The story
Izakaya Futago arrives in Midtown as the latest outpost of the Futago Group, founded in Japan by twin brothers. What began as a single yakiniku restaurant has grown into a global presence with nearly 100 locations, including Yakiniku Futago outposts in Chelsea and SoHo. Here, on East 43rd Street, the team has reimagined the space formerly known as Soba Totto, bringing a new izakaya concept to life.
The restaurant is guided by the idea of waku-waku – that joyful spark of surprise – and offers a menu that balances tradition with playful creativity. The kitchen produces handcrafted soba noodles, made from Ni-Hachi buckwheat, alongside yakitori skewers grilled to order over charcoal. A signature innovation is Spoon Sushi: a one-bite reimagining of nigiri sushi, served on a spoon. The dinner menu also includes obanzai (home-style side dishes), sashimi platters, and a selection of donburi rice bowls.
The design blends the tranquility of Japan with the modern elegance of New York. Soft lighting, warm wood, and a counter that allows guests to watch the chefs at work create a calm, inviting atmosphere. It is a place equally suited for a quiet dinner, a drink with colleagues, or a date night. The bar offers original cocktails made with sake, a carefully chosen selection of Japanese whisky, and a notable sake list.
Izakaya Futago earned a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026, a recognition that speaks to the skill of its Japanese chefs and the quality of its ingredients. Whether you come for lunch sets that pair soba with sashimi or tempura, or for a full dinner of yakitori and hand-pulled noodles, the restaurant delivers a genuine taste of the modern Japanese izakaya.
Recognition
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