Karasu

To enter Karasu, you walk into Walter’s, go through the restaurant, and head to a door in the back — similar to another beloved and secret Japanese restaurant, Bohemian. You’ll be rewarded with some all-star talent: Thomas Waugh, of ZZ’s Clam Bar fame, is the head bartender, and Shuko alum Yael Peet is the chef. Karasu is neither a sushi restaurant nor an izakaya — more of a casual neighborhood spot — and the menu includes savory egg custard, vegetarian ramen, and kampachi crudo. The handsome space will make you feel removed while you chow down on your tonkatsu with coleslaw and sake-steamed clams.