Union Square Cafe, Public, Naka Naka

New videos added to the site this week: Union Square Cafe featuring chef Michael Romano, Public featuring co-owner and chef Brad Farmerie and Naka Naka featuring chef Chie Sakaguchi.

Naka Naka is short. Really short. Despite a bit of a language barrier, chef Sakaguchi was able to tell me a few things about the small Japanese restaurant located in Chelsea. In a simple, but pretty room there is a horseshoe-shaped bar which is low to the ground. Behind it are two tables that can accommodate a party of four and a tatami room that can accommodate up to eight. Servers are dressed in traditional Japanese style - ornate kimonos for the women and subdued ones for the men.

Aside from a small sushi and sashimi selection, Naka Naka specializes in a variety of appetizers called "o-tumami." There are also daily specials and a variety of hot dishes, typical of the Gifu Prefecture in Japan. An omakase (chef's choice) dinner is also available but only in the tatami room (you'll need to make a reservation for that). Naka Naka is named after its owner Mr. Nakamura. Interestingly, the Japanese character which represents the word Naka means, "friendly." Mr. Nakamura felt that "friendly" was the right way to describe the experience he'd like to give his customers and it fits quite well. If you're interested in a unique experience, Naka Naka is worth a visit.

You'll also notice that we've added a new feature to the site. Now, you can click a link labeled 'Embed this video on your web site or blog' on any page with video, and a snippet of HTML code will be displayed that will allow you to place any Savory New York video directly on your web page or blog. Enjoy!