Waraku Japanese - Full Menu

I wish I had discovered this place sooner! I had been searching for an authentic Japanese restaurant that served curry udon after trying it for the first time i... read more I wish I had discovered this place sooner! I had been searching for an authentic Japanese restaurant that served curry udon after trying it for the first time in NYC, and Waraku was the first spot I visited. Luckily, I found the best place right off the bat! They offer a vast selection on their menu, and everything I’ve tried—along with all the dishes my family and friends have sampled—has been amazing! The service is excellent, and I truly appreciate supporting a family-owned business like this, especially in today's world; they really do an outstanding job. Elina is phenomenal and incredibly nice, plus she has an impressive memory! I always enjoy coming here, and it’s definitely my top choice whenever someone asks where we should go out to eat. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking fantastic Japanese food!

I visited this restaurant hoping to find a decent Japanese spot nearby, so my expectations were quite modest. I initially thought it was an authentic, Japanese-... read more I visited this restaurant hoping to find a decent Japanese spot nearby, so my expectations were quite modest. I initially thought it was an authentic, Japanese-owned establishment. However, there’s no way this place is genuinely Japanese or authentic. The sushi was on par with what you'd find at all-you-can-eat places, which is to say just mediocre. The bento box was mostly filled with white rice and an orange, with no traditional tempura in sight. The spicy tuna featured some partially cooked filling. When I inquired about it, the waitress first claimed it was fish egg or roe, but I knew better. After checking with the chef, she explained that it was mixed with cooked albacore, which was a first for me. I arrived hungry and ready to spend money on a Friday night, but I regret not driving further to find real Japanese cuisine. After spending $85 for two people, I left disappointed and still a bit hungry. This will be my first and last visit, just like many others who have recently reviewed this place.