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 recently announced the launch of Wabi Nori, a modern Japanese dining destination and handroll bar that elevates sushi experiences with artful cuisine, exquisite cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere. Situated at 115 Essex Street in the vibrant Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York, Wabi Nori has quickly emerged as one of New York’s most coveted dining spots in a few short months.
Boasting a sleek, beautifully designed space, Wabi Nori merges contemporary design with traditional Japanese elegance. The restaurant’s large sushi and cocktail bar, alongside its stylish
table seating, creates an upscale yet accessible dining destination at the heart of Essex Street. Whether it’s an intimate evening or a celebratory night out, Wabi Nori has something for everyone.
Below are some of the many stand out dishes:
- Wagyu Fried Rice – A luxurious take on a classic, featuring seared Wagyu beef, garlic, scallions, soy sauce, and white sesame for an umami-packed bite.
- Tuna Tartare – A vibrant combination of fresh tuna, mango, avocado, red onion, and chives, elegantly garnished with edible purple flowers and premium caviar, served with crisp chips.
- Spicy Tuna Truffle – Thinly sliced tuna enhanced with chives, ponzu, chili pepper, and the luxurious aroma of shaved black truffle.
- Hot Soba Garlic Shrimp – Tender soba noodles tossed with sautéed garlic shrimp, leeks, scallions, and a roasted dressing, finished with white sesame.
- Bluefin Chutoro Handroll – The buttery richness of medium-fatty tuna, paired with fresh scallions and wrapped in crisp nori.
- Bluefin Otoro Handroll – The most prized cut of fatty tuna, balanced with pickled radish for a deep, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Led by Chef Ben Chang, and Chef Mike Kyaw, Wabi Nori’s menu reflects the trio’s combined expertise from prestigious establishments like Sushi Seki, Tim Ho Wan, and Sushi by Bou. The menu features an extensive handroll selection crafted with precision, nigiri sushi that highlights the finest seasonal fish, tapas-style Japanese dishes designed for sharing, and delectable house-made desserts that honor Japanese tradition. Complementing the cuisine is a curated cocktail program helmed by Nick Chang, Wabi Nori’s Head Bartender & Mixologist. With experience from Kaizen Omakase and advanced mixology training, Nick crafts a menu that includes innovative cocktails, a robust sake collection, and an extensive wine list.
The culinary and management team at Wabi Nori brings decades of combined experience to create an unparalleled dining experience. Chef Ben Chang, a veteran of Michelin-starred establishments, ensures the artistry of every dish. Chef Mike Kyaw, an omakase master, is known for his expertise in premium fish sourcing and crafting unforgettable dining experiences. Yiğit Mercan, Wabi Nori’s manager, is known for curating luxury dining experiences and ensures a seamless experience that blends tradition and modernity.
Hakkı Akdeniz, owner, is a world-renowned philanthropist and owner of Champion Pizza, with over 16 restaurants across New York City alone. He is an award-winning entrepreneur who has received accolades such as the Point of Light Beacon Award and the Carnegie Great Immigrant Award. His latest venture Wabi Nori, is the first of many in this cuisine space, soon to be followed by a tapas concept.
Hours: Wabi Nori is open seven days a week: Monday – Sunday from 3:00 pm until close, with the last reservation at 11:00 pm. For reservations or last-minute inquiries please email The Influence // tabitha@theinfluence.com
Follow @wabinorihandroll on Instagram or visit their website online www.wabinori.com for more information.
Below is Wabi Nori’s full menu showcasing their signature dishes and handcrafted cocktails, along with interior & food and beverage photos.
