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Hirohisa
Master Critic Review
Hirohisa
8.9
Since 2013, chef Hirohisa Hayashi’s Michelin-starred kappo counter has quietly served seasonal multi-course menus that lean into kaiseki-style technique rather than sushi. The serene, low-lit room and small dining counter make it one of SoHo’s most refined Japanese experiences for guests willing to invest in a long, carefully paced dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Corn and egg flan with uni, Roasted duck salad, Grilled Wagyu beef course
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Michelin-starred kappo dining with intimate counter service and seasonally driven courses.
Who should go: Serious Japanese diners seeking quiet, ceremonious tasting menus.
When to visit: Prime dinner seatings for the full multi-course kappo experience.
What to order: Chef’s tasting, seasonal uni dish, grilled Wagyu course.
Insider tip: Book counter seats to watch Chef Hayashi’s plating up close.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in this part of SoHo; expect metered spots to be scarce after 6pm. No valet service—paid garages on Thompson St. and West Broadway are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning refined; dark denim is acceptable but most guests opt for elevated attire suitable for a Michelin-star tasting menu.
Noise level: Low—the intimate counter and small dining room allow for clear conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins are rarely accommodated and waits, if accepted, can exceed 60 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Hirohisa serves dinner only, with seatings tightly scheduled.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited; the kitchen can adjust some courses but the tasting format includes seafood prominently.
Vegan options: Very limited; kaiseki- and kappo-style menus rely heavily on seafood broths and preparations.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance notice; some sauces and dashi require modification, but the team is accustomed to accommodating gluten-sensitive diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you want a serene, high-end experience that encourages conversation. The intimacy and formality suit thoughtful dates more than casual meetups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely; the counter has very limited seats and books out in advance. Call day-of for cancellations, but expect to need a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the long, quiet tasting format is best suited for adults and older teens familiar with fine dining. No children’s menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Seasonal kappo-style tasting menus, refined pacing, and a calm counter experience rarely matched in SoHo’s Japanese dining scene.
Skip if: You want sushi-focused menus, quicker meals, or à la carte flexibility—choose a sushi bar or casual izakaya instead.