Author Archives: From the Kitchen

Each spring, for only a brief moment, one of Japan’s most delicate seasonal ingredients makes its appearance—firefly squid. Harvested at their peak, these small, luminescent squid are a true expression of the season. Known for their subtle sweetness and gentle brininess, firefly squid carry a depth of umami that belies their size. In Japan, their […]

Yukke is a dish built on precision and restraint, yet unmistakably indulgent. At Rei, we prepare it using Miyazaki A5 wagyu, finely cut to preserve its texture and depth. It is layered with uni, then finished with ikura and caviar—creating a composition that is rich, almost decadent, yet carefully balanced. The result is a dish […]

Rei is thrilled to announce its opening in the heart of Soho, bringing an exceptional Japanese dining experience to New York City. As a celebration of culinary artistry and cultural tradition, Rei offers a unique blend of authentic flavors and modern innovation. From meticulously crafted sushi and sashimi to bold, reimagined classics like Black Cod […]

At Rei, we often serve sake in a glass set inside a small wooden box called a masu. When the sake is poured until it overflows into the masu, it’s more than just a visual gesture — it’s a symbol of generosity, hospitality, and abundance. This tradition dates back to Japan’s Edo period, when the […]

At Rei, each dish begins with a single idea: how to express the purest essence of an ingredient. Our Crab Croquettes are a tribute to that philosophy — a delicate balance of texture and umami drawn entirely from the crab itself. The croquettes combine sweet crab meat, miso, and cream, creating a velvety interior that […]

Located in Soho, Rei redefines Japanese dining by blending tradition with modern innovation. Each dish pays homage to Japanese culinary heritage, using natural, organic ingredients and authentic techniques, while reimagining flavors through contemporary twists like truffle-infused sashimi and creative tempura. Rei’s ambiance mirrors its menu—a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese decor and sleek modern aesthetics. […]

Experience a dining adventure like no other at Rei, where every dish tells a story of tradition and innovation. Located in the heart of Soho, Rei celebrates authentic Japanese flavors with a modern twist, using only the finest natural and organic ingredients. From delicate sushi and sashimi to bold, reimagined tempura, each plate is a […]

Step into the heart of Soho and embark on a culinary adventure at Rei, where Japanese flavors come alive with authenticity and innovation. Begin your evening with dishes like Karasumi Radish or Shrimp Chawanmushi, expertly prepared to highlight tradition. Move to bold creations like Black Cod with Miso or the Wagyu Beef Stew, showcasing Rei’s […]

Rei’s Eight Highlights menu takes diners on a culinary journey through the finest offerings of Japanese cuisine. Start with refreshing Corn Mousse with Sea Urchin or the zesty Yellowtail Jalapeño, setting the tone with vibrant flavors. Progress to indulgent mains like Black Cod with Miso or Wagyu Hamburg Steak, showcasing Rei’s dedication to authenticity. Sushi […]

Nestled in Soho, Rei has quickly become New York’s premier destination for Japanese cuisine, blending tradition with modern flair. From its expertly crafted sushi and sashimi to bold creations like Black Cod with Miso and Wagyu Beef Stew, every dish is a testament to quality and innovation. The warm ambiance, with its mix of traditional […]