Chef Hiroki Odo, renowned for his work at a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, is set to unveil his latest culinary venture, Odo East Village, in Manhattan on February 1. This intimate dining establishment, located at 536 East 5th Street, will introduce a unique ‘kaiseki izakaya’ concept that merges the refined pacing of traditional kaiseki dining with the casual atmosphere of a Japanese izakaya.
A Fresh Take on Japanese Dining
Odo East Village aims to redefine Japanese cuisine in New York City. With a seating capacity of just 24, the restaurant draws heavily from traditional Japanese culinary techniques, focusing on seasonal ingredients. The menu is crafted to reflect Chef Odo’s culinary heritage, offering naturally gluten-free dishes that emphasize meticulous preparation and balanced flavors.
The restaurant will operate from Tuesday to Sunday, starting at 17:30 and extending into the evening. While reservations are encouraged, the establishment welcomes walk-ins as well.
Seasonal Ingredients Take Center Stage
The menu at Odo East Village showcases high-quality seasonal ingredients that will evolve throughout the year. Diners can expect a range of offerings, from small plates to main dishes, all centered around the essential role of rice.
One of the standout items is ‘Today’s Kamameshi,’ a traditional rice dish cooked in an iron pot with select seasonal ingredients. As it simmers, the rice absorbs the aromas from these ingredients, resulting in a deeply flavorful experience. Guests can enjoy this dish as ochazuke with tea or crisped into a fragrant yaki-onigiri.
Another notable offering is the “Grilled Wagyu with Rice Koji,” featuring premium Wagyu beef marinated in white miso and rice koji before being grilled to perfection. This dish complements the signature kamameshi beautifully. For dessert, diners can indulge in a rice-flour salted chiffon cake, served with unique toppings such as whole-grain mustard, yuzu-pepper paste with cheese, and roasted miso.
Additionally, the menu includes “Champon-Style Rice Noodles,” which are thicker than traditional ramen and cooked in a rich broth with various toppings. To enhance the dining experience, Odo East Village offers a curated beverage program, featuring sake sourced directly from Japan, as well as rice-based libations and rice shochu.
With its focus on seasonal flavors and traditional techniques, Odo East Village promises to add a refined and authentic dining option to the East Village, contributing to the area’s evolving reputation for Japanese and fine dining.
