OOTOYA - Union Square

“If you are looking for a standout dish, the grilled Gindara Miso (grilled black cod) definitely a yes. The fish arrived in a caramelized miso glaze with sweet umami flavor just to keep the taste interesting. Every bite is balanced, comforting and luxurious, the kind of dish you appreciate how simple ingredients can be extraordinary! This place really did a great job in making the black cod. Cheers!”

“I had such a great experience at Ootoya Union Square. The food tasted super fresh and everything we ordered was delicious. I really liked the wagyu carpaccio, it was also beautifully presented and definitely one of the standout dishes of the meal. The handmade udon was another standout for me. The noodles had such a great texture and tasted incredibly fresh. The atmosphere was cozy but still felt modern, and the service was excellent throughout the meal. You can tell a lot of care goes into both the presentation and quality of the food. Definitely one of my favorite spots for Japanese comfort food in NYC and I’ll definitely be back. :)”

“Ootoya has been known for its traditional home style Japanese meals for over a decade, and their Union Square location now offers temaki alongside their signature udon. You can enjoy hot or cold udon paired with refreshing hand rolls that are perfect for the summer heat. The food is consistently fresh, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. The staff are warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home, and the service is quick without feeling rushed. Whether you are stopping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner, Ootoya is a spot you will find yourself coming back to again and again.”

“The food was good, especially the grilled fish and the chicken. I was looking for some healthier options and it delivered flavor, without being over condimented. The diva noodles were just okay, too soft in my opinion. The waitress never came back after taking the order and I had to get her attention to being the check; there were too many customers per waiter. The counter sitting looks into the backroom and it doesn't have the same nice ambience as the main room or the regular bar.”

“Ootoya at Union Square is a solid spot for comforting Japanese food. The menu has a great variety, and the dishes are well-prepared with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a nice place to relax over a meal. Service was attentive, though the wait times were a little longer than expected. Overall, delicious food and a pleasant dining experience — worth a visit if you’re in the area.”