Kinoko

- 179 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222

In a city celebrated for its diverse and innovative culinary scene, some restaurants manage to create a niche that is truly their own. Kinoko, a dining gem in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, is a perfect example. This unique establishment masterfully blends the delicate and artful traditions of Japanese cuisine with the bold and spicy soul of Cajun flavors. The result is an "Asian fusion" experience that is as surprising as it is delicious. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a space that feels both cozy and trendy, a rare combination that makes it instantly appealing to locals and visitors alike.

Kinoko's identity as a Japanese and Cajun restaurant is a bold and successful experiment. It’s a place where you can find classic sushi rolls alongside dishes like **Jambalaya Fried Rice** and **Gulf Shrimp & Louisiana Crawfish Dumplings**. This creative and thoughtful menu is what makes Kinoko stand out. It’s not just about mixing two different cuisines; it’s about a careful and harmonious fusion that respects the ingredients and techniques of both. The positive feedback from customers, who describe the food as "incredible" and praise the lack of a single "underwhelming bite," speaks volumes about the quality and passion behind the dishes. The a**tmosphere is described as both **casual** and **cozy**, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner or a special night out. With its well-thought-out ambiance and innovative menu, Kinoko has quickly become a beloved neighborhood staple, making it feel like it's been there for years, despite being a recent addition to the Greenpoint food scene. The personal touch, like the owner/chef engaging with customers, further enhances the warm and welcoming vibe, making every visit a memorable experience.

Kinoko is located at 179 Meserole Ave in Brooklyn, a prime spot in the heart of Greenpoint. This neighborhood is known for its artistic community, charming brownstones, and an array of unique local businesses. The restaurant’s location makes it a central and accessible destination for many New Yorkers.

The area is well-served by public transportation, making it a convenient choice for diners coming from different parts of the city. While the specific subway lines are not listed, Greenpoint's proximity to the G train makes it easy to reach from other parts of Brooklyn and Queens. The neighborhood is also very pedestrian and bike-friendly, which means many locals can enjoy a pleasant stroll to the restaurant. For those who drive, the area offers both **free street parking** and **paid street parking**, a welcome amenity in a city where finding a spot can be a challenge. Kinoko has also made a conscious effort to be accessible to all, with a **wheelchair accessible entrance**. This commitment to inclusivity, combined with its fantastic location, ensures that a wide range of New Yorkers can enjoy the unique dining experience that Kinoko offers. The restaurant's presence on a bustling avenue means it’s a visible and attractive option for anyone exploring the area.

Kinoko provides a comprehensive suite of services to accommodate its patrons, whether they prefer a quiet night in or a full dining experience.

• **Dine-in**: The primary service is a full dine-in experience, complete with **table service** and a dedicated seating area. This is ideal for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the restaurant's cozy and trendy atmosphere.
• **Takeout**: For a convenient meal on the go, Kinoko offers takeout services, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their own homes.
• **Delivery**: The restaurant also provides delivery, making its unique fusion cuisine accessible to those who are unable to visit in person.
• **Catering**: For events and larger gatherings, Kinoko offers catering, providing a creative and memorable menu for any occasion.
• **Reservations**: As a popular spot, Kinoko **accepts reservations**, which is highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends, to ensure you get a table.

Kinoko’s allure comes from a combination of its atmosphere, offerings, and unique features.

• **Unique Cuisine**: The restaurant's blend of Japanese and Cajun flavors is its most significant highlight. This is a rare and exciting culinary concept that sets it apart from traditional restaurants.
• **Atmosphere**: The atmosphere is described as **casual, cozy, and trendy**, creating a comfortable yet stylish setting. With a **bar onsite**, it’s a great place to meet up for drinks as well.
• **Diverse Menu**: The menu offers a variety of dishes, from sushi to fried rice, along with **healthy options** and **small plates**, perfect for sharing. The inclusion of vegan items like the **Creole Roll (V)** and **Panko Fried Oyster Mushroom (Vegan)** is a big plus for plant-based diners.
• **Beverage Selection**: The restaurant has a well-curated selection of **alcohol**, including a variety of **beer**, **wine**, and **sake**, as well as **cocktails** and **hard liquor**, complementing the unique food menu.
• **Friendly and Attentive Service**: Customer reviews praise the staff and the owner/chef for being "super helpful and kind." This level of personal and welcoming service is a major highlight, contributing to the restaurant’s positive reputation.
• **Fast Service**: Despite being a smaller operation, the restaurant is noted for its **fast service**, a key highlight that ensures a smooth dining experience.

For reservations, questions, or to place an order, you can contact Kinoko at the following information:

**Address**: 179 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, USA

**Phone**: (347) 689-3391

For a New Yorker looking for an exceptional and unique dining experience, Kinoko is a must-try. The restaurant's bold fusion of Japanese and Cajun cuisine is its most compelling reason to visit. The **Jambalaya Fried Rice** and **Shrimp Creole Yakisoba** are prime examples of this creative blend, offering familiar flavors in a brand new context. The sushi is also highly praised, with customers raving about the high quality and inventive rolls. The **Volcano Roll**, for instance, is a crowd-pleaser, while the **Kizami** and the **Salmon Slammin' Roll** showcase the freshness and quality of the seafood.

What truly sets Kinoko apart is its ability to elevate even the simplest dishes. The **Cucumber And Avocado Roll**, a basic vegan option, is described as being elevated to perfection with the addition of their chili oil, making it an extraordinary dish. The **scallop nigiri** is another highlight, praised for its perfect, buttery texture. For those who enjoy a bit of spectacle, the **Firefighter Roll** is a standout, providing a pyrotechnic moment that adds to the dining experience. The presence of a dedicated **vegan menu**, including outstanding options like the **Mango Tango** and the **Creole Roll**, shows a commitment to inclusivity and creativity.

The cozy and welcoming atmosphere, paired with the genuine friendliness of the staff and the owner, makes every visit a pleasant one. The fact that the restaurant feels like a "neighborhood staple" so soon after opening is a testament to its quality and service. With the added convenience of **reservations**, **takeout**, and **delivery**, Kinoko provides an excellent, well-rounded option for any dining occasion, whether it's a planned night out or a last-minute craving for something delicious. For a meal that is consistently "pure taste bud bliss" and a truly unique culinary adventure, Kinoko is an exceptional choice in the Brooklyn food scene.

Kinoko

179 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, USA