Yakiniku Gen East tucked away on East 9th Street in the East Village delivers one of the most authentic Japanese BBQ experiences you’ll find in the city. This cozy spot feels like it was transported straight from a Tokyo backstreet, with its minimalist wooden interior and tabletop grills that invite you to be both diner and chef for the evening.

The meat selection here is impressive without being overwhelming, focusing on quality over endless options. Their prime short rib (kalbi) is perfectly marbled and sliced to just the right thickness for quick grilling, while their tongue is a must-try even for the usually squeamish – tender, flavorful, and utterly transformed by a few seconds on the grill and a squeeze of lemon. The beef combo sets offer an excellent sampling of different cuts at surprisingly reasonable prices for the quality.

What really sets Gen East apart is the attentive service that strikes that perfect balance – staff appear just when you need guidance on grilling times or another round of Sapporo, then fade away to let you enjoy the interactive dining experience. The homemade dipping sauces add another dimension to the already flavorful meats.

The intimate space fills up quickly with a mix of Japanese expats and in-the-know New Yorkers, creating a bustling yet comfortable vibe that makes you want to linger over one more round of meat and cold beer.