Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant

- 41 W 33rd St 1st floor, New York, NY 10001

New York City is a global culinary hub, and among its many diverse neighborhoods, Koreatown stands out as a destination for fantastic food. Tucked away on W 33rd Street, Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant offers a compelling escape into the world of authentic Japanese izakaya, or small plates dining. This is a place that promises more than just a meal; it's a sensory experience built on a fun atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and a menu that caters to a wide variety of tastes. From perfectly grilled skewers to expertly prepared sushi and other traditional dishes, Ai Ki Ya provides a cozy and trendy spot for a casual dining experience that feels both exciting and deeply satisfying.

The concept of izakaya is all about sharing small plates with friends while enjoying a drink, and Ai Ki Ya embodies this spirit with style. The menu is expansive, offering a delightful journey through Japanese cuisine. While many Japanese restaurants in New York focus solely on sushi, Ai Ki Ya's strength lies in its diverse offerings. The yakitori, or grilled skewers, are a major highlight, with a wide range of options from classic Chicken Thigh & Scallion to more adventurous choices like American Wagyu and Pork Belly with Enoki Mushroom. These small, flavorful bites are perfect for sharing and encourage a social, communal dining experience. Customers consistently praise the quality and flavor of these skewers, noting that they are the perfect complement to the lively ambiance.

Beyond the skewers, the menu features an impressive array of other dishes, including fresh sushi rolls and sashimi, savory hot and cold tapas, and hearty rice bowls and curries. This variety ensures that every diner, from the seasoned Japanese food enthusiast to a first-time visitor, can find something to love. The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, making it a great spot for groups to gather. The staff is noted for being fast and friendly, contributing to a positive and welcoming environment. Ai Ki Ya's ability to combine high-quality food, a great atmosphere, and reasonable prices for its prime location makes it a true gem in the heart of Midtown.

Location and Accessibility

Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant is situated at 41 W 33rd St, 1st floor, New York, NY 10001, USA. This location places it right in the middle of Koreatown, a bustling neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and unique shops. Its proximity to major transportation hubs, including Penn Station and Herald Square, makes it extremely convenient for both locals and tourists. Whether you're coming from another borough or just a few blocks away, getting to the restaurant via subway or bus is simple and efficient. The street-level location also makes it easy to spot.

The restaurant is committed to being accessible to all diners. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for those with mobility needs. While paid street parking can be a challenge in this part of Manhattan, the restaurant's central location and easy access to public transit make it a preferred destination for those arriving without a car. This accessibility, combined with its prime location in a bustling area, makes Ai Ki Ya a convenient and welcoming spot for any occasion.

Services Offered

Ai Ki Ya provides a full range of services to accommodate various dining preferences, whether you're looking for a leisurely meal or a quick bite on the go. The restaurant’s service model is designed for flexibility and customer satisfaction.

• Delivery: For the ultimate convenience, customers can order from the full menu and have their food delivered directly to their location.
• Takeout: A popular option for those who want to grab their order and enjoy it at home or at the office.
• Dine-in: The restaurant offers a full dine-in experience with table service, allowing guests to enjoy the cozy and trendy atmosphere.
• Accepts Reservations: Guests can make reservations, which is particularly helpful for groups or during peak dining hours, ensuring a table is ready upon arrival.
• Lunch and Dinner: The menu is designed to cater to both lunch and dinner crowds, with a variety of options suitable for a quick midday meal or a more extensive evening feast.
• Dessert: A selection of desserts, including Yuzu Cheesecake, is available to round out the dining experience.

Features and Highlights

Ai Ki Ya’s appeal is built on a number of key features and highlights that set it apart from other Japanese restaurants in New York City.

• Extensive Yakitori Menu: The variety of yakitori is a major highlight. Customers praise the skewers for their flavor, with options ranging from American Wagyu and Beef Short Rib to classic Chicken Thigh & Scallion. The ability to mix and match skewers makes for a fun and customizable meal.
• Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: A customer review noted that the fish in the sashimi salad was "fresh and complemented the salad and dressing nicely," which speaks to the restaurant's commitment to quality. The sushi and sashimi options are a strong draw for those who appreciate fresh seafood.
• Varied Menu Beyond Sushi: While sushi is available, the menu's strength is its diversity. With hot and cold tapas like Tako Yaki and Salmon Tataki, various rice bowls (Gyu Don, Bara Chirashi), and curry rice, there is a dish for every craving.
• Casual and Trendy Atmosphere: The restaurant provides a "fun" and "cozy" atmosphere, making it a great place for a casual meal with friends or a date. The ambiance is perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
• Excellent Service: The staff is consistently described as "fast and friendly," which significantly enhances the dining experience. This level of service, from taking orders efficiently to providing extra touches like a bonus drink, leaves a lasting positive impression.
• Great Drink Selection: The restaurant has a bar onsite and offers a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor, with happy hour drinks available. This makes it a great spot for a night out.

Contact Information

Address: 41 W 33rd St 1st floor, New York, NY 10001, USA

Phone: (212) 548-6188

What is worth choosing

Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant is a compelling choice for anyone in New York seeking a genuine and memorable dining experience that goes beyond a standard sushi meal. The customer reviews offer a clear picture of what makes this restaurant a standout: its delectable skewers, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere. The fact that a family "loved" the skewer platter so much that they ordered more, including American Wagyu, speaks volumes about the quality and taste. The Quail Egg with Bacon Yakitori is a unique and celebrated dish, as are the other flavorful yakitori options. The emphasis on high-quality items at "very reasonable" prices, given the prime location, makes it a fantastic value proposition.

While the sushi rolls were noted for having a bit more rice than usual, the overall consensus on the freshness of the fish, particularly in the Sashimi Salad, is overwhelmingly positive. This suggests that the quality of the core ingredients is a top priority. The diverse menu allows for a truly personalized meal, where you can mix and match small plates like tako yaki and spicy cucumber with a hearty rice bowl or a fresh sushi roll. The presence of a full bar and a trendy, cozy atmosphere further elevates the experience, making it an ideal spot for groups to gather and share. Ai Ki Ya's combination of authentic flavors, diverse menu, and friendly service makes it a worthwhile destination for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or a unique date night. It's not just a place to eat; it's a place to explore and enjoy the rich and varied world of Japanese cuisine, all within the energetic heart of New York City.

Ai Ki Ya Japanese Restaurant

41 W 33rd St 1st floor, New York, NY 10001, USA