We have been regular since we lived down the street. The original place was a hole-in-the-wall type of place, which had a lot of charm- mostly because owners Gary and Wendy clearly put a lot love and devotion into creating a friendly, comfortable and satisfying dining atmosphere. The food is atypically good for a restaurant of this pedigree and price. They regularly feature foods found in more expensive restaurants like uni, toro, lobster sashimi, horse mackerel, live clam as well as a host of slightly experimental appetizers and maki rolls. They recently opened a new place called ?Matsu Two Door Down, located as described, which hold the mostly same appeal as the original, albeit a little bigger and ?cooler?, while still keeping the prices the same. The menu, however, has expanded with owner Gary at the helm making sure the food and service remain consistent with the original. Located near Hospital Row, you will often find the place packed during peak lunch and dinner hours. As evidenced by the Polaroids of regular patrons, this place has its devotees, all of which are seemingly friendly with the owners!
Pros: good quality food for affordable prices
Cons: Far Upper East side location
more