KEI (Izakaya and Ramen)

- 193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) offers New Yorkers a fresh and exciting take on traditional Japanese dining. Located in the bustling heart of Chelsea, this restaurant is a modern izakaya and ramen bar that expertly blends classic flavors with contemporary techniques. The name "izakaya" itself signifies a casual Japanese pub, a place where people can gather for drinks and small plates, and KEI embraces this concept with style and sophistication. It’s a space that feels both trendy and cozy, making it an ideal destination for a variety of occasions, from a fun date night to a relaxed dinner with friends.

What makes KEI truly stand out is its dual focus on both expertly prepared food and thoughtfully crafted beverages. The menu is a vibrant tapestry of options, ranging from deeply flavorful ramen bowls to a creative selection of small plates and maki rolls. This variety ensures that every visit can be a new culinary adventure. The food is not only delicious but also highly authentic, with an evident commitment to fresh, in-house preparation. Diners can expect everything from perfectly fried pork gyoza to a rich and savory Tonkotsu ramen, all made with care and precision.

Beyond the food, the ambiance and service are what make the experience at KEI truly memorable. The restaurant has a welcoming and casual atmosphere, but with a refined, trendy edge. The staff is consistently described by patrons as friendly, super-quick, and highly knowledgeable about the menu. This high level of service ensures a seamless dining experience, whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular. KEI has successfully created a space where you can enjoy fantastic Japanese cuisine in an environment that is both comfortable and buzzing with energy.

---

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) is situated at 193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, placing it in a prime location in the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood. This area is known for its lively streets, diverse culinary scene, and accessibility to various parts of Manhattan. The restaurant's storefront is easily identifiable on 7th Avenue, making it a convenient stop for a meal.

Accessibility is one of KEI's strong points. The restaurant is well-connected by New York City's public transportation. It is just a short walk from several major subway stations, including the 23rd Street station serving the 1 and 2 lines and the 14th Street station with access to the 1, 2, 3, A, C, E, and L lines. This makes it a quick and easy destination for locals from all over the city.

For those who drive, the area offers paid street parking, and while finding a spot can be a challenge in a bustling neighborhood like Chelsea, the availability of these options provides a solution for those who prefer to travel by car. The restaurant also caters to those who prefer to dine at home, offering curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and standard delivery services. This range of options, combined with the quick and efficient service, ensures that a delicious Japanese meal is never out of reach, no matter how busy your schedule.

---

Services Offered

• Dine-in and Outdoor Seating: The restaurant offers a comfortable and inviting space for dining in, and on pleasant days, guests can enjoy their meals at the outdoor seating area.
• Takeout and Delivery: KEI provides convenient options for customers who prefer to eat at home, including curbside pickup and both standard and no-contact delivery.
• Table Service: The staff provides attentive table service, ensuring a pleasant and efficient dining experience from the moment you are seated.
• Bar On-site: The restaurant features a full bar, known for its creative and well-crafted cocktails, wine, and beer selection, complementing the food menu.
• Reservations: Guests can make reservations, which is a key service for planning ahead and avoiding wait times, especially during popular dining hours.

---

Features / Highlights

• Authentic and Delicious Ramen: KEI is highly praised for its ramen, with specific mentions of its flavorful Tonkotsu and Shoyu broths. The perfectly cooked pork and tender chicken are highlights that make these bowls a must-try.
• Creative and Unique Cocktails: The beverage program is a significant feature, with customers raving about the attention to detail and unique flavors, like the Yuzu White Peach Sparkling and the Virgin Green Tea Mojito. The presence of a "hidden cocktail speakeasy" in the back, as mentioned in a review, adds an element of excitement and discovery.
• Diverse Menu: The menu offers a wide variety of Japanese cuisine, including ramen, maki rolls, hand rolls, appetizers like gyoza and takoyaki, as well as sandos and rice bowls. This diversity caters to all cravings.
• Excellent Vegan Options: KEI stands out for its extensive and delicious vegan offerings, including Vegan Kakuni Chashu Ramen, Vegan Miso Ramen, and even a Vegan Matcha Cheesecake. This makes it an inclusive destination for plant-based diners.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as a perfect mix of cozy and trendy, making it suitable for a variety of occasions, from a fun night out to a more intimate date. The restroom facilities are also noted for being clean.

---

Contact Information

Address: 193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 875-5398

---

What is worth choosing

For New Yorkers in search of an authentic and memorable Japanese dining experience, KEI (Izakaya and Ramen) is a compelling choice. What makes this restaurant particularly worth choosing is its harmonious blend of high-quality, authentic food with a modern and creative approach. Unlike many establishments that specialize in just one area, KEI excels in multiple categories, from its deeply flavorful ramen to its artfully crafted cocktails. This versatility means you can visit for a quick, comforting bowl of ramen or a full-fledged night out with drinks and small plates.

The positive customer reviews consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the food and the over-the-top fantastic service. The dedication to making everything fresh and in-house, from the ramen broths to the cocktails, is evident in every detail. The existence of a hidden speakeasy bar in the back adds a layer of unique charm, offering an exclusive experience for those in the know. This feature, combined with the trendy and inviting atmosphere, elevates a simple dinner into a true experience.

Furthermore, KEI’s commitment to inclusivity is a significant reason to choose it. The menu includes a thoughtful and delicious selection of vegan options, ensuring that diners with plant-based diets have just as many excellent choices as anyone else. This forward-thinking approach, coupled with the fast service and convenient location, makes KEI a top contender in a city filled with Japanese restaurants. It’s a place that delivers on its promises of great food, a fantastic ambiance, and a truly enjoyable time, making it a highly recommended spot for locals and tourists alike.

KEI (Izakaya and Ramen)

193 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA