Sake Bar Decibel

(212) 979-2733

240 E 9th St
New York, NY 10003 40.7295 -73.9882

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Neighborhoods: Downtown, East Village

What People Are Saying About Sake Bar Decibel

The Editor

Karen Hudes

Citysearch

The Scene – The basement locale and outside buzzer lend Decibel a speakeasy feel, and the inside is a charm. A crowd with a high street-style quotient makes noise over the pop soundtrack, while waitresses in gorgeous hapis shuttle sake to the tables. The dark, wooden interior contains red paper lanterns, framed gold fans, kitschy good-luck kitties and shelves of Japanese bric-a-brac. – – The Draw – The accessible, in-the-know staff may offer guidance in navigating the extensive sake list, divided into categories based on the brewing process and ranging from mild to…

2 Star Rating: Below Average

05/10/09

Horrible Waiter

by SakeExperience

I've been going to Decibel on and off for more than 8 years. It's a good place but yesterday (March 9,2009) We had an embarssing moment. After spending 2 hours at the place and spending around $50 per person, we left a customary gratuity of 15%. The waiter took the money and asked "is there something wrong with the service". I said no and asked what's wrong. He demanded another $5-$10 more, totalling 20%-25%. He made a big stink and said something in japanese that didn't sound very nice. Furthermore, he said "Dont come back here!". We tried to reason with him as we like Decibel very much. I have tried contacting the management to resolve this. I'm not sure if the problem with only the one waiter. Apparently, all the other waiters sided with him. He was very loud and embarassed all of us in front of all the patrons and staff. How can a wonderful place have such horrible staff.

  • Pros: Wide Selection of Sake
  • Cons: No Happy Ending
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

03/30/09

if you're prissy, don't come here

by lightfantaastica

not for everyone, cramped and grungy but i wouldn't have it any other way. good music, service, recommendations by staff. authentic sake, authentic feel. great place for that right kind of friend to bring and just sit and chill.

please, if you're from out of town or want to bring out of towners here, don't expect 5 star hospitality. it is cramped and "dirty". don't complain that it "smells"....it is a BAR. please, don't take your bridges and tunnels, highlights and juicy couture here. thanks. we appreciate it.

  • Pros: bad*ss
  • Cons: not for everyone, cramped
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

03/07/09

Transport Yourself

by NinthStreetNYCdotcom

I see other reviewers had issues with service here, but I can't say I have had problems. The vibe and setting of this unique spot keeps me coming back, along with great cold Japanese beer, and interesting saki (hot and cold). The food is what I consider Japanese bar snacks, and they do the trick - tasty and simple.

The Details on Sake Bar Decibel

The Extras:

Check out these other great bars in the East Village.

Category:

Restaurants

Payment Methods:

American Express, Visa, MasterCard

Cuisine:

Japanese

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