The story
The story of The Office of Mr. Moto begins with a fictional 1853 voyage. According to the restaurant’s lore, a gourmand and art connoisseur named Mr. Moto traveled alongside the crew of the USS Susquehanna on its mission to open Japan to American trade. During his journey, he documented his most profound discoveries, including the treasure of Japanese gastronomy. The recent discovery of his long-closed office and private collection now allows the public to experience those treasures.
Guests are invited to enter the space and experience Mr. Moto’s most prized discovery: Edo-mae sushi. The restaurant offers a deep dive into Japanese cuisine, presented through a meticulously crafted tasting menu.
The journey begins at a discreet entryway. Invited guests are welcomed into Mr. Moto’s private collection of art and artifacts, spread across a bi-level space. The seasonally curated menu reflects the long history of Japanese gastronomy. Mr. Moto’s Itamae—highly trained sushi chefs—open the tasting with a selection of appetizers, followed by a savory Chawanmushi egg custard. Guests then embark on a journey through the history of sushi with 16 pieces of Nigiri that reflect the legacy, traditions, and modern interpretations of Edo-mae sushi. The meal concludes with a hand roll, soup, and dessert.
The restaurant offers three distinct spaces. At The Counter, guests are served the 21-course tasting menu at a six-seat sushi counter crafted in the traditional Japanese style from a single piece of white oak. In The Gallery, guests peruse cherished pieces of Japanese history while enjoying the same menu. Downstairs in The Library, guests unwind and imbibe while listening to Mr. Moto’s private jazz collection.
This Michelin-recommended address in the East Village offers an intimate, transportive experience for those seeking a serious omakase in New York City.
Recognition
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