Teruko

- 222 W 23 St, New York, NY 10011

Tucked away inside the legendary Hotel Chelsea at 222 W 23rd St, Teruko is a Japanese restaurant that promises to transport you far beyond the streets of New York. From the moment you step inside, the interior design creates an ambiance that feels like a retro Western-style eatery from 1980s Japan. This unique and captivating atmosphere sets the stage for an outstanding dining experience that goes beyond the typical Japanese restaurant.

Teruko, named after the Japanese artist Teruko Yokoi who once resided at the Hotel Chelsea, is an intimate and moody space that is both cozy and cinematic. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the curated lighting to the velvet-wrapped booths and even the small cushions tucked under each table, which have won over many a guest. It’s the perfect spot for a dinner date or to enjoy phenomenal sushi in great company.

The food at Teruko is as impressive as its setting. The menu, crafted by Executive Chef Tadashi Ono and Head Sushi Chef Hideaki Watanabe, offers a beautiful blend of traditional Japanese ingredients with a subtle Western aptitude. Guests rave about the food, with one review stating it’s been a while since a restaurant left them so impressed. The service is described as very attentive yet discreet, enhancing the overall experience without being intrusive. This combination of exquisite food, a captivating atmosphere, and impeccable service makes Teruko a truly special dining destination in New York City.

Teruko is located at 222 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011, USA, within the historic Hotel Chelsea. This location places it in a prime position for locals and tourists exploring the Chelsea and Flatiron neighborhoods. Its address in a renowned hotel gives it an air of exclusivity while still being easily accessible.

The restaurant offers a dine-in only service option, reinforcing its focus on providing an intimate and complete dining experience. Guests can enter through the hotel lobby, adding to the sense of a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Teruko accepts reservations, which are highly recommended given its popularity and intimate size.

Teruko’s service model is focused on providing a high-quality, sit-down dining experience rather than a quick, casual one.

• Dine-in: This is the only service option offered, emphasizing a focus on table service and creating an intimate atmosphere for guests to savor their meals and enjoy the unique ambiance.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, a key feature that allows guests to plan their special nights out and ensures a table at this popular establishment.
• Table Service: The dining experience is enhanced by attentive and discreet table service, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and ready to assist with recommendations.

Teruko offers a number of features that make it a standout choice for Japanese cuisine in New York.

• Outstanding Cuisine: The menu is filled with exceptional dishes, from beautifully crafted sushi and sashimi to robata-grilled meats and unique small plates. The food is described as outstanding and a culinary masterpiece, with every dish being a work of art bursting with flavor.
• Intimate and Cozy Atmosphere: The decor, which is a mix of Japanese retro and moody, modern design, creates a dark, intimate, and cozy space. This makes it a perfect setting for a date or a special occasion.
• Attentive and Discreet Service: The staff is consistently praised for being very attentive while also being discreet, allowing guests to enjoy their conversations and meal without feeling rushed or interrupted.
• Full Bar Onsite: The restaurant features a bar with a diverse selection of alcohol, including beer, hard liquor, and wine, to perfectly complement the food.
• Artistic Influence: Named after an artist, Teruko showcases a unique blend of culinary and visual artistry. The interior design and presentation of the food are both considered works of art.

For reservations and inquiries, you can reach Teruko using the following details:

Address: 222 W 23 St, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 518-4245

With a menu full of culinary delights, deciding what to order at Teruko is a fantastic challenge. To start, the small plates are highly recommended. The Kanpachi Tataki is a standout chilled appetizer, while the Kara Tuna Roll is a flavorful makimono option. For a truly unique experience, a reviewer suggests the Table-Side Steak Tartare.

The sushi and sashimi are a key highlight. The Aburi Nigiri selection is a must-try, particularly the Salmon with Spicy Garlic. For a full-flavored experience, the Toro with Daikon and Toro with Caviar are perfect choices. The Sashimi Sanshu (three-piece sashimi) and Sashimi Goshu (five-piece sashimi) platters are excellent for sampling the chef's freshest selections.

Beyond the sushi, the menu offers a diverse range of cooked dishes. The Wagyu Sukiyaki is a perfect representation of classic Japanese comfort, while the Fillet of Salmon is a simple yet elegant choice. Don't miss the Gobo Kara-Age (fried burdock root), which is earthy, crisp, and addictive. And as a final note from a rave review, the dessert is an absolute must-have. The Crepe Teruko is a standout, an absolute perfection in presentation and taste.

What truly makes Teruko worth choosing is the harmonious blend of a visually stunning, cozy environment with a menu that consistently delivers on both flavor and artistry. The impeccable service and the overall sophisticated yet approachable vibe make it a perfect spot for a memorable dinner date or a celebratory meal with friends. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression, making you want to text all your friends about it before you've even left.

Teruko

222 W 23 St, New York, NY 10011, USA