5 Haute (And Cool) Ways To Enjoy Sake In NYC

Sake may be the most underrated alcohol of all time. Premium sake is virtually hangover free, contains no sulfites, promotes healthy skin, may help prevent cancer and does not make you fat. It’s liquid magic. We think everyone should drink a little more magic, so here’s a roundup of the best sake cocktails in the city.

Sakura at Bar Seki

Sakura at Bar Seki
Sakura at Bar Seki

Chef Seki is bringing 13 years of experience to your lips with his incredible new cocktail lounge and eatery. Bar Seki is a sleek and minimal setting for flavorful drinks and bites. Most importantly however is their impressive collection of sake and sake cocktails. You haven’t lived unless you’ve tried their Sakura creation. Junmai Sake, Umeshu, Peach, Champagne Vinegar, and Sakura Brine create the perfect harmonious cocktail.

Sakura Junmai Sake, Umeshu, Peach, Champagne Vinegar, and Sakura

Hakata at Ippudo NY

Sake Selection at Ippudo
Sake Selection at Ippudo

From Japanese soul food to crafted cocktails there are a million delectable reasons you should go to Ippudo. Their authentic Japanese ramen has set the bar high in the city. While most people know this traditional joint for their ramen, they also have incredible drinks. Have a go at their Hakata cocktail with sake, gin and grapefruit juice. It’s simple and classic, in true Japanese style.

Hakata, sake, gin, grapefruit juice

Saketini at Cherry

Cherry NYC
Cherry NYC

The very trendy Cherry is a haute spot with an eclectic New York crowd. Their diverse dishes display an array of Asian-fusion style tapas. Much like their eats, cocktails here are a blend of interesting and bold flavors. They have managed to take a classic Saketini and elevate it into a uniquely Cherry creation. Think russian standard vodka, yoshinogawa sake, pickled rakkyo, and cucumber. Follow the trend to Cherry for your next haute outing.

Saketini russian standard vodka, yoshinogawa sake, pickled rakkyo, and cucumber

Rubabu at Zuma

Rubabu at Zuma
Rubabu at Zuma

This worldwide phenomenon needs no introduction. Zuma has made a name for itself as the premier high-end spot for Japanese eats and drinks. You can’t go wrong with anything you order here, but you should start your experience right with their signature Rubabu cocktail. Find the haute recipe for their lovely libation below:

2 2/3 oz rhubarb infused sake
1 oz vodka
2/3 oz lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup
2/3 oz fresh passion-fruit pulp

Sweet Saketini at BONDST

Sweet Saketini and Ginger Dragon at BONDST
Sweet Saketini and Ginger Dragon at BONDST

If you prefer your sake seated next to celebrities and models, a trip to BONDST should be on your list. The upscale eatery attracts a very serious set of diners who expect the best of everything. Their intricate dishes are matched by carefully crafted cocktails, you can’t miss their Sweet Saketini BONDST Exclusive with sake, plum wine, and a lime twist.

Russian Standard, Kira Sake, Cucumber