One of the many reason that New York has such a good restaurant scene is because sometimes, like in the case of Odo NYC, there is more than meets the eye. Like, when you tuck into a non-descript bar for a drink and realize the back room has a Michelin-starred Kaiseki. What makes Odo so special, though, is the democracy of it all. Yes, there’s a traditional, reverent Omakase-like experience at their sushi bar. But there’s also a casual front bar, hidden lounge, gallery next door, and now even an outpost in the East Village. So there’s an Odo experience for all in their empire of restaurants in New York City.
A New York Moment
I accidentally discovered Odo while I was waiting for a table at Millennial favorite, Opto, a few doors down. What I didn’t realize, though, was that the nondescript bar, Hall of the Odo space was just the gateway. As we munched on fries and sipped Japanese whisky cocktails, other guests disappeared into a hidden dining room. We caught glimpses of the reverent sushi bar, where it looked like an epic Omakase was going on. Nowadays, it’s entry-level for a decent Omakase to start at least at $300 a head. So, Odo’s rendition at $275 for a 9-course dinner and $150 for a 6-course lunch is kind of a deal in working millionaire terms. But as for the ROI in terms of enjoyment, expect multiple returns. The beauty of Odo, and the mystery in many senses is that there is so much more than meets the initial eye.
About the Chef
Chef Hiroki Odo — the two-Michelin-starred Japanese chef — is the mastermind behind the Odo empire of interconnected dining options. All but one are anchored in the Flatiron, and Odo brings completely different yet interconnected culinary experiences with each venue. At the end of the day, the tie is the authenticity to a Japanese culinary experience that’s innovative and yet approachable. This is a lay of the land of the Odo empire, which has an Odo for every occasion.
The Hall — Artisanal Gastropub
The Hall is the casual spot, offering creative cocktails and a wagyu hamburger menu. Think of it as the gateway to the other Odo experiences, as it’s the reception room before you get to your Odo for the evening. For some though, The Hall is the destination, as they make respectable bar fare. It’s the most casual and accessible of all the Odos, and for many in the Flatiron, the neighborhood watering hole for upscale cocktails.
Odo Lounge — Speakeasy Bar
Odo Lounge is the speakeasy bar whose superpower is Japanese spirits and bites with a comprehensive menu. Tucked behind the Chef’s Counter at Odo, guests must be in the know to secure seats at this speakeasy helmed by Chef Hiroki Odo himself. This exclusive backroom was originally created to share the chef’s gratitude for those who come through his establishments. It’s a laid-back vibe where the cooking has familiar favorites, but is executed to the next culinary level.
The Gallery by Odo — Dining & Art Space
The Gallery by Odo is the fusion of restaurant and art space. As the sister restaurant to Odo next door, the thread continues with next-level Japanese dishes, paired with a platform for artists. Besides exhibitions, there are workshops, and live performances. It’s open for both lunch and dinner, where the pricing is also gentler than traditional Kaiseki experiences. Who doesn’t dig a bento box?
Odo — The Flagship
The jewel of Odo is the Kaiseki menu, served at the traditional sushi counter. This is where the top culinary magic happens (or at least the more traditional experience). The menu is normally an 8–9 course dinner, and flexes its two Michelin stars.
Odo East Village — The Newest Venue
The newest Odo to join the group has spread its wings across town to the East Village. It’s a refined kaiseki philosophy, but with more of an East Village vibe, both in menu as well as slightly gentler pricing. The space is meant to introduce traditional Japanese culinary techniques in a more casual setting. So, essentially the food matches the neighborhood. Think of it as a “kaiseki izakaya,” a hybrid concept that reimagines Japanese dining by combining the precision of traditional kaiseki with the warmth of a local tavern with an extensive à la carte menu.
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Q: Where is Odo NYC located?
A: Odo NYC is located at 17 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011.
Q: What kind of food does Odo NYC serve?
A: Odo NYC serves Japanese cuisine.
Q: Is Odo NYC one restaurant or multiple restaurants?
A: Odo NYC is multiple restaurant concepts, but all within the same group.
