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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeNew YorkNew York CountyNew YorkJapanese Restaurant in John StreetKuu
Kuu ico

Kuu

Ramen restaurant, Asian restaurant ★4.0 (587)·$20–30

20 John St, New York, NY 10038, USA

4.0
This was the first time we came and we loved it. We will definitely be coming back!Every dish was flavorful and delicious. Everything tastes perfect and fresh . The goyza is something I can eat all day every day.Service is excellent, and the food is served very quickly. Thank you! - J P
Kuu Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$20–30 per person Reported by 587 people$10–20$20–30$30–50

Kuu Introduce

In the bustling heart of New York City's Financial District, where the pace is fast and the need for a comforting, delicious meal is real, Kuu stands out as a true culinary haven. This ramen restaurant, located on John Street, has built a reputation for serving up authentic and incredibly flavorful Japanese comfort food. It's the kind of place that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, a perfect retreat from the concrete jungle. While it may be a cozy spot, its impact on the local food scene is anything but small. Kuu is praised by regulars for its consistent quality, fresh ingredients, and a menu that goes well beyond the typical ramen shop, offering a variety of donburi bowls, Japanese curry rice, and delicious appetizers. It's a spot that has won over the hearts and stomachs of New Yorkers who appreciate a no-nonsense approach to great food.

The essence of Kuu lies in its commitment to flavor and freshness. The ramen broth, which is the soul of any great ramen bowl, is rich and deeply satisfying. Customers rave about the "perfect" eggs and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork, describing the dishes as "perfect and fresh." But Kuu's appeal isn't limited to just ramen. Their homemade pork gyoza is so good that one reviewer said they could "eat it all day every day," and the Japanese fried chicken is another crowd-pleaser. For those with a taste for something different, the Japanese curry rice options, like the Pork Katsu or Beef Menchi Katsu, are hearty and flavorful choices. This variety ensures that no matter what you're in the mood for, Kuu has a delicious and authentic option ready for you.

Beyond the food, Kuu is celebrated for its excellent service. The staff is described as "super nice" and the food is served "very quickly," a crucial factor for a spot popular with the lunch crowd. This blend of delicious food, efficient service, and a cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a solo lunch or a casual dinner with friends. It's a place that has been a steady, reliable source of comfort food for the downtown community, even through challenging times. Kuu is more than just a restaurant; it’s a friendly, welcoming neighborhood spot that brings a little bit of Japanese warmth to the streets of New York City, solidifying its place as a cherished local favorite.

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### Location and Accessibility

Kuu is ideally situated at 20 John St, New York, NY 10038, in the bustling Financial District. Its location makes it a prime destination for the many office workers, residents, and students in the area. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with numerous subway lines stopping within a short walking distance. This convenience is a major draw for people who need a quick and delicious meal during their busy day. The John Street address is well-known and easy to find, which is a great help for first-time visitors looking to experience Kuu’s famous ramen.

While the restaurant is a "cozy spot" and can get crowded during peak lunch hours, its efficient service helps manage the flow of customers effectively. This is a testament to its operational model, which is designed to provide quick counter service for a speedy lunch on weekdays while also offering a more relaxed, seated experience on weeknights and weekends. For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or in the office, Kuu also offers a variety of service options, including delivery and takeout, which further enhances its accessibility. Paid street parking is available in the vicinity, providing an option for those who choose to drive, although public transport is often the more convenient choice in this dense part of Manhattan.

The atmosphere of the surrounding area is lively and energetic, mirroring the restaurant's trendy yet casual vibe. The fact that Kuu is a popular choice for solo diners and groups alike speaks to its welcoming nature. It's a neighborhood staple that understands the rhythm of downtown life and provides a high-quality, convenient, and satisfying meal for everyone who walks through its doors. This perfect blend of a great location and accommodating services makes Kuu a go-to choice for Japanese comfort food in New York.

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### Services Offered

  • Dine-in Service: Enjoy a casual and cozy meal at the restaurant. It's best to come at off-peak times for a more relaxed experience.
  • Takeout & Delivery: Get your favorite ramen, donburi, and appetizers to go with convenient takeout and no-contact delivery options.
  • Onsite Services: Kuu provides in-person services for orders and dining.
  • Catering: While not a primary service, the option to cater for events is available.
  • Extensive Menu: A wide range of offerings, including various types of ramen, donburi bowls, curry rice, and a selection of hand rolls and appetizers.
  • Beverages: A selection of soft drinks and beer is available to complement your meal.
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### Features and Highlights

  • Flavorful and Fresh Food: Customers consistently praise the perfect taste, freshness, and quality of the dishes, from the ramen broth to the appetizers.
  • Fast and Friendly Service: The staff is noted for being "super nice" and serving food "very quickly," making it a great spot for a quick bite.
  • Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The restaurant has a comfortable and trendy vibe, perfect for a casual meal or solo dining.
  • Diverse Menu: Beyond ramen, Kuu offers a variety of Japanese comfort foods like Donburi bowls and Japanese Curry Rice, appealing to a wide range of tastes.
  • LGBTQ+ Friendly & Transgender Safespace: Kuu is identified as a welcoming and safe space for all patrons.
  • Owned and Operated: Kuu is an Asian-owned business, adding to its authenticity and community presence.
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### Contact Information

For orders, inquiries, or more information about the menu, you can contact Kuu using the details below:

Address: 20 John St, New York, NY 10038, USA

Phone: (212) 571-7177

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### What is Worth Choosing

If you're a New Yorker looking for a satisfying and authentic Japanese meal, choosing Kuu is an easy decision. The most compelling reason is the exceptional quality of their food. As one reviewer put it, "Everything tastes perfect and fresh." The ramen broths are rich and deeply flavorful, while the noodles have a great texture. The deliciousness extends to their other offerings, with the homemade pork gyoza and Japanese fried chicken receiving high praise. This consistent dedication to great-tasting food at a reasonable price is what keeps people coming back and makes it a favorite in the Financial District.

Another major reason to choose Kuu is the overall experience. The service is "excellent" and "super nice," which is a huge bonus in a busy city. The food arrives very quickly, making it a perfect spot for those with a limited time for lunch. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, providing a welcoming retreat where you can relax and enjoy a warm meal. It's an ideal place for solo dining, a quick bite with a friend, or a comforting dinner after a long day. The combination of speed, quality, and a friendly vibe is a winning formula for any New York restaurant.

Finally, the variety on the menu makes Kuu a great choice for any craving. While the ramen is the star, the Donburi bowls and Japanese Curry Rice dishes are equally delicious and worth trying. The spicy pulled pork bun and the pumpkin croquette are also excellent appetizers that showcase the restaurant’s versatility. The menu caters to different tastes, from those who love classic ramen to those who want a hearty rice bowl. This range of options, combined with the convenience of dine-in, takeout, and delivery, solidifies Kuu's reputation as a reliable and high-quality spot that’s worth visiting again and again. It's a true neighborhood gem that delivers on its promise of delicious and comforting Japanese food.

Kuu Menu

  • Special

  • Nori Shoyu Fries $7.50

    French fries with nori flakes and homemade shoyu sauce

  • Pumpkin Croquette Curry Rice $17.00

    10 hours of Japanese beef-based curry, Japanese pumpkin croquette and fukushinkuke pickles over rice

  • Beef Menchi Katsu Curry Rice $18.00

    10-hour homemade beef-based curry with Kuu original beef Menchi Katsu (hand-breaded minced beef patty) and hukushinzuke pickles over rice

  • Pork Katsu Curry Rice $18.00

    10-hour homemade beef-based curry with hand-breaded pork loin over rice and pickle ginger

  • Sukiyaki Beef Curry Rice $18.00

    10-hour homemade beef-based curry with Jsukiyaki sliced beef and pickled ginger over rice

  • Karaage Curry Rice $17.00

    10-hour homemade beef-based curry with Japanese fried chicken and pickled ginger over rice

  • Appetizer

  • Japanese Fried Chicken $8.00

    Japanese fried chicken with spicy mayo and Sancho pepper

  • Pork Belly Bun (1 Pc) $7.00

    Braised pork belly bun with eel sauce, Japanese mayo, scallion, and sesame

  • Japanese Fried Chicken $11.00

    Japanese fried chicken with spicy mayo and sancho pepper.

  • Crispy Squid Legs $10.00

    Crispy squid legs with spicy mayo.

  • Homemade Pork Gyoza (5 Pcs) $10.00

    Homemade pork gyoza (filled with pork and vegetables) served with soy sauce.

  • Takoyaki (5 Pcs) $8.00

    Kuu Original fried chicken in a chef's special spicy sauce, dried chili, sesame, and cilantro

  • Spicy Pulled Pork Bun (1 Pc) $7.00

    Spicy pulled pork, cucumber, green onion, sesame seed and mayo sauce.

  • Spicy Japanese Fried Chicken $12.00

    Japanese fried chicken in a chef's special spicy sauce, dried chili, and cilantro

  • Spicy Tuna Tartar $10.00

    Raw spicy tuna, avocado, and scallion served with wonton chips

  • Karaage Bun $6.00

    Japanese fried chicken, cucumber, spicy mayo, BBQ sauce

  • Pumpkin Croquette Bun (Vegan Friendly) $6.00

    Japanese pumpkin croquette, Japanese mayo, and tonkatsu sauce.

  • Small Plate

  • Edamame $6.00

    Sea Salt.

  • Cucumber Salad $7.00

    Yuzu Dressing.

  • Hand Roll

  • Spicy Tuna Hand Roll $8.00

    1 piece. Spicy chopped tuna (raw), sesame, and scallions.

  • California Hand Roll $7.00

    1 piece. Kani (imitation crab), avocado, and sesame.

  • Salmon Avocado Hand Roll $8.00

    1 piece. Raw Scottish salmon, avocado, and sesame.

  • Avocado Cucumber Hand Roll $7.00

    1 piece. Avocado, cucumber, and sesame.

  • Shrimp Tempura Hand Roll $8.00

    1 piece. Shrimp tempura, scallions, sesame, mayo sauce, and eel sauce.

  • Ramen

  • Okinawa Shio Ramen $17.00

    Chicken and fish broth, Chicken Chachu, egg, scallions, sesame, corn, garlic chip, butter, bamboo and sesame oil.

  • Kuu Chili Chili Ramen $18.00

    Kuu homemade paitan(chicken) broth ramen with spicy ground chicken, kakuni (braised pork belly), marinated egg, naruto, green onions, bamboo, garlic chips, sesame, chili skin, chili oil

  • Miso Veggie Veggie Ramen $18.00

    Homemade 13-vegetable broth ramen with egg-free spinach noodles, corn, bamboo, inari tofu, tomatoes, garlic chips, sesame oil

  • Beef Miso Ramen $18.00

    Kuu homemade paitan(chicken) broth ramen with sukiyaki sliced beef, marinated egg, naruto, green onions, bamboo, garlic chips, sesame, butter, corn, chili oil

  • Miso Pork Ramen $18.00

    Kuu homemade paitan(chicken) broth ramen with kakuni (braised pork belly), marinated egg, naruto, green onions, bamboo, garlic chips, sesame, butter, chili oil

  • Shoyu Ramen $17.00

    Chicken & fish broth, kakuni pork, egg, scallions, bamboo and sesame oil.

  • Special Ramen

  • Beef Curry Ramen $19.00

    Beef curry-based ramen with Sliced beef, marinated egg, corn, scallion, red onion, Naruto, umami anchovy powder, and chili oil

  • Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen (Soy Base) $19.00

    11-hour pork broth ramen, kakuni (braised pork belly), special Kuu wavy noodles, scallions, bamboo, garlic chips, egg, black garlic oil, and sesame.

  • Spicy Tonkotsu Miso $19.00

    11-hour pork broth, special Kuu wavy noodles, spicy pulled pork, scallion, garlic chip, naruto, egg, and sesame.

  • Donburi Bowl

  • Teriyaki Chicken Don $17.00

    Marinated chicken thigh in house-made teriyaki sauce, scallions, sesame, mixed vegetables, sansho pepper, miso dressing. Served with miso soup.

  • Spicy Tuna Don $19.00

    Spicy ground tuna mixed with smelt egg, scallions, wasabi, sesame seed, arugula and miso dressing. Serve with miso soup.

  • Sukiyaki Beef Don $18.00

    Sliced marinated beef, green onions, mixed vegetables, miso dressing, and sesame. Served with miso soup

  • Sesame Chicken Donburi $17.00

    Original Kuu fried chicken thigh tossed with teriyaki sauce, scallions, sesame seeds, and mixed vegetables with miso dressing. Served with miso soup.

  • Salmon Teriyaki Bowl $19.00

    Salmon fillet cooked in teriyaki, arugula, tomato, cucumber, Japanese pickles, scallion, sesame seed and miso dressing. Served with miso soup.

  • Side Order

  • Miso Soup $3.00
  • Rice $3.00
  • Marinated Half Boiled Egg $1.50
  • Snacks

  • Karamucho Spicy Potato Chips With Hot Chili $2.75
  • Koikeya Karamucho Hot Chili With Seaweed Flavor $2.75
  • Japanese Dessert

  • Green Tea Crepe Cake $7.00
  • Beverages

  • Coke $2.50

    12 oz can.

  • Diet Coke $2.50

    13 oz can.

  • Ginger Ale $2.50

    14 oz can.

  • Coffee $2.75
  • Spring Water $2.00
  • Club Soda $2.50
  • Cold Tea (Unsweetened) $3.10

Kuu Details

  • From the business

  • Identifies as Asian-owned
  • Service options

  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Comfort food
  • Happy hour drinks
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Dining options

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

  • Restroom
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy
  • Crowd

  • College students
  • Family-friendly
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safespace
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

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

  • Good for kids
  • Parking

  • Paid street parking
  • Parking

Kuu Photos

Kuu Picture 1Kuu Picture 2Kuu Picture 3Kuu Picture 4Kuu Picture 5Kuu Picture 6Kuu Picture 7Kuu Picture 8Kuu Picture 9Kuu Picture 10

Kuu Location

Kuu

20 John St, New York, NY 10038, USA

Kuu Reviews

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