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Tofu Tofu

96 Bowery, New York, NY 10013
$$
Korean, Juice Bars & Smoothies, Barbeque, Korean

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Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Tofu Tofu 8.4
Greenwich Village
Tofu Tofu serves up crispy, savory tofu dishes and BBQ options in a minimalist yet vibrant atmosphere. Known for its Korean-inspired flavors and freshly prepared juices, it’s a favorite for a quick, tasty bite.
Must-Try Dishes: Korean BBQ Tofu, Tofu Bibimbap, Fresh Pressed Juices
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 8.1 Consistency: 8.5 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 7.9 Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Perfect mix of crispy tofu with Korean BBQ flavors.
Who should go: Tofu lovers seeking a quick, healthy meal.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for a quick bite.
What to order: Korean BBQ Tofu, Tofu Bibimbap, Fresh Pressed Juices
Insider tip: Order the tofu crispy for an extra crunch!
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited; plan on paid garages nearby or rideshare/public transit.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate — energetic during peak hours but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours; shorter if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — tofu-forward menu with multiple vegetarian-friendly bowls and plates.
Vegan options: Good options available — most tofu dishes can be ordered fully vegan with minor adjustments.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some rice-based bowls work, but sauces may contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something low-pressure and casual. It’s better for a quick, easy meal than a long, romantic sit-down.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations aren’t typically needed, especially for lunch or early dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes — the menu is approachable and the setting is informal, though it’s better for older kids than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Crispy tofu dishes done with Korean flavors, quick service, and lighter-feeling comfort food compared to heavier Korean BBQ spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full Korean BBQ grill experience or a long, leisurely sit-down dinner.
Tofu Tofu 8.3
Chinatown
A Chinatown-area Korean comfort spot where the rib play lands through marinated kalbi energy and tofu-soup warmth rather than smokehouse theatrics. The best experience is a tight combo order: ribs plus a bubbling stew, then get out before the room turns into full rush mode.
Must-Try Dishes: La galbi (kalbi) short ribs, Short-ribs soondubu, Bulgogi combo
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 8.6 Atmosphere: 6.6 Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Kalbi-style ribs plus tofu-soup comfort in a fast, no-drama format.
Who should go: Korean comfort seekers and rib fans
When to visit: Early evening before the peak dinner surge
What to order: La galbi combo, soondubu, one rice dish
Insider tip: Order the combo first—kitchen timing stays cleaner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in Chinatown; nearby paid garages are the safest bet after 5pm.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans and sneakers are standard.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; conversation is easy early, tighter once the room fills.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak if you arrive without a plan.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple tofu stews, vegetable sides, and rice dishes work well.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with tofu soup modifications, but confirm broth details when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Some options available, but marinades and sauces may contain gluten; ask before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure date than a romantic one—the food hits, but the room gets busy and functional.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—arrive early or off-peak for the smoothest experience; peak dinner can mean a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy Korean flavors; space is tighter and better suited to kids who can sit and eat quickly.
Best For
Better for: Fast, comforting Korean rib-and-stew combos without the price or formality of full Korean BBQ houses.
Skip if: You want tableside grilling, a long lingering meal, or a quieter, upscale dining room.