Seemor
TORA NYCB+Worth Trying
242 Himrod St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
· Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Bar
· 4.9/5 Google (220 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative Japanese izakaya with standout sushi, bowls, and cocktails; excellent service, moderate-to-high pricing for the quality; a strong Bushwick pick if you enjoy modern twists.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
TORA NYC delivers solid neighborhood dining through excellent sushi and contemporary Japanese cooking paired with attentive, knowledgeable service. However, modest space comfort and occasional consistency dips on specialty items prevent grade A territory. The intimate setting and loyal following make it a worthwhile destination for sushi enthusiasts seeking quality without pretension.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and intimate with a small bar, modern lines, and friendly servers who explain dishes without hovering. As one diner put it, "service was exceptional and caring," making it a comfortable date-night choice. However, be aware that some guests found portions modest for the price. The cooking leans contemporary Japanese with playful touches: buttery negitoro bowls, bright crudos, crispy tuna rice, and a wagyu-topped roll. Mentaiko pasta divides opinion—many love its richness while others find it a bit much—so order according to taste. It is a thoughtful, ingredient-forward kitchen rather than showy, ideal for diners who appreciate clean flavors with creative edges. Families can do well here. Bowls like gyudon, katsu curry at lunch, simple rolls, and edamame give kids accessible options, even if the vibe is more cozy and adult-leaning. There is no stated kids menu, but rice bowls and milder sushi make it workable for children who enjoy Japanese basics.
At a Glance
- Fresh fish and balanced crudos stand out
- Attentive, welcoming service with good menu guidance
- Portions can feel small for the price on premium items
- A few texture misses on yakitori and occasional ramen critiques
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- creative_japanese_takes
- strong_cocktail_program
- cozy_date_friendly_space
What People Love
- Bright, fresh sashimi and chirashi
- Crispy tuna rice with satisfying heat
- Thoughtful cocktails and mocktails
- Kind, attentive staff who explain dishes
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (mains ~$22-33) which may surprise casual diners
- Portions can skew small on premium items and hot stone dishes
- Isolated service hiccups: rushed check, tipping interaction discomfort
- Review patterns show signs of potential amplification (high five-star share, marketing tone) though many reviews are detailed and photo-backed
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Scallop Carpaccio or Salmon Zaab for bright, citrusy openers
- Pick one premium centerpiece like Chirashi Don or Surf and Turf Roll
- Round out with a hot item: Karaage ($13) or Hamachi Kama ($18)
Perfect For
- Date night over sushi and cocktails
- Small-group dinner exploring shareable plates
- Solo bar bite with a roll and sake
- Takeout sushi bowls on a cozy night in
Location Insights
Area: Creative, residential Bushwick block with growing dining scene; draws locals and food-focused visitors.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical NYC street conditions.
Nearby: Near Knickerbocker Ave corridor; bars, cafes, and small boutiques within walking distance.
BushwickBushwick is known for its thriving arts scene, industrial-chic vibe, and a growing number of trendy restaurants and bars. The dining environment is eclectic, featuring everything from innovative eateries and craft breweries to longstanding local spots, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking authentic and experimental food experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →