Ushiwakamaru Pop-Up at BBF: A Minimalist Sushi Experience in Manhattan New York City New York 10002 United States USA Ludlow Street 177 Ludlow St 10002 Sushi Bar Omakase Seafood Fresh Dining Elegant Attentive Service Reservations Seafood Lovers Foodies Trend-Conscious Travelers Culinary Experience Japanese Cuisine New York County Manhattan BBF Sushi Spot Food Point-of-Interest Establishment Dine-in Dining Experience Kosher Option Cocktails Wine Beer Price Quality Ambiance Unique Flavor Experience Authentic Creative Sushi Delicacy Culinary Adventure Food Destination Fine Dining Sushi Lovers Omakase Experience Contemporary Dining Urban Food Scene
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan on Ludlow Street, Ushiwakamaru Pop-Up at BBF invites sushi enthusiasts and curious foodies alike to savor an inventive omakase dining experience that marries minimalism with culinary artistry. This chic sushi bar is a destination for those seeking fresh, high-quality seafood presented with a modern touch and a refined simplicity that lets the ingredients shine.
A curated omakase experience for discerning palates
Omakase dining
Ambiance and service that elevate your meal
The dining space at Ushiwakamaru embraces a clean, modern design that feels both elegant and welcoming. Attentive staff ensure every guest’s needs are met with warmth and professionalism, making your meal not just about the food but the full sensory experience. While the venue focuses on an intimate sushi bar setting with limited seating, this encourages a close connection between diners and chefs, enhancing the authenticity of the omakase journey.
What you need to know before visiting
- Is it okay for solo diners? Can a solo diner order omakase? Yes, solo diners are welcome. For omakase bar reservations, please call the restaurant directly after 4pm, Monday-Saturday at 917-639-3940.
- What is the price of the omakase? The omakase is priced at $158 per person.
- Do they accept reservations? Yes, reservations are accepted. For table seating, reservations can be made online. For sushi bar seating, please call the restaurant directly after 4pm, Monday-Saturday at 917-639-3940.
Community sentiment and dining highlights
Guests regularly praise Ushiwakamaru for its fresh and expertly prepared sushi, noting that the omakase experience stands out for its freshness, creativity, and depth of flavor. The minimalist yet elegant ambiance paired with attentive service consistently enhances the overall dining experience. While some find the pricing on the higher end, many agree that the quality and unique culinary craftsmanship justify the cost, making it a favored spot among sushi lovers in New York City.
USHIWAKAMARU stands as a beacon of authentic Edomae-style sushi, a culinary tradition rooted in Tokyo's Edo period that emphasizes fresh fish and hand-crafted technique. Founded and brought to life by Chef Hideo Kuribara, a native of Japan's Gunma Prefecture, this sushi bar has become a distinguished landmark in New York City's vibrant food scene.
Chef Kuribara’s relentless dedication to authentic Edomae sushi craft has been recognized repeatedly through prestigious awards. His mastery was first honored in 2000 when he won the 1st prize in the Edomae sushi category at the U.S. Sushi-Making Contest in Washington DC. He remarkably repeated this feat the very next year, solidifying his reputation as a leading sushi artisan in the United States. Continuing his streak of excellence, in 2004 Chef Kuribara clinched the top prize once more in New York, further cementing USHIWAKAMARU's place in culinary history.
USHIWAKAMARU continues to uphold the intricate techniques and flavors of Edomae sushi, offering New Yorkers an authentic taste of Tokyo’s Edo period culinary heritage. The restaurant’s minimalist ambiance perfectly complements the chef’s refined skill, allowing patrons to focus on the meticulous craftsmanship of each sushi piece. This dedication to authenticity in both ingredient selection and technique makes it a must-visit destination for sushi aficionados and travelers seeking genuine Japanese dining experiences in Manhattan.
- 2000 Chef Hideo Kuribara won 1st prize in the U.S. Sushi-Making Contest in Washington DC in the Edomae sushi category.
- 2001 Chef Hideo Kuribara won 1st prize in the U.S. Sushi-Making Contest in Washington DC in the Edomae sushi category again, reinforcing his mastery.
- 2004 Chef Kuribara secured 1st prize in the U.S. Sushi-Making Contest held in New York, a crowning achievement that coincided with USHIWAKAMARU’s rise in the city.
Located at 177 Ludlow St, New York, NY, USHIWAKAMARU Pop-Up at BBF offers a unique dining experience with its minimalist design and inventive omakase menu. This sushi bar is known for its authentic Edomae-style sushi, crafted by a skilled chef who emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance is elegant yet understated, making it a perfect spot for sushi enthusiasts looking to indulge in a memorable meal.
- Authentic Edomae-style sushi Skilled chef with accolades Fresh and high-quality ingredients Minimalist and elegant ambiance Attentive and friendly service
- Higher price point Limited seating Reservations required No a la carte options No lunch service
USHIWAKAMARU is ideal for sushi enthusiasts, special occasions, and those looking to explore authentic Japanese cuisine. Its intimate setting makes it perfect for romantic dinners or small gatherings.
Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating. The restaurant does not offer a la carte options, and lunch service is unavailable. Be prepared for a higher price point, reflecting the quality of the omakase experience.
USHIWAKAMARU Pop-Up at BBF presents a refined sushi experience that balances quality and artistry. While it may come with a higher price tag, the dedication to authentic flavors and the skill of the chef make it a worthwhile destination for sushi lovers in New York City.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 177 Ludlow Street, Ushiwakamaru Pop-Up at BBF is a minimalist sushi bar that has captured the attention of New York City's discerning food lovers and sushi aficionados. This establishment offers a refined omakase dining experience that combines tradition with inventive touches, perfect for those craving a top-tier Japanese culinary adventure in one of New York's most vibrant neighborhoods.
At the core of Ushiwakamaru's appeal is its signature omakase menu—a curated chef's choice selection that features 16 exquisite pieces of sushi. Priced at $158, this 16-course journey is thoughtfully paired with miso soup and a delicate dessert, delivering an experience that foodies describe as fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Each piece of sushi showcases the chef's passion for quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, from the perfectly shaped sushi rice to the freshest seafood.
For those seeking sushi variety, the Nigiri set offers 10 hand-selected pieces including fatty tuna, salmon, spot shrimp, and even sea urchin, all for $48. The Otsukuri sashimi platter, also $48, features premium cuts of fatty tuna, white fish, and shellfish, enabling guests to indulge in the pure flavors of expertly sliced raw fish. The Sushi and Sashimi Combination at $66 presents a harmonious blend of both worlds for a satisfying, diverse meal.
Ushiwakamaru also delights with an array of specialty rolls and traditional Japanese sides. From the refreshing Cucumber Roll and Pickled Takuan Radish Roll, priced affordably at $5 each, to indulgent selections like the Fatty Tuna Roll with Scallion ($15) and the decadent Soft Shell Crab Roll ($18), the menu caters to all palates. The kitchen serves classic dishes such as deep-fried shrimp and vegetables tempura ($14), broiled black cod marinated in miso ($12), and simmered fish head ($16), providing rich textures and umami flavors that complement the sushi offerings.
Miso soups are a highlight with options like White Miso Soup with Shrimp Broth ($4.50), Red Miso Soup ($5), and Lobster Miso Soup ($7), perfect to warm the soul.
Guests at Ushiwakamaru appreciate its clean, minimalist design that puts the spotlight on the sushi craftsmanship. The intimate omakase bar seating offers a close-up view of the chefs at work, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. While reviews highlight some critiques regarding pricing and service details, many patrons rave about the attentive staff and the magical way the sushi experience fosters connection among diners.
Ushiwakamaru accepts various payment methods including NFC, credit, and debit cards, making it convenient for visitors. Though it does not offer outdoor seating or breakfast service, it boasts a well-curated cocktail menu and serves dinner with options for beer and wine, enhancing a memorable evening out.
- Authentic omakase experience with a 16-piece chef’s choice menu showcasing fresh, high-quality sushi.
- Diverse menu options including nigiri, sashimi platters, specialty rolls, tempura, and traditional Japanese soups.
- Intimate setting with a minimalist ambiance that focuses on the purity of sushi craftsmanship.
- Convenient location in Manhattan’s Lower East Side at 177 Ludlow Street, perfect for sushi lovers exploring New York City.
