Intimate Japanese Kaiseki w/ Polish twists, former EMP chef. Non-profit w/ social impact. A splurge worth it.
Experience a unique culinary journey at this Japanese Kaiseki restaurant, where traditional techniques meet Polish influences. Chef Rafal Maslankiewicz, formerly of Masa and Eleven Madison Park, crafts an exquisite 12-course tasting menu that begins in a serene tea garden. Beyond its exceptional food, the restaurant operates as a non-profit, dedicating all profits to combating food insecurity.
This Japanese Kaiseki restaurant offers an elevated dining experience with a unique Polish twist. Standout dishes include the legendary Takamori Wagyu Beef, an exclusive Kobe Beef meal, and creative preparations of seafood like scallops and uni. The tasting menu, priced at $185, is highly recommended, with a drink pairing available for an additional $100. While generally receiving stellar reviews, some feedback suggests it's an expensive experience best suited for special occasions.
"The tasting menu is highly recommended, with specific mentions of the Takamori Wagyu Beef upgrade and the unique Knedle-Mochi dessert. The Toro Caviar Supplement is also noted as being well worth the extra cost."
Customers rave about the exceptional and creative tasting menu, with many considering it a memorable splurge. The unique blend of Japanese and Polish influences, combined with the restaurant's non-profit mission, garners significant praise.
Important Note
While highly praised, Ikigai is described as a splurge and is noted to be expensive.
"The commenter, likely affiliated with Ikigai, confirms that the drink pairing is $100."
Positive"Ikigai in Fort Greene offers an 18-course meal for $185, with a drink pairing available for an additional $100."
Positive"The commenter attended a birthday dinner at Ikigai, possibly the one mentioned by the restaurant, and had a great time, aside from some lighthearted "Black & White Cookie slander.""
Positive"In response to a user's interest in the menu, a representative provided details on Ikigai's current menu items, including bread, potatoes, unagi, beef upgrade option, kinmedai, kegani, and tamagoyaki. They also mentioned a surprise course and birthday celebration, with the meal costing $185/person."
Positive"A representative from Ikigai responded to a birthday inquiry, offering details about their menu and group reservation policies, stating they treat birthdays like large group reservations and do not charge buyout fees for groups of 12."
Positive"The commenter finds Ikigai unique, mentioning that their food at an event featured fun twists on Kaiseki. They are unsure how the full menu compares but noted the restaurant donates proceeds to a good cause."
Positive"This commenter suggested Ikigai as a potential new addition to receive a Michelin star."
Positive"The restaurant Ikigai states that they are able to accommodate any dietary restrictions, with the sole exception of vegan diets."
Positive"A user named "Dan_at_Ikigai" responded with a praying hands emoji, likely acknowledging the recommendation of Ikigai."
Neutral"The commenter suggests Ikigai as a recommendation that fits the budget, including taxes and tips."
Neutral"The user simply listed Ikigai as a recommendation without further details."
Neutral"The user simply listed Ikigai as a recommendation without further details."
Neutral"User described Ikigai in Fort Greene as a hidden gem; very expensive but worth it for a splurge. It offers Japanese Omakase."
Positive"Ikigai blew the author away and they still think about how amazing it was six months later."
Positive"Author listed Ikigai in Brooklyn, a non-profit Japanese kaiseki restaurant by a Polish chef, as a recommendation."
Neutral"Our Executive Chef at Ikigai, Rafal, designed the menu at Nix before he opened Ikigai. Vegetarians love his vegetarian menu"
Positive"Ikigai’s vegan tasting"
Positive
