Nonaka almost feels like a speakeasy with the main room and sushi counter being downstairs. There is also a charming courtyard that you might think is subterranean but at street level.
Upstairs is a Korean restaurant called Boka. The restaurant’s owner, a woman of Japanese descent, is married to a Korean man, who also owns a fried chicken restaurant in Koreatown in Manhattan. That is the sort of power couple that warms the Wandering Jew’s heart.
The omakase at Nonaka is excellent, reasonably priced and, indeed, there is a great kosher option (which means kosher style – no shellfish, eel, meat or chicken). The sushi chefs are fun and personable.
If you’re a good guest, they will often gift you a bag of fried chicken to take home. This is not a cheap date, but it’s a fun spot with delicious food. It’s omakase so expect to pay more than for a typical nice restaurant, but Nonaka will not break the bank as omakase goes in Manhattan.
