Nobu Next Door, New York

Nobu Next Door, which opened as an extension of the original Nobu, has now taken on a life of its own. Opened in 1998 due to high demand, its menu mirrors the original Nobu and offers Nobu To Go. With its late night dining and music, Nobu Next Door tends to draw a more spirited crowd. The restaurant satisfies those spontaneous diners who need the Nobu fix, but didn't plan ahead, by offering first come, first serve table seating between the hours of 7:00pm and 9:00pm. Nobu Next Door received a three star review from The New York Times. Designed by architect David Rockwell, Nobu Next Door evokes the Japanese seaside: Japanese fishing nets hang from the ceiling and a wall made of nori (Japanese seaweed) blankets the entrance. There is also a huge display of lit sake bottles--the classic accompaniment to Japanese food. The atmosphere buzzes with the same energy and excitement as Nobu yet definitely maintains an identity all its own.