ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Williamsburg
Best Seafood in Williamsburg
Master Critic Review
Okonomi
8.6
Okonomi is a tiny Japanese spot in East Williamsburg known for its traditional ichiju-sansai breakfast sets by day and rich, focused ramen bowls at night. Locals treat it as a destination for carefully grilled fish, seasonal sides, and a quietly serious approach to simple Japanese cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ichiju Sansai breakfast set, Yakizakana grilled fish set, Yuji shoyu ramen
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Traditional Japanese breakfast and focused ramen served in a tiny, serene room.
Who should go: Japan-obsessed diners who appreciate precise, minimalist cooking.
When to visit: Mornings for calm breakfast, evenings for intimate ramen service.
What to order: Ichiju Sansai set, grilled mackerel, a Yuji ramen bowl.
Insider tip: Reservations or early arrivals are key; the room is very small.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only and very limited; expect to circle, especially after 6pm. Rideshare is the easiest option.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and a nice top fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—quiet enough for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation due to the very small room
Weekday lunch: 10–25 minutes, occasionally none if you arrive early
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-focused small plates and customizable breakfast sides.
Vegan options: Limited—possible to piece together a light meal from sides, but not fully vegan-forward.
Gluten-free options: Limited—grilled fish and some sides work, but ramen and sauces often contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's intimate, calm, and conversation-friendly, ideal for a thoughtful, low-pressure first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but it’s risky during peak hours. Arrive right at opening for the best chance without a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—space is tight, the vibe is quiet, and there’s no kids menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Japanese breakfast sets, grilled fish, and a calm, minimalist dining experience that feels distinctly Kyoto-inspired.
Skip if: You want fast service, large portions, or a lively atmosphere—this is slow, quiet, and intentionally restrained.