Globus Washitsu

- 889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

In a city defined by its endless hustle, Globus Washitsu offers a rare and tranquil escape, providing an authentic slice of traditional Japan right here in New York. Unlike a conventional Japanese restaurant with a fixed menu and daily service, Globus Washitsu is a dedicated cultural space designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese arts and traditions. It is a one-of-a-kind venue that serves as both a "ryokan" (traditional inn) for visiting artists and intellectuals and a serene location for various cultural events and practices.

The name "Washitsu" itself refers to a traditional Japanese room, meticulously designed with a specific aesthetic and functionality. At Globus Washitsu, this includes authentic tatami mat flooring, paper sliding doors, and a serene, minimalist design. The space is a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in practices such as the Japanese tea ceremony (Chado), the art of flower arranging (Ikebana), and music and dance recitals. These experiences are not merely performances; they are opportunities for quiet reflection and a genuine cultural exchange, a vision held by the Globus family who have long been champions of Japanese-American cultural fusion.

The purpose of Globus Washitsu is to serve as a permanent venue in Manhattan for those who share a passion for Japanese culture. It is a place where "explosive expression, knowledge, and wonderment are often created when there is a dialog between people from Japan and USA." While it may not serve food in the same way a typical restaurant does, the experiences offered, such as the Cha-kaiseki (a light, multi-course meal) that accompanies a tea ceremony, provide a culinary and spiritual journey that is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition. It’s a truly special and intimate alternative to a standard dining experience, offering a chance to connect with centuries-old practices.

Globus Washitsu is located at 889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, in the historic and vibrant Flatiron District. This is a central and easily accessible part of Manhattan, putting it within reach for anyone in the city. The venue is just a few blocks from the Union Square subway station, a major transportation hub served by the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, and L lines, making it convenient for visitors from all boroughs. Its location on Broadway also makes it an easy landmark to find.

Given its nature as a traditional Japanese space, visitors should be aware of a few key customs. The venue features a "washitsu," a traditional Japanese room with tatami flooring. This means that, as is customary in Japan, shoes must be removed before entering the tatami rooms. This small act of respect is part of the immersive cultural experience that Globus Washitsu provides. The design of the space is intended to be flexible, with sliding doors that can partition off smaller, intimate areas for private tea ceremonies or open up to accommodate larger group events.

While specific accessibility information like wheelchair ramps or accessible restrooms is not publicly detailed for this unique venue, the location is generally well-served by New York City's public transportation network. For those seeking a parking spot, there are multiple paid garages and street parking options available in the surrounding Flatiron and Gramercy Park areas. This combination of a central location and an authentic, traditional environment makes it a highly desirable spot for cultural events and gatherings.

• Cultural Venue: Globus Washitsu primarily functions as a venue for cultural practices and events, not a traditional restaurant. It is available for rent and hosts a variety of activities.

• Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremonies: The venue is equipped with a dedicated "Chashitsu" or tea house, named KeiSui-An, where a complete set-up for various styles of tea ceremonies is available. It welcomes tea masters from all schools.

• Workshops and Classes: It serves as a space for hands-on classes and workshops, such as Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging), providing an educational and interactive experience for participants.

• Cultural Performances: Globus Washitsu hosts various traditional Japanese performances, including music recitals and dance performances, providing a platform for artists to showcase their craft.

• Ryokan and Guest House: The space functions as a traditional Japanese-style guesthouse for visiting artists and intellectuals, fostering an environment of cultural exchange.

• Flexible Space: The "washitsu" can be arranged to accommodate different group sizes and types of events, from intimate gatherings to larger social events and dialogues.

• Authentic Tatami Rooms: The venue's main feature is its two adjoining "washitsu" or Japanese-style rooms, which are carefully handcrafted and feature authentic tatami mat flooring, offering a truly immersive experience.

• Dedicated Tea House: The "Chashitsu," or tea house, is a distinct highlight. Named KeiSui-An, it is specifically designed for the practice of the Japanese tea ceremony and provides a philosophical space for social gatherings and dialogues.

• Cultural Hub: As a place for a variety of Japanese cultural events, from music and dance to art and film, it stands out as a unique hub in New York City for those passionate about Japanese tradition.

• Zen and Tranquil Atmosphere: The design philosophy of the space is rooted in Zen and minimalism, creating an environment of calm and quiet that serves as a respite from the city's fast pace.

• Commitment to Cultural Exchange: The venue's mission, driven by the Globus family, is to create a permanent space for "dialog between people from Japan and USA," offering a platform for shared knowledge and wonderment.

• Versatility: The traditional rooms can be used for a wide range of activities, including study, social gatherings, and art practice, showcasing the practical and spiritual versatility of Japanese design.

Address: 889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (212) 387-1200

Choosing Globus Washitsu for an experience is about seeking out something truly unique and deeply authentic, far removed from a standard restaurant meal. It's a place for those who want to do more than just eat; they want to engage with a culture. What makes this venue worth choosing is its unwavering dedication to creating a genuine, immersive Japanese environment. The handcrafted tatami rooms, the dedicated tea house, and the philosophical underpinnings of Zen and simplicity are all meticulously maintained to provide a space that feels like a true sanctuary. This is an incredible find for New Yorkers who want to explore Japanese culture without leaving the city.

For a visitor, this is a chance to participate in cultural practices that are rarely accessible to the public in such an authentic setting. The opportunity to attend a traditional tea ceremony, a music recital, or an Ikebana class in a space specifically designed for these arts is a profound experience. It’s an intimate and educational alternative to the tourist-centric experiences often found elsewhere. The venue’s role as a ryokan for visiting artists also gives it a special, creative energy that is unique among New York City venues.

While it's important to note that this is not a place for a conventional dinner, the culinary elements that are part of the cultural events, such as the Cha-kaiseki, are a key part of the experience. They offer a taste of Japan that is deeply tied to its traditions, making the food an integral part of the overall journey. For anyone looking for a thoughtful, quiet, and beautiful way to connect with Japanese culture, Globus Washitsu is an unparalleled choice. It is a "hidden gem" that provides a tranquil and enriching escape, proving that a space dedicated to art and dialog can be just as satisfying as any restaurant.

Globus Washitsu

889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, USA