NR

For New Yorkers searching for a Japanese dining experience that offers more than just a meal, NR on the Upper East Side presents a captivating blend of delicious ramen, innovative cocktails, and an undeniable "vibe." Tucked away on East 75th Street, this establishment, owned by Shigefumi Kabashima (also behind Harlem's ROKC), brings a contemporary twist inspired by the port city restaurants of Japan's Meiji era. Opened in fall 2019, NR, whose name is said to stand for "’n Roll," "Non Resident," and "No Regrets," aims to transport diners to a bygone era while infusing modern characteristics into its culinary and mixology offerings.

NR has quickly become a local favorite for its ability to create a fantastic overall experience. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by a spacious, cozy, and well-designed interior that encourages relaxation and lively conversation. It’s the kind of place that effortlessly shifts from a casual weeknight dinner spot to a buzzing social hub for drinks with friends. While ramen is a core offering, NR distinguishes itself with an equally exciting food menu of shareable appetizers and main dishes, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

Beyond the food, NR's craft cocktail program is a major draw, with concoctions served in whimsical and vintage vessels that add an element of theatricality to your drink. This attention to detail, combined with friendly and attentive staff, creates an inviting atmosphere that makes New Yorkers feel right at home. Whether you’re stopping by for their popular happy hour, indulging in a rich bowl of ramen, or exploring their unique cocktail list, NR offers a multifaceted Japanese experience that resonates deeply with the city's diverse and demanding culinary scene.

NR is conveniently situated at 339 E 75th St, New York, NY 10021, USA, placing it on a charming and generally quieter cross street in the heart of the Upper East Side. This location makes it an appealing neighborhood spot, while still being easily accessible from various parts of Manhattan.

Its East 75th Street address benefits from excellent proximity to public transportation options. The 6 train, a major subway line serving the East Side, has a station at 77th Street and Lexington Avenue, which is just a short walk away. Additionally, numerous MTA bus lines run along the nearby major avenues, including Lexington Avenue and 1st and 2nd Avenues, providing ample choices for commuters. For those residing or working within the Upper East Side, NR is often a pleasant stroll away.

While street parking can be a challenge in this bustling Manhattan neighborhood, the restaurant's cozy atmosphere and inviting indoor space make it an ideal destination for those arriving via public transport, ride-sharing services, or simply on foot. Its slightly tucked-away nature contributes to its speakeasy vibe, inviting patrons to discover a hidden gem away from the main thoroughfares, perfectly suiting the New York experience of discovering a beloved local haunt.

NR provides a versatile Japanese dining and cocktail experience, catering to various preferences:

• Extensive Craft Cocktail Program: A major highlight, NR offers a diverse list of creative and unique house-created cocktails, often served in whimsical or vintage vessels. They also offer classic cocktails with a twist, crafted with high-quality spirits and unique ingredients.

• Authentic Japanese Ramen: NR is well-known for its delicious ramen. Options include the flavorful and slightly spicy Kyoto Ramen (chicken and fish-based broth with pork belly, garlic oil, etc.) and the rich Wagyu Bone Marrow Ramen (soupless, with wagyu and bone marrow). Other options like Sapporo ramen (chicken-based broth with house miso) and Truffle Vegetable Ramen are also available.

• Shareable Appetizers and Small Plates: The food menu features a range of appetizing small plates designed for sharing. Popular options include the Seafood Tower (oysters, hamachi sashimi, uni, salmon red caviar jelly), Spicy Tuna (often served in a filo cup), Monkfish and Chips, Deviled Egg + Egg + Egg (with sea urchin and caviar), Truffle Egg Sandwich, Miso Glazed Eggplant, and Karaage Fried Chicken with matcha salt.

• Happy Hour Specials: NR offers a popular happy hour, typically before 7 PM, which includes select drink and food options. The seafood tower is frequently highlighted as a worthwhile happy hour special, often with half-price oysters.

• Full Bar Service: Beyond cocktails, the restaurant offers a selection of beer, wine, and sake to complement the food menu.

• Cozy and Spacious Dining Environment: The restaurant features a well-designed, spacious, and cozy interior with marble tables, wooden banquettes, and a welcoming bar, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for a night out.

NR stands out in the Upper East Side's vibrant dining scene due to several unique features and highlights:

• Exceptional Cocktails: The craft cocktail program is a standout feature, praised for its creativity, unique ingredients (like yuzu, elderflower, truffle honey), and elaborate presentations in vintage and whimsical vessels (e.g., skull-shaped carafes). Drinks like the Clarified Piña Colada and the bold Chanel cocktail are frequently lauded.

• High-Quality Ramen: NR offers some of the "best ramen" in NYC, with rich and flavorful broths like the Kyoto Ramen and the indulgent Wagyu Bone Marrow Ramen. The noodles are consistently praised for their texture.

• Unique Seafood Tower: The seafood tower is a popular highlight, especially during happy hour. Customers rave about its freshness, unique components, and "worth it" value.

• Fantastic Ambiance and Design: The restaurant's overall vibe is a significant draw. It's described as spacious, cozy, well-designed, and reminiscent of a retro speakeasy, evoking a blend of old and new, East and West. Lively jazz music often contributes to the relaxed atmosphere.

• Attentive and Knowledgeable Service: The staff are consistently praised for being friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, providing excellent drink recommendations and enhancing the overall dining experience.

• Creative Appetizers: While sometimes small in portion, the appetizers are noted for being "tasty" and "delicious." Unique offerings like the spicy tuna in a filo cup and Monkfish Fish and Chips showcase culinary creativity.

• Meiji Era Inspiration: The concept draws inspiration from Japanese port city restaurants of the Meiji era, giving it a unique historical and cultural depth that sets it apart from typical Japanese eateries.

NR is known to offer specific promotions that make it an attractive option for New Yorkers looking for both quality and value. Their most notable and frequently praised special is their Happy Hour, which typically runs before 7 PM. This happy hour menu includes enticing options that can be a significant draw:

• Seafood Tower Special: The Seafood Tower is a prominent feature of their happy hour. While the exact pricing may vary, reviewers consistently highlight its worth, with every item on the tower being "unique and special" and the oysters "incredibly fresh."

• Half-Price Oysters: As part of the happy hour, NR is known to offer half-price oysters, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy fresh, high-quality shellfish at a more accessible price point.

These happy hour offerings provide a compelling reason to visit NR, allowing patrons to experience their standout drinks and fresh seafood without committing to a full-price dinner. It's advisable for potential diners to confirm the current happy hour timings and specific menu offerings by calling ahead or checking their official channels, as these details can sometimes change.

For New Yorkers looking to experience the unique blend of Japanese cuisine and cocktails at NR, here's their contact information:

Address: 339 E 75th St, New York, NY 10021, USA

Phone: (646) 226-4874

Given the restaurant's popularity for both its food and drinks, especially during happy hour and peak dinner times, making a reservation is generally recommended. This can typically be done via phone or through popular online reservation platforms. For inquiries about the menu, happy hour specifics, or any other details, a direct call to the restaurant is the best way to get accurate and up-to-date information. The provided phone number also functions as a mobile contact for convenient communication.

NR is an ideal destination for New Yorkers, particularly those on the Upper East Side, because it brilliantly combines several elements that are highly valued in the city's dynamic dining scene: exceptional drinks, delicious food, and a fantastic atmosphere. Unlike many single-focus establishments, NR offers a versatile experience, making it suitable for a variety of occasions, from a casual weeknight dinner to a lively night out with friends.

The stellar craft cocktail program is a major draw, appealing to New Yorkers who appreciate creative mixology and unique presentations. Coupled with highly-praised ramen and an array of tasty, shareable appetizers, NR provides a comprehensive culinary experience. The availability of a compelling happy hour, featuring highlights like fresh oysters and the distinctive seafood tower, adds significant value, making high-quality dining more accessible to the local community.

Furthermore, the restaurant's "spacious, cozy, and well-designed" interior offers a comfortable and inviting escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This "great vibe," combined with friendly and attentive service, fosters a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits. NR perfectly captures the essence of a cherished neighborhood spot where quality, comfort, and a touch of unique flair converge. For any New Yorker seeking a memorable Japanese dining experience with excellent drinks and a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, NR stands out as a top contender that consistently delivers.

NR

339 E 75th St, New York, NY 10021, USA