Moko

- 138 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

For New Yorkers seeking an elevated and intimate sushi experience, Moko is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of the East Village, this restaurant is a trendy and cozy spot that specializes in omakase—a multi-course dining experience where the chef selects and presents the best dishes of the day. Moko’s commitment to quality is evident in its approach to sourcing; the restaurant prides itself on serving fresh fish flown in daily from Japan, ensuring an authentic and top-tier culinary journey. The atmosphere is ambient and private, with a stylish interior that provides a perfect backdrop for a special occasion or a quiet, contemplative dinner. While the menu does offer a la carte nigiri for those who prefer to choose their own path, the main attraction is the omakase, available in two different course sizes. The focus on fresh ingredients and expert preparation is what sets Moko apart in a city full of sushi options. It’s the kind of place that appeals to both seasoned sushi connoisseurs and those looking to try omakase for the first time, offering a memorable experience without the pretense often associated with high-end dining. Moko offers a chance to escape the urban hustle and truly savor each meticulously crafted bite in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting, making it a compelling choice for a unique dinner in New York City.

Moko has quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality offerings and excellent atmosphere. The restaurant has been highlighted for its ability to provide a premium omakase experience at a more accessible price point than many of its competitors, making it a great value proposition for locals. The menu is a carefully curated selection of both traditional and unique fish, with a variety that keeps diners intrigued throughout the meal. The chefs work to create a progression of flavors, moving from lighter to richer tastes, a hallmark of a well-executed omakase. Although some patrons have noted minor issues with service as the restaurant works through its model, the overall consensus is that the staff is extremely friendly and the food is well worth the visit. Moko is a great example of a new restaurant making a name for itself through a focus on quality and a great atmosphere, quickly becoming a favorite for those in the know. The dining experience is a blend of traditional Japanese respect for ingredients and a modern, trendy aesthetic that fits perfectly into the East Village scene.

Moko is conveniently situated at 138 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, in the bustling East Village. This location is easily accessible from several major subway lines, including the L train at 1st Avenue and the 6 train at Astor Place. The restaurant’s spot on 2nd Avenue makes it a central and well-known part of the neighborhood, surrounded by other popular dining and nightlife spots. The restaurant provides a cozy and trendy atmosphere that is perfect for a quiet dinner away from the busy street. While the area is known for its difficulty with parking, Moko offers a unique amenity: a free parking lot. This is a significant advantage for those who choose to drive. It is important to note that information regarding parking can be inconsistent online, so it's always wise to call ahead or use a parking app for the latest details. For those with accessibility concerns, the restaurant is noted for its accessible features, although no specifics were provided, it is a point to inquire about when making a reservation. The central and well-connected location, combined with the rare feature of a free parking lot, makes Moko a particularly convenient dining option for a variety of patrons.

Moko's location makes it a great destination for a pre-theater dinner or a post-work celebration. Its placement in the vibrant East Village means there is always something to do nearby before or after your meal. The cozy ambiance inside provides a welcome escape from the city streets, allowing you to focus on the art of the meal. The combination of a prime location with a quiet, intimate setting is a key part of Moko’s appeal, offering the best of both worlds. Whether you are coming from work, meeting friends, or simply exploring the neighborhood, Moko’s central location makes it a simple and appealing choice for a memorable dinner.

Moko offers a streamlined set of services tailored to its specialty dining experience:

• Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service dinner at the bar or at a table in the restaurant’s trendy and intimate setting.
• Delivery: For those who prefer to eat at home, the restaurant provides delivery services.
• Reservations: Moko accepts and highly recommends reservations for dinner, especially given its popularity and intimate size.
• Onsite Bar: A full bar is available, offering a selection of alcohol, beer, hard liquor, and wine to pair with your meal.

These services highlight Moko’s focus on providing a high-quality, sit-down dining experience. The emphasis on reservations and the full bar service show that the restaurant is built for a planned, enjoyable evening. The availability of delivery is a great benefit for those who want to experience the food at home, although the dine-in experience is where the omakase truly shines. The seamless combination of these services ensures that customers can enjoy their meal in the way that best suits their needs.

Moko has several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for a sushi dinner:

• High-Quality Omakase: The restaurant's signature offering is its multi-course omakase, which features a wide variety of fresh fish. The rice texture and flavors are consistently praised.
• Fresh, Authentic Ingredients: Moko is committed to using high-quality seafood, with some fish flown in daily from Japan, which contributes to the freshness and authenticity of the dishes.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The interior is described as ambient and chic, creating an ideal setting for a romantic dinner or a quiet, solo meal.
• No-Wait Dining: With a reservation system in place and an intimate setting, customers can often avoid long waits, making for a smooth and efficient dining experience.
• Great Wine List: The restaurant is noted for having a great wine list, which is a perfect complement to the fresh sushi and nigiri.
• BYOB Policy (with a fee): A reviewer noted that the restaurant has a BYOB policy, which allows patrons to bring their own wine for a corkage fee. It is important to confirm this with the restaurant beforehand, as policies can change.

While one customer noted that the value for the price was too high compared to other omakase restaurants, and another pointed out a lack of explanation from the chef, the overall sentiment remains positive. The freshness of the fish, the pleasant atmosphere, and the quality of the rice are recurring highlights. The restaurant's commitment to creating an intimate and sophisticated experience is a major draw for those who appreciate fine sushi.

Contact information for Moko:

Address: 138 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 318-1649

With a clear address and phone number, it is easy for New Yorkers to get in touch with Moko for reservations or general inquiries. The central location in the East Village ensures that it is a well-known and accessible spot for anyone looking for a great Japanese meal.

So, why is Moko worth choosing in a city with countless sushi options? The main reason is its dedication to providing an authentic omakase experience that focuses on quality over quantity. While some may find the pricing a bit high, the value lies in the experience: fresh, high-quality fish in a trendy and intimate setting. The omakase menu, with its rotating selection of unique fish, offers a culinary adventure that changes with the season, ensuring that no two visits are exactly alike. The serene and cozy atmosphere is perfect for those who want to escape the city's noise and enjoy a meal in peace. For those who appreciate the art and tradition of sushi, Moko offers a refined experience that is hard to find in the bustling East Village. It's an ideal choice for a special date night or a solo dinner where you can sit back and let the chef guide you through a truly delicious journey of flavors and textures. For New Yorkers looking for a high-quality, authentic sushi dinner in a great setting, Moko is a top contender.

Moko

138 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA