In the heart of New York’s East Village, a tiny Japanese café has captured the appetites of adventurous food lovers with its supersized onigiri creations.
Tokuyamatcha & Onigirazu Bar transforms the humble Japanese rice ball into sandwich-sized masterpieces that pack serious flavor into every bite.
This grab-and-go gem proves that sometimes the best discoveries come in the smallest packages. 🍙
How they won local’s hearts
This unassuming spot has an origin story that would make even the most imaginative foodie do a double-take.
The café emerged as a side hustle from celebrity hairstylist Taka Tokuyama, who already operated multiple high-end salons across Manhattan. What started as an experimental venture in 2018 quickly evolved into a neighborhood obsession.
The East Village location initially drew curious passersby, but word spread like wildfire once locals discovered these freshly-made onigirazu packed with authentic Japanese flavors.
The café’s popularity exploded through social media buzz and devoted customer reviews praising the unique concept.
Food lovers began lining up for what many describe as “ramen in rice ball form” and other creative combinations.
The success prompted Taka to open a second location in the Flatiron district, cementing Tokuyamatcha’s reputation as a must-visit destination for both authentic matcha enthusiasts and onigirazu converts. 📱✨
Food Highlights
- Japanese Fried Chicken with Garlic Chili Oil Onigirazu – Crispy karaage chicken meets spicy garlic oil in this customer favorite that delivers the perfect kick without overwhelming heat 🌶️
- Ramen-ish Onigirazu – Features chashu pork belly, scallions, bamboo shoots, hard-boiled egg, and wakame with chicken broth-flavored rice, essentially capturing a complete ramen experience in portable form
- Salmon Avocado Onigirazu – Fresh salmon flakes combined with creamy avocado and wasabi mayo create a satisfying balance of textures and flavors
- Miso Tuna Avocado – Cooked tuna salad enhanced with Japanese miso creates an umami-rich filling that regulars consistently praise
- Beef and Ginger Onigirazu – Premium simmered beef with pickled ginger offers a more traditional Japanese flavor profile
Atmosphere
This café embraces the authentic grab-and-go experience with minimal seating and maximum efficiency. The small, simply decorated space gives off genuine Japanese vibes with clean lines and warm lighting.
There’s essentially one small table inside and limited outdoor seating, making it perfect for takeaway adventures.
The open kitchen allows customers to watch their onigirazu being assembled fresh, while the staff maintains a friendly, welcoming demeanor despite the often busy atmosphere. 🏮
Bottom Line
Visit for the Instagram-worthy onigirazu that taste even better than they photograph, experience ceremonial-grade matcha that rivals Tokyo’s best, enjoy the novelty of a hairstylist-turned-food-entrepreneur’s successful side venture, grab a quick, satisfying meal that’s both authentic and innovative, and discover why locals keep returning for these rice ball sandwiches that redefine Japanese comfort food. 💫
Address: 627 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009 (East Village) / 115 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016 (Flatiron)
📞 (212) 388-1276
🕔 Mon-Sun, 10 AM–6 PM