Lucky Cat

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

For New Yorkers in search of an authentic and lively Japanese dining experience, Lucky Cat in Midtown East is a must-visit destination. Located at 232 E 53rd St, this restaurant expertly combines the warmth of a classic ramen shop with the social, bustling energy of a Japanese izakaya. The concept, inspired by the informal gastropubs of Japan, is all about sharing delicious food and enjoying a fantastic atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a vibrant and playful decor that includes colorful banners, intricate artwork, and a charming, human-sized cat statue, all creating a unique and memorable setting. The ambiance is both trendy and cozy, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch, a lively dinner with friends, or a solo bite to eat. It's a place that feels like a true escape from the typical New York dining scene, transporting you to the streets of Tokyo.

While ramen is a highlight, Lucky Cat offers a full-fledged culinary journey through Japanese cuisine. The menu extends far beyond noodles, featuring a wide array of small plates, skewers from their robata grill, and other traditional dishes. This diverse menu, paired with an impressive selection of cocktails and drinks, ensures there's something to satisfy every craving. Patrons consistently praise the quality of the food and the authentic flavors, noting that the restaurant "hit the mark" with its offerings. The chefs' dedication to crafting flavorful and well-prepared dishes, from the crispy takoyaki to the savory pork belly kimchi, shines through in every bite. The service is also a key part of the experience, with staff often described as "attentive and accommodating," ensuring every guest feels welcomed and well-cared for.

What truly sets Lucky Cat apart is its ability to be a jack-of-all-trades: a fantastic ramen spot, a great bar for a night out, and a place that offers high-quality food in a fun, relaxed environment. It's popular for everything from a quick lunch break to a late-night feast. The atmosphere, enhanced by the playful backdrop of Japanese animation on the TVs, makes it a comfortable and engaging place to spend time. Whether you're a long-time resident or a tourist exploring the city, Lucky Cat provides a genuine taste of Japanese culture and hospitality right here in the heart of Manhattan.

Lucky Cat is centrally located in Midtown East at 232 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022, USA. This highly accessible location is just a short walk from major subway stations, making it an easy trip for anyone in the five boroughs. Its proximity to corporate offices and residential buildings makes it a convenient and popular spot for professionals, tourists, and locals alike. The bustling neighborhood provides the perfect backdrop for this vibrant restaurant.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all diners. It features a wheelchair-accessible restroom and wheelchair-accessible seating, allowing for a more inclusive dining environment. While the entrance may have some steps, the staff is known for being accommodating and friendly, ready to assist guests. This focus on guest comfort, combined with its prime location, makes Lucky Cat a top choice for those seeking great food in a convenient setting without the usual accessibility concerns.

Lucky Cat provides a variety of services to accommodate its diverse clientele, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience for every occasion.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the vibrant and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. Lucky Cat offers table service, allowing you to relax and enjoy a full meal with friends, family, or on your own.

• Takeout and Delivery: For those on the go, Lucky Cat offers both takeout and no-contact delivery options. This allows you to enjoy their delicious ramen and other menu items from the comfort of your home or office.

• Catering: The restaurant provides catering services for various events, including corporate functions, family reunions, and other special gatherings. Their menu of Japanese small plates and dishes is perfect for any party.

• Reservations: While Lucky Cat has a casual atmosphere, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially for dinner and during peak hours. This ensures you get a table and can avoid a long wait.

• Late-Night Food: Lucky Cat is a great option for late-night cravings, offering food and drinks well into the evening. It's a perfect spot for a post-show or post-work meal.

• Happy Hour: Known for its great beer, wine, and cocktails, Lucky Cat has a popular happy hour, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing drink after a long day.

Lucky Cat stands out in the New York City dining scene for its unique blend of culinary excellence, playful atmosphere, and exceptional service. Here are some of its key features:

• Authentic Japanese Izakaya Experience: Lucky Cat’s concept is modeled after a traditional Japanese izakaya, a casual pub where people gather to drink and enjoy small plates. This provides an authentic and social dining experience that goes beyond a typical ramen shop.

• Exceptional Ramen: The restaurant is known for its high-quality ramen, particularly the signature Lucky Cat Ramen, which features a rich pork broth, chashu pork, and a variety of flavorful toppings. The broth is a key highlight, with some saying it is thick and delicious enough to "cure any cold."

• Creative Cocktails and Drink Selection: Lucky Cat offers a unique and highly recommended selection of signature cocktails, with playful names like "Sailor Moon" and "One Piece." The bar also provides a variety of beers, hard liquor, and other beverages to complement your meal.

• Diverse Menu with Small Plates: Beyond ramen, the menu includes a wide variety of Japanese small plates and skewers from the robata grill. The pork belly kimchi, takoyaki, and various vegetable skewers are often praised by customers.

• Lively and Welcoming Atmosphere: The decor is a major highlight, with its vibrant and playful Japanese-themed design. The atmosphere is casual, trendy, and perfect for groups, making it a fun and inviting spot for any occasion. It is also a great place for solo dining, with counter seating available.

• High-Quality and Friendly Service: The staff at Lucky Cat consistently receives excellent reviews for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor. The quick and efficient service ensures a great experience, whether you are dining in or getting takeout.

For more information, to place an order, or to make a reservation, you can contact Lucky Cat using the following details:

Address: 232 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022, USA

Phone: (212) 838-5333

When you visit Lucky Cat, you're faced with a menu full of delicious options, but a few dishes stand out as particularly worth choosing. The Lucky Cat Ramen is a definite must-try, celebrated by patrons for its rich and flavorful broth and perfect toppings. Another standout is the pork belly kimchi, a dish that a customer review highlighted as a top recommendation. For a quick bite, the takoyaki and various vegetable skewers are excellent choices that showcase the izakaya's grill expertise. And if you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try one of their signature cocktails, like the popular Sailor Moon or One Piece, which have been ranked as favorites among customers. Finally, don't miss out on the jasmine ice cream, a dessert noted for its "strong jasmine taste" and unique flavor.

Lucky Cat

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