Kono

Yakitori isn’t always simple skewers on sidewalks anymore. At Kono, the charcoal-kissed negima and tsukune slide straight off the hibachi without extra fuss. The spot on Bowery sits among brick lofts and lamp-lit alleys, where the evening crowd drifts in for tall trays of skewers and glass-pours of chilled sake and lager. You’ll find no reservations page—just a counter or a table, depending on who arrives first. After the last bite of miso-grilled miso-marinated eggplant, the dessert list delivers matcha pudding or mochi ice cream to cleanse the palate. 46 Bowery, tucked between the subway rumble and the old theatre marquees, draws locals after 7 p.m. when the neon flips on. Dial (646) 524-6838 to double-check seating before you leave the subway, then use the map for a straight shot from the station: getting there is half the fun. The plates come fast, the drinks flow, and the Bowery hum stays outside.