Koju — Restaurant in New York

Went with Mikey Peng and, not to be dramatic, but this might be the best omakase I’ve ever had. The place feels like a stylish 1930s greenhouse — calm, cozy, and not full of influencers yelling over espresso martinis from the Ace next door.

Chef Kevin — tattoo sleeves, charming, definitely not your old Japanese sushi master — had me skeptical at first. Then I tasted the food and immediately repented. Every dish was a flavor bomb. I literally fought my own reflexes not to swallow just so the taste would last longer.

The crispy okaki asparagus? Transcendent. The Masunosuke (king salmon)? Emotional support fish. The uni? Straight-up ice cream. We also got a special sujiko nigiri that was like edible treasure. Ended with an ice cream sandwich because apparently restraint doesn’t exist here.

Had warm sake because it was freezing out and I like to feel alive. 10/10 would let Chef Kevin ruin sushi elsewhere...

Koju Sushi is truly one of a kind. The moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with warm hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home. What sets this place apart is their commitment to quality—every ingredient is flown in fresh from Japan, and you can taste the difference in every bite. The flavors are authentic, delicate, and carefully crafted, yet the setting has a modern, hip vibe thanks to its location inside the Ace Hotel.

It’s rare to find a restaurant that perfectly balances authenticity with a contemporary atmosphere, but Koju Sushi delivers both effortlessly. If you’re looking for an unforgettable sushi experience, this is absolutely the...

We specifically came to Koju for Chef Kevin. We had dinner at his previous restaurant last year and had been thinking about it ever since. When we found out that Koju was opening, we jumped for a reservation so quick. Once again, Chef Kevin and the rest of the team did not disappoint. Every dish was better than the one before. The fish was so fresh and the flavors just danced in your mouth. You know it’s good when it gets silent and everyone is savoring every bite. The sake pairing was perfect. Can’t wait to dine at...