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Kanpai Sushi Lounge
Master Critic Review
Kanpai Sushi Lounge
8.6
Hotel Nikko’s sleek sushi lounge pairs premium sashimi and makimono with rare sake and Japanese whisky in a polished room just off Union Square. Service is dialed-in and the setting works for dressed-up dates or pre-show dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bluefin nigiri flight, Assorted sashimi platter, Wagyu tataki
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Refined hotel lounge serving premium sushi, sake, and whisky.
Who should go: Couples and small groups seeking upscale sushi
When to visit: Evenings before or after Union Square shows
What to order: Bluefin nigiri flight, sashimi platter, wagyu tataki
Insider tip: Ask for a lounge-side booth for a quieter, more intimate feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel Nikko offers valet parking (around $15–$20 with restaurant validation); nearby street parking is limited and fills quickly in the evening.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—blazers, dresses, and polished attire fit the Union Square vibe; jeans are fine if styled well.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are comfortable, though the lounge energy and background music add buzz.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; booking ahead is strongly advised.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; evenings only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, salads, and tofu dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited—avocado/cucumber rolls and seaweed salad, but not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many sushi and sashimi options are naturally gluten-free; tamari can be provided on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The sleek setting, attentive service, and intimate lounge booths create a polished but approachable atmosphere ideal for first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights, but weekends and pre-show hours often fill; walk-ins may face long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—this is more of a date-night or adult social spot. Families with older teens could be fine, but there are no kid-specific menus or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Elevated sushi and rare sake pairings in a chic hotel setting; perfect for dressy occasions and Instagram-worthy moments.
Skip if: You’re seeking casual, budget sushi or a family-friendly environment—this is geared toward upscale date nights and social dining.