Seemor
Raku It’s Japanese llB+Worth Trying
57 W 76th St, New York, NY 10023
· Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Authentic Japanese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1160 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Neighborhood Japanese spot with creative rolls, reliable lunch deals, and speedy service; some reports of salty broths and brusque service, but overall strong value near the museums.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Raku It's Japanese II delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong sushi quality and creative signature rolls paired with fast, attentive service that keeps the room buzzing. Inconsistent execution in ramen and occasional quality dips prevent a higher grade, while the tight, dim space limits appeal beyond its loyal local following. Fair pricing and excellent lunch specials make it a reliable choice for Japanese comfort food on the Upper West Side.
Restaurant Summary
Down a few steps on the Upper West Side, this spot feels cozy and buzzing with fast-moving staff and the hum of locals and museum-goers. Reviews often mention servers checking in and pacing meals quickly, with one diner noting, "they were speedy and welcoming every time." The room is tight and a bit dim, but the energy is upbeat and the mood is neighborhood casual. The kitchen leans classic Japanese with a playful streak: fresh sushi, hearty udon, and a slate of creative signature rolls that weave in mango, soybean paper, and yuzu miso. Sushi quality is praised consistently, while the miso ramen draws mixed notes for a chicken-based broth that can read on the salty side. If you want a reliable value play, the bento boxes are a crowd favorite for portion and variety. For families, the food itself is accessible—think teriyaki chicken, pork katsu, and simple rolls kids can handle. Most reviews describe friendly service with children, though one report cited a waitlist refusal for a party with kids, so experiences may vary. If you need space for strollers or high chairs, the tight seating could be a hurdle.
At a Glance
- Fresh sushi and fun signature rolls at fair neighborhood prices
- Excellent lunch specials and generous bento portions
- Speedy, friendly service reported by many diners
- Ramen/udon broths can run salty; occasional inconsistency
- Tight seating and dim, below-street space
- Mixed reports on handling of tips and conflict resolution
What Sets It Apart
- creative_signature_rolls
- strong_lunch_value
- speedy_service
- museum-adjacent_location
What People Love
- Creative rolls that feel playful without being fussy
- Bento boxes that deliver value and variety
- Fast pacing that suits quick lunches
- Friendly staff who remember regulars
Points of Concern
- Ramen and some udon dishes read salty to several diners
- Space is tight; comfort and ambiance are secondary
- A few sharp service incidents and rigidity on comps or tips
- Isolated freshness and illness claims amidst many positives
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build dinner around one signature roll ($12-16) plus a teriyaki or udon main ($18-25) to stay near $40-45 before drinks
- Vegetarians can rely on Kitsune/Sansai Udon and tofu or vegetable stir-fries
- If you crave richer ramen, set expectations: broth here is chicken-based for shoyu/miso
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-museum lunch near AMNH
- Casual date night with creative rolls
- Solo sushi at the counter
- Quick neighborhood dinner with reliable value
Location Insights
Area: Residential Upper West Side near museums and Central Park; family-heavy with steady visitor foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with strong evening foot traffic around Columbus Ave corridor.
Nearby: Steps from American Museum of Natural History, Central Park, and Columbus Ave retail; strong neighborhood dining mix.
Upper West SideThe Upper West Side boasts a diverse dining scene ranging from classic New York delis and casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and family-oriented, with a strong community feel and a steady flow of both locals and tourists visiting nearby attractions like Lincoln Center and Central Park.
Lincoln SquareLincoln Square is a cultural hub within the Upper West Side, centered around Lincoln Center. It attracts a crowd interested in performing arts and fine dining, with many upscale restaurants and bars catering to theatergoers and affluent locals.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:30
Saturday14:30–22:30
Sunday14:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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