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A meal to remember!

5 Posted on 02 / 18 / 2013

All vegan, Japanese, one Michelin starred (down from two), Kajitsu was automatically a must visit. I'd been dying to try it out, but we weren't able to get a reservation in the past few trips to NYC. This time we lucked out and secured two seats at the counter. I knew it would be a great experience, but I have to admit it exceeded my expectations - it was out of this world!

Both of us ordered the 8-course Hana set. Japanese cuisine typically does not rely on spices or heavy seasoning to develop the flavor profile, which could be why the menu might look somewhat simple on paper. But in reality, every dish were very carefully constructed and exquisitely presented. Throughout our meal, we were constantly bedazzled by the clean but deep flavors that came through. Even I, as a fast eater, couldn't help but slow down so as to savor every single bite.

Some might find that it was too quiet (no background music) or that the decor was too dull (it was pretty much tables and walls), but it was exactly this calm, serene atmosphere, and the simple, minimalistic decor that I enjoyed so much. I also recommend sitting at the chef's counter, especially for first-timers, where you will be able to see your food being prepared. It was enthralling just how meticulous the chef was.

True, it was a bit of a splurge, but I thought it was well justified.

Pros: excellent food, atmosphere & décor

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An escape to Japan

5 Posted on 09 / 16 / 2011

Having returned from Japan a couple of weeks ago and with a new found love for the country, I jumped at the opportunity to visit a kaiseki in NYC.

Kajitsu is a marvelous culinary experience, an opportunity to travel to Japan through their food, drinks and excellent service. The atmosphere is elegant, minimalistic, allowing guests to focus fully on the incredible creations by Kajitsu's chef. We had the 8 course Hana and were delighted with every dish presented to us, prepared by the chef in front of our eyes (we were sitting at the chef's counter) and explained in detail by the attentive staff. A Japanese couple was also sitting at the counter and had the opportunity to receive the explanations from the chef himself.

Kajitsu serves traditional Shojin cuisine and I think the experience may be more enjoyable if you check their website first to see the menu and understand what will be served - they obviously use the Japanese terminology to refer to the different items.

Kajitsu is also a 2 Michelin star restaurant. This is the place to go for a unique occasion, it is an absolute treat.

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Amazing

5 Posted on 01 / 06 / 2011

Kajitsu was the highlight of our culinary experiences in NYC, by far.
The service and decor were impeccable. The only thing we might suggest would be some light music (there is no music at all, and so its a little quiet in there).
We went to Pure Food and Wine a few days ago, and spent $140 (without tip); we left less than satisfied. At Kajitsu we spent $200, and were stoked. We could happily go back there.

Pros: Presentation, Sevice, Culinary Delight

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Kajitsu is a vegan must visit!

5 Posted on 08 / 31 / 2009

As a long time vegan who travels for a living, I make it a point to go to vegan as well as haute cuisine restaurants all around the world, no matter the cuisine or cost. This includes an experience at an authentic vegan shojin restaurant in a Zen Buddhist monastery in Kyoto.

Having spent most of my time in New York I've frequented practically every vegan / veggie restaurant in New York City including Candle 79, Hangawi, Counter, Dirt Candy, Pure Food and Wine, etc. I make it a point to also dine at high end restaurants that accommodate vegans including Per Se, Nobu, Craft, Charlie Trotter's and Alinea (in Chicago).

I've been to Kajitsu three times in as many months and have had the pleasure of experiencing their last three menus which change monthly to feature seasonal elements. Kajitsu combines high-end dining with truly unique authentic ethnic cuisine. The dining experience is exquisite with impressively informed and passionate servers and a tranquil and thoughtfully designed setting (including many antique place settings and furniture). It's worth noting that, as the Kajitsu website indicates, shojin cuisine is considered the foundation of all Japanese cuisine, including kaiseki (which is derived from shojin), and has always been a vegan cuisine.

The menu, as pointed out by other reviews, is prix fixe at a $50 or $70 level and I've always gotten the 8 course meal as it really is the better deal and experience. Neither I, or the more than 20 people (vegan, veg, and none) that have accompanied me, have ever left less than satisfied or hungry.

The sake selections are great and the seasonal frozen sake is a treat in the summer months (the spoon that it's served with has a 1000 year old glass bead hanging from it!) The Nama Fu (something I've never had before in the US) comes from a multi-generational owned family shop in Japan and is a wonderful replacement for the typical seitan / tofu / tempeh ingredients.

At this price range it's certainly a special occasion destination and definitely worth visiting each month to explore the new menu. Every dish is impeccably executed with flawless technique, masterful flavor pairing, and inspiring presentation. Each plate was a joy!

I look forward to our new monthly tradition of visiting Kajitsu.

For pictures and a thorough review of my first visit to Kajitsu, please visit my partner's posting here: http://lagusta.wordpress.com/2009/06/05/your-new-favorite-nyc-restaurant-kajitsu/

Pros: Quality Sake!, Calming transportative experience!, Incredibly creative for vegans!
Cons: Once a month visit, not daily.

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Shojin Cuisine? It's perfect vegan.

5 Posted on 05 / 03 / 2009

I am Japanese, but I totally forgot about Shojin Cuisine. It's a vegan cuisine that Buddhist monks have practiced for many centuries. Until I discovered Kajitsu, being a vegetarian though, I totally forgot about its existence.

Buddhist monks are not allowed to consume any animal protein so that Shojin Cuisine is absolutely vegan. Kajitsu, though not a Buddhist restaurant, has a modern approach to the ancient practice by using American produce and kaiseki style presentation. The result is that the food is much better than traditional Shojin Cuisine.

Kajitsu is for someone who is vegetarian/vegan and looking for nice decor, high-end food, and high-end service for special occasions. The price tags are of course high. They offer only 2 pre fixe dinners: $50 and $70. Of course, it's not something you would visit every week, but for something special, this will work perfect.

Pros: High quality vegan, beautiful presentation, friendly staff
Cons: no a la carte