2 Best Restaurants in New York City, New York

Shalom Japan

Williamsburg's melting-pot aspirations past and present express themselves with intelligence and flair at this Japanese-Jewish fusion restaurant. Chefs Sawako Okochi and Aaron Israel, veterans of top New York City restaurants, wanted to explore their respective roots, and in merging these two cuisines, they advanced something unique, as shown in a menu of shared plates including sake kasu challah, traditional Jewish bread infused with sake lees and served with raisin butter; matzo-ball ramen with foie gras dumplings; and the popular lox bowl, a sort of deconstructed salmon avocado roll. The permutations here are so numerous and satisfyingly intricate that it takes multiple visits to fully grasp what's transpiring.

Zuma New York

$$$ | Midtown East

With an emphasis on presentation, the dishes at Zuma are authentically Japanese yet not bound by tradition, and designed to be shared at the table. You can choose sushi or items prepared on the robata grill, or, should you arrive on an empty stomach and with an adventurous spirit, go big—try the signature omakase ($135), with the chef's choice of multiple dishes such as grilled scallops with pickled plum and shiso (an herb). Sip on a raspberry and passion fruit martini, or try a Japanese beer. For dessert, the Zuma deluxe platter with molten lava cake and exotic fruit won’t disappoint. Expect bold, intense flavors, and exceptional service in a restaurant where the dress of your fellow diners may be as trendy as the food.

New York City

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