While the thought of spending lunch around Herald Square may sound like your worst nightmare, Hanamizuki is a small oasis in the heart of the madness. It’s easy to pass by if you’re not looking for it, so seek it out when you’re in the area looking for a break.

Put simply, Hanamizuki is a Japanese cafe that serves a perfect lunch. It’s a bright, airy space that instantly puts you at ease, and the food does the same. They serve Japanese snacks, specializing in a variety of omusubi (Japanese rice balls), miso soups, side dishes, and sweet treats. And while you can order à la carte if you please, the lunch special is what you come for. It’s two rice balls (for something a little different, go for the Hawaiian), one miso soup, one side dish, and of course the ever-present Japanese pickled vegetables, and it’s everything you could want for your midday meal. It’s the perfect amount of food, just enough to leave you teetering on that line between not needing dessert but still having some room, but of course upon seeing the matcha chiffon cakes you’ll likely cave.

Hanamizuki is as friendly, quaint, and quality-focused as any Japanese restaurant – which is exactly why it’s become our haven when in the neighborhood.

http://www.hanamizukiny.com/

Hanamizuki NYC
143 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001
(212) 695-5533

Dana is originally from Washington, DC, is now based in NYC, but is most excited when she’s traveling. She’s a street-food obsessed food and travel writer who spends her free time watching Anthony Bourdain reruns and exploring the nooks and crannies of her NYC neighborhood, Chinatown. Her heart is torn between Paris, the Greek Islands, Japan, and Penang, so her dream last supper would look something like a four course meal of sashimi, laksa, fresh grilled octopus, and a heaping plate of gooey French cheese.

(All photos of Hanamizuki NYC by Dana Delaski)

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