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Yakiniku Gen
Master Critic Review
Yakiniku Gen
7.8
Yakiniku Gen is a long-running Japanese BBQ restaurant in Midtown East, serving classic yakiniku cuts, wagyu-focused platters, and bento sets in a modest, grill-centered dining room. Diners come for carefully sliced meats, A5 wagyu touches, and a more traditional yakiniku experience than the flashier KBBQ spots nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
A5 Wagyu Sushi, Jo-Yakiniku Bento, Nakaochi Kalbi (rib finger)
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A seasoned Japanese BBQ spot focused on premium wagyu and classic yakiniku cuts.
Who should go: Carnivores who appreciate classic yakiniku and wagyu.
When to visit: Evenings for leisurely grill sessions with friends.
What to order: A5 Wagyu Sushi, Jo-Yakiniku Bento, Nakaochi Kalbi.
Insider tip: Reserve and request a grill table away from the entry for less traffic.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Midtown East; expect difficulty during peak hours. Nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but most diners lean slightly polished for evening visits.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is comfortable, but grill sizzles and table chatter create steady background noise.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, depending on peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are usually seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—mostly sides such as salads, rice, and a few vegetable grill items.
Vegan options: Very limited—only simple sides qualify; no dedicated entrées.
Gluten-free options: Possible with careful ordering; many meats are naturally gluten-free, but marinades and sauces may contain soy. Best to request plain seasoning.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—grill-at-the-table interaction and wagyu-focused plates make it engaging, but expect some smoke and sizzle. Great for couples who enjoy food-centric dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially on weekdays, but prime dinner hours fill up. Reservations are recommended for groups or weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally suitable for older kids or teens who can handle grill safety. No specialized children’s menu, and the environment skews adult-focused.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Japanese yakiniku cuts, restrained wagyu presentations, and a quieter, more classic experience than flashier KBBQ spots nearby.
Skip if: You want an all-you-can-eat format, high-energy KBBQ, or extensive vegetarian options.