Let’s be real – finding that perfect date night spot in New York City can feel like a full-time job. You want something special enough to make it memorable, but not so stuffy that you can’t actually enjoy yourself. Well, I’ve found the sweet spot, and it’s called Torishin.
Tucked away in Hell’s Kitchen, Torishin has always been that spot for yakitori lovers, but their new Select Counter experience? It’s about to change your whole perspective on fancy Japanese dining.
The Vibe
First things first – the ambiance is immaculate. The Select Counter feels exclusive and intimate without being cramped, and sophisticated without being pretentious. You and your date get front-row seats to what I can only describe as culinary theater. Watching these master chefs work their magic is literally dinner and a show.
The Game-Changer: Okonomi Course
Here’s where things get interesting. Torishin just launched this new concept called the Okonomi Course, and it’s basically the “choose your own adventure” of high-end dining. Unlike traditional omakase where you’re at the chef’s mercy (no shade, we love omakase too), this experience puts you in the driver’s seat.
When you sit down, you get this beautifully designed menu card listing all your options – from seasonal small plates to their famous yakitori skewers. You get to pick what you want, when you want it, while still maintaining that proper Japanese dining progression. It’s like they took the best parts of fine dining and made it actually fun and interactive.
The Food
Let me tell you about these skewers – because this isn’t your regular chicken-on-a-stick situation. My boyfriend and I went all in, trying everything from the melt-in-your-mouth chicken to the juicy wagyu beef, and even the Japanese sweet potato had my taste buds jumping for joy – and screaming for seconds, and thirds.
Some standout moments:
- Japanese Wagyu Beef grilled to perfection on their special charcoal grill
- Aori Ika – Japanese squid
- Don’t sleep on the sauces! The Ponzu & Chai Daikon!
- Mizutaki hotpot
- Oya Don – served with chicken, rice & egg
- Panna Cotta for dessert – topped with Japanese-imported brown sugar
- The Sake!!!
The Service
Major shoutout to our host and server, who managed to make us feel at home, even when another group of Select Counter guests arrived later in the evening. She guided us through the menu without any pretension, and provided very interesting facts about various menu items.
The Details
- Price: $160-190 per person
- Location: 362 West 53rd Street
- Reservation Tips: Move fast as reservation slots fill up quickly!
- Pro Move: Book the later seating for extra romantic vibes
Why It’s Perfect for Date Night
Look, what makes this place special isn’t just the food (though that alone would be worth it). It’s how they’ve managed to create an experience that’s both elevated and actually fun. You’re not just sitting there quietly eating whatever comes your way – you’re engaged, making choices together, trying new things, and having actual conversations about the food.
Plus, there’s something incredibly intimate about sitting at a counter, curtained off from the rest of the restaurant, watching your food being prepared right in front of you, and sharing this unique experience together. It’s interactive enough to keep things interesting, but still sophisticated enough to feel special.
The Bottom Line
Torishin’s Okonomi Course is giving exactly what a modern date night should be – exceptional food, unique experience, cool vibes, but make it fun. Yes, it’s a splurge, but for those special occasions when you want to do something different? This is it.
Just remember – set that calendar reminder for reservation day. Your future self (and your date) will thank you!