Went here with my gals a little later than lunch 1:30 Tuesday. It was busy but not overly crowded. We were definitely able to hear each other. I order the Saba set and it was very delicious. It came with, the grill mackerel, rice, soup, salad, radish and some tofu and green beans. We also had the chemachai ice tea. Felt more authentic to eating in Japan.
Overview
If you're looking for a place that offers delicious Japanese comfort food in the heart of New York, look no further than Ootoya Times Square. Located at 141 W 41st St, New York, NY 10036, this cozy yet stylish restaurant is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Whether you're craving a hearty bowl of rice or a perfectly grilled fish, Ootoya brings the taste of Japan to the bustling streets of Times Square.
Walking into Ootoya Times Square, you'll immediately notice the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The minimalist Japanese decor sets a calm tone, with wooden tables and soft lighting making it a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the city. The restaurant's open kitchen allows you to catch a glimpse of the skilled chefs at work, adding to the experience. The attention to detail in both the ambiance and the menu makes it a standout option in this busy area.
The menu at Ootoya Times Square is a tribute to authentic Japanese cuisine, offering a variety of dishes that are both comforting and satisfying. One of their most popular items is the donburi, a rice bowl topped with an assortment of ingredients like teriyaki chicken, tempura, and fresh seafood. The flavors are bold yet balanced, and each dish feels like a home-cooked meal straight from Japan.
For those who love traditional Japanese flavors, the set meals are a must-try. These sets come with perfectly cooked rice, miso soup, a small salad, and a choice of protein, making it a well-rounded and filling option. Whether you go for the juicy grilled fish or the crispy karaage (Japanese fried chicken), you’ll be impressed by the high quality of the ingredients and the expert preparation. The combination of flavors and textures in each dish shows how much care is taken in every aspect of the cooking process.
What really sets Ootoya Times Square apart is their commitment to quality. They use only the freshest ingredients, sourcing seasonal produce and premium proteins. Their fish is particularly noteworthy, always fresh and expertly prepared, making their sushi and sashimi offerings top-notch. It’s clear that the chefs here have mastered the art of Japanese cooking, focusing on simplicity while highlighting the natural flavors of each ingredient.
For those looking for something light but flavorful, the salads at Ootoya are a great choice. The Japanese-style salad, with its mix of crunchy vegetables and savory dressing, is both refreshing and satisfying. And if you’re in the mood for a warm dish, their miso soup is the perfect comfort food, with a deep, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with any of the meals.
The service at Ootoya Times Square is another reason why it’s such a great spot. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to offer recommendations or make adjustments to your order if needed. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, they make sure that your dining experience is memorable.
There’s something about dining at Ootoya Times Square that feels both authentic and special. You’re not just having a meal - you’re experiencing a piece of Japanese culture. The combination of delicious food, a warm atmosphere, and excellent service makes it a perfect destination for anyone craving Japanese comfort food in the heart of New York.
Plus, if you’re visiting Times Square, Ootoya offers a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s a peaceful retreat that lets you enjoy a satisfying meal while still being close to all the excitement of the city. Whether you’re coming in for a quick bite before catching a Broadway show or planning a leisurely meal with friends, Ootoya delivers a top-notch experience every time.
In terms of pricing, Ootoya offers good value for the quality of food and service you receive. While it’s not the cheapest option in the area, the portions are generous, and the ingredients are worth the price. You won’t leave hungry, and the flavors will make every bite worth it.
If you’re looking for a restaurant that combines authenticity, great service, and a relaxing atmosphere, Ootoya Times Square is the place to go. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this restaurant offers a true taste of Japan in one of the most iconic areas of New York City.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great tea selectionPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car parkOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Comfort food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ TouristsPlanning
âś“ Lunch reservations recommended âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservations âś“ Usually a waitPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Paid street parking âś“ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1934 reviews
The restaurant is very close to Bryant Park. The food was okay, though my soup could have used a bit more spice. My group enjoyed the soups from the “Nabe” selection. Maybe next time I’ll try the mini sushi variety.
I don't know why but I've been coming to this place a lot and i haven't even gave this place a review. Well theres nothing else to say but the food is amazing and the staff is really great. The vibe and atmosphere is really relaxing and the decor is really beautiful. They have a nice array of drinks such as sake, cocktails, beer, teas,shochu,etc.. i highly recommend if ever you're in bryant park or time square in general stop by and have lumch or dinner at this place.
I looked up the meaning of Ootoya and understood they were going for home style meals. I love this idea in midtown especially where we eat out everyday at work. The playlist is calming, the service is prompt. The food is delicious. I got the gindara combination. This one a must try if you work in midtown lol
Ootoya in Midtown is my go-to spot for authentic Japanese set meals in a cozy atmosphere. I enjoyed everything about our visit. The food was delicious, beautifully presented, and felt like a comforting Japanese home-cooked meal. We ordered a kids’ meal for my toddler, and he absolutely loved it! The food came in a rocket-shaped plate, which made the experience fun and exciting. The seating can be a bit tight depending on where you’re placed, but it’s manageable. A great spot for anyone craving authentic Japanese flavors with a warm, welcoming vibe.
It was the first time i had Yosenabe and it was incredibly good! Deep broth with variety of meat you can enjoy. (Chicken, beef, pork, fish). Really soothing and enjoyable nabe during the winter.
The food itself is top tier. I got the butterfish set and each dish was finely crafted with its own flavorful essence. The salad and radish have a more subtle flavor, but the punchy tang of the salted fish and soaked tofu balls balance it out. All I’d say is it’d be perfect if my data or wifi worked inside. The waitress also forgot my soup spoon lol
This place is very authentic, coming from someone that has been to Japan a handful of times. My party all got the pork or chicken tonksu so I cant comment on the rest of the food but as I looked around it also appeared very nice. The vibe was chill and relaxed woth amazing staff making sure we were well taken care of. If your in the area i highly recommend this spot.