Authentic Tokyo-style izakaya w/ interactive chefs & incredibly fresh sashimi. Intimate, dim-lit spot perfect for a unique dining spectacle.
Carlo Mantuano reviews Yopparai, a Japanese restaurant on the LES, praising its kotatsu tables for dates and standouts like chirashi and shabu-shabu, while noting the high price point.
Experience an authentic Japanese izakaya on the Lower East Side, transporting you straight to Tokyo. This intimate spot offers an interactive dining experience with chefs preparing dishes at a counter, reminiscent of a live cooking show. The food, especially the sashimi and sushi, is incredibly fresh, with many dishes designed for audience engagement.
This Japanese izakaya offers a highly authentic experience with incredibly fresh sashimi and sushi that melt in your mouth. Highlights include a delightful tempura assortment, perfectly cooked scallops (Hotate Butter), and a comforting Oden 5 Kinds. The Agedashi Tofu is noted for its custardy texture and rich sauce, while the Chawanmushi (Ikura) provides a smooth steamed egg custard topped with salmon roe. Interactive dishes and the Wagyu Beef over Rice Set are also recommended.
"Standouts include the Tekka Chirashi, Agedashi Tofu, and Shrimp Tempura Roll, all praised for their preparation and flavor. The Hotate Butter and Oden 5 Kinds are also highly recommended for their authentic taste."
Customers overwhelmingly praise the authentic Japanese izakaya experience, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients and the interactive dining spectacle. The intimate atmosphere is also frequently mentioned as a positive aspect.
Important Note
The dining experience can become expensive, with sashimi sets often costing over $50 and overall bills potentially reaching $80 per person.
"The user is looking for recommendations for noodle dishes with peanut or sesame sauce and mentioned Yopparai's hiyashi chuka (summer special) as something they've had."
Neutral"This user suggested Yopparai as a potential option for yakitori, but cautioned that it might have fusion elements."
Neutral"Yopparai is suggested as a good choice for an authentic izakaya experience."
Positive
