Kaoru Introduce
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Welcome to Kaoru, a highly-regarded Japanese restaurant and bar nestled in the vibrant Midtown East neighborhood of New York City. For New Yorkers in search of authentic and high-quality Japanese cuisine, Kaoru has established itself as a must-visit destination. This inviting spot is particularly celebrated for its exceptional sushi and diverse selection of donburi bowls, offering a culinary journey that transports diners straight to Japan without ever leaving the city.
Kaoru has been a consistent presence in Midtown East for years, evolving from a local secret into a cherished spot for many. Its reputation is built on a commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional Japanese preparation methods. While some establishments might adapt their flavors heavily for a Western palate, Kaoru aims to provide an experience that is as close to authentic as possible, a fact often appreciated by those familiar with genuine Japanese fare. Whether you're a long-time enthusiast of Japanese food or simply looking to explore new culinary horizons, Kaoru promises a memorable dining experience in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Kaoru is conveniently located at 306 E 46th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA. This prime address places it right in the heart of Midtown East, a bustling area known for its proximity to major landmarks and business centers. Situated just a block away from Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza and near the United Nations headquarters, Kaoru is easily accessible for both local residents and those visiting the city.
The restaurant's Midtown East location makes it highly convenient for commuters and professionals working in the surrounding offices. For those traveling by public transportation, Kaoru is within a reasonable walking distance from several subway lines, including the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S trains at Grand Central–42nd Street, as well as the E and M trains at Lexington Avenue–53rd Street. This central positioning ensures that getting to Kaoru is straightforward, whether you're coming from another borough or simply venturing out for a lunch break or an evening meal. Its discreet presence on a side street contributes to its appeal as a local gem, offering a serene escape from the city's fast pace.
Kaoru offers a comprehensive range of services designed to provide a complete and satisfying dining experience for its patrons.
- Dine-In Service: Enjoy the cozy and authentic ambiance within the restaurant, which features a bar extending along one side and comfortable seating. It's often described as a quaint spot that feels like walking into a Tokyo eatery.
- Takeout Options: For those on the go or preferring to enjoy their meal at home, Kaoru provides convenient takeout services. You can call ahead to place your order for pickup.
- Delivery Service: Kaoru partners with popular delivery platforms like Seamless and Grubhub, making it easy to have your favorite Japanese dishes delivered directly to your doorstep within the New York region.
- Catering: While not explicitly detailed, the nature of their menu and the potential for larger orders suggest they may accommodate catering requests for local businesses or events, offering a taste of their delicious donburi and sushi.
- Reservations: Kaoru accepts reservations every day, which is particularly helpful for planning your visit, especially during peak hours, ensuring you have a spot in this popular establishment.
Kaoru stands out with several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its appeal among New York diners.
- Authentic Japanese Ambiance: Many patrons praise Kaoru for its ability to transport them to Japan. The interior often features subtle, elegant Japanese decor, with elements like simple wood tables, bamboo, and sometimes even flowering cherry blossom branches, creating a calm and intimate atmosphere. Jazz piano music frequently plays, further enhancing the authentic Tokyo-esque vibe.
- Specialization in Kaisendon and Donburi Bowls: Kaoru is particularly renowned for its kaisendon (seafood bowls) and other donburi (rice bowls topped with various ingredients). Their "Three Amigos Don," featuring tuna, salmon, and hamachi, is a highly recommended and popular choice. Other favorites include the Maguro Luxury Don and various Uni (sea urchin) options, showcasing their commitment to high-quality ingredients.
- Fresh and High-Quality Fish: A consistent highlight mentioned by satisfied customers is the freshness of Kaoru's fish. Reviewers often note the exceptional quality of their sashimi and the well-prepared sushi rice. The care taken to ensure the freshness of ingredients, sometimes even including ice packs for takeout orders, underscores their dedication to quality.
- Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: While sushi and donburi are central, Kaoru offers a broader menu of Japanese dishes. You can find appetizers like Dashi Maki (Japanese omelette), Ankimo (monkfish liver), and Edamame, along with other main dishes such as Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and various grilled items. This variety caters to different preferences beyond raw fish.
- Reasonable Pricing for Quality: Despite being located in Midtown NYC and offering premium ingredients, many customers find Kaoru's pricing to be reasonable for the quality and portion sizes provided. This makes it an attractive option for regular dining.
- Friendly and Attentive Staff: While experiences can vary, many reviews highlight the polite and accommodating nature of the staff, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
Based on publicly available information, specific, ongoing promotions or special offers at Kaoru are not extensively advertised. However, establishments like Kaoru often have unadvertised daily specials, seasonal menus, or lunch deals that are made known to customers upon arrival or through their in-house menu.
It is common for Japanese restaurants, especially those specializing in fresh seafood, to offer daily specials based on the freshest catches available. These can provide excellent opportunities to try unique dishes or enjoy premium ingredients at a potentially favorable price.
For the most up-to-date information on any promotions, it's always best to:
- Visit their Official Website: Check kaorunewyork.com or their social media channels if available, as these are often the first places where promotions are announced.
- Call Directly: Contacting Kaoru by phone is the most direct way to inquire about any current specials or ongoing deals.
- Inquire Upon Arrival: When dining in, ask your server about any chef's specials or promotions that might not be listed on the regular menu.
Given their focus on quality and authenticity, any promotions would likely be centered around showcasing seasonal ingredients or particular culinary creations rather than heavily discounted items.
For New Yorkers looking to experience Kaoru's authentic Japanese cuisine, here is their contact information:
- Address: 306 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
- Phone: (212) 867-0874
- Mobile Phone: +1 212-867-0874
Kaoru also maintains an online presence for orders and information. You can visit their website at kaorunewyork.com to learn more about their offerings and potentially place pickup orders directly. They are also available for delivery through major platforms like Seamless and Grubhub for added convenience.
For New Yorkers, Kaoru isn't just another restaurant; it's a neighborhood gem that truly resonates with the local dining scene. Its prime location in Midtown East makes it incredibly convenient, whether you're a professional seeking a quality lunch break, a resident looking for a delightful dinner spot, or simply passing through. Its discreet charm on a side street provides a welcome respite from the city's relentless pace, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
What makes Kaoru particularly suitable for locals is its commitment to providing an authentic Japanese experience. In a city brimming with diverse culinary options, Kaoru stands out by delivering genuine flavors, especially through its fresh sushi and renowned donburi bowls like the "Three Amigos Don." This focus on quality and traditional preparation ensures a consistent and satisfying meal, making it a reliable choice for those who appreciate true Japanese cuisine.
The option for both dine-in and convenient takeout or delivery services through Seamless and Grubhub further caters to the New Yorker's busy lifestyle. Whether you prefer a relaxing evening out with jazz music and an intimate setting or a quick, high-quality meal at home, Kaoru accommodates. While some historical reviews have indicated varying experiences, the consistent praise for the freshness of their fish and the overall authenticity speaks volumes to its enduring appeal. For New Yorkers who value quality, convenience, and a taste of genuine Japan, Kaoru remains a compelling choice.
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Kaoru Reviews
I used to love this restaurant—it used to be a very good sushi spot, and I had been coming here for years. Unfortunately, my recent experience was deeply disappointing. The sashimi had a strong fishy odor and tasted old, which raised serious concerns about freshness and food safety. When I brought this to the staff’s attention, they dismissed my concerns and claimed it was “normal,” adding that they were not responsible for customer satisfaction. Additionally, the staff appeared inattentive and unprofessional some were sitting and eating while customers were dining, and overall service was lacking. I would not recommend this place based on my recently visit.
May 28, 2025 · Skinny ChicThe best sushi bowl I've ever had (make sure to try "Tres Amigos", it will be worth your while!), in a cute little restaurant in Midtown NYC. Delicious, filling, healthy, and at a very reasonable price. Compulsory stop for any future trips to NYC.
May 26, 2025 · Carlos OuteiralHad a wonderful Japanese dinner at Kaoru on East 46th off 2nd in Kips Bay.An off-the-beaten-path, low key spot, they offered a very traditional array of sushi & sashimi.We started with an order of edamame and kinpira (a salad of burdock, lotus roots, a carrots in soy sauce with sesame seeds) and moved on to some simple but delicious rolls.
Apr 04, 2025 · Francine LauraWe enjoyed the food; most of the dishes were delicious and well-prepared. However, the service was disappointing—there was a lack of attentiveness and professionalism. The staff showed no enthusiasm or smiles, which made the experience less enjoyable.
Jan 05, 2025 · Karl KwonCame here for their famous seafood donburi and was not disappointed. The portions are large, both with respect to the amount of fish and rice, and easily filled me up for dinner. The quality of the fish was great! The bowls are also reasonably priced. Would definitely come back.
May 28, 2025 · Cyrus Ghaznavi
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