YOKO-CHO

Introduction / Overview

In a city overflowing with Japanese restaurants, YOKO-CHO has managed to carve out a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers. Located in a prime spot in the East Village, this restaurant has become a new favorite for many, a place where the food is consistently a "hit." YOKO-CHO specializes in bringing the very best of regional Japanese ramen bowls to the heart of Manhattan. From the rich and creamy tonkotsu broth of Kumamoto to the savory miso-based broth of Sapporo, the menu is a journey across Japan's diverse culinary landscape. However, the appeal of YOKO-CHO extends far beyond its ramen. Patrons rave about a variety of other dishes, with one standout being the mentai creamy udon noodles with bacon bits. This dish, a testament to the restaurant's creative fusion of classic and modern flavors, combines thick, chewy udon noodles with a rich and creamy sauce, savory pollock roe (mentaiko), and a salty, smoky crunch from the bacon. The menu also features other excellent sides and appetizers, such as fluffy buns, crispy gyoza, and flavorful karaage, making it a perfect spot for a full meal or just a few small bites. The overwhelming praise from real customers points to an experience that is consistently "absolutely amazing," with many highlighting the friendly staff and owner as a major reason for their return visits. This combination of exceptional food and warm hospitality sets YOKO-CHO apart, creating an environment that feels welcoming and authentic. It's a place that feels like a hidden gem, one that savvy New Yorkers are quickly adding to their list of must-visit dining spots. It's a culinary experience that showcases a true passion for Japanese food and culture, making it a valuable addition to New York City's vibrant and competitive food scene.

Location and Accessibility

YOKO-CHO is conveniently located at 137 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003, USA. This address places it in a highly desirable and easily accessible neighborhood, right at the intersection of the bustling Union Square and the vibrant East Village. For New Yorkers, this is a prime location that is well-served by an extensive network of public transportation. The restaurant is a short walk from several major subway stations, including those for the L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, and 6 lines at Union Square, as well as the 3rd Avenue L train stop. This makes YOKO-CHO a convenient destination for people coming from any of the five boroughs. The area is known for its heavy daytime and nighttime foot traffic, ensuring that the restaurant is always a lively spot. While street parking can be challenging, as is typical for Manhattan, the excellent subway access makes it easy to get to without a car. The location provides the best of both worlds: the energy of a major commercial hub and the local charm of a residential neighborhood. Whether you are a student from a nearby university like NYU or a professional working in the area, the restaurant is a great choice for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The combination of a central location and effortless accessibility ensures that a visit to YOKO-CHO is always a straightforward and stress-free experience.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Guests are invited to enjoy their meal in the restaurant's welcoming and cozy atmosphere, with a great staff and delicious food.
• Takeout: For those who prefer to eat at home or on the go, YOKO-CHO provides a convenient takeout service.
• Delivery: The restaurant offers delivery options, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Japanese dishes from the comfort of your own home.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Regional Ramen: A key highlight is the menu's focus on regional ramen styles from across Japan, offering a genuine taste of different parts of the country.
• Creative Menu Items: Beyond ramen, the restaurant features unique and delicious fusion dishes like the mentai creamy udon noodles with bacon bits.
• High-Quality Appetizers: Patrons praise the appetizers, including the crab appetizer and the salmon tartar, for their freshness and amazing flavor.
• Exceptional Staff & Service: The staff and owner are consistently noted for being "amazing," providing a warm and friendly atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
• Great Value: The combination of high-quality food, generous portions, and reasonable prices makes YOKO-CHO an excellent value in a city known for expensive dining.

Contact Information

Address: 137 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 524-5451

What is worth choosing

Choosing YOKO-CHO is a decision to experience a genuinely special dining spot in New York City. While the city is filled with Japanese restaurants, YOKO-CHO stands out for its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity, paired with a modern, welcoming twist. The primary reason to visit is the food, which, as one reviewer put it, is "the best I've had in the city." The menu is a carefully curated selection of Japanese classics and creative innovations. For ramen lovers, the ability to "take the ramen trip of your life" by sampling regional broths is a rare treat. The rich and flavorful ramen bowls, with their perfect noodles and savory broths, are a testament to the kitchen's dedication. However, the true sign of a great restaurant is often in its more unique offerings, and YOKO-CHO's mentai creamy udon is a perfect example. It's a dish that showcases a bold and successful fusion of flavors, a testament to the chef's creativity and skill. Beyond the delicious food, the atmosphere and service are what truly elevate the experience. The staff and owner are consistently described as "amazing," a quality that is not always easy to find in a busy city. This friendly and professional service makes every diner feel valued and at home, transforming a simple meal into a memorable occasion. It’s a place that feels like a neighborhood spot, despite being in a highly trafficked area. The convenience of its location near Union Square makes it a practical choice for a quick meal, while the quality of the food and service makes it a worthy destination for a planned dinner. YOKO-CHO is a testament to the fact that you can find a top-tier Japanese culinary experience that is both authentic and approachable. It's a place that is quickly gaining a reputation as a new "favorite spot" for New Yorkers who appreciate great food, great service, and a genuinely welcoming environment. It is a true find and a highly recommended destination for anyone who loves Japanese food and is looking for their next go-to spot.

YOKO-CHO

137 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003, USA