Everyone's Personal Concierge
Become a Pulsd Member and get access to all the hottest NYC restaurants, brunches, night life, and events your city has to offer.
Already on pulsd?
Sign in
Experience the true essence of authentic Japanese cuisine at Ichibantei in the East Village. Embodying the soul of its heritage, this contemporary gem has earned the applause of The New York Times, Zagat, Eater, and Time Out. Each dish is a celebration of flavors, perfectly prepared to bring a taste of home-cooked Japan to your taste buds.
Grab your $59 pulse (a $113 value) for a 3 Course Dinner For Two that includes 1 Appetizer, 2 Entrees, 1 Dessert, and 2 Cocktails, Glasses of Wine or Sake, or Beers.
The meticulously curated interior design reflects a love for tradition with dashes of modernity, paying homage to its origins and the city it calls home. Think ultra-cool chandeliers and lighting elements that cast a soft glow, Reggae albums lining the walls, and massive portrait stills from vintage films.
Once you've soaked in the scene, swoon over mouthwatering dishes that speak volumes of their culinary prowess. Every dish tells a story, waiting to be discovered by you. Think Takoyaki, aka the famed grilled octopus ball-shaped snacks so adored in Osaka, as well as the Ichibantei Steak, a luxuriously tender and juicy prime cut served with fluffy white rice.
As a dessert of Earl Grey Panna Cotta with homemade caramel sauce and crunchy roasted walnuts arrives to the table, you'll unearth bliss that you'll want to relive soon...
Come and savor the harmonious blend of authenticity and simplicity that defines the menu at East Village treasure, Ichibantei. On Eater's list of "Japanese Restaurants to Try in the East Village," Ichibantei is drool-worthy in every way, treating palates to authentic, home-cooked Japanese comfort food with an upscale spin.
They fully embrace the essence of Japan through their next-level delicious dishes. "So the next time you feel as though your life would be benefit from a plate of karaage, come here," according to The Infatuation. You'll dive into an experience that's so authentic, you'll feel as though you've stepped off the plane in Tokyo and into a hidden secret gem in Shibuya.
Trimmed with vinyl record covers and backed by a soundtrack of reggae jams, you'll find nods to the energy of Manhattan as you sip craft cocktails, crisp sake, bubbly brews, or sumptuous wine - whatever tipple fits your fancy, let it elevate your feast in every way as you cheers to a night that's sure to spark wanderlust.
"A loyal following is drawn to its heartfelt take on classic dishes," says The New York Times, and you can thank Rutsuko Koga, the chef and owner of Ichibantei, who works behind the scenes making the magic happen. She learned the art of cooking from her mother in Kumamoto during her childhood and, true to her upbringing, prepares almost everything from scratch.
Start with some Homemade Gyoza filled with kurobuta pork, cabbage and garlic chives, moving straight onto the signature Karaage, a crispy, juicy fried chicken masterpiece with fluffy white rice and crisp salad. Another favorite is the Tonkatsu, aka succulent, breaded, and fried kurobuta pork cutlets.
Dessert is next, and you can't go wrong with some velvety smooth Matcha Green Tea Pudding with sweet Kuromitsu syrup, Azuki (a sweetened paste made of red azuki beans), and a hint of matcha powder. Every moment here is irresistible...
All selections will be made from the restaurant's full dinner menu.
Your $59 3 Course Dinner For Two (a $113 Value) Includes:
Ichibantei shines with a marvelous 4.4 Stars on Google from 575+ reviews including:
"Ichibantei delivers a deeply satisfying take on Japanese comfort food - a masterclass in understated elegance. The attention to detail extends to the dining experience itself. The modern and warm ambiance creates the perfect backdrop. Executed with finesse. A must-try for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors."
"The chicken is so tender and juicy, not like a regular Karaage in any Japanese restaurant. It is cooked to perfection. Takoyaki - the octopus ball, each one has real octopus inside. After the dishes, we are so full but cannot help to try the dessert. And that was a great choice. The chocolate mousse is so good."
"My family and I had such a great experience at this place. Great atmosphere, amazing food, awesome portions, and best of all, the amazing service! We’ll definitely be coming back!"
Ichibantei's Website | Google Reviews
May purchase as many vouchers as you like for personal use or for gifting.
Multiple vouchers may be combined for larger groups.
Tax & tip not included; reservations required.
Additional cost added for the difference of higher priced menu items.
Expires on Friday June 13, 2025.
