Bar Orai

Photo of Bar Orai

Located in New York, New York

Address: 212 E 52nd St 2nd fl, New York, NY 10022, United States

Phone: +1 917-261-4726

Rating: 4.6

Services

  • Dine-in
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Great cocktails
  • Live performances
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Food
  • Food at bar
  • Spirits
  • Wine
  • Seating
  • Toilets
  • Cosy
  • Trendy
  • Accepts reservations
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards

Categories

  • Bar

Photos

Latest NYC Bar Directory

Comments

  • Review 1 (2024-12-29 - Rating: 4)

    We tried almost everything on the menu and there were some standouts and some misses— the sandos were our favorites. I love the ebi katsu… the shrimp was perfectly crispy and flavorful and perfect for serving on a milkbread sandwich. The mac and cheese was very spicy, but tasty. The karage was a miss for me… it was missing some flavor & salt. The whisky drinks were solid… I loved the earl grey high ball. The vibes of the bar is definitely a speakeasy vibe / someone’s very well curated living room. I loved that they were playing vinyl jazz in the dining room… the dessert was missable, but i loved the concept of fries with ice cream.

  • Review 2 (2024-07-04 - Rating: 5)

    I’m a whiskey guy and so naturally, I loved Bar Orai. No rotovap, fat washing or milk clarification here, just quality, classic drinks made well with superb ingredients.Old Fashioneds are my favorite drink and I’d say the one I had at Bar Orai was one of the best I’ve had lately. I’d also recommend their highballs. The yuzu one was refreshing and easy to drink. The whiskey sour and the penicillin were good as well. I’m not the biggest fan of Laphroaig because to me it tastes very smoky, and that was included in the penicillin. If that’s your thing you’ll love the penicillin!I was pretty famished when I got to the bar so I ordered just about everything on the menu. My favorites were the Mentaiko Mac n Cheese and the Katsu Sando but every bite was a hit. Still thinking about the Mentaiko Mac. It was creamy and a little spicy, I could’ve eaten the whole thing myself. I would go back for just that dish.Loved the music playing and the ambiance in general. Service was super friendly.I also had a couple small critiques. We went without water for a while and everyone was so busy we felt bad asking for some. They were super friendly about it though. Also our castella dessert tasted like garlic LOL I think they used a chopping board or knife that was previously used for garlic and the flavor transferred, unless they left an ingredient off. Still ate it though hahaOverall, drinks are solid, food is great and I’m pretty sure I found one of my new favorite bars in NYC. Just please, no more garlic castella.

  • Review 3 (2024-11-04 - Rating: 4)

    This listening bar understands the essentials: crystal-clear speakers, a considered selection of drinks and snacks, and, crucially, comfortable seating that encourages you to sink in and truly listen.

  • Review 4 (2023-11-20 - Rating: 5)

    To me, Bar Orai is exactly what I want a speakeasy to be, 10/10.Absolutely fantastic atmosphere with great music (and live music on occasion!!), great service, and great food. The drinks were delicious and most of the food was also great. I recommend getting the mac & cheese, it was smoky and creamy and everything I wanted.All in all, the perfect spot to get a couple drinks with friends and eat some small plates. See you there 🫡

  • Review 5 (2024-03-09 - Rating: 5)

    Very cool whiskey bar! I tried the earl grey and yuzu highballs. Both were very good, although I was partial to the more refreshing yuzu. The food was actually delicious, and reminds me of my favorite Japanese place on upper east side that no longer exists. I highly recommend the crab croquette and Mac and cheese. Mac and cheese was spicy but addictive. The katsu sandwich was also decent. The ice cream and fries was very basic but a fun play on McDonald’s. Highly enjoyable experience with Japanesey playlist in the background, semi hip hop semi funk with retro feel to the whole place. I did think the entryway was a little strange but the signs were obvious enough. There is old carpet leading to entrance that is a little dingy and the place is probably due for a renovation but the bar is very much worth a visit.

  • Review 6 (2024-11-22 - Rating: 4)

    Everything is perfect, every time. Just stay away from the desserts, which are far too underwhelming after such a spectacular meal with gorgeous drinks.

  • Review 7 (2025-01-02 - Rating: 5)

    Japanese whisky, vinyl, and streetwear culture with a dash of speakeasy. Trust the Google Maps locator, and follow the (diminutive) signs to reach Bar Orai. Reservations recommended, but dont show up too early since your table might not be ready yet. There are three dining sections comprised of two main sitting areas separated by the bar. The larger seating area evokes a cozy retro living room, and where vibes are best, in my opinion. I was pleasantly surprised that my chair didnt just look luxurious, but was actually comfy to sit in.Theres an air of quiet luxury in Orai, toeing the line between casual and sophisticated. Think tiny beanies and tucked T-shirts with the vintage Js. Supreme merch and Bearbricks line the walls dutifully amid carefully arranged bottles of whisky and hundreds of records. Music, obviously, is tasteful and the perfect volume to get lost in but also to have a conversation.Ill admit Im not the biggest fan of whisky, so my selections were limited to the Highball and wine section. And also the single beer - who else knew that Suntory makes a beer? For people with real taste, theres a very nicely curated selection of whisky, whiskeys, and bourbon, and cocktails involving the aforementioned. Lets not forget the kitchen either, which shells out some delicious Japanese and Korean tapas to pair with your drink. Portion sizes for the food are pretty small, but think of it as a vibe surcharge.Part of the lovely time we had was attributed to the great service - all the house staff were super polite and thoughtful, keeping our waters topped off and moving things around for our small table to accommodate the drinks and food. Several hours goes by in a flash, and if not for them closing for the evening (and reservation time limits), we probably could have stayed much longer.

  • Review 8 (2022-05-06 - Rating: 5)

    I came with a few of my close friends and bar orai was a perfect place to have sort-of private but with fun vibe and music around!! Their music quality is great as it is also specifically mentioned on their menu. TODAY is my third visit w my boyfriend… spending such a cozy and special time with a bottle of Japanese Whisky. Highly recommend if you want a livingroom-like bar experience

  • Review 9 (2023-05-24 - Rating: 5)

    Bar Orai is one of my favorite bars in NYC. Sleek, chic, and hidden - an entirely unique vibe. Thankfully they take reservations, which means no wait times if you plan ahead. The food and drinks we had were exceptional, and the music being played was all winners. Will be back to experience more, absolutely.

  • Review 10 (2024-09-15 - Rating: 5)

    Fun and cozy spot for drinks and good music. Its like your cool aunts home and she invited her DJ friend to come play some chill vinyl tracks on her custom-made sound systems. Really enjoyed the music selection by the DJ when we went, and the Japanese whiskey flight was great. Definitely make a reservation in advance. Would recommend ideally for groups of 2-4.

  • Review 11 (2024-11-30 - Rating: 5)

    Closes pretty early for a bar, but their cocktails were great!

  • Review 12 (2022-04-03 - Rating: 5)

    Absolute vibey, soulful, moody spot that the city needed. Their selection of Japanese whiskey is amazing and the cocktail & food presentation is on point. This place is perfect for a chill night out with friends or also if you are craving a solo bar night. My favorites were katsu sando, egg sando and Louise(old fashioned)

  • Review 13 (2022-04-01 - Rating: 5)

    If you are looking for a quiet place so that you can relax after hard work with great music and whiskey, you might want to check out this place. Their whiskey selection is really great and also the food really pairs well with the drinks!

  • Review 14 (2023-10-07 - Rating: 5)

    Great lowkey place to listen to a great selection of records. The drinks are top tier and the food compliments it well! A must go!

  • Review 15 (2023-05-15 - Rating: 5)

    One of my favorite vinyl bar in nyc! This place is very artsy and cute. The drinks are fine and the dessert is great

  • Review 16 (2024-10-22 - Rating: 5)

    Bar Orai is the perfect place to come and chill out in a comfortable listening bar where you dont feel crowded, you can relax in a cool setting and enjoy the music.The cocktail menu is great - with lots of whisky options! We didnt try the food this time but lots of good options on the menu!Will be back for sure.

  • Review 17 (2024-08-30 - Rating: 5)

    This is an experience you cannot miss. Incredible music being spun, top tier hand crafted cocktails, delicious and beautiful food, impeccable service and crystal clear ice. You know you found a spot that cares about their cocktails when you see that crystal clear ice!We had a yuzu highball, a light whiskey sour, and a dark whiskey sour, as well as two orders of sublime truffle tots, pork katsu sammie, and kaarge chicken. Everything was executed perfectly.The music was amazing…this is a spot that cannot miss!

  • Review 18 (2024-08-26 - Rating: 5)

    We had to look twice to find this speakeasy hidden on the second floor of what looks like a walk-up apartment. They don’t have signature cocktails, but their old fashioned and whisky sour are perfect sippers.

  • Review 19 (2024-11-28 - Rating: 5)

    Very chill, cool vibes. Good spot to sip some whiskey and for late night conversations with a few close friends

  • Review 20 (2024-06-23 - Rating: 5)

    The best highball and mac and cheese Ive ever had!! the mac n cheese was a little spicy, cheesy, and has a slight flavor of fish row which was so gooddd a the katsu sando was ok the gimbab was so fresh and light!🤍 the vibe was also very nice recommend!!

  • Review 21 (2022-03-27 - Rating: 5)

    Ambient japanese whiskey bar with LP bar theme. I went with my friends for opening and was amazed. Very nice interior and vibey music.

  • Review 22 (2023-06-29 - Rating: 5)

    “Vibes are immaculate” as the youth would say. This place pays attention to detail and you can tell- the decor, ambiance, lighting, accompanied with the DJs music choices make it an experience. The drinks are amazing and I think they have the best Mac and cheese I’ve ever eaten. Staff was so kind to us. Will absolutely be coming back on the regular!

  • Review 23 (2024-07-29 - Rating: 5)

    Such a great place to have oriental food and drinks. There are many different kind of Whiskies. Good music!

  • Review 24 (2024-01-31 - Rating: 4)

    Foods are quite nice, in gernal its actually a nice place to hang out but might be slightly a little pricey.

  • Review 25 (2024-02-22 - Rating: 5)

    I love the space, vibe and the music. It was fun and comfortable. The music wasn’t too loud which was a plus for me. Different DJs with different music presented was awesome too. I don’t know if they do that every night. Anyways, great experience.

  • Review 26 (2024-02-25 - Rating: 5)

    An excellent, hidden gem of a place that is classy cool without being sceney.Went here recently for a date night, not knowing much about Bar Orai other than it was a Japanese-style listening bar. Surprisingly, theyve been open for more than 2 years, and while we had no issues making a reservation for a Saturday night, they nevertheless had customers coming through all night long. The drinks and whisky were top notch, at expected prices (warning: Japanese whisky is wildly expensive these days) and the food items we got were all excellent, with the unassuming yuzu tomatoes being a surprise standout.As expected for a listening bar, they had vinyl going on all night and a quality sound system that never made it feel like we were competing with the music, though I had thought the space wouldve had a bit more of an insulated feel, to be honest (we sat at the bar though, so that could be part of it). Regardless, we didnt regret the bar seating, which had a sleek, coastal 80s feel to it that actually made me miss the rattan back chairs I had growing up.People with dietary restrictions should check the menu ahead of time, as many of the dishes are pork or fish heavy. Not surprising at a Japanese place, but still. You may also want to budget ahead of time if youre going to be whisky tasting, since pours run from $19 to $150+ for 1.5oz (I do wish it was 2oz for the prices, but so it goes).Still, all of these issues are merely nitpicks on what was a fantastic, fun experience. Will definitely be back soon.

  • Review 27 (2024-10-09 - Rating: 5)

    This place is such a cool spot. Unique whiskey and great vibes all around.

  • Review 28 (2022-12-21 - Rating: 5)

    What a fantastic gem, located in midtown. Stumbled upon this joint by word of mouth. I have been to many Japanese whiskey bars around the city, but this one takes the cake. The interior and atmosphere is set for any occasion, from date night to catching up with friends. The food was magnificent( I recommend the katsu sandwich and tuna kimbop). But the music is the absolute staple of this place. A massive collection of Vinyl records, from Miles Davis to the rugged beats of the Wu tang Clan. All the tracks are artistically mixed to fit the vibe of the night. Nothing better than having a nice whiskey in your hand with the company of good people and good tunes. Cant praise this place enough. Also, I recommend making a reservation. It does get packed on the weekends.

  • Review 29 (2022-10-02 - Rating: 5)

    Nice, cozy, fancy, speakeasy, japanese whiskey, scotch, bourbon, cocktail, music, small bites, Asian, cool, pretty decorations, reservation required, cute match boxes, dim lighting...I think its pretty cool place to just go chill or even go on a date. When I went I saw more female customers than male. Not much selection for beers but they got all the classic scotch and Japanese whiskey. Their cocktails are surprisingly good. 100% recommend

  • Review 30 (2023-12-28 - Rating: 4)

    Bar Orai is a Japanese whiskey and listening bar. They offer a limited food menu in addition to drinks, served tapas style. To my disappointment, my cocktail was so subtle as to be on the flavorless side, but that may be down to my preferences. The chic ambience and mid-century modern decor is where this bar shines. Its a comfortable place to while away a couple hours, whether youre seated at the bar or in one of the two lounge areas. Service is friendly and unobtrusive. Reservations are available for parties as large as 6-10 people, costing $2 per head (this is not against the bill, but is more like a cover charge). Just be aware that there is a two-hour time limit on your table.

  • Review 31 (2023-01-26 - Rating: 5)

    Such a cool hidden speakeasy on the 2nd floor with great music only coming from a record player. Cocktails are great (Prince is my favorite) but also has a variety of high end Japanese Whisky bottles. Even their food is great! Atmosphere is lively and the décor is straight out of Architectural Digest.

  • Review 32 (2024-07-20 - Rating: 5)

    A great selection of whisky paired with good music choices allows for a pleasant experience.

  • Review 33 (2023-12-13 - Rating: 5)

    Please is truly an upper east side gem, when you arrive you have to walk up the sitars into this “apartment” like bar, super cozy, amazing whiskey cocktails and live musicians on certain nights.

  • Review 34 (2023-12-23 - Rating: 5)

    Great sound, relaxing vibe, excellent whiskey cocktails. Much love 🫶🏼 Thank you

  • Review 35 (2022-10-15 - Rating: 5)

    Meticulously crafted interiors with an excellent cocktail list. I almost don’t want to give such a stellar review out of selfishness to keep this place to myself. They clearly invest a lot to make this place a great experience and it shows.. Come here if you respect interiors, craft cocktails, and high end audio.

  • Review 36 (2024-01-18 - Rating: 5)

    Great vibes, we got the wasabi octopus and it was good but I wouldn’t get it again. Got some highballs, which were fantastic, and the bourbon was excellent. Loved our waiter who was also the DJ and host

  • Review 37 (2023-04-24 - Rating: 5)

    Really enjoyed this cozy, high quality, understated bar. Drinks were exceptional between cocktails and a wide whiskey-forward spirits list.Tried some of the plates. The macaroni and cheese was the highlight with a healthy spice to it. The ebi sando and karage were also tasty bites.The music was the perfect sound for the evening. Vinyl and whiskey, what else do you need?

  • Review 38 (2024-02-15 - Rating: 5)

    Bar Orai is probably my favorite bar ever, simply because of the atmosphere! The vibes are very lowkey and not at all like a normal (more lively) bar, which I actually really appreciate when I just want to grab a drink while catching up with a friend. The entrance is kind of hidden, as if its in someones apartment, which gives speak-easy vibes. Inside, there are a couple of seating options, from small tables if you want to properly dine to a seat at the bar for casual drinks, or their lounge area which is perfect for a more intimate hang-out. Drinks and food are great, I always love a good Asian / Japanese inspired drink. Service is also great, we asked an employee about their music choice and they were happy to chat with us for a bit.Super easy to make reservations on Resy, but Ive also walked in on a weekday with no wait time. Also, they dont accept cash!

  • Review 39 (2023-04-25 - Rating: 5)

    Food and drinks were refreshing and light, but the vibes are the reason to go! Such a cool spot!

  • Review 40 (2023-10-10 - Rating: 5)

    Speakeasy: looks like they converted an apartment into a bar with some good eats. Love the records playing old school hip-hop and b-boy beats. Selection of whiskeys were good enough to satisfy my tastes and the food was very good.

  • Review 41 (2023-07-01 - Rating: 5)

    Bar Orai is a nice place to hang while listening to some good music. The decor is beautiful. They have a lot of choices of japanese whiskey and cocktails, but only a few option for food. Service is good too.You should reserve in advance!

  • Review 42 (2022-10-07 - Rating: 5)

    Must try this bar for everyoneThis place is amazing :)All tapas are so yummy!!! Especially Mentaiko Mac and cheese !!Also, They have special cocktails. We love Sade with Yuzu!!!All staff are very helpful and friendly that we had great time here with great musicWe are first time here and definitly we will come back soon…

  • Review 43 (2022-12-03 - Rating: 5)

    🫶🫶🫶 had such a pleasant time here. Def coming back again. We had Whiskey Sour and Old Fashioned. The Katau Sando was so yummy too 💗

  • Review 44 (2022-12-08 - Rating: 5)

    Great food / cocktails, great sound system!

  • Review 45 (2023-11-22 - Rating: 5)

    Overall, well prepared drinks, apps, and chill jazzy vibesGet the Plum Yuzu highball and pair it with the yuzu tomatoes appMake reservations

  • Review 46 (2022-04-09 - Rating: 5)

    Great drinks, great vibes. Feels like sitting in someone’s living room. Got the Ella, which has whisky, star anise, champagne and persimmon. Love how all the flavors blended together.

  • Review 47 (2023-07-09 - Rating: 5)

    Found this cute little record bar while traveling to NYC and it quickly became one of mine and my friends favorite hidden gems. The tuna and tamago kimbap was amazing!! Drinks were also unique and delicious. Great music and great atmosphere. 100% will go back when Im back in NYC.

  • Review 48 (2022-03-27 - Rating: 5)

    Viby, moody, sensible, amazing for audiophiles who loves to enjoy whiskey. Dont skimp on the food either. Mentaiko mac & cheese hits the spot! Highly recommended.

  • Review 49 (2024-02-07 - Rating: 5)

    Awesome vibes, great music, good drinks (mainly whiskey)

  • Review 50 (2024-03-07 - Rating: 5)

    Reservation was at 9pm, dj was great during that time! Loved the good and drinks too

  • Review 51 (2022-09-24 - Rating: 5)

    Had a great birthday here. Try tuna kimbab.

  • Review 52 (2023-06-15 - Rating: 5)

    U wanna show ur friends a hip speakeasy? Then here it is

  • Review 53 (2022-06-18 - Rating: 5)

    This place is lit. Very nice mood. Quiet and intimate. The vinyl records provide a unique touch

  • Review 54 (2023-06-23 - Rating: 5)

    Hidden gem for drinks in the city! Large selection of whiskey and scotch, along with innovative cocktails.

  • Review 55 (2022-12-27 - Rating: 5)

    This place is a hidden gem. Friendly staffs, great food and drink! One of the best bars in midtown nyc.

  • Review 56 (2023-05-06 - Rating: 5)

    Nice vibe and tunes ;)

  • Review 57 (2023-03-24 - Rating: 5)

    Nice imagining of the space, friendly staff, good music

  • Review 58 (2022-12-11 - Rating: 5)

    Hidden gem!! Amazing food and vibe, will definitely be coming back here next time in the city

  • Review 59 (2023-10-11 - Rating: 5)

    Great listening bar! Ive been to a few listening bars and this one is definitely my favorite because the sound quality is actually superb. they are whiskey focused, and i dont love whiskey, but i got a pilsner which was decent. its easy to miss though, its right before the restaurant and you go up some stairs!

  • Review 60 (2023-10-23 - Rating: 5)

    Love love LOVE this place. Great music, great atmosphere. Good food, good drinks and kind service. Would recommend a date night here for a chill girls night. The vibe is immaculate.

  • Review 61 (2023-10-21 - Rating: 5)

    Don’t come here!🤫Let’s keep this place the best kept secret in Mid-town/Turtle Bay

  • Review 62 (2024-03-09 - Rating: 5)

    Impeccable. I have nothing to pecc about.

  • Review 63 (2023-04-15 - Rating: 5)

    I think Bar Orai is really one of a kind. I had no idea that they also have live jazz music as well - and its the top quality music. (I thought Im listening to an album but then just realized it was a live music!!!) I had a couple of different cocktails and they were really good - I feel bad that I just drank them up so fast!! Haha. They have a very nice food menu too - I only had small bites as I ate dinner before but they were delicious enough, leaving me wanting more. Ill definitely come back. Honestly, Bar Orai is much better than other overrated, crowded speakeasy/jazz bars in the neighborhood as quality drinks/food/vibe are assured here.

  • Review 64 (2023-02-07 - Rating: 5)

    I was pleasantly surprised by Bar Orai, after walking through its residential looking entrance and the unassuming stairs. The decor, music choice, cocktails, and food are all so amazing! Drinks and food are definitely on the pricier side, but considering how long I stay each visit, I do think these prices are worth the experience. Service is friendly and efficient, too. I have frequented Bar Orai with different groups of friends, and every single person is impressed! I highly recommend the matcha cocktail, as well as the melon prosciutto. It hasnt been too busy every time Ive been, so I go here instead of waiting at Tomi Jazz now!

  • Review 65 (2023-11-10 - Rating: 5)

    I’m so happy I stumbled upon this gem. The choice of drinks and small plates were all so tasty 🙏 10/10 would recommend for a nice relaxing evening!

  • Review 66 (2023-05-26 - Rating: 5)

    Great service. Good food and cocktails

  • Review 67 (2023-01-06 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing staff, better drinks, awesome music

  • Review 68 (2022-05-14 - Rating: 5)

    Awesome drinks, music, and vibes. The design of the space is really unique. Will definitely be back.

  • Review 69 (2022-06-07 - Rating: 5)

    Dope concept, good food, especially the kimbap. We will be back!

  • Review 70 (2022-05-16 - Rating: 5)

    Only opened a month old. I’ll be coming back, I love the cozy living room vibe

  • Review 71 (2022-09-15 - Rating: 5)

    Don’t come unless you know what’s good.

  • Review 72 (2023-05-07 - Rating: 4)

    Mentaiko Mac and cheese the best

  • Review 73 (2022-12-05 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely wonderful

  • Review 74 (2024-09-12 - Rating: 4)

    Nice atmosphere and good music. Whiskey options

  • Review 75 (2024-09-29 - Rating: 5)

    Mac and cheese tastes great haha. Good atmosphere.

  • Review 76 (2023-06-18 - Rating: 5)

    A place that sells alcohol with a completely Korean-style cafe interior.

  • Review 77 (2023-06-07 - Rating: 5)

    Specializing in whiskey and bourbon.

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