KEI (Izakaya and Ramen)

In the ever-evolving culinary landscape of New York City, finding a Japanese restaurant that truly resonates with diverse tastes and offers a memorable experience can be a delightful quest. For locals and visitors alike exploring the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood, **KEI (Izakaya and Ramen)** presents itself as a compelling destination. This establishment skillfully blends the comfort of a traditional Japanese izakaya with the soul-warming essence of a ramen bar, all while embracing contemporary dining preferences, including a strong emphasis on plant-based cuisine.

KEI is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s designed to be a comfortable and engaging spot, whether you’re seeking a hearty bowl of ramen to ward off a New York chill, a savory Japanese curry, or a selection of flavorful small plates to share with friends over drinks. While some New Yorkers might describe certain elements as simply "solid" or "nothing too memorable" in a city brimming with Michelin-starred establishments, KEI truly shines in specific areas. It has garnered a passionate following, particularly for its vegan options, with one reviewer declaring their vegan ramen to be "the best vegan ramen in New York in my opinion." This dedication to inclusivity, coupled with a generally "nice staff and comfy atmosphere," makes KEI a go-to spot for many in the local community.

This article will provide a detailed look into what makes KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) a noteworthy choice for New Yorkers. We’ll cover its accessible location, the range of services and diverse menu offerings, its distinct features and highlights that set it apart, and how to connect with this charming Chelsea spot. Prepare to discover why KEI is becoming a favored culinary destination for those in search of authentic Japanese comfort food with an inclusive touch.

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) is ideally situated at **193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA**. This address positions it right in the heart of Chelsea, a bustling and dynamic neighborhood in Manhattan. Seventh Avenue is a well-known artery, making the restaurant easily identifiable and accessible amidst the area's rich tapestry of shops, galleries, and other dining establishments.

For New Yorkers who rely on the city's robust public transportation system, KEI boasts exceptional accessibility. The restaurant is merely steps away from the 23rd Street and 7th Avenue subway station, served by the 1 train. Additionally, other major subway lines are within a short, comfortable walking distance, including the F and M trains at 23rd Street and 6th Avenue, and the C and E trains at 23rd Street and 8th Avenue. This extensive network of subway connections ensures that KEI is effortlessly reachable from almost any part of Manhattan and even outer boroughs, providing convenience for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or a quick takeout order.

While street parking in a popular, high-density neighborhood like Chelsea can sometimes be a challenge, numerous parking garages and commercial lots are available within a few blocks of the restaurant. This provides practical options for those who prefer to drive. The surrounding area offers plenty to explore, allowing diners to enjoy a leisurely stroll before or after their meal, whether it's visiting local boutiques, admiring street art, or simply soaking in the vibrant Chelsea atmosphere. The strategic and well-connected location significantly enhances KEI's appeal as a go-to spot for Japanese cuisine.

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) offers a thoughtfully curated set of services designed to provide a comprehensive and satisfying Japanese dining experience for its New York clientele.

• Dine-In Service: The primary way to enjoy KEI is through its inviting dine-in experience. The restaurant is praised for its "comfy atmosphere," indicating a relaxed and pleasant setting. It's described as a "modern izakaya and cocktail bar" that offers a "warm and intimate" ambiance, suitable for various occasions, from casual solo meals to lively gatherings with friends.

• Extensive Ramen Selection: As the name suggests, ramen is a cornerstone of KEI's menu. They feature a variety of popular ramen styles, including classic Tonkotsu (pork broth-based) and Shoyu (chicken broth-based). A standout is their highly acclaimed **Vegan Kakuni Chashu Ramen** and **Spicy Vegan Tan Tan** ramen, catering to a growing demand for high-quality plant-based options.

• Izakaya Small Plates: Embracing the izakaya concept, KEI offers a diverse selection of small, shareable plates perfect for an appetizer or a light meal alongside drinks. Popular choices include:

  • Chicken Karaage: Deep-fried boneless chicken, described as "crispy perfection."

  • Pork Gyoza: Homemade pan-fried dumplings that are "what dumpling dreams are made of."

  • Agedashi Tofu: Fried tofu soaking up a savory vegan broth, noted as "literally EVERYTHING."

  • Kushi Katsu Set: Fried skewers including chicken, pork, shrimp, and scallop options, along with a Vegetable Set.

  • Various Hand Rolls: Options like Tuna-Creamy, Salmon-Yuzu, and a range of highly innovative vegan hand rolls (Vegan Maguro, Vegan Salmon, Vegan Unagi).

• Japanese Curry Dishes: KEI's curry dishes are also a notable highlight. The Pork Cutlet Curry is a popular favorite, and they offer a vegan-friendly Yakuzen Curry, which is vegetable-based and contains coconut milk, showcasing their versatility.

• Sandos: For a unique Japanese sandwich experience, KEI offers popular choices like the Pork Katsu Sando and Crispy Chicken Sando, served with fries. They also feature a Mushroom Sando on vegan milk bread.

• Cocktail Bar: KEI doubles as a cocktail bar, offering "enjoyable" and "tasty" cocktails that are often described as "juicy" rather than overly "boozy." Signature drinks like the Earl Gray cocktail and KEI Pop with a popcorn garnish are mentioned. They also offer non-alcoholic mocktails.

• Takeout and Delivery: For the ultimate convenience, KEI provides robust takeout and delivery services through major platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Seamless. This ensures New Yorkers can enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their homes.

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) distinguishes itself in the competitive New York dining scene through several key features and highlights that resonate strongly with its local clientele.

• Award-Winning Vegan Ramen: Perhaps the most celebrated feature of KEI is its exceptional commitment to plant-based cuisine, particularly its vegan ramen. With one reviewer explicitly stating it’s "the best vegan ramen in New York in my opinion," KEI offers a truly outstanding option for the city's vegan community. Their "Vegan Kakuni Chashu Ramen" and "Spicy Vegan Tan Tan" are frequently praised for their rich flavors and authentic texture, dispelling any notion that vegan ramen is a compromise. This is a significant draw in a city with a large and active vegan population.

• Delicious and Unique Japanese Curry: Beyond ramen, KEI's Japanese curry receives high acclaim. The "Pork Cutlet Curry" is cited as a particular favorite, and the availability of a "Yakuzen Curry" (vegetable-based with coconut milk) demonstrates their culinary breadth and ability to craft comforting and flavorful dishes across various dietary needs.

• Comfy and Inviting Atmosphere: The restaurant's ambiance is consistently rated highly, with one customer giving it "10 out of 10." Descriptions like "comfy atmosphere" and being a "low-lit and buzzing" izakaya suggest a welcoming and lively environment perfect for unwinding. It's highlighted as an "ideal izakaya-style spot before a proper night out," offering a "warm and intimate" setting.

• Friendly and Attentive Staff: The quality of service significantly enhances the dining experience, and KEI is praised for its "really nice" and "friendly" staff. Good service contributes to the positive overall impression, making patrons feel valued and well-cared for during their visit.

• Enjoyable and Creative Cocktails: KEI's beverage program includes a selection of cocktails that are described as "enjoyable" and "tasty." While perhaps leaning "more on the juicy side than boozy," their creativity, like the KEI Pop with a popcorn garnish, adds a fun and unique dimension to the dining experience.

• Diverse Izakaya Menu: The strength of KEI lies in its varied menu beyond just ramen. Their "crispy perfection" Chicken Karaage, "dumpling dreams" Pork Gyoza, and range of Hand Rolls (including unique vegan options) provide ample choices for sharing and exploring different Japanese flavors, catering to various appetites and preferences.

• "Hidden Gem" and Speakeasy Vibe: Some social media reviews hint at KEI being a "hidden gem" or having a "secret speakeasy in the back," adding an element of discovery and exclusivity that appeals to New Yorkers. This contributes to the overall "adventure" of dining there.

While the provided customer reviews don't detail extensive, constantly running promotions, further research into KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) indicates that they do offer compelling value, particularly for lunch and in their happy hour program. New Yorkers seeking special offers should keep the following in mind:

• Daily Lunch Sets: KEI is known for offering "Enjoy $20 lunch sets" on weekdays, typically from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM. These sets often include a main dish of choice (such as Salmon, Chicken Yakitori, Karaage, Pork Katsu, or Tofu), served with rice, miso soup, and a plate of various traditional Japanese sides (like hijiki, homemade pickles, cherry tomato nibitashi, zucchini dengaku, or kabocha nitsuke). This represents excellent value for a high-quality Japanese lunch in Chelsea.

• Happy Hour: As an izakaya and cocktail bar, KEI likely offers happy hour specials on their "enjoyable cocktails" and a selection of appetizers. While specific timings and offerings would need to be confirmed directly with the restaurant, this is a common feature for such establishments in NYC to attract after-work crowds.

• Seasonal Specials: While not a discount, KEI frequently updates its menu to incorporate seasonal ingredients. This means there might be limited-time ramen specials or unique izakaya dishes that highlight the freshest produce of the season, offering a "new" experience with each visit.

• Delivery Platform Promotions: Like many New York restaurants, KEI participates in various food delivery platforms (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Seamless). These platforms often run their own promotions, such as free delivery for first-time users, discounts for members, or limited-time percentage off deals, which could apply to orders from KEI.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, lunch specials, or happy hour details, New Yorkers are strongly encouraged to visit KEI's official website, check their social media channels, or call them directly using the contact information provided.

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or inquire about takeout/delivery options at KEI (Izakaya and Ramen), please use the following contact details:

• Address: 193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

• Phone: (212) 875-5398

• Mobile Phone: +1 212-875-5398

For the most current operating hours and to ensure availability, especially during peak dining times, it is always advisable to call ahead or check their listings on popular online reservation and delivery platforms.

For New Yorkers navigating the city's vast culinary landscape, KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) in Chelsea offers a particularly compelling and suitable dining option. Its appeal to locals stems from a harmonious blend of convenience, diverse menu offerings, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere that caters to the city's dynamic preferences.

Firstly, the prime location on 7th Avenue in Chelsea provides exceptional accessibility. With multiple subway lines just a short walk away, KEI is an effortless destination for residents across Manhattan. This ease of access is invaluable for New Yorkers, whether they're squeezing in a quick lunch, meeting friends after work, or planning a relaxed dinner without the hassle of a long commute. The vibrant neighborhood context also adds to its appeal, offering plenty to do before or after a meal.

Secondly, KEI truly stands out with its inclusive and high-quality menu. The rave reviews for its "best vegan ramen in New York" highlight its commitment to catering to diverse dietary needs, a significant advantage in a city with a large and active vegan community. This focus on delicious plant-based options, alongside traditional and well-executed ramen, izakaya small plates like the "crispy perfection" karaage, and comforting Japanese curries, ensures that KEI has something appealing for everyone. The variety means it’s perfect for groups with mixed preferences, ensuring all diners find something to savor.

Furthermore, the "comfy atmosphere" and "nice staff" create a genuinely pleasant and relaxed dining environment. In a city where dining experiences can sometimes feel rushed, KEI offers a space where patrons can unwind and enjoy their meal. This convivial setting makes it ideal for a casual weeknight dinner, a lively catch-up with friends, or even a solo meal where you feel at home. The presence of enjoyable cocktails further enhances its appeal as a social hub.

In essence, KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) provides New Yorkers with a reliable, versatile, and genuinely friendly Japanese dining experience. Its convenient location, strong culinary offerings (especially for vegans and curry lovers), and inviting ambiance solidify its position as a go-to spot in Chelsea, making it a true local favorite for a satisfying and comfortable meal.

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen)

193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA