Determined to innovate the intimate dining scene and create the ultimate, Wabi Nori sets to elevate the handroll experience for downtown New Yorkers.
Partners Hakkı Akdeniz and Peter Wong have crafted a refined yet inviting dining destination at 115 Essex Street at the corner or Rivington, where sushi artistry meets exceptional cocktails in an upscale, contemporary setting. Since its recent debut, Wabi Nori has quickly become one of Manhattan’s most sought-after dining experiences, drawing in food lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike with a booked up reservations list every weekend.
Designed with a sleek aesthetic that merges modern design with traditional Japanese elegance, Wabi Nori offers a spacious sushi and cocktail bar alongside stylish table seating, perfect for both intimate evenings and lively gatherings, open 7 days a week.
At the heart of its culinary offerings is an expertly curated menu led by Chefs Ben Chang and Mike Kyaw, featuring standout dishes like the indulgent Wagyu Fried Rice, where seared Wagyu beef meets garlic, scallions, soy sauce, and white sesame for an umami-rich bite. The Tuna Tartare, a vibrant combination of fresh tuna, mango, avocado, red onion, and chives, is elevated with edible purple flowers and a touch of premium caviar, served alongside crisp chips. The Spicy Tuna Truffle offers a bold yet delicate flavor profile, combining thinly sliced tuna with chives, ponzu, chili pepper, and shaved black truffle for an unforgettable taste. For those craving something heartier, the Hot Soba Garlic Shrimp delivers with tender soba noodles tossed with sautéed garlic shrimp, leeks, scallions, and a roasted dressing finished with white sesame. Handroll enthusiasts will find perfection in the Bluefin Chutoro Handroll, where the buttery richness of medium-fatty tuna pairs seamlessly with fresh scallions, and the Bluefin Otoro Handroll, showcasing the most prized cut of fatty tuna balanced with pickled radish for a deep, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Wabi Nori’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its cuisine, with a carefully curated cocktail program helmed by mixologist Nick Chang. Bringing expertise from Kaizen Omakase and advanced mixology training, he has crafted an innovative selection of cocktails, complemented by an extensive sake collection and a robust wine list designed to pair beautifully with the menu’s delicate flavors.
Behind the scenes, Wabi Nori’s powerhouse team brings decades of combined expertise. Chef Ben Chang, a veteran of Michelin-starred establishments, ensures every dish reflects artistry and precision, while Chef Mike Kyaw, an omakase master, is renowned for his meticulous fish sourcing and ability to craft unforgettable dining experiences. Manager Yiğit Mercan, known for curating luxury dining atmospheres, ensures that every detail seamlessly blends tradition and modernity for an unparalleled experience.
For Hakkı Akdeniz, owner of Champion Pizza and a globally recognized philanthropist, Wabi Nori marks the beginning of a new chapter in the hospitality world. With over 16 restaurants across New York City and accolades such as the Point of Light Beacon Award and the Carnegie Great Immigrant Award, Akdeniz is bringing his passion for food and community into the fine dining space, with Wabi Nori as the first of many ventures—including an upcoming tapas concept set to follow.
Wabi Nori is open seven days a week: Monday – Sunday from 3:00pm until close, with the last reservation at 11:00pm.
Follow @wabinorihandroll on Instagram or visit their website online www.wabinori.com for more information.