Discover Lucky Cat Izakaya in Midtown, NYC – A Japanese Dining Experience You Can’t Miss

If you’re craving authentic Japanese izakaya food in the heart of New York, Lucky Cat Izakaya is a must-visit. It’s been a while since I last visited a Japanese izakaya in New York, as I’ve been cooking at home more due to the pandemic and rising costs. However, I decided to take my American friend out for dinner, and she recommended this place where she sometimes dines alone. Here’s my review of Lucky Cat Izakaya in Midtown.

Lucky Cat website

Related Post: Hakata Tonton – A Taste of Japan in NYC

What is Lucky Cat Izakaya?

Lucky Cat Izakaya is run by a Japanese owner and offers a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Upon entering, you’re greeted by a sign that says “おかえり” (Welcome home) in Japanese, which immediately gives a warm, familiar vibe – something that only a fellow Japanese can truly appreciate.

I arrived as the restaurant opened, and it quickly filled up. The interior is filled with retro Showa-era artwork and text, giving it an old-school Japanese feel, but with a slightly Asian twist. The lanterns and decor seem to capture a broader Asian influence, which gives the izakaya a unique character.

Lucky Cat also has a bar counter, making it a perfect spot for solo diners to enjoy a drink and meal at their own pace. Once inside, I was welcomed by the giant maneki-neko (lucky cat) statue in the back. It’s clear this izakaya loves cats, and as a cat lover, I felt right at home!

Lucky Cat’s Menu – Must-Try Dishes

Due to the rising costs in New York, the prices here have gone up slightly, but it still feels like they are keeping things reasonably priced. Here are some of the standout dishes from their menu:

• Lucky Cat Ramen (Pork Bone Flavor): Rich, flavorful broth with tender chashu (braised pork).
• Spicy Fried Chicken: Bold flavors and crispy perfection—ideal for pairing with drinks.
• Liver Sashimi: Yes, they serve liver sashimi, which is rare to find in the U.S. and absolutely delicious.
• Jajangmyeon (Fried Noodles): A savory, comforting dish with a robust sauce.
• Pig’s Trotters: A unique dish for those who enjoy adventurous eating.

One of the highlights was the liver sashimi, which my friend absolutely loves. It was a bit intimidating at first, but it turned out to be quite tasty. It’s a surprise to find liver sashimi in the U.S., but Lucky Cat brings that special Japanese izakaya experience to NYC.

Location: Where to Find Lucky Cat Izakaya

Lucky Cat Izakaya is located on 53rd Street in Midtown, just a short walk from other popular spots like Gyukaku Midtown. You can easily reach it by subway with the Green 6 line, Orange M line, or Blue E line.

Fun Payment Experience & Apple Card Cashback

What made the payment experience memorable was that I used my Apple Card, which offers a 5% cashback on dining. Our bill came to around $91, and after a 20% tip, I received a nice little cashback from my Apple savings account. If you’re a frequent diner, using an Apple Card can be a great way to earn rewards while enjoying your meal! ( It was promotinal period – no longer. Currently 2 %)

Final Thoughts: Why Lucky Cat Izakaya is Perfect for Cat Lovers and Japanese Food Enthusiasts

This izakaya stands out for its unique Japanese dishes you can’t find anywhere else, along with its cat-themed decor that makes it especially enjoyable for cat lovers like me. While the ramen wasn’t my personal favorite, the jajangmyeon was a pleasant surprise! If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a casual, cozy meal with a friend or just want to explore the quirky charm of Midtown’s Lucky Cat Izakaya, I highly recommend giving it a try!

Summary:

Location: Midtown Manhattan, easily accessible by subway.

Great for: Cat lovers, anyone craving authentic Japanese izakaya food, and those who want to try unique dishes like liver sashimi.

Vibe: Cozy, retro Japanese izakaya with a bit of an Asian twist.