Tori Shin
(212) 988-8408
1193 1st Ave
(at Between 64th Street and 65th Street)
New York,
NY
10021
40.7632
-73.9594
Neighborhoods: Upper East Side, Midtown, Lenox Hill
Hours:
Mon-Wed 5:30pm-10:30pm
Thu-Sat 5:30pm-11pm
Price:
$$$
Last updated 1.30.09
What People Are Saying About Tori Shin
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
Tori Shin's subdued room, all muted greys and beige, appears to be an upscale sushi bar, but those are yakitori, not fish, behind the glass. Every part of the chicken is charcoal-grilled to order--breast, wing and thigh--but the crowd of ex-pat businessmen and families also samples smoke-kissed heart, gizzard, neck meat and crispy skin. Other small dishes include chawan mushi (a savory egg custard), oshinko (pickles) and the shiso leaf granita that finishes each meal.
User Reviews
MattJ
March 16, 2009
Please don't read this review as someone who doesn't get it. I lived in Japan for a decade, I speak the language very well, and visit Japan with my spouse at least once a year. I know the difference between good and poor experiences in a Japanese restaurant. As I entered on a Monday at 6PM, I was told several times that they have NO SUSHI. I never asked for any, nor did I imply that I was there for sushi. I knew that it was a yakitori-ya, and that's why I went. I actually bring my own charcoal from Japan to make my own yakitori during the warmer months. Next I was seated in what was easily the worst seat in the restaurant, right near the kitchen - now I wouldn't have complained, except at this time there were no other customers in the restaurant. I could also understand if there were reservations that would be honored. It took about an hour and forty-five minutes for my meal - which was fair (Tory's has this beat, and the set menu is kind of dumb, against what yakitori is in in Japan)... the thing is during this time only two other customers came in, tow Japanese expats who were sat at the best seats, and invited to drink with the rest of the staff. I was hurried through out my meal, and a waitress actually lifted the soy sauce to pour on my yakitori (WTF?) at one point. I over heard the conversations around me, and was disgusted by my treatment in this restaurant. I do have several friends in the Japanse expat community, and I intend to let them know of my experience as well. Shameful. I will bring my business to Tory's and Totto, and even the burnt food at the places on St. Marks leave a better taste in my mouth than did Tory Shin.
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brainsfmri
August 30, 2008
This is an outstanding place. There is nothing like it in Manhattan. It is authentic, fresh and unusual to most who are familiar with the standard Japanese fare. The service is outstanding. The Ginko nuts are amazing. The grilled vegetables are simple and perfectly grilled. Each skewer while only chicken, was different and delicious. This place is a delicious example of simple food done perfectly. If you like Japanese food, you should try this.
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fulhal
January 24, 2008
I am Japanese. Have lived in NY for 7 years; ate at all yakitori places in Manhattan. This is THE BEST available here even in Tokyo standard. Each skewers are carefully grilled to perfection, with excellent sake pairing. Please give it a try and you won't regret it.
read full reviewThe Details on Tori Shin
What to Drink:
Beer, wine, shochu and sake are available to slake thirsts.
The Extras:
Vegetable yakitori is varied and seasonal: cherry tomatoes, green peppers, shiitake mushrooms and Japanese eggplant make for a good counterpoint to the parade of meat.
Look Good:
Consult your server as to how to use the special Japanese spice mixes that sit on the counter and tables.
Prix Fixe Menus:
The set meal is $45 and includes six skewers plus pickles, salads, a donburi rice bowl and dessert; the omakase menu runs about $80, though the price may vary.
