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Kinjo
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Kinjo
8.9
Kinjo is a 14-seat Dumbo omakase and cocktail bar tucked under the Manhattan Bridge, offering a seasonal tasting menu that leans modern while still honoring classic nigiri craft. It feels like a special-occasion counter, but one that’s slightly more accessible in price and attitude than Manhattan’s flashiest omakase rooms.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal omakase nigiri progression, Signature cooked small plate from the current menu, Uni or toro course when available
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 9
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Intimate omakase counter with a focused seasonal menu and serious cocktails in a dramatic Dumbo space.
Who should go: Omakase seekers wanting a special night without Midtown stiffness.
When to visit: Later evening seatings to enjoy the bar and slower pacing.
What to order: Full omakase, plus any supplemental toro or uni course offered.
Insider tip: Reserve counter seats rather than tables—the interaction with the chef is a big part of the experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is extremely limited in Dumbo, especially after 6pm. Nearby paid garages on Front Street and Jay Street are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy. You’ll see everything from sharp casual date-night outfits to full cocktail attire, but flip-flops and athleisure feel out of place.
Noise level: Low to moderate — quiet enough for easy conversation, with some ambient bar energy during peak seatings.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins usually face a full-booked night or 45–90 minute waits if there’s a last-minute cancellation.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — omakase service is typically dinner-only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — omakase is seafood-focused, but chefs can usually substitute a few vegetable courses with advance notice.
Vegan options: Very limited — not recommended for strict vegan diners unless arranged well ahead of time.
Gluten-free options: Yes with modifications — most nigiri can be prepared gluten-free if soy sauce is swapped; notify the staff in advance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you want something memorable and intimate. The counter setup creates built-in conversation, but it’s best for couples who enjoy focused dining and aren’t shy about close quarters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends. Weeknights occasionally have short-notice openings at the bar, but it’s safest to book ahead — especially for prime 7–8pm seatings.
Is it kid-friendly? No. The omakase format, tight seating, and pacing are designed for adults and special-occasion diners rather than families with children.
Best For
Better for: More intimate, relaxed, and cocktail-forward than larger, ultra-formal Manhattan omakase counters, with a slightly more approachable price point for its quality level.
Skip if: If you want à la carte sushi, a lively group scene, or a lower-cost sushi night. This is best reserved for omakase-focused experiences and special occasions.
Kinjo
8.7
Kinjo is a 14-seat omakase counter and cocktail lounge tucked under the Manhattan Bridge, offering a seasonal 11-course sushi tasting and a separate bar menu of small plates and highball-style cocktails. Opened in 2024 in a converted torpedo factory, it’s quickly become a Dumbo go-to for sub-$100 omakase that feels more luxe than its price tag suggests.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro and Caviar Nigiri, Hokkaido Scallop Crudo, Duck Donburi
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: An intimate omakase-and-cocktail bar in a dramatic industrial space, delivering an 11-course tasting that feels like a higher-priced experience.
Who should go: Sushi lovers chasing a serious, design-forward omakase without Midtown formality.
When to visit: Later evening seatings for slower pacing and time at the cocktail bar.
What to order: Full omakase, plus toro and caviar, Hokkaido scallop, and any seasonal uni course.
Insider tip: If omakase slots are booked, you can still sample the kitchen at the bar with cocktails and à la carte bites.