Kinjo

- 11 Adams St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

When New York locals talk about an exceptional, yet accessible, high-end dining experience, the conversation invariably turns to Kinjo in DUMBO, Brooklyn. Far more than just a Japanese restaurant, Kinjo—which translates to 'neighborhood' in Japanese—has quickly established itself as a vibrant, two-part destination: a premier, intimate omakase sushi counter and a stylish cocktail lounge. Tucked beneath the Manhattan Bridge in a beautifully restored former torpedo factory at 11 Adams Street, Kinjo offers a unique blend of refined Japanese tradition and innovative East Asian flavors, all within a setting that perfectly balances Brooklyn's industrial chic with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. This is a must-visit spot for New Yorkers seeking top-tier sushi and sophisticated cocktails without the exorbitant prices often associated with Manhattan's finest establishments.

Kinjo’s reputation is built on delivering an incredible experience that, as many have noted, feels like a $300 meal for a fraction of the cost. The restaurant is helmed by a team of veterans from the NYC dining scene, including co-owner and Executive Sushi Chef Johnny Huang, who previously honed his craft at the renowned Masa, and Chef Eddie Lee (previously of Momofuku) overseeing the izakaya-inspired bar menu. This high-caliber culinary leadership ensures that whether you're at the dramatic walnut sushi counter for the 11-course tasting menu or lounging with a bespoke highball, you are receiving a thoughtful, expertly executed experience. The concept of Kinjo is to bring this level of quality and hospitality directly to the neighborhood, making luxury dining feel both personal and approachable.

The dual nature of Kinjo means it caters to multiple occasions. The omakase room is an ideal choice for special celebrations or a focused weeknight dinner, seating only about 13 to 14 guests for a truly intimate and personal chef-led experience. Conversely, the adjoining cocktail lounge is perfect for casual walk-ins, offering a trendy spot for a pre- or post-dinner drink, or simply enjoying their delicious small plates and an impressive spirits list. The design of the space, with its exposed brick and industrial textures, provides a dramatic yet warm backdrop for both dining and socializing. For those living in or frequently visiting Brooklyn, Kinjo is undeniably setting a new bar for the borough’s high-quality sushi and cocktail scene.

Location and Accessibility

Kinjo is perfectly situated in one of Brooklyn's most iconic and fashionable neighborhoods: DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). The address is 11 Adams St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA, placing it literally underneath the Manhattan Bridge—a location that is easily accessible and adds to its unique, hidden gem ambiance.

For those traveling via public transportation, the restaurant is conveniently located near several major subway lines. The F train at the York Street station and the A/C trains at the High Street-Brooklyn Bridge station are both within reasonable walking distance. The location also makes it easily reachable for Manhattan dwellers looking for a short trip over the bridge to experience some of Brooklyn’s best dining.

Accessibility is a noted feature of the establishment, ensuring a welcoming experience for all patrons:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

While the DUMBO neighborhood is known for its picturesque but sometimes challenging parking situation, Kinjo is well-placed for foot traffic coming from the waterfront parks and other local businesses. Reservations for the omakase are highly recommended, but the lounge welcomes walk-ins for those looking for a spontaneous evening out.

Services Offered

Kinjo functions as both a high-end Japanese restaurant specializing in omakase and a sophisticated Asian-inspired bar and lounge. Their service options and offerings cover a wide range of needs for a complete and refined evening out in New York.

• Dine-in Experience: The primary service, featuring intimate dining at the omakase counter or table service in the lounge.
• Omakase Dining: A seasonal, multi-course chef’s tasting menu focused on sushi and small plates, currently an 11-course experience. Dinner reservations are strongly recommended for this service.
• Cocktail Lounge Service: Casual dining and drinks at the bar or on the lounge banquettes, available for walk-ins.
• Full Bar Service: Offering a diverse selection of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine.
• Dessert Service: Available as part of the omakase or à la carte after a meal.
• Reservations Accepted: Dinner reservations are recommended, particularly for the sought-after omakase experience, though lounge reservations may also be available.

Features / Highlights

Kinjo stands out in the competitive New York dining landscape due to a combination of exceptional culinary talent, thoughtful design, and an excellent value proposition.

• Accessible High-End Omakase: The 11-course omakase menu is exceptionally priced, often noted for being under $100, which is significantly below the average cost for a comparable high-quality sushi tasting menu in New York City.
• Chef-Driven Excellence: Co-owner and Executive Chef Johnny Huang brings veteran experience, including a tenure at the world-renowned Masa, ensuring the highest level of sushi craftsmanship and ingredient quality, often featuring fish flown in from the Tsukiji Market in Japan.
• Exceptional Craft Cocktails: The lounge is known for its great cocktails, crafted with Asian spirits and flavors by co-owner Alex Lee (formerly of Momofuku). Signature drinks include the Smokey Plum Margarita, Shiso & Peach Highball, and the Yuzu Negroni.
• Innovative East Asian-Inspired Menu: The lounge menu goes beyond standard Japanese fare, offering izakaya-style small plates with a creative East Asian twist, like the Snow Crab Dip, Kimchi Ragu Rice Cakes, and Duck Fried Rice.
• Unique and Cozy Atmosphere: Located in a historic former torpedo factory, the interior boasts a trendy and intimate vibe with a darkly lit, speakeasy feel, featuring a beautiful stone bar and exposed brick that pays homage to DUMBO's industrial past.
• Curated Spirits and Sake List: Kinjo features one of Brooklyn’s most unique spirits selections, including a custom Junmai Ginjo namazake sake bottled in partnership with local artisan brewer Brooklyn Kura.
• Suitable for Various Dining Needs: It is popular for both solo dining at the bar and intimate dinner dates, providing a sophisticated backdrop for any evening.

Contact Information

For New Yorkers looking to plan a visit or make a reservation, here is the essential contact information for Kinjo:

Address: 11 Adams St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA

Phone: (917) 310-1532

What is Worth Choosing

For New York residents and visitors alike, Kinjo offers several compelling reasons to choose it over other dining options, primarily revolving around value, quality, and a complete, well-rounded experience.

The most noteworthy choice is undoubtedly the Omakase Experience. Priced accessibly, this 11-course seasonal tasting menu is a culinary journey where you entrust your meal to Chef Huang’s expertise. It’s an opportunity to savor meticulously prepared nigiri and inventive East Asian-inspired dishes—featuring high-quality ingredients like uni, otoro, and wagyu—without the financial barrier of many equivalent Manhattan establishments. The intimate setting of the 13-14 seat counter elevates this tasting menu to a highly personal and memorable event, ideal for special occasions or for the serious sushi aficionado.

Beyond the omakase, the Cocktail and Small Plates Lounge is a destination in itself. Choosing to pop into the lounge offers a taste of Kinjo’s sophistication in a more casual, flexible environment. The small plates, such as the Kimchi Ragu Rice Cakes or the rich Snow Crab Dip, provide complex, comforting flavors that pair perfectly with their signature libations. The bar program is a standout, making a choice from their specialty cocktail menu—like the inventive Yuzu Negroni or the Smoky Plum Margarita—a must. The extensive and unique list of Asian spirits, whiskeys, and custom sake ensures a high-quality drink for any preference. For an impressive yet relaxing night out in a beautiful, hidden DUMBO setting, Kinjo delivers a rare combination of world-class cuisine and a vibrant, local neighborhood feel.

Whether you are a seasoned New Yorker looking for your new favorite sushi spot or simply searching for a trendy, cozy bar with exceptional drinks, Kinjo offers a dual experience that is both sophisticated and wonderfully down-to-earth. The combination of culinary expertise, from a chef formerly of Masa, and a lively, well-curated bar program makes Kinjo a truly essential stop on Brooklyn's dining map.

Kinjo

11 Adams St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA