The Financial District just welcomed its newest culinary addition: Yamasaki, a sleek and sophisticated Asian fusion bar and restaurant now open at 25 Broad Street. #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos has the scoop.
Fusing the spirit of Japanese izakayas with global influences and New York energy, Yamasaki aims to bring bold flavors, thoughtful ingredients, and a late night dining experience to Lower Manhattan.
We sat down with the team behind Yamasaki to talk inspiration, cuisine, cocktails, and what sets this exciting new restaurant apart.
Q: How would you describe Yamasaki’s overall culinary style?
A: Yamasaki Bar & Restaurant is a modern Asian fusion concept offering a vibrant blend of Asian cuisines in the heart of the Financial District. We reinterpret old world culinary traditions with a fresh, modern twist capturing the essence of a Japanese izakaya, but layered with New York sophistication. By sourcing from premium local purveyors, farmers markets, and importing Wagyu and rare seafood, we’re able to create an exceptional and flexible dining experience.
Q: What inspired the Asian fusion approach, and what regions does it blend?
A: While studying traditional Peruvian cuisine in Lima, I became fascinated by Nikkei, the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine born from Japanese immigration to Peru. That culinary crossroads deeply inspired us. Yamasaki builds on that with added influences from Korean, Thai, and Indonesian kitchens. It’s all about celebrating fusion in a way that feels soulful, not forced.
Q: How did you develop the balance between traditional flavors and modern twists?
A: Our team has a long history of working with Latin and international flavors, so blending tradition with innovation is part of our DNA. We designed Yamasaki’s menu to allow for creative expression, pushing boundaries while respecting cultural roots. It’s about offering familiar foundations with unexpected, delightful turns.
Q: Is there a story behind the name “Yamasaki”?
A: Not particularly. We chose it for its simplicity, elegance, and Japanese origin, it felt like the right fit for the concept and vibe we wanted to create.
Q: What are the must try dishes on the menu?
A: Our full sushi menu is a highlight, but don’t miss the homemade duck or pork belly bao buns, or the satay of seabass marinated in miso. Our seafood program is something we take great pride in, it’s curated with intention and care.
Q: What ties all the plates together despite the diversity in cuisine?
A: Each dish brings a different cultural flavor profile, but everything is curated to complement, not compete with one another. You could pair a Japanese tempura roll with Thai satay, enjoy a Chinese style bao with Korean pork belly, and sip on a fresh squeezed margarita. We’ve removed the walls between cuisines to create a seamless, multicultural dining experience.
Q: Are there special techniques or ingredients that set your dishes apart?
A: Absolutely. Every element is intentionally selected. We use organic produce, wild caught seafood, grass fed beef, and freeRange, non GMO poultry. Every sauce is made in house, and every dish is made to order, this level of detail is central to our culinary identity.
Q: Is the menu inclusive for guests with dietary needs or allergies?
A: One of our goals was to create a completely modifiable menu. Because every dish is made fresh, we can accommodate gluten free, dairy free, and other dietary restrictions with ease. We want everyone to feel welcome.
Q: Will there be a signature cocktail program?
A: Definitely. Our bar takes heavy inspiration from speakeasy style izakayas. Expect cocktails with yuzu, ponzu, lychee, lemongrass, sake, and shochu, alongside Japanese spins on classic American drinks. Everything is crafted using fresh juices and premium spirits, mirroring the standards of our kitchen.
Q: Are there sake, wine, or beer pairings available?
A: We’re proud to offer an extensive sake list at various price points. I’m passionate about the nuances of sake, so we’ll also feature pairing menus and tasting flights to highlight our full selection.
Q: How would you describe the interior design and vibe of Yamasaki?
A: Yamasaki is sleek, upscale, and elegant designed to reflect the energy of Lower Manhattan while offering something truly unique. We have flexible spaces for both events and intimate dining. Guests can join us for lunch, happy hour, dinner, or even late night dining. There’s a lack of elevated cuisine in FiDi after 10 pm, and we’re here to change that.
Q: What kind of overall dining experience should guests expect?
A: We offer elevated dining in a fun, vibrant setting. Whether you’re here for a romantic evening or a group dinner, we want every guest to feel like they’ve stepped into something special. Dress to impress, or just be yourself; Yamasaki is about comfort without compromise.
Q: Tell us about the bar area and happy hour vibe.
A: Happy hour is a huge part of our vision. The bar area is more casual and energetic, perfect for unwinding after work. We offer a special happy hour menu with approachable items and craft cocktails that elevate the experience.
Q: Why did you choose 25 Broad Street as the location?
A: I grew up in Manhattan and have always admired the grandeur of the Financial District. As a kid, I’d stare up at the Stock Exchange in awe. This neighborhood is rich in history, filled with professionals, tourists, and culture. It’s the perfect backdrop for Yamasaki, we’re here to add a new cultural layer to the landscape.
Q: How will Yamasaki contribute to the local culinary scene?
A: FiDi needs more late night elevated dining, and we’re here to deliver just that. With bold flavors, refined presentation, and a truly global perspective, Yamasaki adds a fresh, exciting voice to Lower Manhattan’s food scene.
Yamasaki is opening at 25 Broad Street, NYC, serving lunch, dinner, happy hour, and late night.
To learn more about Yamasaki Bar, follow them on Instagram.
