Ootoya Union Square - New York

Salmon Soymilk Hotpot has been my go to. Recently visit (June 2022) the Soymilk base texture is different from before. It used to be smoother and even, this time it appears like it's water+sediment. A bit odd. Gyoza, karaage, Shishito Pepper all acceptable appetizer but not great. Basic quality. Crispy Rice not the typical fried pressed rice but it's rice crispy sandwiched in between the rice and fish. Which is odd and felt like a lazy way to make it. It's okay but not worth the price. Sashimi quality was meh as well. Favorite dish might be the homemade tofu side!

The quality of the food is great and price is nice. The entrance of the store tho has a weird smell that is unpleasant.

I'm surprised more people don't talk about this place! The Katsu Toji (fried pork cutlet over egg and soy sauce broth) is incredible. It's better than the pictures, and you need to go try it for yourself. Note that it doesn't come with rice, so be sure to add that or upgrade to the Teishoku set (white rice, miso soup, pickled veggies). I will definitely be coming back for the Katsu Toji again. There were also tons of other dishes that people ordered nearby that looked great (Beef Sukiyaki Nabe, chirashi bowls, soba, curry).

Food was good, but giving a lower rating due to service. Food took a while to come out even though the restaurant wasn't very busy. And, the waiter kept rushing us towards the end and was overly eager to clean up our plates when we weren't finished yet. This is my second time at Ootoya, and the food took forever to come out the first time as well. Prices are average, a bit more on the costly side for the portions. But I do like how much variety is on their menu and the food itself they do well.

Eating is great at a reasonable price. the sushi is not so fresh. I would definitely go back there, so I'll give a five star. but do not order sushi!