Jōji NYC — Michelin-Starred Omakase, Grand Central
Hidden below One Vanderbilt near Grand Central, Jōji is an 18-seat Michelin-starred omakase from three Masa veterans. Reserve on Resy.
Jōji opened in September 2022 beneath One Vanderbilt, the supertall tower adjacent to Grand Central Terminal. The restaurant was conceived by three chefs — George Ruan (17 years at Masa), Xiao Lin, and Wayne Cheng — who wanted an omakase counter that was high-energy and approachable rather than formally austere. The Dinex Group (Daniel Boulud) is a partner in the venture.
Hidden beneath One Vanderbilt near Grand Central, this 18-seat Michelin-starred omakase from three Masa veterans delivers a 22-course sushi experience in an all-black cedar-counter room designed by Tokyo's Shinichiro Ogata.
Jōji is an 18-seat Michelin-starred Japanese omakase restaurant below One Vanderbilt near Grand Central, Midtown East, offering a 22-course sushi experience from three Masa alumni.
Jōji is a one Michelin-starred 18-seat omakase hidden beneath One Vanderbilt near Grand Central, opened in 2022 by three Masa veterans — Chef George Ruan (17 years at Masa), Xiao Lin, and a third partner. The 22-course sushi experience at an all-black cedar counter designed by Tokyo architect Shinichiro Ogata features tile fish with sturgeon caviar, kinki nigiri, and premium seasonal toro.
At a glance
- Address
- 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, New York, NY
- Price range
- $$$$
- Cuisine
- Omakase, Sushi, Japanese Omakase, French
- Phone
- (212) 597-9025
Common questions
What kind of food does Jōji serve?
Jōji is a 22-course Japanese omakase featuring five appetizers, 14 pieces of nigiri selected based on that week's fish delivery from Japan, and dessert. The three chefs all trained at Masa and source rare deep-sea fish like kinki alongside more familiar premium cuts. Fish arrives twice a week from Japan, so the menu changes accordingly.
Does Jōji take reservations?
Yes — reservations are made through Resy. Jōji runs two seatings nightly, Tuesday through Saturday. The 18-seat counter fills up; booking two to four weeks in advance is advisable for prime evenings.
Where is Jōji located?
Jōji is hidden beneath One Vanderbilt Avenue in Midtown East, steps from Grand Central Terminal. The entrance is at the base of the building's staircase — look for the Roji garden marking the entry. The address is 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017.
Who are the chefs at Jōji?
The restaurant was founded by George Ruan (executive chef, 17 years at Masa), Xiao Lin, and Wayne Cheng — all three trained at Masa and are longtime friends. The Dinex Group (Daniel Boulud) is a partner in the venture.
How much does dinner at Jōji cost?
The 22-course omakase is priced at $375 per person before beverages and gratuity. Premium sake and wine pairings are available at additional cost.
Is Jōji good for a date night or anniversary?
Yes — the intimate 18-seat cedar counter, hidden location beneath Grand Central, and two-hour omakase format make Jōji one of the more memorable settings for a date night or anniversary in Midtown. The private 8-person room is also available for confidential client dinners.
Why is Jōji on the Michelin Guide?
Jōji holds one Michelin star for the precision and quality of its omakase, particularly the rare fish sourced from Japan twice a week and the technical skill of three chefs trained under Masa's rigorous standards. The room, designed by Tokyo architect Shinichiro Ogata, reinforces the experience.