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, 2024. The restaurant, situated at 536 East 5th Street, will offer a unique dining experience by combining the elegance of kaiseki cuisine with the casual atmosphere of a Japanese izakaya.
Odo East Village promises to redefine Japanese dining in New York City with its intimate setting, accommodating just 24 guests. The restaurant draws inspiration from traditional Japanese culinary practices, focusing on the seasonal availability of ingredients to create a menu that reflects Chef Odo’s roots. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail, featuring naturally gluten-free options that showcase balanced flavors.
Innovative Seasonal Menu at Odo East Village
The menu at Odo East Village emphasizes high-quality, seasonal ingredients that change throughout the year. Diners can expect a variety of offerings, from small plates to more elaborate main dishes, with rice serving as a central element in every meal.
One of the standout dishes is “Today’s Kamameshi,” a traditional rice preparation cooked in an iron pot using select seasonal ingredients. As it simmers, the rice absorbs the flavors and aromas, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and deeply satisfying. It can be enjoyed in a classic style with tea or transformed into yaki-onigiri, offering a crisp texture.
Another notable item is the “Grilled Wagyu with Rice Koji.” This dish features premium Wagyu beef marinated in white miso and rice koji, grilled to perfection, which enhances its savory profile. Dessert options include a rice-flour salted chiffon cake served with unique toppings such as whole-grain mustard and yuzu-pepper paste with cheese, providing a delightful end to the meal.
The menu also features “Champon-Style Rice Noodles,” thicker than traditional ramen and served in a rich broth with various toppings. To complement the food offerings, Odo East Village will provide a curated beverage program, including premium sake sourced directly from Japan, as well as rice-based drinks and rice shochu.
Dining Experience and Accessibility
Odo East Village is scheduled to operate from Tuesday to Sunday, beginning at 17:30 until late. While reservations are highly recommended due to the limited seating, the restaurant welcomes walk-in guests, ensuring that a wider audience can experience this innovative approach to Japanese cuisine.
With its focus on traditional techniques and seasonal flavors, Odo East Village is set to make a significant contribution to the East Village’s evolving culinary landscape. As one of the newest dining options in the area, it aims to attract both locals and visitors eager to explore refined Japanese flavors in a cozy environment.
This latest venture by Chef Odo not only enriches the dining options in Manhattan but also highlights a growing appreciation for authentic Japanese cuisine, promising a memorable experience for all who visit.
