Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo

- 407 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451

For New Yorkers looking for a unique and sophisticated dining and drinking experience in the Bronx, Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo is a standout destination. This isn't your typical neighborhood spot; it's a modern izakaya and cocktail bar that brings the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine and the art of mixology together in a chic and welcoming setting. Located in a lively part of the borough, Minato offers a tranquil escape, complete with a beautiful garden patio that provides a serene backdrop for a memorable evening. It’s the perfect place to unwind, whether you’re enjoying a quiet solo dinner or a lively night out with friends.

The concept of an izakaya—a Japanese gastropub—is at the heart of Minato's identity. The menu is designed for sharing and exploration, featuring a wide array of small plates and tapas-style dishes known as Ippin Ryori. You can sample everything from classic Karaage Chicken and delicate Edamame to more adventurous options like Tuna Tartare and Seafood Ceviche. The focus on small plates allows diners to try a variety of flavors and textures, making it a great place for those who love to experiment. The quality of the food is consistently praised by patrons who are impressed by the fresh ingredients and skilled preparation.

Beyond the delicious food, Minato Izakaya & Garden is also celebrated for its exceptional beverage program. The cocktail bar is a true highlight, with a selection of **Signature Cocktails** that are both creative and expertly crafted, such as the Minato Lycheetini and the Flaming Captain. The bar also boasts an extensive collection of Japanese Whiskey and a dedicated sake menu, including tasting courses like the Intro To Sake and the Study of Junmai. This commitment to a full sensory experience—combining incredible food, stunning drinks, and a relaxing atmosphere—is what sets Minato apart as a premier destination in the Bronx for a sophisticated night out.

Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo is centrally located at 407 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451. This prime location places it near major transit hubs and cultural landmarks in the borough, making it highly accessible for both local residents and visitors from other parts of the city. The area is bustling with activity, yet the restaurant itself provides a quiet and cozy retreat from the urban energy.

For those traveling by public transit, the restaurant is conveniently situated a short walk from several subway stations, making it an easy trip from almost anywhere in the city. The accessibility features are a key highlight, as Minato is committed to being an inclusive space. The establishment offers a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible restroom, and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the space comfortably. This dedication to accessibility is part of what makes Minato an especially welcoming venue.

Additionally, the restaurant provides the convenience of free street parking for those who choose to drive. While street parking in New York City can sometimes be a challenge, the availability of free spots in the vicinity is a significant benefit. This combination of public transit access, ample accessibility features, and convenient parking options makes Minato an effortless choice for anyone looking to visit. The thoughtful design of the space and its accessible location on E 161st Street contribute to its appeal as a destination for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo provides a comprehensive range of services designed to offer flexibility and convenience to its guests. Whether you're planning a special evening or a casual outing, the restaurant has an option for you.

• Outdoor Seating: A major highlight is the beautiful garden patio, which offers a serene outdoor seating area. This is a perfect spot for enjoying the pleasant weather and a unique dining experience away from the city noise.

• Dine-in and Table Service: The restaurant offers a full dine-in experience with dedicated table service. Guests can enjoy a meal in the cozy and trendy atmosphere, with staff available to guide them through the menu and provide recommendations.

• Takeout: For those who want to enjoy Minato's delicious food at home, takeout is available. You can order your favorite dishes to go, making it a great option for a high-quality meal on a busy night.

• Catering: Minato provides catering services, allowing you to bring the unique flavors of their menu to your next event or gathering.

• Reservations: To ensure a spot, especially during peak hours, the restaurant accepts reservations, which is particularly useful for planning an outing with a group.

Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo is distinguished by a variety of features that set it apart from other establishments in the area. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a top-tier destination for a refined and enjoyable night out.

• Great Cocktails and Extensive Drink Menu: The bar is a centerpiece of the restaurant, known for its amazing cocktails. The menu includes not only signature drinks but also a robust selection of Japanese whiskies, sake, beer, and classic cocktails, providing a drink for every palate.

• Authentic Japanese Cuisine: Minato offers a wide array of authentic Japanese dishes, from small plates and tapas to larger main courses and expertly crafted sushi rolls. The Minato Roll and Karaage Chicken are highly recommended by satisfied customers.

• Cozy, Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a perfect blend of casual, cozy, and trendy. The interior is designed to be a relaxing and stylish space, ideal for a quiet evening or a lively social gathering. The garden patio adds an extra layer of tranquility.

• Happy Hour Specials: The restaurant offers a great happy hour with specials on drinks and food, including options like Classic Sake, Sapporo, and House Wine. This makes it an excellent place to unwind after work without a high cost.

• LGBTQ+ Friendly and Transgender Safespace: Minato proudly identifies as an Asian-owned and LGBTQ+ owned business, and it is known for being a welcoming and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, including providing a gender-neutral restroom.

• Late-Night Food and Dining Options: The restaurant serves late-night food, catering to those with later schedules. In addition to dinner, they offer desserts and counter service, providing multiple ways to enjoy a meal.

• Wheelchair Accessibility: A major feature is the commitment to accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly entrances, seating, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.

For more information, to make a reservation, or to place an order for takeout, you can reach out to Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo using the following contact details:

Address: 407 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451, USA

Phone: (929) 376-9651

Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo is a truly exceptional choice for a night out in the Bronx, and its value lies in the complete and high-quality experience it offers. What makes it a must-visit is the remarkable blend of incredible food, spectacular drinks, and an atmosphere that is both serene and trendy. The menu, with its variety of small plates, allows for an exciting culinary exploration. Customers consistently praise the quality of the dishes, from the perfect spicy tuna to the mouth-watering Karaage Chicken, and the attention to detail is evident in every bite.

Beyond the food, the cocktails are a significant draw. The bartender's skill, as noted in a customer review, is a testament to the high standards of the beverage program. The combination of classic favorites and unique signature creations, along with an extensive selection of Japanese whiskies and sake, makes Minato a genuine destination for drink enthusiasts. The happy hour specials are a great way to sample these offerings without a large financial commitment, adding to the overall value.

Finally, the welcoming and inclusive environment is a core reason to choose Minato. It's not just about the food and drinks; it's about the feeling of being in a safe and comfortable space. The garden patio provides a beautiful setting, and the friendly, attentive service, as highlighted by a customer's review of their waiter Marco, ensures that every guest feels "at home." The restaurant's identification as an LGBTQ+ safe space and its commitment to accessibility reflect a genuine effort to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. This combination of culinary excellence, expert mixology, and a truly hospitable environment makes Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo a top-tier choice for any New Yorker seeking a memorable and delightful night out.

Minato Izakaya & Garden by Porto Salvo

407 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451, USA