Neta

Tucked away on a quiet stretch of West 8th Street in Greenwich Village, Neta carries serious culinary credentials. The two chefs behind this upscale sushi spot trained under none other than Masa Takayama himself, bringing that legendary attention to detail to a slightly more accessible price point. The vibe is refined without being stuffy, the kind of place where you’ll want to dress up a bit but won’t feel out of place having a good time.

The standout dishes here lean toward the luxurious. The grilled scallop, served right in its shell with beautiful pieces of uni nestled on top, delivers perfectly cooked seafood with the briny sweetness of sea urchin in every bite. The toro and caviar combination is exactly as decadent as it sounds, while the uni porridge offers a creative, risotto-like interpretation that showcases the kitchen’s skill with quality ingredients. The nigiri features excellent rice and fresh fish, though the omakase portions can feel modest given the price tag.

What truly sets Neta apart might surprise you: the peanut butter ice cream. This unassuming dessert has achieved near-legendary status among regulars, and one taste explains why. It’s the kind of ice cream that could justify a return visit all on its own. The tempura also deserves mention, featuring an impossibly light and crispy batter that works beautifully with seasonal vegetables.

This is definitely a splurge-worthy spot, best enjoyed when someone else is picking up the tab or when you’re celebrating something special. Rather than committing to the full omakase, consider ordering a la carte to hit the highlights. You’ll get to experience the kitchen’s best work without the sticker shock, and you can always save room for that ice cream.