Kaki

- 129 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002

In a city saturated with sushi options, Kaki stands out as a true culinary sanctuary on the Lower East Side. This isn't just a place to grab a bite; it's a destination for a truly personal and exceptional omakase journey. Omakase, a Japanese term meaning "I leave it up to you," puts your trust in the hands of the chef. At Kaki, this trust is rewarded with a multi-course experience that is both creative and deeply rooted in tradition. The moment you step inside, you're transported from the bustling streets of New York to a serene and intimate space where the art of sushi is celebrated with every delicate piece.

The atmosphere at Kaki is a perfect blend of cozy and trendy, creating a welcoming backdrop for an unforgettable meal. The dining room is designed to feel intimate, allowing for a focused experience where you can appreciate the craftsmanship of the chefs. While it may appear quiet upon entry, this is part of its charm. This allows for a level of personalized service that is rare to find. The staff's commitment to creating a memorable experience is a highlight, with diners consistently praising the attentive, friendly, and engaging service that makes every guest feel like a VIP. It's this combination of exquisite food and genuine hospitality that makes Kaki a must-visit spot for any sushi enthusiast in the city.

Kaki is perfectly situated at 129 Rivington Street on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its blend of historic charm, artistic energy, and some of the city's most exciting food scenes. The location is easily accessible via multiple subway lines, making it convenient for those coming from various parts of New York City.

For guests with mobility needs, Kaki is committed to providing a welcoming environment. The restaurant features a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all diners. Parking in the area can be a challenge, as is typical for Manhattan, with both free and paid street parking options available. It's often recommended to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to ensure a stress-free arrival.

Kaki focuses on providing a high-end, specialized dining experience.

• Dine-in: Kaki is a dine-in only establishment, with the omakase experience being the core of its service.
• Dinner & Dessert: The main dining option is a dinner service that includes a multi-course meal followed by a dessert.
• Table Service: The staff provides attentive table service, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
• Reservations Required: Due to the intimate size of the restaurant and the personalized nature of the omakase menu, reservations are highly recommended and often required. Planning ahead is key to securing a spot.

Kaki has several key features that set it apart in New York's competitive omakase scene.

• Unbeatable Value Omakase: Kaki is widely celebrated for offering one of the best omakase deals in the city, with a generous number of courses for a highly competitive price. This makes a world-class sushi experience accessible to a wider audience.
• Freshness from Japan: The restaurant prides itself on using exceptionally fresh fish, with ingredients often flown in directly from Japan. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite.
• Personalized & Educational Service: The staff and chefs go above and beyond to make the experience special, especially for first-time sushi diners. They are known for explaining each piece of fish in detail, even showing pictures to provide an educational and engaging meal.
• Intimate and Cozy Atmosphere: The small, well-designed space fosters a sense of intimacy that is perfect for a date night, a special occasion, or a fun, solo dining experience.
• Thoughtful Pairings: The omakase menu showcases a balance of tradition and creativity. The chef's innovative use of seasonings and ingredients on each piece of fish elevates the experience, taking it "to a whole new dimension" as one customer noted.
• Healthy Options & Small Plates: The focus on fresh fish and delicate preparations makes for a meal that is both healthy and satisfying. The omakase format is essentially a series of small, perfectly crafted plates.
• Wine List & Alcohol: While the restaurant has a wine list and other alcoholic offerings, it's also known to have a BYOB policy with complimentary sake, which is a rare and fantastic amenity.

For reservations and inquiries, you can contact the restaurant directly.

• Address: 129 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002, USA
• Phone: (646) 568-8859

Kaki is an absolute must-try for anyone in New York City looking for an exceptional sushi experience without the exorbitant price tag often associated with high-end omakase. What makes Kaki truly worth choosing is the unparalleled combination of outstanding value, remarkable food quality, and genuinely personal service.

The core of the experience is the omakase menu itself. Diners rave about the freshness of the fish, with some pieces flown in directly from Japan, ensuring a superior taste and texture. The chef's artistry is evident in every course, from the delicate preparation to the unique flavor combinations that make each piece a standout. One customer was "blown away" by the "13 course sushi meal," calling it "the best meal ever" and noting how the chef's handling of the fish was "almost like a poetry." This level of artistry and attention to detail transforms a meal into a memorable event.

Beyond the food, the service at Kaki is what elevates it from a good restaurant to a great one. The staff's welcoming and attentive nature creates an atmosphere that is both intimate and fun. One reviewer was particularly grateful for the personalized attention given to their friend who was a first-time sushi diner, with the staff "explaining every piece in detail and even showing him pictures of the fish." This level of thoughtfulness and care is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to its guests and a major reason for its loyal following.

Furthermore, Kaki offers an incredible value that is hard to beat anywhere else in the city. The ability to enjoy a high-quality, multi-course omakase for such a reasonable price makes it a standout option. It debunks the myth that exceptional sushi must come with an exceptionally high cost. The cozy, trendy atmosphere makes it a great choice for various occasions, from a romantic date night to a fun solo dining adventure. For a truly memorable and delicious dining experience in New York, Kaki is a place you will want to return to again and again.

Kaki

129 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002, USA