Kome Waza

- 1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065

New York City's culinary landscape is a dynamic tapestry, and amid the city's fast-paced rhythm, finding a dining spot that's both quick and satisfying is a true find. Kome Waza, a Japanese restaurant with a location in the Upper East Side, offers a delightful solution for those craving fresh, flavorful, and customizable Japanese fare. This isn't your traditional sit-down sushi spot; instead, Kome Waza specializes in modern Japanese comfort food, focusing on fresh poke bowls and a variety of onigiri. It’s an ideal destination for anyone from a busy college student to a family looking for a healthy and delicious meal. The atmosphere is casual and trendy, making it a great place to drop in for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.

The concept of Kome Waza revolves around giving customers the power to create their perfect meal. This "build-your-own" philosophy is central to their poke bowls, allowing you to select your base, proteins, mix-ins, and sauces to craft a dish that perfectly suits your palate. Beyond the bowls, they also offer a selection of classic onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, filled with various ingredients, as well as a range of other menu items. This focus on customization and fresh ingredients has made Kome Waza a popular choice for locals and those passing through the neighborhood. The restaurant is a welcoming space that caters to a diverse crowd, including college students, families, and locals, providing a comfortable and safe environment for all diners.

Conveniently located at 1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, Kome Waza is situated in the vibrant Upper East Side neighborhood. Its position makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike, whether you’re coming from a day of shopping, a visit to a nearby museum, or simply from your home or office. The restaurant is placed in a busy part of the city, surrounded by various shops and other dining options, but it stands out with its specific focus on fresh, Japanese-style quick-service food.

For those who are concerned about accessibility, Kome Waza has made it a priority to be a welcoming space for all. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enter and enjoy their meal. As for parking, the neighborhood primarily offers paid street parking, which is a common setup in New York City. While this may require a bit of searching, the central location of the restaurant means it is well-connected to public transportation, making it a viable option for those who prefer to travel without a car.

The surrounding area is lively and full of activity, contributing to the casual and dynamic atmosphere of the restaurant itself. It’s a place where you can grab a quick meal on your own or meet up with friends or family for a relaxed get-together. The trendy and relaxed vibe makes it feel like a true neighborhood staple, where you can feel right at home.

Kome Waza offers a variety of services to make dining as convenient as possible for its customers.

• Dine-in: For those who want to enjoy the casual and trendy atmosphere of the restaurant, seating is available. It’s a perfect spot for a quick lunch break or a relaxed dinner with friends. The seating is designed to accommodate various group sizes, making it a good choice for solo diners or a family outing.

• Takeout: If you're on the go, you can place an order for takeout. The menu is well-suited for this, with items like poke bowls and onigiri that travel well and are easy to enjoy wherever you are. This option is perfect for those who want a fresh and healthy meal to eat at work or at home.

• Delivery: Kome Waza also provides delivery service, bringing their delicious food directly to your doorstep. This is a convenient choice for busy weeknights or for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own homes. The delivery service is handled efficiently to ensure your food arrives fresh and ready to eat.

• Catering: For larger events or office gatherings, catering services are available. The customizable nature of their menu, particularly the poke bowls, makes it a great option for catering as it can accommodate different dietary preferences and group sizes.

These service options highlight the restaurant's commitment to flexibility and customer convenience, catering to the diverse needs of New York's residents.

Kome Waza stands out for several key features that make it a notable dining destination in the area.

• Customizable Poke Bowls: The star of the menu is undoubtedly the build-your-own poke bowl. This allows you to select from a range of fresh proteins, including salmon and tuna, along with various bases like white or brown rice, and a wide array of toppings and sauces. This level of customization ensures that every customer can create a bowl that is both healthy and delicious, tailored to their exact taste.

• Onigiri Selection: Beyond the bowls, Kome Waza offers a selection of onigiri, including classic options like Spam Onigiri, Sake Onigiri, and Plum Onigiri. These rice balls are a great option for a quick bite or a satisfying snack.

• Diverse Menu Offerings: The menu extends beyond poke bowls and onigiri. It includes a variety of bowls and soups, with unique flavor combinations such as the White Soy Avocado Bowl and the Pomegranate Citrus Spicy Bowl. This variety ensures there is something for everyone, whether you're in the mood for a light meal or a more substantial dish.

• Dietary Accommodations: The restaurant offers a range of options for different dietary needs, including vegetarian options. This focus on inclusivity makes it a popular spot for groups with varied preferences.

• Trendy and Casual Atmosphere: The ambiance at Kome Waza is described as casual and trendy. It's a relaxed environment where you can feel comfortable dining on your own or with company. The staff is typically friendly and helpful, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.

Address: 1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA

Phone: (646) 838-5828

Choosing Kome Waza is a smart decision for several reasons, particularly if you are a local New Yorker looking for a reliable and satisfying meal. The most significant draw is the restaurant's dedication to freshness and quality. Unlike fast-food establishments, Kome Waza focuses on using high-quality ingredients, from the fresh fish in their poke bowls to the flavorful sauces and mix-ins. This commitment to fresh fare ensures that every meal is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to many other quick-service options.

The element of customization is another major selling point. In a city where personal preferences are paramount, being able to build your own bowl from a wide range of options is a huge advantage. You can control the flavors, ingredients, and even the nutritional profile of your meal. Whether you want to load up on leafy greens, choose a specific protein, or add a variety of crunchy toppings, the power is in your hands. This is especially appealing for people who have specific dietary goals or simply enjoy a personalized dining experience.

Moreover, the restaurant's atmosphere and reputation make it a worthwhile choice. It's a place that is popular for lunch, dinner, and even solo dining. The fact that it is a safe space for transgender individuals and family-friendly speaks to its welcoming and inclusive nature. The crowd, a mix of college students and locals, gives it a lively and authentic neighborhood feel. The payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, also add to the convenience. While a previous review mentioned an issue with food portions and service, this appears to be an outlier. Overall, the available information suggests that Kome Waza is a highly regarded establishment known for its quality and service.

Kome Waza is a strong choice for anyone seeking a fresh, fast, and friendly dining experience in New York City. The combination of its customizable menu, convenient location, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for a delicious and healthy meal. Whether you're in a hurry and need a quick takeout meal or you want to sit down and enjoy a relaxed lunch, Kome Waza offers a quality option that fits seamlessly into the New York lifestyle.

Kome Waza

1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA