Bar Goto Menu Overview
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan at 245 Eldridge Street, BAR GOTO delivers an immersive Japanese izakaya experience with a distinct contemporary twist. This hotspot, renowned for its masterful cocktails crafted by Kenta Goto (ex Pegu Club), pairs inventive drinks with a carefully curated selection of Japanese-inspired bar snacks and small plates. Ideal for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike, the menu offers a balance of bold flavors and subtle nuances that capture the spirit of Japan in a cozy, intimate setting.
Starters
Begin your culinary journey with light yet flavorful starters that showcase authentic Japanese ingredients and techniques. The Gobo Fries are a standout: crispy burdock root seasoned with aromatic shichimi pepper and just a hint of salt, offering a delightful earthy crunch. Another must-try is the Tako Sashimi, featuring tender octopus served with delicate wakame seaweed, complemented by a sweet chili miso and fresh wasabi soy sauce that balances heat and umami perfectly.
Mains
For heartier fare, the Okonomiyaki is a Japanese pancake brimming with cabbage, savory pork, fresh seafood, cheese, and topped with signature sauce, mayo, bonito flakes, and crunchy tempura flakes – a satisfying medley of textures and flavors. The Miso Wings are another crowd favorite; these chicken wings are glazed in a rich miso paste and sprinkled with black sesame seeds, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty notes that pair wonderfully with the bar’s beverage selection.
Cocktails and Drinks
BAR GOTO shines with an exquisite cocktail menu that honors Japanese flavors and craftsmanship. The Sakura Martini merges gin, junmai sake, maraschino liqueur, and salted cherry blossom for a refreshingly floral experience. Fans of whiskey will appreciate the Plum Sazerac, combining bourbon, vermouth, aperitivo, and ume for a complex sip. The Far East Side offers a crisp blend of vodka, yuzu, and shiso that feels both invigorating and elegant. For a rich and layered drink, the Hojicha Old Fashioned blends cognac, aged rum, Kyoto roasted green tea, and chocolate bitters, a cocktail lauded for its depth and balance.
Specialties and Highlights
- Intimate and Ambient Setting - A dark, cozy lounge atmosphere perfect for date nights or small gatherings, emphasizing an authentic izakaya vibe.
- Focused Japanese Spirits - Extensive selection of sake, shochu, and Japanese whiskey complementing the menu items and enhancing the overall experience.
- Cocktail Innovation - Creative concoctions blending traditional Japanese ingredients with contemporary mixology techniques, showcasing Kenta Goto's expertise.
