Ootoya Chelsea in New York: Authentic & Healthy Japanese Cuisine You Must Try
Ootoya Chelsea: The Best Place to Enjoy Healthy Japanese Cuisine in New York!
Ootoya Chelsea: The Best Place to Enjoy Healthy Japanese Cuisine in New York!
Located in Chelsea, New York, Ootoya is a popular Japanese chain restaurant that serves healthy and delicious Japanese cuisine. In Japan, Ootoya is known for its affordable and classic meals—I used to visit it back when I lived in Tokyo. However, the New York version of Ootoya has a more upscale setting.
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The Chelsea location has a more stylish interior than the Midtown branch ♪
For those looking for authentic Japanese home-cooked meals abroad, Ootoya is a reliable option that ensures quality ingredients. In this article, I will introduce the features of the Chelsea location, its recommended menu items, and how to get there.
Ootoya Webstie
Ootoya Chelsea’s Highlights
1. Authentic Japanese Home-Style Cooking
Ootoya Chelsea faithfully recreates Japanese home-style dishes. The menu includes fried dishes, simmered dishes, grilled fish, and rice bowls—offering a wide variety of options. Everything has a nostalgic taste, and the quality is just as good as in Japan. If you’re feeling homesick, this is the place to go!
Of course, Japanese cuisine is all about rice. At Ootoya, you can choose different types of rice at no extra charge—though some options might surprise you a bit!
2. A Health-Conscious Menu
Ootoya focuses on health-conscious dishes, using nutritious ingredients and paying attention to calorie balance. Dishes like simmered vegetables and grilled fish set meals are especially popular among health-conscious New Yorkers. My friend, who came with me, was intrigued by the fish dishes, which are hard to find in typical American restaurants.
3. Comfortable and Relaxing Atmosphere
The Chelsea location features a calming Japanese-style interior. My international dining companions loved it! The wooden décor gives the restaurant a warm, cozy feel—perfect for escaping the city’s hustle and enjoying a peaceful meal. The staff was also very attentive, making our dining experience even more pleasant.
Recommended Menu Items
1. Chicken Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken)
This was a surprising dish! The outside was crispy, while the inside was juicy and tender. Ootoya’s karaage is a signature dish, and although it looks like any other fried chicken, you’ll notice the difference after one bite. It was so tender and satisfying!
2. Grilled Alfonsino with Soy Koji Sauce Set Meal
Fish dishes can be difficult to prepare at home, but Ootoya makes it easy! The Grilled Alfonsino with Soy Koji Sauce Set Meal is a must-try. The fatty, flavorful fish is grilled to perfection and pairs wonderfully with rice. This kind of marinated fish is hard to find in the U.S., making it a nostalgic and special dish for Japanese expats.
3. Chicken Katsu Set Meal
The chicken was incredibly tender, and the crispy coating was delicious. When I told the staff that I love oroshi ponzu (grated daikon with citrus soy sauce), they kindly provided both regular sauce and ponzu sauce. Even the salad dressing had a nostalgic taste! The set meal costs around $35, and I couldn’t help but wonder if Ootoya specializes in chicken dishes.
Ootoya Chelsea Store Information
Address: 141 W 18th St, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Access:
- About a 3-minute walk from 18th St Station on the 1 train
- Easily accessible from Chelsea Market and The High Line—a great spot for a meal during sightseeing!
Conclusion
If you’re craving authentic Japanese home-style meals while in New York, Ootoya Chelsea is a fantastic choice. The high-quality dishes, comfortable atmosphere, and convenient location make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
