Jukai

- 237 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022

In the heart of Midtown East, Jukai presents itself as a distinctive destination for Japanese cuisine. The restaurant offers a departure from the typical sushi bar experience, providing a menu that includes a variety of traditional and unique dishes. From fresh sashimi to innovative items like duck tartar and a wide selection of desserts, Jukai caters to a variety of palates. Its intimate and cozy setting, which has been described as a "speakeasy" dining spot, aims to transport diners to a quieter, more authentic Japanese atmosphere.

While the establishment is small, it focuses on delivering a specialized menu that goes beyond what most New Yorkers might expect from a Japanese restaurant. It is a place for those who appreciate the intricacies of Japanese culinary traditions, with options like sashimi sets and chirashi bowls that highlight the freshness of the fish. The menu also features more substantial and communal dishes like hot pot and sukiyaki, which are central to a traditional Japanese dining experience. This diverse selection of offerings makes Jukai an intriguing choice for a different kind of Asian dining adventure in the city.

However, it's worth noting that the experience can be mixed, as some customers have raised concerns about the service and pricing. The establishment has been described as having a single server who can be overextended, leading to long wait times. The atmosphere can also be perceived as uncomfortable or noisy, and there have been comments about the high cost of certain dishes. Despite these potential drawbacks, many still find the quality of the food, particularly the fish and the more unique menu items, to be a strong draw. The positive feedback on dishes like the sashimi set, duck tartar, and especially the sesame pudding dessert suggests that the culinary aspect remains a highlight for many patrons.

Jukai is located at 237 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022, USA. This places it in a busy but accessible part of Midtown East. The restaurant is situated in a basement, which gives it a hidden, "speakeasy" feel, as some have noted. Its location is convenient for those working or living in the area.

For public transportation, Jukai is within walking distance of several subway stations, including the 6 train at 51 St and the E and M trains at Lexington Av/53 St. This makes it a feasible destination for anyone in Manhattan. While the entrance may be discreet, the central location on East 53rd Street makes it a relatively easy find for those seeking it out.

• Dine-in Service: Jukai offers dine-in service in its small, intimate setting. It's a place for a unique and focused dining experience.
• Full Menu of Japanese Dishes: The restaurant provides a comprehensive menu that goes beyond standard sushi rolls. Offerings include sashimi sets, chirashi bowls, and creative appetizers like seared duck tartar.
• Hot Pot and Sukiyaki: A notable service is the availability of Japanese hot pot dishes, including Shabu Shabu and Sukiyaki. These are often served in a communal pot at the table, offering a different kind of dining experience.
• Desserts and Beverages: Jukai offers a variety of desserts, with the sesame pudding being a standout. It's also noted to have a full bar.
• Takeout: While the primary experience is dine-in, some delivery platforms may offer takeout and delivery services, providing another option for those in the neighborhood.

• High-Quality Fish and Food: A key highlight is the quality of the food. Customers have praised the freshness of the fish, particularly in dishes like the sashimi set and chirashi bowl.
• Unique Menu Items: Jukai's menu stands out for its unique offerings that are not commonly found at every Japanese restaurant. Dishes like duck tartar, duck tongue, and a variety of hot pot options provide a different culinary journey.
• Specialty Desserts: The sesame pudding dessert is a significant highlight and is recommended as a must-try by many who have visited.
• Intimate Atmosphere: The small size and "speakeasy" feel of the establishment create a very cozy and intimate dining environment, which can be a desirable feature for some.
• Authentic Focus: The restaurant's focus on traditional Japanese hot pots and high-quality sushi and sashimi indicates a commitment to authentic cuisine.

Address: 237 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022, USA

Phone: (212) 588-9788

Jukai is worth choosing for the adventurous diner who is looking for a unique and high-quality Japanese meal that goes beyond the usual. The main reason to visit is to experience the food, particularly the fresh fish and the innovative menu items. The sashimi set and chirashi bowl are praised for their quality, and the seared duck tartar is an uncommon and intriguing option. The sesame pudding dessert alone is a reason to make a trip.

While the dining experience may come with some challenges, such as slower service or a high price point for certain dishes, the quality of the food for many outweighs these concerns. It's a place for a special occasion or when you want to explore new and exciting flavors within Japanese cuisine. Jukai is for those who are willing to overlook a few service-related quirks for the sake of a memorable and delicious meal. If you are a foodie who seeks out lesser-known spots and values culinary creativity, Jukai could be a rewarding discovery in the heart of New York City.

Jukai

237 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022, USA