Karasu is a Japanese izakaya and cocktail bar at 166 Dekalb Ave in Brooklyn, tucked behind Walter’s. A dim dining room and bar set the mood for an intimate dinner, with Japanese-inspired cocktails alongside a seasonal menu of small plates and rice bowls. Order the karaage to share, or try dishes such as Wagyu tartare, unagi don and salmon bowl. Reservations are recommended, and the bar is a good choice if you want to watch drinks being made.
Finding Karasu behind Walter’s
Karasu is at 166 Dekalb Ave in Brooklyn, accessed through Walter’s. From the brighter restaurant, pass through to Karasu’s darker dining room and bar. The tucked-away entrance is part of the experience, so look for the way through Walter’s rather than expecting a separate street-facing entrance.
The room is dim and intimate, with a bar for guests who want to sit close to the drinks service. Its atmosphere suits a date or a dinner that stretches into cocktails. Reservations are recommended; if you prefer a quieter meal, plan for an off-peak time.
Japanese dishes for the table
The menu is described as seasonal and centered on izakaya cooking, with small plates and rice dishes. Karaage is a useful choice to share: it arrives hot and tender, and a portion can work for two. Wagyu tartare and winter bean salad are other dishes to look for, while unagi don brings eel with rice. Salmon bowl is another option, and tonkatsu appears on the menu.
The food list is relatively small, so this is a place to choose a few dishes thoughtfully rather than expect a broad menu. Some listed dishes have been noted as pricey. If you are visiting during happy hour, the food selection may include lower-priced items; check what is available when you book or arrive.
Cocktails and bar seating
Drinks are a central part of a Karasu visit. The cocktail list draws on Japanese spirits and includes inventive combinations. The Hawkeye Highball pairs whiskey with green apple soda. A broad selection of sake, wine and other drinks is also available.
Bar seating lets you watch drinks being prepared and can make a good fit for a shorter stop. The dark room and cocktail focus work well alongside the food, whether you start with a drink or build dinner around several small plates. Reserve ahead for a table, and ask about bar seating if that is your preference.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Karasu in Brooklyn?
Karasu is at 166 Dekalb Ave, Brooklyn. The entrance is through Walter’s, with the izakaya in a back room.
What kind of food does Karasu serve?
It serves Japanese izakaya dishes, including karaage, Wagyu tartare, tonkatsu and rice bowls such as unagi don.
Does Karasu serve cocktails?
Yes. The bar serves cocktails using Japanese spirits, including the Hawkeye Highball, made with whiskey and green apple soda.
Should I make a reservation at Karasu?
Reservations are recommended, particularly for dinner.
