This place is super underwhelming… also the servers / employees have a lot of attitude for no reason…? E.g. we were deciding whether to sit inside or outside and the waitress kept repeating “YOU CANNOT MOVE BACK IN ONCE YOU DECIDE TO SIT OUT HERE.” I mean… okay, I’m not deaf. Also… please…chill. Their whole attitude and treatment was that of an establishment that thinks they’re the talk of the town. For the record, I’ve been to lots (almost all) of the so called hip speakeasies/bars in town ranging from death & co, attaboy, katana kitten, La Knoxe, patent pending, angel’s share, little branch, thyme bar, 29b—list goes on and you get the point—, but this one had the most underwhelming drinks by far made worse by their condescending attitude… We had the Sakura Martini and cucumber apple fizz. Drinks were pretty standard and a bit boring imo… so much that we moved to Double Chicken Please after the second drink. Maybe my disappointment was greater because I had high hopes. *shrugs*

Hidden gem in LES that is an intimate setting - 8 tables for 2 each, outdoor seating of up to 12 or so, and the bar area has 12 seats. The whiskey highball was well mixed - not too strong, but also not too weak. Would be ideally perfect with a slight tint more of whiskey and a larger ice cube. The bottle it comes in is "TOGO," so it seems like it is premade. The wait here can be difficult, which can cause frustration to others. There's plenty of standing room inside to cater towards 10-12 or so, but you may be standing there for a very long time. Note that your full party must be in attendance first to join the waitlist! Overall, fun spot if you're able to get a sit down table.

This place deserve 10 stars! Mario Batali and Michael Symon mention how good the Miso wings were at Bar GOTO on their show. My friend and I decided to give it a try, when we got to the restaurant we were not expecting it to be so small but we were seated by a very nice waitress We ordered the Miso wings and the waitress recommended the Okonomi-Yaki carnivore and she also recommend a drink for me that had melon, the drink was delicious and the food was kick ass good! The wings slid off the bone and melted in your mouth and the Okonomi-Yaki carnivore was delicious...I will be going back to try different things on Bar GOTO menu.

Great little space. Came here on a Sunday evening and experienced what amounts to chill vibes. The bar is first come first serve but there are seating options. The food menu here is short and is meant to support the cocktails. It reminded me of Izakaya's in Japan. I had the pickles (great palate cleanser), Sime saba (amazing), and a plum boulevardier to start. Great combo. For a second round I had the miso wings, celeary, and their Martini. The sake really comes out in this martini. It's served with a stuffed (cheese) olive. All good. Ask for extra napkins if you get the wings though - you may need it.

Best part about this bar is the staff and bartenders. Everyone is very friendly and the bartenders are very passionate about what makes the drinks good, leading them to give you samples of some of the grain alcohols that you might be less familiar with. It's a nice touch, and it really helps you discern what you like or don't like about the cocktails once you have some base notes to pick out. Overall though, the cocktail list is limited, and while all the drinks are good their collective flavor range is relatively narrow. But where else can you get a cocktail served in a wooden box?

It's good, but not great. 3.5 stars, but that's not an option. The ambiance is very Japanese. Our waitress was also excellent. The food was good, although the okonomiyake was different from the okonomiyake that we had in Japan (but maybe it's a different style). Torched pickled herring was nice too. The plum scotch drink was strong, but not overwhelmingly so, and otherwise fairly well balanced without also being too sweet. I would probably get it again. It's quite cozy and good for a romantic evening.

Came here on a Friday night around 730, and managed to get squeezed in at the bar after a short but reasonable wait. The cocktails were solid, with some unique twists on the classics (eg the hojicha old fashioned). The energy in the place was great, and the food was a pleasant surprise, tho the menu is limited. Come for: some good cocktails in a compact, energetic setting Watch out: it's a new york bar on the Les, but it's still a pretty tight squeeze; no reservations

Not a bad bar. I got into a verbal altercation with another customer, which is fine, but I didn't appreciate the passive aggressive comment by the bartender. Nevertheless, he mixed relatively well and it's a bar worth visiting from time to time. Is this review unfair? Possibly, but it's based off of a couple of occasions. We had wings on two separate occasions and the first time it was a little too sweet, but the second time it was spot on.

Amazing experience. Unique food and ambiance. In drinks I ordered Goto Martini followed by LES which was very good. The sesame and shiso marinated celery appetizer was so good. Tasted somewhat like the cucumber salad but very flavorful. I would like to try the Chicken wings next time. It was my first time trying the seafood Okonomiyaki and it was nice. The staff was very friendly as well. There could be a little waiting sometimes.

a really nice spot for grabbing a meal with coworkers or friends. ambiance is very nice and staff is super attentive and helpful with menu options. the sushi had high quality fish with well seasoned rice and we enjoyed all the rolls and sashimi we tried. the wagyu gyoza was a little too heavy for my liking but overall I enjoyed my time here
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

I stopped in on a Sunday night and was seated right away, but it’s a small space so larger groups might have a small wait. The Sakura Martini is perfect. Light, clean, not too sweet. The wings are almost more flavorful than I knew what to do with! Delicious and a great pairing with the martini. Expect amazing food and drinks, nice atmosphere, and service that is efficient and friendly but not necessarily warm.

Love this place. It’s probably my favourite bar in nyc. I’m a tourist so last time I was here was about 5 years ago. This time around felt a little off, bar is always great but didn’t feel as welcoming, don’t get me wrong the girls are nice but nothing compared to the warm, home like vibe I remember. Still a no brainer if you happen to be in the area.
Food: 5
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 5

After seeing great reviews for this place and the nice looking cocktail list, I was excited to give it a try. But I was really underwhelmed by the actual drinks. My boyfriend and I each tried three different drinks and I wasn't a fan of any of them except for the sake I drank at the end. The drinks are also $16 each, so it was a bummer that we paid a lot of money for stuff we didn't actually like.

The space is very tight but makes for a more intimate experience. Spent some time watching the bartender craft the drinks while waiting and you can tell they were made thoughtfully from start to finish. I got the Sakura Martini and my partner got the Melon Ball. Both were delicious and also beautiful drinks.
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

Signature cocktails were good although on the expensive side ($17-18). More traditional ones are cheaper it seems (Negroni $14). The atmosphere was fine. Service was great. We were there a bit early so there were only few people. The crowd started arriving around 18:30, which is when we left.
Price per person
$50–100
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

One of my favorite bars in the city. It is super cute, cocktails are original and of great quality. The staff is really friendly and service is efficient and overall 5 stars for everything. But the food is my favorite. Very small bar menu, but everything on it is very well done and the okonomiyaki is a must. I've never had a bad (or mediocre) time there. Enjoy!

I love Bar Goto. The drinks are consistently excellent (the sakura martini is a particularly distinct stand-out), and the wings are astounding — no refined cocktail bar should have wings that good. The space is small, so it may be a wait, but they do a lot with that small space and the service is efficient and welcoming. If there’s a wait, it’s worth it.

Small cozy cocktail bar. The cocktails offered were unique and amazing! You must try the Hot Toddy!! It’s perfect for a wintery night. The do ask for vaccination and ID so be prepared to show that. They have an excellent selection of Japanese whiskey. The bar tenders are friendly and will help you order the drinks. Definitely visiting this place again!

Very unique and tasty cocktails. Food was a wonderful and unique suprise. Small, Cozy and trendy space so get there early! This would be a 4-5 star review but the server had a bad attitude that rubbed the whole party the wrong way. As a former server I rarely am critical of servers but the place just opened so no reason to be grumpy

Expect a bit of a wait. If you're meeting folks, make sure you all arrive on time or you'll see your table go to later parties. The wait is worth it though. The cocktails are great and unique. Koji-san is . The food is good accompaniments. And the staff is stylish and friendly, giving excellent recommendations as well as enthusiasm.

Cocktails are fantastic. Tried 4 between me and a friend, and they all rocked. Could’ve tried every single one on the menu. Not too busy before 9, then gets more busy with a younger LES going-out crowd. Outdoor seating is pretty scrappy, probably better in warmer weather. Food menu is limited, more bar snacks than a meal.

A small, venue with small plates and exceptional cocktails. There is a distinct Japanese influence, yet many cocktails go far beyond that with creativity. I highly recommend going here for a high end experience, though even on an off night the place is often full as there are not many tables on seats at the bar.

Great okonomiyaki and amazing cocktails! We tried half the cocktails and loved them all but my favorite was definitely the Koji-San! It's first come first serve. Make sure your entire party is there when your name is called, otherwise you will watch your table go to others in the line.

Really good drinks. All with a solid Japanese vibe. It’s by ex-Pegu team so you can’t expect anything less. I had the okonomiyaki, which was one of those things that you have no idea what it is going in your mouth but it tastes so good. Although my roommate felt it had too much sauce.

Food is good, but beware of seating at the standing tables. Staff will drop you off there and say to you that you'll get a table, and then go ahead to seat parties behind you in line on open tables to keep their business moving. Also whiskey upcharged to a surprising degree.

Fantastic cocktails and sake. The martini, and ume fizz are 2 personal favorites. The celery snack is unbelievably tasty (I don't normally even like celery), and the wings are great too. The staff is super attentive, as well. It's small but we always manage to find a seat.

Had the opportunity to visit on a quiet night. Really nice vibe... probably for a slightly older crowd. Cocktails were Japanese inspired, delicious and creative. See cocktail served in wooden box. The wings were the best I’ve ever had, and you need to try the celery!

Fantastic little speakeasy-style cocktail bar on Eldridge Street just off Houston. Dimly lit and beautifully themed with a superb cocktail program. Drinks are average 17-18 bucks. Service is superb. Pop in on a week night when it’s slower. You won’t be disappointed.

Really cute small bar with great small plates (had the veggie pancake and chips with dip) - cocktails are amazing here!
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Herbivore, Chips and Dips

Great drinks, snacks with vibes! I went on Sunday night so it wasn’t super crowded which I loved. They have been playing good music but it doesn’t bother the conversation. I will definitely come back. Their miso flavored chicken wings were my favorite.

Bar Goto should be everyone’s go-to in LES. This place is like an Izakaya and cocktail lounge had a baby. Perfect for a drink alone, night w friends, or a date, the menu is small but well curated. Amazing cocktails and delicious Japanese bar food

One of the most amazing bar that i have ever been, the cocktails is soooo good!!!! Loved it!! Kamquat whiskey sours is fire!! If you’re whiskey person you definitely should try it, and the server and bartender is so friendly, % recommended …

Honestly one of the best cocktail experiences I've ever had (out of many). Surprised by the creativity and craft that went into each drink. Not your average place. Top notch. Also the food is tasty. I would definitely return. Please come to LA!

Goto is my go to. You’ll find me here most Sundays. Mat the bartender completes the experience. Don’t sleep on the celery.
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Miso Wings

The drinks are precise, balanced and complex - and that thoughtful composition extends to the rest of the experience, too; the glassware is always perfectly sized and chosen to the drink (as well as lovely to look at, especially the sleek

The bar has a really nice atmosphere and the bartender was very knowledgeable but I was underwhelmed by the availability of the drink options. A lot of what they have in stock, on the shelves, is not for sale. And of what’s for sale, they

Unique selection of cocktails with a Japanese twist… Tried four different cocktails as a group and for the most part all were very good. The appetizers are also equally interesting… Particularly enjoyed the meetokonomiyaki!"with bacon and

Wonderful experience. How they make celery mind blowing is a mystery but order 2 and the chicken wings. The cocktails are perfectly balanced, subtle and intriguing. Pairs with the most inviting service this was really a stand out.

Went there over the weekend and enjoyed the Japanese pancake and drinks. I got a gin based drink that I enjoyed. Limited food menu but the pancake was decent. I was taken aback when I got the dried fish with my vegetarian dish.

Strong cocktails, perfectly mixed and balanced. Interesting flavors. Strongly recommend the Oolong drink with the peach & anise. The miso wings are out of this world. Nice quiet place. Perfect for meeting a friend or a date.

Being kicked out after eating and drinking because there is other people waiting. Just the worst experience but probably linked to this NYC idea of just more money. Don’t go there, they just don’t care about you Just awful.

Will for sure be back. Cocktails in this city are expensive so they ought to be worth it. The drinks here are. Come for the really unique cocktails and stay for the chicken wings, they might be some of the best in the city.

Great spot. I only came in for a drink but it smelled crazy good in there. Next time I go back I'll definitely plan to grab a bite. I ordered the LES cocktail and it had a nice kick but wasn't too powerful or overwhelming.

Really nice atmosphere! Waitress was not super friendly though. Drinks were quite disappointing. We had their twist on the Paloma and Margerita that tasted just like bad versions of the classics, nothing special at all...

Went here for some Okonomiyaki and whisky on new year's eve. It's a dimly lit place with good music, knowledgeable bartenders, and good offerings. If I lived in New York I would be in this bar all the time.

Great, intimate bar with an epic selection of Japanese whiskeys and a small but delicious selection of food. Gets busy quick so get there early!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Very interesting cocktail menu. I had one that came in a box :) they also serve a couple of food dishes - we really liked the miso wings, the cauliflower tots and the classic okinomyaki.

We went for a quick bite and some cocktails. Overall the place was very chic and so were the staff.
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Despite having a good selection of japanese whiskies I wouldn't come back. Wasn't the best cocktails I've tried and the staff at the bar are not friendly. Not worth the wait.

The chicken wings are amazing, make sure you eat them while they’re hot. Drinks were also good and Asian themed. Of the few drinks I had there, the Yuzu cocktail was best.

Excellent service. Didn't try any of the cocktails but I feel that was a mistake each one was well crafted and the food was wonderful. Highly recommend this place

Great place with speakeasy atmosphere. Many sake inspired cocktail. I'm a huge sazerac fan and tried my first plum sazerac here and was pleasantly surprised.

Japanese-style bar. Staff were professional, cocktail was good, so did the food. Tbh not like must-visit but worth to try. Highly recommend okonomiyaki.

Haven’t been in years but still think about those miso glazed wings (and I hate miso) often. Small spot with good cocktails to match. Highly recommend

Excellent atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff, and a truly inspired and delicious drinks menu! Highly recommend, especially the Kyoto Old Fashioned

Solid bar. Have had a tomatillo & shiso drink here that was really good. Some of the other cocktails are subpar. Food-wise, the okonomiyaki is great.

Great atmosphere. Very intimate. Fantastic. Service. Drinks are unique. NYC definitely has a place for this talented team and unique set of flavors.

Cabbage pancakes are nice. The veggie one also gets served with a side of fish and an idiot like me wouldn't even realise it. Cocktails are alright.

Great, creative drinks and very tasty snacks (okonomiyaki and miso wings). Cozy space, good service. When crowded, it can be painfully loud.

Cool Japanese style bar with unique hand crafted drinks - try the Umami Mary or the Matcha Dream. Not too crowded with bar and table seating

Great cocktails, japon-inspired, and very well prepared. No need for booking but early arriving is recommended. Bar or table as you prefer.

Lovely and friendly staff that cares about your comfort. Great Japanese inspired cocktails. The bar “comfort” food are more tapa size, so

This small establishment is a gem and if you are lucky enough to get a seat at the bar pay attention to the craftsmanship of your drink.

A place to go in new york city to enjoy japanese whiskey & japanese food. Okonomiyaki + chichibu / yamazaki. What a combination.

Amazing cocktails, great bartender and server, food could improve but the ambiance makes this experience a solid 5 star.

The drinks are delicious, relaxed but trendy vibe and the vegetarian okonomiyaki is one of the best I’ve ever tasted

My first time here and the service was great! Nice strong drinks and the food is amazing! A new Go To bar :)

Fantastic modern izakaya. The okonomiyaki was delicious! It was filled with octopus and thiccck with 3 c's.

Tiny space with good cocktails. It’s great to have the Okonomiyaki (pancake) as the midnight snack!

This place knows their cocktails. A giant selection of Japanese whiskeys. And, the food is amazing.

Great cocktails, Miso Wings are amazing
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

Really great bar in a great location. I suggest trying the tomatillo drink! That was our favorite.

Unique Japanese style cocktails in a dark but cozy bar. I highly recommend the Sakura martini!

Top bar with amazing cocktails!!! Wow!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Excellent cocktails. pre-dinner gem.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Fantastic. Delicious. Food was amazing, drinks were strong. So glad we found this place!

Service was rough even though it was empty; food was good and drinks were good.

Great drink experience, highly recommended. Bartender a master of her craft!

Great unique drinks, great service.
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Absolutly the best bar in New York, outstanding bartender (Matt)