THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Neta Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Neta Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: Once you walk into the sparsely appointed room, you know that this is not an ordinary Japanese restaurant. No typical sushi bar serves a palate refresher of tequila and lime shaved ice, nor does it offer you blowfish caught off the coast of Long Island, enrobed in a fragile tempura shell. Set behind a subdued storefront on a West Village side street, Neta is anything but subtle when it comes to dining. Food is the star, dexterously prepared in the open kitchen that dominates the narrow space.

Food & Drinks: Three levels of omakase in addition to an à la carte menu are proposed. Sushi is of the most delicate variety, with fish flown in from around North America. Sample Dungeness crab from Vancouver, buttery tuna from Boston, or California uni and grilled New England scallop, each enhanced with understated seasonings and herbs, or drizzles of yuzu or garlic. Vegetarians and carnivores aren’t left out, with edamame, grilled Wagyu steak, and chicken karage. Sit at the 16-seat sushi bar for the best views and a chance to speak to the chefs. Desserts are simple: ice cream in flavors like banana-miso. Although there is a diverse menu of sakés, the unfiltered Shiragiku Nigori will carry well throughout the meal. Wine and cocktails are also available.