ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
nonono
8.4
NONONO is a bi-level yakitori and ramen spot where skewers, small plates, and big bowls share equal billing. Its illustrated menu, cocktails, and late hours make it one of Nomad’s busiest Japanese grills for casual dates, friend groups, and after-work hangs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charcoal-grilled yakitori skewers, Karaage fried chicken, Rich bone-broth ramen bowls
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: High-energy yakitori house with ramen, skewers, and cocktails under one roof.
Who should go: Groups who want skewers, ramen, and drinks in one stop.
When to visit: Later evenings when the grill, bar, and music are fully rolling.
What to order: Mix of yakitori, karaage, a shared ramen, and a cocktail round.
Insider tip: Expect a wait at peak times; bar snacks and drinks help pass the time.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in NoMad and very difficult after 6pm; the closest option is a paid garage within a few blocks. Rideshare is the easiest choice at peak hours.
Dress code: Smart casual to trendy — jeans are fine, but many diners lean fashionable for nights out.
Noise level: Lively and loud — conversation is possible but you’ll be talking slightly over the room during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically 10–20 minutes, sometimes no wait right at opening
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable yakitori, salads, rice bowls, and some noodle options work well.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable skewers and sides can be made vegan, but the menu is protein-forward.
Gluten-free options: Partial — grilled proteins and some small plates are naturally gluten-free, but sauces often contain soy.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want energetic and social rather than quiet and intimate. The upbeat vibe and shareable food make it fun, but it’s not ideal for deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays or early evenings, but weekends almost always involve a wait. Arriving right at opening or sitting at the bar gives you the best odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially. While kids aren’t prohibited, the noise level, bar focus, and late-night crowd make it better suited for adults and older teens.
Best For
Better for: High-energy yakitori, cocktails, and late-night group dining with a trendy crowd.
Skip if: You want quiet ramen, a traditional Japanese grill experience, or a calm date-night atmosphere.