Kappo Sono

- 39 E 13th St 6th Floor, New York, NY 10003

Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant and ever-evolving culinary landscape of New York City, finding a truly exceptional and intimate dining experience can feel like a quest for a hidden treasure. Nestled within a penthouse in the East Village, Kappo Sono stands out as a unique and sophisticated destination for those seeking an authentic and elevated Japanese culinary journey. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a meticulously crafted experience that immerses you in the art of kaiseki and kappo-style dining. Under the guidance of Chef Chikara Sono, who is known for his warm and welcoming demeanor, guests are treated to a multi-course menu that is both a feast for the eyes and a delight for the palate. The philosophy here revolves around seasonality, with each dish highlighting the best ingredients available. The setting is intimate, with a limited number of seats that ensure a personalized and unforgettable evening. Kappo Sono is quickly becoming a go-to spot for special occasions, solo dining, and anyone who appreciates the finer points of Japanese cuisine, from the exquisite food to the curated sake selection.

Location and Accessibility

Kappo Sono is strategically located at 39 E 13th St 6th Floor, New York, NY 10003, USA, placing it in the heart of the East Village, an area renowned for its dynamic food scene. Its unique penthouse location provides a sense of exclusivity and escape from the bustling city streets below. Situated on East 13th Street, the restaurant is easily accessible from various parts of Manhattan and beyond. For those relying on public transportation, the restaurant is conveniently close to several subway lines, including the L train at Union Square. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the surrounding area. The central location makes it a perfect destination for a pre-theater dinner or a post-work indulgence. The discreet entrance and elevator ride up to the sixth floor add to the sense of a hidden gem, building anticipation for the experience that awaits. While the precise details on accessibility amenities are not publicly detailed, its location within a building suggests standard accessibility features, though it's always recommended to call ahead with any specific needs.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Kappo Sono offers a dedicated dine-in service, which is the cornerstone of its experience.
• Dinner: The primary focus is on a meticulously prepared dinner service, featuring a multi-course kaiseki menu.
• Dessert: The dining experience includes exquisite desserts, with one of the reviews highlighting three stunning dessert courses.
• Table service: Guests receive attentive and professional table service throughout their dining journey.
• Dinner reservations recommended: Due to the limited seating, it is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance to secure a spot.
• Accepts reservations: The restaurant explicitly accepts reservations, which is crucial for a venue of this nature.

Features / Highlights

• Intimate Dining Experience: With only 12 seats available per night, Kappo Sono provides an exclusive and personal dining atmosphere, ensuring each guest receives dedicated attention.
• Seasonal Kaiseki Menu: The menu is a multi-course kaiseki journey, with an emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a menu that is consistently excellent. The dining experience is a curated progression of dishes, as detailed by the menu items like Zatsuki, Sakizuke, Hassun, and more.
• Masterful Cuisine: Led by Chef Chikara Sono and with stunning desserts by Norie Uematsu, the food is described as a work of art, with a focus on luxury and perfection.
• Extensive Sake List: For nihonshu lovers, the restaurant boasts an extensive and thoughtfully curated sake menu, with one reviewer calling it the best in New York City.
• Exceptional Hospitality: Guests consistently praise the warm, funny, and welcoming nature of Chef Sono and his team, contributing to an unbeatable overall experience.
• Thoughtful Touches: A unique highlight mentioned by a customer is the thoughtful gesture of sending guests home with tea and pastries for the following morning, extending the indulgence beyond the meal itself.
• Unique Atmosphere: The restaurant’s atmosphere is described as both cozy and trendy, offering a comfortable yet stylish backdrop for the high-end culinary experience.

Contact Information

For inquiries and to secure your reservation at this highly sought-after destination, you can contact Kappo Sono directly. The address is 39 E 13th St 6th Floor, New York, NY 10003, USA. The phone number is (646) 899-5891, and the mobile phone is +1 646-899-5891. Given the limited seating and high demand, it is highly recommended to use this information to book your reservation well in advance. Planning ahead is key to experiencing this unique culinary gem in New York City.

What is worth choosing

Choosing Kappo Sono for your next dining experience is a decision to invest in an unforgettable journey, not just a meal. For New Yorkers and visitors alike, it represents a departure from the typical and a step into a world of refined elegance and culinary artistry. The value lies in the sum of its parts: the stunning, seasonal courses that are as beautiful as they are delicious, the personal and engaging presence of Chef Sono, and the overall sense of luxurious perfection that permeates the nearly three-hour dining experience. This is a place for celebrating a special occasion, treating a loved one, or simply indulging in a moment of self-care. The limited seating creates an exclusive ambiance that ensures you are more than just a customer; you are a guest being guided through a curated masterpiece. From the first bite of Zatsuki to the final piece of pastry to take home, every detail is carefully considered. The price point, while a splurge, is justified by the quality of the ingredients, the skill of the chefs, and the comprehensive nature of the experience. The fact that the menu changes with the seasons means that each visit offers a fresh and new perspective on Japanese cuisine. For those who appreciate the best in food and hospitality, Kappo Sono is not just a place to eat; it is a place to be. It is a true hidden gem that lives up to its reputation and offers an unparalleled dining experience in the heart of New York City.

Kappo Sono

39 E 13th St 6th Floor, New York, NY 10003, USA