Mew is mentioned as an example of an izakaya in NYC, described as easier and more affordable."
PositiveFrom post: Japanese Restaurant For Picky Eater
"Izakaya Mew is mentioned as a dining option."
NeutralFrom post: Update Needed Best Okonomikaki In The City
"This commenter found Izakaya MEW to be pretty good in terms of both taste and price for okonomiyaki, describing it as a solid general spot. They also speculated that many izakayas might reheat okonomiyaki from frozen due to practicality in a busy NYC kitchen."
PositiveFrom post: Quick Lunch In Penn Station Area
"Izakaya Mew is listed as a dining option near Penn Station."
PositiveFrom post: Quick Lunch In Penn Station Area
"Izakaya Mew is mentioned as being open for lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Simple And Casual Izakaya Yakitori Spot
"This user loves Izakaya MEW, calling it their favorite Japanese restaurant in the two-dollar-sign price range."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Some Good Meat Skewer Places Yakitori
"Mew, an Izakaya, is mentioned as a place that typically includes yakitori on its menu. It's grouped with other casual skewer options."
PositiveFrom post: Best Mackerel
"This user states that the grilled mackerel at Izakaya Mew is quite nice."
PositiveFrom post: Best Vintage Style Cake
"This is an automated moderation message regarding the user's post."
NeutralFrom post: Missing Japan
"This izakaya is recommended among other good suggestions."
PositiveFrom post: Missing Japan
"This izakaya is recommended for those missing Japan."
Positive