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"I descended into the Hotel Chelsea for Teruko and loved its subterranean, speakeasy vibe that nods to artist Teruko Yokoi and the hotel’s creative legacy: low light, a sushi counter for omakase, and intimate tables that invite leaning in. Chef Tadashi Ono delivers fabulous seafood and a balanced program of izakaya bites—chicken meatballs meant to be dipped in egg yolk, a robata‑grilled prawn the size of a Maine lobster, smoked and seared kanpachi—that lead expertly into Edomae‑style sushi. The setting and the combination of small plates plus elite sushi make it one of my favorite Japanese spots right now." - Charlie Hobbs