Hi-Collar

New York City is a global mosaic of cultures, and nowhere is this more evident than in its diverse culinary scene. For those seeking an authentic taste of Japan that evolves from day to night, Hi-Collar in the East Village offers a truly unique and beloved experience. This charming establishment masterfully blends the cozy ambiance of a traditional Japanese kissaten (café) by day with the sophisticated allure of an intimate sake and whisky bar by night. It's a place where Japanese comfort food classics meet expertly crafted beverages, all served with genuine warmth.

Hi-Collar has earned a reputation among locals for its exceptional quality and inviting atmosphere. Customers rave about dishes like the "best OMURICE I've had in NYC!" and the "delicious" Katsu Hayashi. Whether you're visiting for a delightful brunch, a satisfying lunch, or an evening drink, Hi-Collar promises to "transport us back to Japan for a moment." Its ability to seamlessly transition from a vibrant daytime cafe known for its coffee and fluffy hotcakes to an ambient evening spot with an impressive selection of Japanese spirits makes it a versatile and cherished gem in the heart of the East Village.

Hi-Collar is perfectly situated at 231 E 9th St, New York, NY 10003, USA, right in the bustling and culturally rich East Village. This iconic neighborhood is celebrated for its eclectic mix of independent shops, vibrant nightlife, and a truly diverse culinary landscape. The restaurant's position on East 9th Street places it ideally within easy reach of residents, students, and visitors exploring this dynamic part of Manhattan.

Accessibility to Hi-Collar is excellent, thanks to New York City's comprehensive public transportation system. The restaurant is just a short walk from several major subway lines, including the L train at 1st Avenue or 3rd Avenue, and the N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, 6 trains at Union Square. This makes it a convenient destination for anyone coming from various boroughs or other parts of Manhattan. While street parking can be challenging in this dense urban environment, as is typical for the East Village, numerous commercial parking garages are available in the surrounding blocks for those who prefer to drive. The cozy, modern, and "homey" atmosphere, coupled with its prime location, makes Hi-Collar a delightful escape in the heart of NYC.

Hi-Collar offers a dual experience, transforming from a Japanese café during the day to a sophisticated bar at night, providing a diverse range of services.

• Daytime Cafe (Kissaten) & Brunch: From morning until late afternoon, Hi-Collar operates as a traditional Japanese kissaten. This includes serving specialty coffee (with various brewing methods like pour-over, Aeropress, and Siphon), a wide selection of teas, and a popular brunch/lunch menu. Signature daytime dishes include:

  • Omurice: Available in Original, Cream Sauce, or Hayashi (beef stew) varieties, praised for its "fluffy omelet" and savory flavors. Many consider it the "best OMURICE in NYC!"
  • Katsu Sandwich: Featuring "irresistible Berkshire pork katsu," often noted for its crispness.
  • Japanese Hotcakes: Fluffy Japanese-style pancakes with specialty butter and various toppings, highly recommended.
  • Tamago Sando: An Osaka-style egg omelet sandwich with cucumber.
  • Mix Fruits Sandwich: A refreshing sandwich with seasonal fruits and whipped cream.

• Evening Bar (Izakaya): As evening approaches (from around 5:00 PM), Hi-Collar transforms into an intimate Japanese sake and whisky bar. The menu shifts to a selection of hard-to-find sakes, an "impressive selection of Japanese whiskey," and other alcoholic beverages, complemented by a different food menu suitable for an izakaya setting (though specific evening food items are less detailed in reviews, the focus shifts to drinks and small plates).

• Specialty Coffee & Tea Program: A major highlight is their elaborate coffee and tea selection. Guests can choose from various beans (changing often) and brewing methods, making it a destination for coffee connoisseurs. They also offer unique drinks like homemade ginger lemon soda and Royal Milk Tea.

• Reservations: Hi-Collar strongly recommends making reservations, especially for brunch/lunch on weekends, as wait times can be significant (up to 1.5 hours). Reservations can often be made a week in advance and are allotted specific dining times (e.g., 1 hour for lunch).

• Takeout: While primarily a dine-in experience, takeout options for their menu items are generally available, allowing customers to enjoy their favorites on the go.

Hi-Collar stands out in NYC's competitive dining scene through its unique concept and commitment to quality in both food and ambiance.

• Dual Concept (Kissaten by Day, Izakaya by Night): This is arguably Hi-Collar's most distinctive feature. It seamlessly transitions from a bright, cozy Japanese cafe offering brunch and lunch items like omurice and katsu sandos to an intimate, ambient Japanese sake and whisky bar in the evenings. This duality provides a different experience depending on the time of day, catering to various moods and cravings.

• Exceptional Omurice: Consistently hailed as the "best OMURICE I've had in NYC!" by numerous patrons. Reviewers praise its "fluffy omelet" and "savory sauce," describing it as a "perfect blend" and "worth an order." The Hayashi Omurice, with its "sweet, stocky" demi-glace and generous amounts of mushroom and wagyu beef, is particularly popular.

• High-Quality Japanese Comfort Food: Beyond omurice, other dishes receive strong accolades. The "Napolitan Spaghetti" is noted for its "special umami flavor," and the "green tea hotcakes" are "highly recommend" and considered "one of the best things that I've eaten this month." The emphasis is on elevated, authentic Japanese comfort dishes.

• Artisanal Coffee & Tea Program: Hi-Collar is serious about its beverages. As a kissaten, it offers various brewing methods (pour-over, Aeropress, Siphon) and a rotating selection of specialty coffee beans, ensuring a rich and nuanced cup. Their "HiCollar House Blend by Unity Roasting Company" is praised for its "sweet flavor profile with notes of dark chocolate and berry."

• Impressive Japanese Whisky & Sake Selection: In its evening incarnation as a bar, Hi-Collar boasts an "impressive selection of Japanese whiskey" and "carefully curated, hard-to-find sake," making it a destination for connoisseurs of Japanese spirits.

• Cozy and Inviting Ambiance: The decor is described as "small but modern and homey at the same time," with "beautiful designs" and a "nice vibe." It successfully creates an atmosphere that feels like it "transported us back to Japan for a moment," whether it's a "subdued and relaxed" cafe in the morning or "ambient" at night.

• Friendly and Attentive Service: The staff consistently receives high praise for being "very nice and accommodating," "quick and friendly," and contributing to the overall "amazing experience."

Hi-Collar primarily distinguishes itself through its unique concept and high-quality offerings rather than traditional discount-based promotions. However, its pricing for the quality and experience provided is often considered excellent value, making it a compelling choice for locals.

• Set Lunch Offerings: While not explicitly labeled as "specials" in all contexts, Hi-Collar's lunch menu (available Monday - Thursday) includes set meals such as "SPAGHETTI LUNCH" for $19. This includes the spaghetti dish, a ponzu dressing salad, beef consommé soup, and toasted milk bread, representing a comprehensive and well-priced meal. Individual dishes like Omurice also start at a reasonable price for the quality (e.g., Original Omurice around $11.00 - $14.00, depending on the most current menu).

• Value in Portions and Quality: Reviewers frequently mention "generous portions" and that the "quality food" is well worth the price. This inherent value proposition serves as a continuous draw for patrons.

• Specialty Coffee & Tea Experience: The opportunity to experience various brewing methods for coffee (pour-over, Aeropress, Siphon) and a rotating selection of high-quality beans, often with a choice of beans for a set price, adds significant value for coffee enthusiasts looking for a premium experience.

Given its popularity and intimate size, making reservations well in advance is a practical strategy for ensuring a table, especially during peak brunch hours. For the most precise and up-to-date pricing and any seasonal menu additions, checking their official website or calling directly is recommended.

Ready to experience the unique charm and delicious offerings of Hi-Collar? Here’s how you can get in touch or find them:

• Address: 231 E 9th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

• Phone: (212) 777-7018

• Website: (Look for "hi-collar.com" or their T.I.C. Restaurant Group page for reservations and menu information)

• Operating Hours (Approximate, check website for latest):

  • Monday - Saturday: 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM (Lunch/Cafe); Evening hours extend until 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM for the bar.
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM (Lunch/Cafe); Evening hours may vary.
  Note: Last order for siphon coffee is typically 4:00 PM.

Due to its popularity and limited seating, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially for weekend brunch or lunch, to avoid long wait times.

For New Yorkers, Hi-Collar stands out as an exceptionally suitable and beloved destination, perfectly encapsulating the city's appreciation for unique concepts, high quality, and versatile dining experiences.

Firstly, its dual identity as a cozy Japanese kissaten by day and an ambient sake and whisky bar by night makes it incredibly versatile. Locals can drop in for a comforting brunch featuring "the best OMURICE in NYC!" or return in the evening for a sophisticated drink. This day-to-night transformation caters to various needs and moods, making it a convenient go-to spot at any time.

Secondly, the commitment to "high quality food" and "impeccable service" deeply resonates with discerning New York palates. From the "fluffy eggs" of the omurice to the "special umami flavor" of the Napolitan spaghetti and the meticulously prepared specialty coffees, every detail is crafted to deliver an authentic and satisfying experience. The atmosphere, described as "small but modern and homey at the same time," creates a welcoming retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, a place where one can truly feel "transported back to Japan for a moment."

Finally, located in the vibrant East Village with excellent public transportation access, Hi-Collar is easy to reach for residents across the city. Its popularity often leads to wait times, but the option to make reservations and the consistently positive reviews about the food and service affirm that it's "worth the wait." Hi-Collar isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience that offers a consistent blend of comfort, quality, and unique Japanese culture, making it a highly cherished spot for locals.

Hi-Collar

231 E 9th St, New York, NY 10003, USA