And the special menu items are a must-try
Sushi is a cornerstone of New York City’s vibrant dining scene, and for those seeking an exceptional experience that blends exquisite flavors with a stunning ambiance, Akoya is a must-visit. Tucked away within the St. Cloud Rooftop Bar at The Knickerbocker Hotel, Akoya offers an authentic and intimate temaki experience in a luxurious setting. Under the guidance of Sushi Chef Taishi Yamaguchi and Chef Charlie Palmer, Akoya’s menu elevates the hand roll, crafting each bite with the finest ingredients.
Our recent visit to Akoya left us thoroughly impressed. Beyond the delicious food, Akoya boasts an extensive drink menu designed to cater to every preference. They offer a refined tea service, expertly crafted custom cocktails, a selection of imported Japanese beers, and — our personal favorite — an impressive array of premium sake, available by the glass or bottle. We opted for the classic Junmai sake, which was absolutely delightful, featuring bright notes of citrus and melon complemented by a zesty aroma.
Akoya’s food menu features a curated selection of hand rolls and small plates, with additional options available on a special menu. We decided to explore both, sampling a variety of hand rolls and a few standout items from the special offerings.
From the temaki menu, we savored the Roasted Okinawa Sweet Potato, Maine Lobster, Miso Marinated Eggplant, and Australian Wagyu Tataki. Each roll had standout flavors that made each offering unique. The sweet potato roll was incredibly soft and pillowy, with the roasting process intensifying its natural sweetness. The Maine lobster roll was a decadent treat, featuring plump, buttery lobster that was perfectly balanced by the starchy sushi rice, which cut through its richness. The miso-marinated eggplant was a personal favorite; its fermented miso sweetness was immediately noticed, while the meaty eggplant coated the palate with its savory juices. Finally, the wagyu roll offered an incredible char, leaving a smoky depth to the meat, and was beautifully complemented by a buttery, slightly saline caviar topping.
From the special menu, we tried several delectable dishes. The Yellowtail Yuzu Crudo was a highlight, featuring thinly sliced yellowtail sashimi adorned with a vibrant yuzu onion vinegar sauce, delicate microgreens, and crisp fried rice pebbles. The yellowtail’s bright, fresh, and clean flavors were exquisite, with the yuzu onion vinegar adding a perfect touch of acidity to enhance the fish’s natural sweetness. The fried rice pebbles provided a welcome textural contrast, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Another standout dish was the Black Cod Miso. This dish presented perfectly grilled black cod, accompanied by pickled vegetables and a rich white miso reduction, all served on a bed of crisp lettuce, creating a harmonious cod lettuce wrap. The miso generously coated the cod, imparting a warm sweetness, while the pickled vegetables offered a bright acidity. Combined with the freshness of the lettuce, each bite was a symphony of sweet, salty, and savory notes.
As our meal concluded, we were incredibly satisfied with the generous portions, the exceptional flavors of each dish, and the consistently high quality of ingredients. With its intimate ambiance, Akoya is an ideal spot for a special date night or a memorable gathering with loved ones.
