The Chemistry Room Reviews

The quality of nigiri is inarguably high. I can't review other dishes because the establishment didn't let me - this is the main subject of this review. The rule in the restaurant is to serve full menu a la cart only to clients who made reservations to seat at the bar. Otherwise, the only choice is to order prix fix at $125. When I asked for the reason I was told the warm dishes are prepared by another chef. Instead of satisfying the clients' desires and earn more money in the process, the restaurant chooses to unnecessarily limit their choices. A lose-lose proposition that may drive away potential customers who don't like being imposed on. I found the price of nigiri exorbitantly high and their size small. A cost that would normally buy two pieces of a kind, as usual, sufficed only for one piece. When I asked about it, a female staff member responded in a hostile manner that this is the rule in New York, a self-evident falsehood. She continued to project hostility when I made other comments or questions. There may be a cultural gap between the attitude of some of the restaurant's staff and the country they operate in. I found the hostility of the staff member to be unacceptable and a potential reason not to visit the place again.

Very very good, i loved how the plate was served and just everything of the restaurant it’s perfect, the attendant, the food is perfect soo unique and the place is so good too and the bathroom is 10/10

This is one of my top favorite dining experiences! Our servers, Frances and Ben were so fun and very attentive. It is a set 15 course meal of mostly sushi. Every plate came out with an explanation of what it was and everything was so good! Atmosphere was great, simplistic decor, easy to carry on a conversation. There are a few tables, but there is also the preparation bar where some sit and watch the food being made / assembled. Highly recommend.

Fabulous place! We stayed at the adjacent hotel and visited for the 15 course tasting menu, which did not disappoint. Every item was carefully chosen and looked and tasted incredible. It was great to have the chef talk us through the menu. Staff were super friendly and delicious cocktail too!

What a disappointing experience. Severely overpriced. Such small portions for high prices. What we had tasted fine. Not worth the money in our opinion. Charged for a bottle of water that we didn’t had.

On a previous trip to NYC, I happened to pass by the Chemistry Room, located in the Sanctuary Hotel, and noticed they offered an omakase with two price points—both surprisingly reasonable (almost unbelievable) for a restaurant in the Times Square area. The menu looked fantastic, so the four of us decided to book the 15-course omakase at $125 for a 6:00 PM seating. We arrived about half an hour early and were seated in the restaurant to wait. While waiting, we ordered a few cocktails and appetizers. We tried the Pearfection (shochu, pear purée, lemon juice, pea flower syrup), the Morning Glory (gin, basil, grapefruit syrup, egg white), and the Sakura Spritz. All three drinks were beautifully balanced and delicious. The gyoza and shishito peppers we shared were equally tasty and well-executed. Once seated at the omakase counter, we were warmly welcomed. I had called ahead to inform them that one of our party needed a shellfish accommodation, and it was noted without issue. The itamae preparing our omakase was both efficient and thoughtful. His substitutions for the shellfish and uni courses—ranging from wagyu to ikura and other high-quality fish—were seamless and satisfying, delivering the same depth and elegance as the original dishes. High marks to him for both skill and consideration. The fish throughout the meal was outstanding—exceptionally fresh, beautifully seasoned, and expertly prepared. Even the uni, which I’m usually not a fan of, was a standout. It was the best I’ve had outside of Japan—creamy, sweet, fresh, and absolutely delicious. The smoked miso soup, rich with katsuobushi and kombu, and just a whisper of miso, was a big hit with three of us. One of the highlights was a beautifully presented box set featuring a shiso-fraiche soup, a langoustine “taco”, and a chawanmushi topped with caviar and gold flakes—a sublime trio of flavors and textures. The 12 pieces of nigiri that followed were uniformly fresh, flavorful, and perfect in execution. Dessert was a broiled Basque cheesecake—creamy, less sweet in the Asian style, and a lovely finish to the meal. We paired the omakase with the only nigori sake on the menu, the Nagurayama Nigori from Aizu, Fukushima—an absolute gem. This premium nigori was fleetingly sweet and aromatic at first sip, with the smooth, creamy mouthfeel only found in the best of its kind. Perfectly balanced and delicious. Overall, it was one of the best—and most reasonably priced—omakase experiences we’ve had. All four of us agreed we would absolutely return. Great food, attentive service, inviting ambiance—it was a fantastic experience from start to finish.

Located in the heart of the city, is a true gem for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Upon entering, you are immediately enveloped by a tranquil and elegant atmosphere, with decor that pays homage to traditional Japan while incorporating a contemporary touch. The menu is a true work of art, presenting dishes that go beyond flavor, offering a unique sensory experience.