Fushimi is a Japanese Oasis in Times Square
“I can’t believe this is in Times Square!”
Those were the first words muttered as we entered Fushimi. Fushimi is reminiscent of iconic restaurants that have graced the New York City like LAVO, Buddakan, Hakkasan and STK. You walk in knowing that you’re about to have an epic experience beyond just the amazing food you order. At Fushimi you’re immediately transported to Japan with the subdued lighting, Bonzi trees, traditional red torii gates and larger-than-life Koi fish art installation.
Fushimi Inari Shrine is a historical Japanese treasure and place of worship belonging to the Shinto religion. Known for the thousands of orange and black gates that you now see posted all across Instagram, it’s a stunning scene. Founded in 2003, Fushimi Japanese Group has been an atelier for contemporary Japanese-fusion transformation, serving masterfully crafted Japanese dishes with innovative French tastes and techniques in a modern-meets-traditional style. Fushimi was first established in Staten Island and currently has five locations spread throughout Staten Island, Bay Ridge, Williamsburg, and our newest location, Manhattan. Fushimi delivers Japanese-fusion dishes with high quality ingredients and state-of-the-art methods. You can expect hand-picked, fresh ingredients from local farms that are shipped in weekly for chef’s to expertly prepare. The exceptional menu, premium service, and its trendy ambiance and nightlife makes it an experience that both local New Yorkers and visitors can appreciate.
During our dining experience we were sat between two tables, two sisters visiting NYC for the first time from the South and a couple that lives in Hell’s Kitchen. Both had the same sentiment about Fushimi – a restaurant worth experiencing. Stand-out menu times include both their sushi and meat dishes and appetizers such as edamame, rock shrimp tempura, homemade gyoza and a raw bar. The sushi bar goes beyond just your basic rolls with over a two dozen to choose from. There is also a Chef’s selection that includes both Sushi and Sashimi. The meat and seafood selection are vast with Grilled Filet Mignon, Chilean Sea Bass and 30 Day Dry Aged Tomahawk. If you are looking for a show there are options to get special items cooked for you tableside and even gold encrusted meat. Cocktails and dessert are also a must with your basic mixed beverages as well as signature drinks with Japanese profiles.
With such a robust menu the staff were exceptionally helpful with what to choose and how many dishes to order. We found that sharing our plates were the way to go and next time I’ll certainly bring a large groups so we can try even more. We left happy, full and wanting more. We’ll for sure be back.
Photos courtesy of Fushimi
