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Omusubi Gonbei
- 370 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017

Japanese restaurant ★4.0 (198)·$1–10

370 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA

4.0
I went here to get onigiri after craving it for around a week. The food I ate here was SO GOOD. First, the store isn’t too far of a walk from the Grand Central station when you go inside the store looks to be pretty small, and although it is small it’s bigger than when it first appears. The photo shows I ate while I went around in Manhattan. I got shrimp tempura, ume, eel, salmon, chashew pork (I’m unsure of the spelling), spam musubi I believe it’s called, and some more stuff. Almost everything I bought was under 5$ and came up to 34$. And I can stay without a doubt that the food is most definitely worth the money. The shrimp tempura was delicious. The ume I believe it is, wasn’t really my thing but that’s not the fault of the food. The staff were very nice and that store was very clean and well taken care of. Normally, I don’t write reviews for places I’ve gone, but this is how good at this spot is I had to write about it. One thing I want to really highlight is the takoyaki octopus balls, they were near the middle of the store I was curious so I got them. now, of course, this is up to personal taste for but for me these things literally had me yelling with how good they were and I’m not even joking. The texture was very nice. It was chewy. The sauce was good. The stuff that was on It was delicious. The inside had like a small piece of octopus in it. All around one of my favorite things for that store and will definitely be buying the next time I go. 10/10 this store is fantastic. - Kris Gonzalez
Omusubi Gonbei Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$1–10 per person Reported by 198 people$1–10$10–20$20–30

Omusubi Gonbei Introduce

Welcome to Omusubi Gonbei, a beloved Japanese eatery that has captured the hearts of New Yorkers with its simple yet profoundly delicious offerings. Nestled in the bustling heart of Midtown East, this restaurant specializes in a Japanese comfort food staple: onigiri. More than just a simple rice ball, Omusubi Gonbei's creations are a testament to the art of combining high-quality ingredients with expert preparation. For anyone searching for a quick, flavorful, and genuinely satisfying meal, Omusubi Gonbei is a destination that delivers on all fronts. Its reputation as a go-to spot for an authentic taste of Japan makes it a standout choice in a city renowned for its diverse culinary scene.

The concept behind Omusubi Gonbei is straightforward but effective: provide fresh, wholesome, and delicious food that is both accessible and affordable. The restaurant has quickly become a favorite among busy professionals, students, and tourists alike who are looking for a break from the usual fast-food options. Its focus on quality ingredients, including a variety of fillings for their signature onigiri, ensures that every bite is a delightful experience. Omusubi Gonbei isn't just a place to grab a quick bite; it's a culinary experience that brings a taste of traditional Japan to the streets of New York City, making it a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for authentic Japanese flavors.


Omusubi Gonbei is conveniently located at 370 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA. Situated in Midtown East, the restaurant is a short and pleasant walk from the iconic Grand Central Terminal, making it an ideal stop for commuters, travelers, and anyone exploring the area. The proximity to one of the city's major transit hubs ensures easy access from almost anywhere in New York City.

The area is well-serviced by public transportation, including multiple subway lines and bus routes, so getting to Omusubi Gonbei is never a hassle. While the store itself is relatively small, its location in a high-traffic area makes it a perfect grab-and-go destination. The storefront is welcoming and easily recognizable, inviting passersby to step in and discover a world of delicious Japanese cuisine. For those with accessibility needs, the restaurant features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their fantastic food.


Omusubi Gonbei offers a focused yet diverse range of services to cater to the needs of its customers. These services are designed for convenience and a seamless dining experience, whether you're dining in or taking your meal to go.

  • Takeout: Ideal for a quick lunch on the go or a picnic with friends, the takeout service at Omusubi Gonbei is fast and efficient. You can grab your favorite onigiri and sides to enjoy at your desk, on a park bench, or anywhere else your day takes you.
  • Dine-in: For those who prefer to savor their meal in a relaxed setting, Omusubi Gonbei offers a casual dine-in atmosphere. The space, though compact, is clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable spot to enjoy your food and take a short break from the city's hustle and bustle.
  • Onsite services: The restaurant's friendly and helpful staff are always on hand to assist with your order and provide recommendations. Their fast service ensures that even during peak hours, your wait time is minimal, allowing you to get back to your day quickly.

Omusubi Gonbei has earned its reputation through a combination of unique features and a commitment to quality. These highlights are what make it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Japan.

  • Fast Service: One of the most praised aspects of Omusubi Gonbei is its incredibly fast service. Whether you're in a rush for lunch or just want a quick bite, the staff is efficient and ensures you're served promptly without compromising on the quality of your food.
  • Diverse Menu: The menu, centered around the star onigiri, is surprisingly extensive. With options for both white rice and brown rice onigiri, there's a flavor for every palate. Fillings range from classics like Salmon and Ume (pickled plum) to more adventurous choices like Spicy Tuna and Fried Oyster. They also offer delicious side dishes like Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and Tofu Miso Soup.
  • Affordable Pricing: Despite being located in one of the most expensive cities in the world, Omusubi Gonbei offers incredibly reasonable prices. Many of their onigiri are priced under $5, making it an accessible option for a delicious and filling meal that won't break the bank.
  • Healthy and Comforting Options: The menu caters to a variety of dietary preferences. In addition to satisfying comfort foods like Karaage, they also offer healthy options and vegetarian choices, such as their popular Kombu (kelp) and Takana (pickled mustard greens) onigiri.
  • Perfect for Solo Dining and Groups: The casual, trendy atmosphere makes it a great spot for a solo meal, and the diverse menu and shareable sides make it equally perfect for grabbing food with friends for a picnic or a casual lunch.

For all inquiries, here is the essential contact information for Omusubi Gonbei.

  • Address: 370 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA
  • Phone: (917) 472-7025

When you're navigating the bustling streets of New York, finding a place that offers great food, value, and convenience can feel like a challenge. Omusubi Gonbei stands out as a true gem for several compelling reasons, making it a place well worth choosing for your next meal.

First and foremost, the authenticity of the food is unparalleled. Omusubi Gonbei isn't just another Japanese-inspired eatery; it brings the genuine taste of a Japanese staple right to your doorstep. The onigiri are made with care and precision, offering a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor with every bite. The extensive selection of fillings, from the classic Salmon and Ume to more unique options like Spam and Natto, ensures that there is something to appeal to every preference. The option of choosing between white and brown rice adds another layer of customization, catering to health-conscious diners.

Secondly, the value proposition is hard to beat. In a city where dining out can be an expensive affair, Omusubi Gonbei offers an affordable alternative without compromising on quality or taste. The reasonable prices make it an excellent choice for a daily lunch spot or a budget-friendly dinner. This accessibility ensures that great food is available to everyone, from students to professionals.

Finally, the combination of efficiency and a welcoming atmosphere makes dining at Omusubi Gonbei a pleasure. The fast service means you can get your food and be on your way in minutes, perfect for a tight schedule. The casual and friendly environment makes it a comfortable place to eat, whether you're dining alone or with company. The positive reviews from customers, highlighting the clean space, friendly staff, and the deliciousness of the food, especially the "takoyaki octopus balls" which are a must-try, speak volumes about the quality of the experience. Omusubi Gonbei is more than just a restaurant; it’s a convenient, delicious, and friendly destination that consistently delivers a fantastic culinary experience, proving that simple food can be truly spectacular.

Omusubi Gonbei Menu

  • White Rice

  • Plain Salt
  • Salmon
  • Spicy Tuna
  • Grilled Eel
  • Shrimp Tempura
  • Mentaiko
  • Ume

    (Pickled Plum)

  • Takana

    (Pickled Mustard Greens)

  • Kombu

    (Kelp Seaweed)

  • Spam
  • Chashu Pork
  • Kinoko

    (Soy-braised Shiitake Mushroom)

  • Natto

    (Fermented Soy Beans)

  • Spicy Chicken
  • Bomb
  • Fried Oyster
  • Spicy Bomb
  • Grilled Macherel
  • Kakiage

    (Vegetables Tempura with Onions, Carrots and Kale)

  • Nitamago

    (Soft Boiled Marinated Egg)

  • Brown Rice

  • Plain Salt
  • Takana Brown
  • Ume Brown
  • Kombu Brown
  • Salmon Brown
  • Spicy Tuna Brown
  • Bomb Brown
  • Side

  • Karaage

    (Fried Chicken)

  • Spicy Karaage

    (Fried Chicken with Red Chili)

  • Tofu Miso Soup

Omusubi Gonbei Details

  • Service options

  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Comfort food
  • Healthy options
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Table service
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Trendy
  • Crowd

  • Locals
  • Tourists
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids
  • Parking

  • Parking

Omusubi Gonbei Photos

Omusubi Gonbei Picture 1Omusubi Gonbei Picture 2Omusubi Gonbei Picture 3Omusubi Gonbei Picture 4Omusubi Gonbei Picture 5Omusubi Gonbei Picture 6Omusubi Gonbei Picture 7Omusubi Gonbei Picture 8Omusubi Gonbei Picture 9Omusubi Gonbei Picture 10

Omusubi Gonbei Location

Omusubi Gonbei

370 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA

Omusubi Gonbei Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 458 user reviews.

onigirigrocery storesnackfillingspam musubispicy tunaeelgrand centralbentosupermarket

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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