Capelin roe, or “masago,” is a culinary delicacy that has gained a vibrant presence within New York’s gastronomic landscape. This tiny treasure resembles glistening pearls, embodying the ocean’s bounty, and is found in various neighborhoods, each offering a distinctive twist on this luxurious ingredient. Below is a curated list of 10 noteworthy locales in New York City where you can savor capelin roe, complete with addresses, contact details, and websites.
1. Sushi Yasuda
Address: 204 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 972-1001
Website: www.sushiyasuda.com
Sushi Yasuda is the epitome of sushi craftsmanship. Here, capelin roe transcends mere garnish, acting as a burst of oceanic flavor that complements the expertly sliced fish. The aesthetic presentation of each dish evokes the tranquil tides of Japan, weaving a narrative around the dining experience.
2. Katsu-Ya
Address: 355 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 765-1006
Website: www.katsuya.com
Katsu-Ya brings authenticity to the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, serving exquisite sushi that harmonizes flavor and texture. The capelin roe here is often paired with signature rolls, creating a symphony of tastes that resonate deeply with attendees, making every bite a microcosm of culinary artistry.
3. Maki Maki
Address: 116 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 529-2080
Website: www.makimaki.com
At Maki Maki, the ethos of innovation blooms as the chefs experiment with flavors. Their capelin roe-stuffed onigiri is a delightful departure from tradition. The crispy exterior encases the soft rice and the roe, evoking a captivating textural contrast reminiscent of ocean waves crashing on sandy shores.
4. Sushisamba
Address: 245 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 475-4552
Website: www.sushisamba.com
Sushisamba is a culinary kaleidoscope, blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavors. The capelin roe here plays a central role in vibrant ceviches, adding a piquant ocean essence intertwined with surprising tropical notes. The ambiance mirrors the vivacious and eclectic spirit of the city itself.
5. Blue Ribbon Sushi
Address: 119 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 274-0404
Website: www.blueribbonsushi.com
Blue Ribbon Sushi is a haven for those who crave an indulgent experience. Their capelin roe sushi roll is a perfect amalgamation, draped with a protective layer of seaweed and accented with touches of spicy mayonnaise. Each morsel is akin to discovering fleeting moments of brilliance, akin to finding shells along a windswept beach.
6. Wall Street Sushi
Address: 33 Wall St, New York, NY 10005
Contact: (212) 344-6000
Website: www.wallstreetsushi.com
Nestled in the Financial District, Wall Street Sushi offers a calming retreat from the hustle of the surrounding streets. Their capelin roe is elegantly presented atop sushi, evoking an aura of sophistication while transporting diners to the ocean’s floor with its briny flavor and delicate texture.
7. Shuko
Address: 47 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 228-2000
Website: www.shukonyc.com
Shuko invites patrons into an intimate dining parable. Here, capelin roe dances gracefully atop exquisite nigiri, enriching the umami experience. As diners indulge, they are drawn into a narrative that respects tradition while showcasing the robust flavors of the sea — each plate is a chapter worth savoring.
8. Matsugen
Address: 49 Mercer St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 965-9511
Website: www.matsugen.com
Matsugen, influenced by the rich noodle culture of Japan, crafts delightful pairings with capelin roe. Their signature soba garnished with a sprinkle of roe becomes an unexpected adventure, embodying the essence of the sea, adding a bold yet nuanced flavor reminiscent of a pearl nestled in a clamshell.
9. Atera
Address: 77 Worth St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 226-1444
Website: www.aterarestaurant.com
For a transcendent experience, Atera merges art and gastronomy into an unforgettable journey. The chef’s creatively curated capelin roe infusion enhances the tasting menu, beckoning patrons to explore layers of flavor. The ambiance is akin to a serene sanctuary, where culinary boundaries are continuously redefined.
10. Nami Nami
Address: 682 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033
Contact: (212) 690-3232
Website: www.naminamifish.com
Concluding this gastronomic journey is Nami Nami, a gem tucked away in Hudson Heights. Here, capelin roe is treated with reverence, featured prominently in their sushi casseroles and as an accompaniment to innovative rice bowls. Each dish brings forth the richness of the sea, wrapping you in warmth and satisfaction.
Exploring these 10 neighborhoods gives you not just a taste of capelin roe but also an enriching narrative of culture and flavor that encapsulates New York City. Each establishment showcases this ingredient in a unique form, inviting you to indulge in the magic of the oceans, right in the heart of the metropolis.
