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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeNew YorkNew York CountyNew YorkJapanese Restaurant in 1st AvenueKome Waza
Kome Waza ico

Kome Waza

Japanese restaurant ★4.0 (5)·$20–30

1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA

4.0
I loved the idea of the restaurant. You can build your own bowl choosing flavors and assorted portions. I chose brown rice, salmon, seaweed with avocado sauce and it got delicious. - Carolina Schaffer
Kome Waza Overview Intro Vibe Detail Photos Location Reviews
$20–30 per person Reported by 5 people$10–20$20–30$30–50

Kome Waza Introduce

For those living in the vibrant heart of New York City, especially in the Upper East Side, the search for fresh, customizable, and delicious Japanese cuisine often leads to Kome Waza. This unique restaurant concept offers a refreshing take on traditional Japanese flavors, with a particular focus on the popular poke bowl trend. Kome Waza provides a dining experience where freshness and customization are key, allowing New Yorkers to craft their ideal meal.

At Kome Waza, the emphasis is on healthy and flavorful options. The cornerstone of their offering is the "build your own bowl" concept, empowering diners to choose their preferred base, protein, sauces, and an array of fresh toppings. This allows for an incredible variety of combinations, ensuring that every visit can be a new culinary adventure. Whether you're a fan of classic salmon and avocado or looking to explore more adventurous flavors like octopus or golden beets, Kome Waza has the ingredients to create your perfect bowl.

The restaurant aims to provide a quick yet satisfying meal, perfect for a lunch break or a healthy dinner on the go. Many customers appreciate the ability to personalize their orders, ensuring dietary preferences and taste profiles are met. The commitment to fresh ingredients is a recurring theme in customer feedback, with many highlighting the quality of the fish and produce. Kome Waza strives to be a go-to spot for those seeking a nutritious and delicious Japanese meal in the city.

While the primary focus is on poke bowls, Kome Waza's menu also extends to other Japanese-inspired items, broadening its appeal. This diversified offering ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're a devoted poke fan or looking to try something different. The clean aesthetic of the restaurant contributes to a pleasant and efficient dining environment, aligning with the fast-paced yet quality-conscious lifestyle of New Yorkers.

In the bustling New York culinary scene, Kome Waza carved a niche by blending traditional Japanese elements with modern, customizable dining. It aims to be more than just a quick stop; it's a place where fresh ingredients and personal preference come together to create a satisfying and healthy meal. This approach makes it particularly well-suited for the dynamic and health-aware residents of the city.

Location and Accessibility

Kome Waza is conveniently located at 1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of the Upper East Side, making it highly accessible for residents and workers in one of Manhattan's most vibrant neighborhoods. Its position on 1st Avenue ensures excellent visibility and ease of access via various modes of transportation.

For those relying on public transportation, the restaurant is easily reachable by several bus lines that run along 1st Avenue and nearby cross-town streets. While subway access might require a short walk to the Lexington Avenue lines (Q, N, R, W, 4, 5, 6 trains), the extensive bus network makes it a convenient option for many New Yorkers.

For customers walking or biking, Kome Waza’s location amidst other local businesses and residential buildings makes it a natural stop during daily routines. Street parking in the Upper East Side can be challenging, as is typical for Manhattan, so public transport or ride-sharing services are often the most practical options for many patrons. The strategic placement of Kome Waza caters directly to the local community, offering a quick and healthy dining solution right in their neighborhood.

Being on 1st Avenue also means Kome Waza is surrounded by a diverse array of shops and services, making it a convenient stop before or after other errands. Its urban setting means it’s designed for the pace of city life, providing an efficient and satisfying experience for its local clientele.

Services Offered
  • Build-Your-Own Poke Bowls: Customize your meal by choosing your base (like brown rice, sushi rice, or mixed greens), a variety of fresh proteins (including salmon, tuna, hamachi, octopus, and golden beets), mix-ins, sauces, and toppings (such as avocado, seaweed, pineapple, and garlic chips).
  • Signature Poke Bowls: Explore expertly curated bowl combinations for those who prefer a ready-made option with balanced flavors, such as the Wasabi Cashew Tako bowl or the White Soy Avocado Cream Bowl.
  • Onigiri (Rice Balls): Traditional Japanese rice balls with various fillings, offering a quick and satisfying snack or light meal.
  • Udon Noodle Soups: Warm and comforting noodle soups like Kitsune Udon, Curry Udon, and Niku Udon, perfect for cooler days.
  • Beverages: A selection of Japanese specialty drinks, including cold matcha green tea, hibiscus tea, and hot hojicha green tea, alongside standard soft drinks.
  • Dine-in Service: Enjoy your meal in a clean and modern setting, designed for a comfortable experience.
  • Takeout & Delivery: Convenient options for enjoying Kome Waza's offerings at home or on the go. They are available through various third-party delivery services like Caviar, MealPal, and Uber Eats.
Features / Highlights
  • Highly Customizable Bowls: The standout feature, allowing customers to precisely tailor their poke bowls to their taste and dietary needs.
  • Fresh and Quality Ingredients: Emphasizes fresh fish and high-quality produce, a critical aspect of delicious poke.
  • Healthy Dining Option: Offers a nutritious alternative for a quick meal, with a focus on lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Unique Sauce Selection: Features distinctive and flavorful sauces that elevate the poke experience, like wasabi cashew and white soy avocado cream.
  • Efficient Service: Designed to provide a quick and efficient service, ideal for busy New Yorkers on the go.
  • Modern and Clean Aesthetic: The restaurant's interior is clean and inviting, contributing to a pleasant dining environment.
Promotions or Special Offers

As a popular spot for customizable poke bowls, Kome Waza may offer various promotions to its loyal customers and attract new ones. While specific ongoing promotions are best confirmed directly with the restaurant, many local establishments in New York City often have lunch specials, loyalty programs, or seasonal discounts.

For frequent diners, it's worth inquiring about any reward cards or loyalty programs, as one customer mentioned having a "reward card," which suggests Kome Waza values its returning patrons. Such programs typically offer discounts or free items after a certain number of purchases.

Additionally, keep an eye on their online presence and popular food delivery platforms like Caviar, MealPal, and Uber Eats. These services often feature exclusive promotions, discounts on first-time orders, or special bundle deals that can provide excellent value. During off-peak hours or certain days of the week, restaurants might also introduce temporary offers to encourage traffic.

The best way to stay informed about any current promotions at Kome Waza is to visit their website, check their social media channels, or simply ask a staff member during your visit. Given the customizable nature of their menu, they might also offer promotions on specific ingredient combinations or new seasonal additions.

Contact Information

To connect with Kome Waza, whether you want to place an order, inquire about their menu, or learn more about their services, here are their contact details:

Address: 1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA

Phone: (646) 838-5828

For direct calls from mobile phones, you can also use: +1 646-838-5828

It’s advisable to call ahead for any specific inquiries about their menu, current hours, or if you plan to place a large order, especially during peak times.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Kome Waza is an ideal choice for New York locals, particularly those in the Upper East Side, for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its core offering of build-your-own poke bowls aligns perfectly with the city’s demand for customizable, healthy, and quick dining options. In a fast-paced environment where healthy eating is a priority for many, Kome Waza offers a transparent and fresh approach to Japanese cuisine, allowing patrons to control their ingredients and portions.

The emphasis on fresh ingredients, as highlighted by many satisfied customers, ensures a high-quality meal every time. This commitment to freshness is crucial for sushi and poke, where the quality of seafood and produce directly impacts the taste. For New Yorkers who appreciate quality and a mindful approach to eating, Kome Waza delivers.

Furthermore, its convenient location on 1st Avenue makes it easily accessible for a quick lunch during a workday, a post-gym healthy dinner, or a casual meal with friends. The availability of dine-in, takeout, and delivery options via popular platforms caters to the diverse needs and schedules of city dwellers. The efficient service also means minimal waiting times, which is a significant advantage in a city where time is often of the essence.

While one review mentions concerns about portioning and potential disparities in service for certain customers based on race, it's important to note that customer experiences can vary, and restaurants typically strive for consistent service across all patrons. Kome Waza's overall positive reception and repeat clientele suggest a generally satisfactory experience for many. The concept of a customizable, healthy, and fresh Japanese bowl remains a strong draw, making it a valuable local spot for those seeking nutritious and delicious options in the Upper East Side.

Kome Waza Vibe

  • Onigiri

  • Spam Onigiri US$4.00

    Spam, tamale, and spinach wrapped in seaweed.

  • Sake Onigiri US$4.00

    Grill salmon, scallions, and spicy mayonnaise.

  • Plum Onigiri US$4.00

    Plum and oba leaf.

  • Bowls & Soup

  • White Soy Avocado Bowl US$14.00

    Seared tuna over 8-grain brown rice with mixed greens, hijiki quinoa, white soy avocado cream sauce, sesame seeds, garlic chips, kizami nori, tobiko, and salsa.

  • Pomegranate Citrus Spicy Bowl US$13.00

    Salmon over sushi rice with mixed greens, tomato, onion, cucumber, edamame, pomegranate citrus spice sauce, goo seaweed, sesame seeds, tobiko, and radish sprouts.

  • Anchovy Mango Hamachi Bowl US$12.00

    Hamachi and scallops over mixed greens with mango, hijiki quinoa, edamame, tomato, mango anchovy sauce, masago, sesame seeds, and radish sprouts.

  • Wasabi Cashew Tako Bowl US$14.00

    Octopus, scallops, and shrimp over kale cold noodles with mixed greens, hijiki quinoa, tomato, wasabi cashew peanut sauce, ago seaweed, rice puff, and radish sprouts.

  • Hatcho Miso Tofu Bowl US$12.00

    Tofu over sushi rice with mixed greens, hijiki quinoa, mixed seaweed, hatch miso glaze, radish sprouts, pumpkin seeds, kizami nori, and avocado.

  • Kome Waza Sample Bowl US$17.00

    Tuna, salmon, hamachi, octopus, shrimp, scallop, and ikura over sushi rice with masago, pickled ginger, seasonal pickles, and kizami nori choice of any sauce but recommend ponzu soy sauce and it come on the side.

  • Beverages

  • Soft Drinks US$1.50

Kome Waza Details

  • Service options

  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Offerings

  • Comfort food
  • Healthy options
  • Quick bite
  • Vegetarian options
  • Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Trendy
  • Crowd

  • Family friendly
  • Locals
  • Transgender safe space
  • University students
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids
  • Parking

  • Paid street parking

Kome Waza Photos

Kome Waza Picture 1Kome Waza Picture 2Kome Waza Picture 3Kome Waza Picture 4Kome Waza Picture 5Kome Waza Picture 6Kome Waza Picture 7Kome Waza Picture 8Kome Waza Picture 9Kome Waza Picture 10

Kome Waza Location

Kome Waza

1275 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA

Kome Waza Reviews

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