TLDR
Refined Japanese daytime dining featuring signature grilled fish sets and unconventional, seafood-focused ramen. Ideal for a quiet, high-quality solo or working lunch in Nomad.
Instagram Posts References
Okonomi is showcased with an image of a thoughtfully composed plate of Japanese food, featuring what appears to be a piece of grilled salmon with citrus zest, asparagus with dressing, raw fish, and tamagoyaki. The presentation suggests a focus on fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.
Willa Moore reviews Okonomi, a Japanese restaurant in Nomad, highlighting its weekday lunch service tailored for office workers and recommending dishes like the yakizakana and unadon.
Details
Operating as a specialized daytime haven in Nomad, this establishment serves as a quiet escape for office workers and solo diners [1]. It is highly regarded for its diverse menu, featuring both traditional Japanese breakfast sets and unique fish-forward ramen options [2], [3]. While the Manhattan location has been recognized for its distinct culinary offerings, patrons should note that operations are centered on weekday lunch hours [1].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on authentic Japanese breakfast sets and creative ramen, with specific acclaim for the yakizakana grilled fish set and hearty eel over rice [1]. Seafood-based ramen, including brothless mazemen and fish-broth varieties, are standout items that differentiate the kitchen from standard pork-heavy shops [2], [3], [6].
Highlights / Recommended
"The yakizakana breakfast set featuring rotating grilled fish and the unadon (eel over rice) are highly recommended for a substantial meal [1]. For ramen lovers, the seafood-broth varieties and brothless mazemen are considered standout offerings [2], [3], [6]."
Customer Sentiment
Visitors consistently praise the restaurant for its nutritious food and suitability for solo dining, often highlighting it as a top-tier choice for a quick but satisfying weekday lunch [2], [4]. It is frequently recommended by locals as a reliable and high-quality spot in the neighborhood [5].
Caveats
Potential diners should be aware that the Manhattan location specifically operates during weekday lunch hours [1] and reports indicate the Nomad outpost is slated to close [7].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About OKONOMI/YUJI RAMEN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Need Help With Good Dinner Places
"This user listed Okonomi / Yuji Ramen among other ramen shops as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Need Help With Good Dinner Places
"This user listed Okonomi / Yuji Ramen among other ramen shops as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Any Good Lunches Around Madison Square Park
"OKONOMI and Yuji Ramen are listed as Japanese dining options in the vicinity."
PositiveFrom post: Ramen By Ra And Recsrequests
"Okonomi / Yuji Ramen is included in a list of ramen recommendations in Manhattan."
NeutralFrom post: Influencedeinfluence My Seafoodheavy Restaurant
"Yuji Ramen in Manhattan is noted for having the best seafood ramen the commenter has tried in the city, though it may only be served during lunchtime."
PositiveFrom post: Solo Dining Reading List
"Okonomi in Williamsburg/Greenpoint is suggested as a potential spot, though it can be busy during peak hours."
PositiveFrom post: Japanese Restaurant Ichibantai Vs Ootoya
"OKONOMI was mentioned as a potentially better option than Ichibantei or Ootoya for an anniversary occasion."
PositiveFrom post: Best Spicy Pescatarianhalal Friendly Ramen In Nyc
"The commenter mentioned Okonomi used to offer a good fish-broth based ramen, and while the Brooklyn branch now focuses on breakfast, the Manhattan location still has ramen options."
PositiveFrom post: Can Anyone Recommend Ramen Spot
"Okonomi / Yuji Ramen is listed as a ramen option in the Midtown / Chelsea / NoMad area."
PositiveFrom post: Any Recs For Cutweight Loss Friendly Restaurants
"Yuji Ramen is listed as a place that offers Japanese breakfast options such as fish, vegetable sides, and miso soup, which can fit into a healthy eating plan."
NeutralFrom post: Restaurants In Nyc That Have Impressed You With
"This user listed Okonomi / Yuji Ramen as a restaurant recommendation in NYC."
PositiveFrom post: Breakfast In Koreatown
"In response to a question about what to order at Okonomi, this commenter stated they usually get the yakizakana set, which includes roasted fish and sides."
PositiveFrom post: Breakfast In Koreatown
"This commenter recommended Okonomi for a delicious Japanese breakfast, noting that they open at 9 am."
PositiveFrom post: Japanese Restaurant Recommendations
"Yuji Ramen was listed as a ramen restaurant in Manhattan."
PositiveFrom post: Nonpork Ramen Styles Like Tsukemen
"Okonomi / Yuji Ramen is listed as a place to try for mazemen."
NeutralFrom post: Nonpork Ramen Styles Like Tsukemen
"The commenter suggests trying Okonomi for seafood-based ramens, though they have not personally tried it."
NeutralFrom post: Cold Ramen
"This restaurant is listed as an option for mazemen, which are brothless noodles that can be served cold."
NeutralFrom post: Best Ramen Restaurant In Manhattan Not A Crazy
"Okonomi / Yuji Ramen is included in a list of favorite ramen spots in Manhattan, all of which are suggested to be under $40."
NeutralFrom post: Chicken Broth Based Ramen
"This commenter suggests OKONOMI / YUJI for their seafood ramen, which features a mixed chicken and fish broth."
PositiveFrom post: Best Mazemen In Nyc
"This is a recommended restaurant for mazemen."
Positive