TLDR
Authentic Japanese izakaya vibes near Penn Station. Beloved for shareable plates, consistent quality, and an iconic creamy kimchi udon.
Instagram Posts References
The post features two distinct Japanese dishes: a chirashi bowl and an unagi dish. The chirashi bowl is presented with a variety of fresh sashimi, including tuna, salmon, and what appears to be yellowtail, arranged over rice and topped with ikura (salmon roe) and a raw egg yolk. The unagi dish consists of grilled eel served over rice with tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and pickled daikon. The presentation of both dishes is appealing, suggesting a focus on quality ingredients and careful preparation.
Details
A beloved Manhattan staple for those seeking an authentic izakaya experience reminiscent of trips to Tokyo [4], [5]. This spot is widely praised for its consistent quality and impressive variety of shareable small plates [16], [21]. Diners frequently highlight its excellent value, particularly noting the affordable and high-quality lunch specials [25].
Food Overview
This izakaya specializes in Japanese tapas and comfort foods, earning high marks for its diverse menu [16]. Standout dishes include the popular creamy kimchi udon [18], [21], nanban chicken [21], grilled mackerel [9], and a variety of yakitori skewers [10], [16]. While some suggest okonomiyaki might occasionally be reheated from frozen [14], the overall consensus remains highly positive regarding taste and preparation [21].
Caveats
Some visitors note that the lack of guest Wi-Fi can be a minor drawback for those hoping to work or browse during lunch [22].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MEW
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Visiting For Anyc Staying Near The Port Authority
"Suggested as a nearby spot for Japanese small tapas."
PositiveFrom post: Cousins Boyfriend Doesnt Like Sushi But We All
"Mentioned as a potential suggestion."
NeutralFrom post: Wheres The Good Food In Midtown Thats Not 50 And
"Described as great, affordable, and consistent, specifically highlighting the lunch specials."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Restaurants Under 100 In Manhattan
"Included in a list of recommended restaurants."
PositiveFrom post: Japanese Style Bars With Cheap Drinks In The City
"Izakaya Mew is listed as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Is There Anything That Compares To The Creamy
"This user also expresses love for Izakaya Mew but notes the lack of Wi-Fi, which they find inconvenient for a lunch spot where they might want to 'doomscroll'."
PositiveFrom post: Is There Anything That Compares To The Creamy
"The original poster is asking for recommendations for dishes similar to Izakaya Mew's creamy kimchi udon, as they are a big fan but don't live near Ktown. They also praise Izakaya Mew for its consistency and amazing food."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"The user is planning a trip to NYC and included Izakaya Mew on their list of potential restaurants to visit."
NeutralFrom post: Recommendations
"This user suggested Izakaya Mew as an example of an Izakaya (Japanese tapas bar) in NYC, noting that they offer a variety of shareable small plates and are suitable for families with teenagers."
PositiveFrom post: What Are Your Favorite Midrange Price Japanese
"The original poster mentioned Izakaya Mew as a restaurant they really liked."
PositiveFrom post: Carbonara Udon
"This user mentioned izakaya mew has a 'kimchi cream udon' that they tried."
NeutralFrom post: Husband Is Corporate Attorney Originally From New
"Izakaya Mew is mentioned as an example of an izakaya in NYC, described as easier and more affordable."
PositiveFrom post: Japanese Restaurant For Picky Eater
"Izakaya Mew is mentioned as a dining option."
NeutralFrom post: Update Needed Best Okonomikaki In The City
"This commenter found Izakaya MEW to be pretty good in terms of both taste and price for okonomiyaki, describing it as a solid general spot. They also speculated that many izakayas might reheat okonomiyaki from frozen due to practicality in a busy NYC kitchen."
PositiveFrom post: Quick Lunch In Penn Station Area
"Izakaya Mew is listed as a dining option near Penn Station."
PositiveFrom post: Quick Lunch In Penn Station Area
"Izakaya Mew is mentioned as being open for lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Simple And Casual Izakaya Yakitori Spot
"This user loves Izakaya MEW, calling it their favorite Japanese restaurant in the two-dollar-sign price range."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Some Good Meat Skewer Places Yakitori
"Mew, an Izakaya, is mentioned as a place that typically includes yakitori on its menu. It's grouped with other casual skewer options."
PositiveFrom post: Best Mackerel
"This user states that the grilled mackerel at Izakaya Mew is quite nice."
PositiveFrom post: Best Vintage Style Cake
"This is an automated moderation message regarding the user's post."
Neutral