TLDR
Soul-warming stamina broths and artisanal soba that redefine Japanese comfort food. A local favorite for casual, flavor-forward dining.
Instagram Posts References
Cocoron is a restaurant located in the Lower East Side, specializing in stamina broth and comfort dishes. The image showcases a steaming bowl of broth with meat and scallions, alongside a separate dish of soba noodles. The caption describes it as a 'soul-warming stamina broth and a go-to comfort dish,' suggesting a hearty and satisfying meal that is a favorite for diners.
Details
Known for its soul-warming Japanese comfort food, this neighborhood spot specializes in hearty stamina broths and artisanal soba [1]. While many diners praise its unique flavors and welcoming atmosphere, others have noted concerns regarding recurring health ratings [2]. It remains a highly regarded casual go-to for many, though it may not suit those seeking an upscale dining experience [3].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on Japanese comfort dishes, with the 'Mera Mera' dipping soba and stamina broths standing out as exceptional favorites [1], [4], [6]. The restaurant is frequently highlighted for its ability to cater to both vegan and non-vegan diners [3], with the vegan 'mera mera' ramen receiving specific acclaim [2].
Caveats
The restaurant is cash-only and maintains a very casual environment, which some diners find unsuitable for formal or 'smart casual' date nights [5]. Additionally, some patrons have expressed hesitation due to historical health rating reports [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About COCORON
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For Restaurants Under 100 In Manhattan
"Recommended as being similar to the user's previously liked list."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"Recommends Cocoron, a soba spot near Delancy and Chrystie, where fresh ginger can be added to dishes. The 'Mera Mera' warm soup is highlighted as amazing."
PositiveFrom post: Lower East Side Dinner Before Attaboy
"This user further elaborates on why Cocoron is not a good fit, stating it's a casual, cash-only spot and that better Japanese options exist on the LES that better match the OP's request for vibe and cuisine."
NegativeFrom post: Lower East Side Dinner Before Attaboy
"In response to criticism, this user explains that Cocoron was suggested as a backup plan for situations where preferred restaurants have long wait times, acknowledging it's more casual."
NeutralFrom post: Lower East Side Dinner Before Attaboy
"This user criticizes the suggestion of Cocoron, arguing it's too casual and not suitable for the 'smart casual, fun and slightly sexy date night' requested by the original poster."
NegativeFrom post: Lower East Side Dinner Before Attaboy
"Cocoron is suggested as a backup plan, specifically mentioning their Mera Mera Dip Soba, and is considered a solid alternative if other restaurant wait times are too long."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Spot For A Snow Day In Nyc
"Cocoron is recommended as a go-to spot for a snow day."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Healthy And Slightly Bland Food
"Recommended for homemade Japanese soba."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For New Recommendations For Noodle Dishes
"The user is looking for recommendations for noodle dishes with peanut or sesame sauce and mentioned Cocoron's mera mera soba as something they've had."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For A Good Vegetable Ramen In Manhattan
"As a vegan, this user seconded the recommendations for several ramen places, and while they haven't been to Cocoron in a while, they stated they would 'risk it'."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For A Good Vegetable Ramen In Manhattan
"The user enjoyed Cocoron but noted its repeated failing health ratings, making them hesitant to return."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For A Good Vegetable Ramen In Manhattan
"Cocoron was briefly recommended as a ramen place."
PositiveFrom post: Best Vegan Ramen Nyc
"This user highly recommended the vegan 'mera mera' ramen from Cocoron, stating it is very good."
PositiveFrom post: Birthday Date Dinner Spot Les
"Cocoron was listed as one of several Asian cuisine options available in the area."
NeutralFrom post: Favorite Ramen In Manhattan
"This commenter loved Cocoron's previous shop in Nolita, particularly their old Mera Mera recipe with ginger, rayu oil, and shiitake mushrooms."
PositiveFrom post: Favorite Ramen In Manhattan
"The commenter recommends Cocoron."
PositiveFrom post: Reccomendations And Thoughts
"In response to a user asking to choose between Raku and Cocoron, this user stated they personally prefer Cocoron. They added that if looking for more Japanese food options, Hakata Ton Ton in Chinatown offers great Japanese hot pot (best for 2+ people)."
PositiveFrom post: Good Food For Someone With Wheat And Rice Allergy
"Cocoron was recommended as a lovely soba restaurant. This suggestion was made after clarifying that the friend can eat buckwheat."
PositiveFrom post: Am I On The Right Track
"The commenter humorously corrected the restaurant name to Cocoron, distinguishing it from Corcoran, which is for apartments."
NeutralFrom post: Am I On The Right Track
"The commenter recommended Cucoroon for noodles."
Positive