Ikigai

Japanese Restaurant 5.0 (52)


Ikigai is a remarkable restaurant that seamlessly blends authentic Japanese culinary traditions with innovative twists. The dining experience is elevated by a meticulous attention to detail in both the food and ambiance, making it a memorable place for guests. Several customers have lauded the thoughtful pairing of flavors and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality.

Overall:

4.8

(53 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.6

Atmosphere:

4.8

Service:

4.8


Restaurant website: Website

Address: 87 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA

Opening hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 6:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:30 – 11:30 PM
Saturday: 5:30 – 11:30 PM
Sunday: Closed

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available

Offerings

  • Dinner
  • Cocktails
  • Dessert

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" My experience at Ikigai was nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant focuses on details that create a calming and enjoyable dining experience. The artistry on the plates was remarkable—almost too pretty to eat! Each dish showcased not only creativity but also a deep respect for Japanese traditions, which I found both refreshing and inspiring. I thoroughly enjoyed everything, and if you’re a fan of unique culinary adventures, you’ll love it here! " (*Curated Review*)

" Dining at Ikigai was a beautiful experience that blends art and food perfectly. The attention to every detail—from the garden setup to the intricate plating of the dishes—creates an atmosphere that's both intimate and upscale without being stuffy. As for the food, I was incredibly impressed by the freshness and seasonality of the ingredients used in such a delicate kaiseki menu. I highly recommend the non-alcoholic pairings; they complemented the flavors wonderfully! A perfect spot for special occasions, and I will surely return with friends. " (*Curated Review*)

" Dining at Ikigai was an unforgettable journey for my taste buds! The ambiance is so calming, and the entire space is beautifully designed. Each course was meticulously prepared and genuinely tasted incredible—especially the torched sushi which was heavenly. The service team was superb; they made sure we felt valued throughout the meal. However, I wish there would be slightly larger portions to really make the experience more fulfilling. That being said, I'm looking forward to my next visit. " (*Curated Review*)

" Ikigai has quickly climbed to the top of my favorite NYC restaurants list! The immersive dining experience starts in their serene garden, and the innovative kaiseki menu is extraordinary. I was especially impressed by their infusion of Polish elements, balancing flavors I've never seen before. Each course was thoughtful and beautifully executed. I would recommend this place to anyone seeking a unique meal; just be prepared for smaller portion sizes! " (*Curated Review*)

" What an exceptional culinary experience! Ikigai blends high-quality ingredients and creative presentations to craft a delightful meal. I was particularly impressed with the unique flavor combinations—a testament to the chef’s skill. The entire atmosphere felt tranquil, a perfect escape from the city. If anything, a few of the courses could be a tad more generous in size to make for a more filling experience. Still, it’s a fantastic place to celebrate special moments! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (43)

" What a delightful experience! I was truly impressed by the level of thoughtfulness behind each dish at Ikigai. There’s creativity in their kaiseki-style menu, and every dish flowed beautifully into the next. The garden was a lovely feature to begin the evening. My only suggestion would be to slightly increase portion sizes, especially for the mains, but overall, a stellar experience. Highly recommended! " (*Curated Review*)

" I had the most enchanting experience at Ikigai! From the moment we walked into the garden area while enjoying a welcome drink, I felt transported. The flavors were exquisite, especially the quail egg dish with uni—a true standout! The chef has a clear talent for balancing traditional Japanese flavors with modern influences, creating a dining experience that is not only delicious but memorable. Overall, it's a blend of beauty, flavor, and heart; I cannot wait to return! " (*Curated Review*)

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