Yamada

- 16 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013

Welcome to the vibrant world of New York's dining scene, a place where culinary excellence from around the globe converges. If you're looking for an extraordinary Japanese culinary experience, one name stands out: Yamada. More than just a restaurant, Yamada is a destination for those who appreciate the highest form of traditional Japanese dining. This is the new namesake restaurant of master chef Isao Yamada, a figure revered in the city for pioneering kaiseki cuisine. His return to the New York dining landscape has been highly anticipated, and his new establishment lives up to the hype, providing an intimate, world-class experience that was once only found in Japan.

Yamada is an immersive journey into the heart of Japanese artistry. It's a place where every element, from the ingredients to the decor, is meticulously considered. The menu is a multi-course, seasonally driven tasting menu rooted in authentic customs. It’s an artful blend of tradition and innovation, where each dish tells a story of the season and the chef's craft. For diners in New York, it offers a rare opportunity to witness a true master at work and savor a meal that is both a feast for the senses and a celebration of Japanese culture.

Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, Yamada's location at 16 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013, places it within a dynamic and easily accessible part of the city. Tucked away in the discreet Canal Arcade, it's a hidden gem that feels exclusive yet welcoming. Its central location makes it convenient for New Yorkers and visitors alike, with multiple subway lines and bus routes serving the area. The restaurant’s discreet entrance adds to its allure, creating a sense of discovery for those who seek out this special dining experience.

Yamada focuses on a single, masterful service to ensure an unparalleled experience for every guest.

• Dine-in Only: The restaurant's intimate setting is designed for a focused dining experience. All services are centered around the chef's counter, providing a direct view of the culinary process.

• Dinner Service: Yamada offers two nightly seatings, serving an elegant, multi-course tasting menu.

• Reservations: Due to the limited seating, reservations are not only accepted but highly recommended to secure your spot. The restaurant's website or reservation platforms are the best way to book your experience.

• Table Service: All courses are served with the utmost care and professionalism, ensuring a seamless and memorable meal from start to finish.

What makes Yamada a standout destination in New York City is its unwavering commitment to excellence and the unique elements that define its atmosphere and offerings.

• Intimate Chef's Counter: The restaurant features a 10-seat counter carved from a single piece of hinoki wood, a sacred Japanese cypress. This design element not only adds a beautiful, tactile quality to the space but also allows diners an up-close, personal view of Chef Yamada as he skillfully prepares each dish.

• Exceptional Ingredients: The menu is a testament to the chef's dedication to quality. Dishes are crafted with ultra-high-quality, seasonal ingredients, many sourced directly from Japan. Diners can expect to taste exquisite items like uni, seasonal sashimi, toro, and premium wagyu.

• Expert Drink Pairings: A dedicated sommelier is on hand to elevate your meal with perfect pairings, including a carefully curated selection of sake, Japanese whiskey, and shochu. The drink list is as thoughtfully composed as the food, with some selections, like shochu from the 337-year-old Fukada Brewery, available only at Yamada in the States.

• Elegant Atmosphere: The ambiance is both cozy and trendy. The decor is simple and elegant, drawing on the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in simplicity and imperfection. The space is a perfect balance of comfort and refined style.

• Personalized Experience: The small, attentive staff and intimate setting ensure a deeply personal experience. Guests feel truly cared for, with service that is anticipatory and warm. It’s the kind of service that feels effortless and makes you feel like the staff knows what you need before you even ask.

For inquiries or to make a reservation, please use the following contact details:

Address: 16 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013, USA

Phone: (646) 429-8759

Choosing Yamada is about more than just having a meal; it's about investing in a memorable, one-of-a-kind experience. The value lies in the exceptional quality and the meticulous attention to detail that defines every aspect of the restaurant. As one customer noted, the experience is "world-class in every way I can think of," a sentiment echoed by many who have dined here.

The food is a clear highlight, with dishes that are "thoughtful and meticulously prepared." The chef's ability to create traditional dishes that are "still fun and playful" shows his creativity and deep understanding of his craft. The seasonal menu is a source of delight, with surprising and delicious creations like corn-flavored chawanmushi and donabe rice filled with a variety of premium ingredients. The focus on seasonality means each visit offers a new and exciting culinary journey.

Beyond the food, the service and atmosphere contribute significantly to the overall experience. The staff’s professionalism and warmth make a profound impression. They are praised for their "perfect" pacing and presentation, and their ability to elevate the meal with impeccable timing. The décor and tableware, with their simple elegance and nuanced sophistication, create a serene and beautiful setting. The wooden dining counter, in particular, is noted for feeling "especially nice to the touch," adding a sensory dimension to the experience.

Yamada's return to the NYC dining scene marks a significant moment for enthusiasts of high-end Japanese cuisine. It offers a level of kaiseki that, as one grateful diner put it, "was not long ago that we can only find this in Japan." This is a place for solo dining or for a special occasion dinner where you want to be fully present and appreciate every moment. It is truly a gem for those in New York seeking a refined and deeply authentic taste of Japan.

Yamada

16 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013, USA