Food & Drink Melissa Avalon Food & Drink Melissa Avalon

19 Japanese Restaurants in New York That Earned Michelin Stars in 2022

Michelin released its 2022 New York guide on October 6. Of the 73 restaurants on the list, 19 are Japanese, including six making their Michelin debut. Famed—and expensive—sushi restaurant Masa continues to sit atop the list with three stars, and the rest of the list earned one each. The majority of the entries are pricey sushi spots, while a few serve kaiseki fare. Tempura Matsui and Torien are the lone tempura and yakitori restaurants, respectively.

Read More
Food & Drink Melissa Avalon Food & Drink Melissa Avalon

Thumbs Up Ramen Puts Bubbles in Your Broth

The Japanese word awa means “bubble” or “foam.” Sake fans are familiar with this term in reference to sparkling sake or sake that has champagne-like qualities, Hakkaisan’s AWA and Nanbu Bijin’s AWA Sparkling to name just two brands. Now ramen lovers can enjoy the same effect in their broth at Thumbs Up Ramen.

Read More
Food & Drink, Events Melissa Avalon Food & Drink, Events Melissa Avalon

The Joy of Sake Returns to New York

After a three-year hiatus forced by the pandemic, the Joy of Sake returns to New York for its 17th celebration. There will be an astonishing 576 different labels from throughout Japan and the US available for tasting. Sake-themed appetizers from top New York restaurants add to the enjoyment, making the Joy of Sake the event of the year for the city’s sake enthusiasts.

Read More
Community, Food & Drink Melissa Avalon Community, Food & Drink Melissa Avalon

The JapanCulture•NYC Holiday Gift Guide – Part V

Still grappling with holiday gift ideas this Christmas Eve? For procrastinators, this is nothing, but for those of you who are more organized, you might be feeling a bit stressed right now. Look at it this way: Remember when we were in the throes of the lockdown in New York City and no one knew what day it was? All was forgiven because, well, 2020. Why would Christmas be any different?

Read More
Community, Food & Drink Melissa Avalon Community, Food & Drink Melissa Avalon

The JapanCulture•NYC Holiday Gift Guide – Part III

Here’s a sweet and savory idea for the foodies on your gift list. For this list, we’re focusing on holiday items from Sunrise Mart. Panya Bakery and Café Japan in Japan Village at Industry City in Brooklyn are taking preorders for their gorgeous and festive Christmas-themed cakes. Limited quantities will be available for in-person purchase at both locations beginning Monday, December 21.

Read More