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Okonomi
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Okonomi
8.6
Okonomi is a tiny Japanese spot in East Williamsburg known for its traditional ichiju-sansai breakfast sets by day and rich, focused ramen bowls at night. Locals treat it as a destination for carefully grilled fish, seasonal sides, and a quietly serious approach to simple Japanese cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ichiju Sansai breakfast set, Yakizakana grilled fish set, Yuji shoyu ramen
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Traditional Japanese breakfast and focused ramen served in a tiny, serene room.
Who should go: Japan-obsessed diners who appreciate precise, minimalist cooking.
When to visit: Mornings for calm breakfast, evenings for intimate ramen service.
What to order: Ichiju Sansai set, grilled mackerel, a Yuji ramen bowl.
Insider tip: Reservations or early arrivals are key; the room is very small.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only and very limited; expect to circle, especially after 6pm. Rideshare is the easiest option.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and a nice top fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—quiet enough for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation due to the very small room
Weekday lunch: 10–25 minutes, occasionally none if you arrive early
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-focused small plates and customizable breakfast sides.
Vegan options: Limited—possible to piece together a light meal from sides, but not fully vegan-forward.
Gluten-free options: Limited—grilled fish and some sides work, but ramen and sauces often contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's intimate, calm, and conversation-friendly, ideal for a thoughtful, low-pressure first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but it’s risky during peak hours. Arrive right at opening for the best chance without a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—space is tight, the vibe is quiet, and there’s no kids menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Japanese breakfast sets, grilled fish, and a calm, minimalist dining experience that feels distinctly Kyoto-inspired.
Skip if: You want fast service, large portions, or a lively atmosphere—this is slow, quiet, and intentionally restrained.
Okonomi
8.8
A Japanese seafood spot offering a serene omakase experience with seasonal seafood prepared with precise techniques.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase, Saba, Uni
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Seasonal seafood served in a calm, minimalist space.
Who should go: Couples and seafood aficionados seeking a quiet, intimate dinner.
When to visit: Evenings for a relaxed yet elevated dining experience.
What to order: Omakase, Saba, Uni.
Insider tip: Make a reservation well in advance—seats fill up fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be difficult to find, especially after 6pm. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but lean dressy for an elevated experience.
Noise level: Quiet - perfect for conversation, with a serene, minimalist ambiance.
Weekend wait: Expect a 45-60 minute wait without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited options, but there are a few dishes available for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Very limited - only a couple of vegan-friendly dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes - the restaurant offers gluten-free options, and they use a separate prep area to ensure safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, this is an ideal spot for a first date due to its intimate, quiet atmosphere and high-quality seafood. The omakase experience also provides a unique opportunity for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's not recommended, especially on weekends, as seats fill up quickly. However, you can try walking in during weekday lunch hours for a chance at a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The restaurant is more geared towards adults, especially those seeking a quiet, elevated dining experience. It's best suited for couples or seafood enthusiasts rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Okonomi excels in providing a quiet, intimate omakase experience with seasonal, expertly prepared seafood. It stands out for those looking for a calm, elegant evening.
Skip if: If you're looking for a lively atmosphere, a large menu with more variety, or a more casual setting, Okonomi may not be the right fit. Consider alternatives like a vibrant izakaya or a seafood restaurant with a broader menu.