Kono

- 46 Bowery, New York, NY 10013

In the vibrant, sometimes overwhelming landscape of New York City’s dining scene, Kono stands out as a true culinary sanctuary. Located in a dimly lit, narrow corridor off of Bowery, this yakitori restaurant feels like a hidden gem, a piece of old-world Japan tucked away in the heart of Chinatown. Kono is not a typical Japanese restaurant; it specializes in yakitori, the art of grilling skewered chicken and other seasonal ingredients over charcoal. What makes it truly special is that it is a kappo-style, multi-course omakase experience. This means you put your trust in the chef, Atsushi “ATS” Kono, a true master of his craft, who prepares a curated tasting menu right before your eyes. The atmosphere is an integral part of the experience. It is a small, intimate venue with a 14-seat chef’s counter that anchors the room, creating a sense of being part of a private, exclusive dinner. The decor is a tasteful blend of Japanese and urban aesthetics, cozy and trendy at the same time. The experience is both a dinner and a show, as you have the pleasure of watching the chef meticulously prepare each piece of organic Amish chicken and seasonal vegetables over the charcoal grill. This unique and personal dining style makes Kono an ideal destination for a special occasion, a memorable date night, or a truly special solo dining experience where you can appreciate the intricate art of yakitori up close.

Chef Kono's dedication to his craft is evident in every detail, from the selection of high-quality, organic ingredients to the precise timing and seasoning of each skewer. Guests are taken on a culinary journey that showcases a variety of chicken cuts, many of which are not commonly found in Western cuisine. Each piece is cooked to perfection, with a delicate smokiness from the binchotan charcoal that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. Midway through the meal, guests are often given the opportunity to order additional à la carte items, allowing for a personalized touch to the already fantastic experience. The menu is also complemented by an impressive beverage program, featuring a wide range of specialty sake, Japanese whiskies (including rare finds from Suntory and Ichiro's Malt), and unique cocktails. The staff, known for being professional, friendly, and incredibly helpful, further elevates the dining experience by explaining each course and offering thoughtful recommendations. Customer reviews consistently praise the incredible service and the team's ability to make every visit feel special, whether for a birthday celebration or a casual dinner. This commitment to every detail—from the food to the service and the drinks—is what makes Kono a standout destination in New York City's fine dining scene and a place that leaves a lasting impression on its guests.

Kono is discreetly located at 46 Bowery, New York, NY 10013, USA. Finding it is part of the experience, as it's nestled in a long, narrow corridor reminiscent of a back alley in Japan. This "hidden gem" quality adds to the sense of discovery and exclusivity that defines the restaurant. Despite its tucked-away location, it is easily accessible thanks to its position in downtown Manhattan. The Bowery and nearby Chinatown are well-served by multiple subway lines and bus routes, making it convenient for patrons coming from all over the city. The restaurant’s entrance, while subtle, is a gateway to a unique and intimate world. Due to the intimate size of the venue and the nature of the omakase service, the restaurant is only available for dine-in service, and reservations are required. This ensures that every guest receives the full, uninterrupted experience that Chef Kono and his team have so carefully crafted. While there is no information on a wheelchair-accessible entrance, the restaurant does provide a wheelchair accessible restroom, showing a commitment to accommodating its guests. The location on the Bowery also offers the opportunity to explore one of New York’s most dynamic neighborhoods, making a visit to Kono part of a larger night out in the city.

Kono operates with a focused set of services that underscore its exclusive and high-end dining experience. These services include:

• Dine-in only, ensuring an exclusive and focused experience.
• Dinner service with table service, providing a comfortable and attentive experience.
• Reservations are required and highly recommended for dinner, as seating is limited.
• A wide variety of alcohol offerings, including beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and a curated wine list.
• A dessert course is included in the omakase menu.
• Accepts credit cards and debit cards for payment.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom.

The omakase-only dining model means that every aspect of the meal, from the appetizers to the dessert, is meticulously planned by the chef. This streamlined approach allows the kitchen to focus on quality and presentation, which is a major benefit for guests. The reservation policy is crucial given the small number of seats, and it is a testament to the restaurant’s popularity and the demand for this unique experience. The impressive drink menu, with its deep selection of Japanese whiskies, sake, and signature cocktails, is designed to perfectly complement the delicate flavors of the yakitori. The availability of table service ensures a high level of attentiveness from the staff throughout the entire meal. While Kono does not offer takeout or delivery, this is by design, as the experience of watching the chef at the counter and enjoying the skewers fresh off the grill is a fundamental part of what makes the restaurant so special. This commitment to a specific, high-quality service model is a key part of what makes Kono a standout destination.

Kono is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a truly unique dining destination in New York. These include:

• A unique and intimate yakitori omakase experience.
• Expertly prepared dishes by a master chef, Atsushi Kono.
• A cozy and trendy atmosphere that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
• An open kitchen setup where diners can watch their food being prepared over a charcoal grill.
• An exceptional selection of rare Japanese whiskies, sake, and inventive cocktails.
• Outstanding and professional service that is consistently praised by customers.
• A menu that showcases organic Amish chicken and seasonal ingredients.
• An excellent choice for special occasions, solo dining, or intimate dates.

The main highlight is undoubtedly the yakitori omakase experience itself. It elevates the simple concept of grilled skewers into a refined, multi-course meal that is both delicious and educational. The opportunity to sit at the counter and watch Chef Kono work is a privilege, offering a deeper appreciation for the skill and artistry involved. The restaurant’s atmosphere is another major draw; it manages to be both cozy and trendy, creating a comfortable space for a serious meal. The drink menu is a highlight on its own, with a collection of Japanese whiskies that is among the best in the city. The staff's professionalism and warmth are consistently noted in customer reviews, showing that the high-quality experience extends beyond the food. The attention to detail, from explaining each course to accommodating dietary needs, makes every guest feel valued. Kono is a place that promises more than just dinner; it promises an experience that is engaging, educational, and deeply satisfying. This combination of a masterful chef, an intimate setting, and impeccable service is what makes Kono a highly recommended spot for a unique night out in New York City.

For more information or to secure a reservation, you can contact Kono directly. The restaurant is located at 46 Bowery, New York, NY 10013, USA. Given that reservations are required and the venue is intimate, it is highly recommended to book your spot in advance, which can be done through their phone number, (646) 524-6838, or mobile number, +1 646-524-6838. The clear contact information makes it easy to inquire about availability, ask about the menu, or confirm details for your upcoming visit. The restaurant’s phone number is the primary way to manage reservations and is a crucial part of the planning process. Since the dining experience is a set, multi-course meal that takes a specific amount of time, planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable evening. The accessibility of the phone numbers reflects the restaurant’s commitment to providing excellent service from the very first point of contact. While the restaurant’s hidden location adds to its allure, knowing the address and having a way to confirm your reservation ensures that the discovery of this gem is a pleasant one. For a truly unique and memorable dining experience, making a reservation at Kono is the first step toward a night of culinary delight.

What makes Kono worth choosing for a dinner in New York? It’s a destination for those who seek more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Kono offers a rare and intimate yakitori omakase dining experience, a format that is not widely available in the city. The food, prepared by the masterful Chef Atsushi Kono, is of the highest quality, showcasing an incredible variety of cuts and flavors. It is a place where you can taste the dedication and artistry in every single skewer. The atmosphere is a major part of the appeal; it’s a cozy, exclusive space where you can enjoy dinner and a show, watching the chef work his magic. This setting makes it a perfect choice for a romantic date, a special celebration, or even a treat for yourself if you’re a solo diner who appreciates fine food. The beverage menu, with its impressive selection of Japanese whiskies and sake, is a fantastic complement to the food and provides an opportunity to explore new pairings. While the price point is on the higher end, customers consistently feel that the quality of the food, the level of service, and the uniqueness of the experience make it well worth the investment. Kono is a place that lingers in your memory long after the meal is over, a testament to its status as a truly special culinary gem in the heart of New York City.

Kono

46 Bowery, New York, NY 10013, USA