ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Gramercy & Flatiron
Best Sushi Rolls in Gramercy & Flatiron
Master Critic Review
Izakaya NoMad
8.2
A sake-friendly izakaya built for sharing: skewers, tempura, and small plates that work best when you order in waves instead of all at once. It’s strongest as a long-table, after-work meal—yakitori first, one cooked seafood plate, then a single roll or ramen to close.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yakitori assortment, Beef tataki, Okonomiyaki
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A true izakaya rhythm—skewers, sake, and share-plate pacing.
Who should go: After-work groups who share plates
When to visit: Happy hour through late dinner
What to order: Yakitori, beef tataki, okonomiyaki
Insider tip: Order skewers in two rounds—keeps them hot and the table balanced.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited street parking and garages nearby—plan on a garage or rideshare, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual to trendy—jeans are fine, but many guests lean polished for nights out.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy early, louder during peak happy hour and dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups
Weekday lunch: No wait typically; quicker turn during early hours
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable skewers, tempura, salads, and small plates work well together.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable skewers and sides, but ask about sauces and broths.
Gluten-free options: Partial—plain grilled skewers and select sashimi-style items work; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual or social first date than an intimate one—the energy is lively and the shared-plates format keeps things interactive.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially early or late, but peak dinner and happy hour fill fast—bar seating turns over quicker than tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—menu and vibe skew adult; better suited for teens comfortable with shared plates.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly izakaya pacing, sake-driven nights, and ordering in waves rather than committing to a full meal at once.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate Japanese dinner or a strict sushi-focused experience—opt for a calmer sushi bar instead.