KOBANO is Now open and offers a one-of-a-kind Japanese-Brazilian dining experience that captures the energy of New York City through the bold flavors of both cuisines.
Located at 299 Bowery, in the former home of IXTA, KOBANO is more than just a restaurant—led by Rose Hospitality, it’s a celebration of culture and community. The restaurant’s izakaya-style menu delivers dishes as they are prepared, allowing guests to savor the fusion of Japanese craftsmanship and Brazilian soul.
The entrance reveals a vibrant Evergreen Bar, where bold lime-washed green tones meet two towering pillars, creating a focal point of elegance and energy. Stretching 15 feet, the bar room invites guests to indulge in a shared plate dining experience that harmonizes Japanese precision with Brazilian vibrancy, while a dynamic DJ booth enhances the mood. The bar room evokes the feel of an upscale supper club, seamlessly blending sophistication and excitement. Named “Kobano”—meaning “leaf” in Japanese—the restaurant pays homage to the Brazilian Amazon with lush green accents and abundant greenery throughout the main dining room. The space is further enriched with vibrant orange chairs and captivating murals of a serene geisha and an electrifying samba dancer, symbolizing the fusion of two rich cultures. Additionally, KOBANO features a hidden private dining room, ideal for hosting exclusive gatherings and special events.
Rose Hospitality is a hospitality group known for owning and operating a diverse portfolio of venues that cater to a wide range of tastes and experiences. Among its locations is Lost in Paradise Rooftop, Newsroom, The Pie Guy Pizza, Sushi Saint and now KOBANO. Rose’s portfolio spans from sophisticated upscale restaurants, to intimate speakeasies, downtown pizzerias and rooftop bars. Each venue, including KOBANO, is meticulously designed with attention to detail, offering innovative menus, stylish decor, and top-tier service.
KOBANO is helmed by Chef Nobuhiro Hamazaki and Latin culinary Chef Ricardo Cardona. Chef Nobuhiro “Nobu” Hamazaki, known for his innovative approach to Japanese cuisine, brings his mastery of Japanese traditions combined with contemporary Latin influences to the menu at KOBANO. With a career spanning over two decades, Nobu has honed his craft in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, including nearly 20 years as the Executive Sushi Chef at Koi, overseeing operations in Los Angeles, New York, and Abu Dhabi. At KOBANO, his creative vision shines through with signature handrolls, exquisite sashimi, and Japanese-inspired dishes that highlight precision, quality, and innovation. Meanwhile, Chef Ricardo Cardona, a trailblazer in Nuevo Latino cuisine, brings his culinary mastery to KOBANO with a reimagined “Taste of Brazil” menu that elevates traditional dishes with his innovative touch. With over 25 years of experience, Cardona is known for catering to A-list clientele, including the New York Yankees and Marc Anthony. His signature Brazilian dishes, such as Moqueca Peixa Branzino and Churrasco de Fraldinha, blend bold flavors and rich textures, creating a vibrant and unforgettable dining experience. Together, these visionary chefs craft an extraordinary gastronomic journey that celebrates the harmony of Japanese and Latin flavors, techniques, and cultures at KOBANO.
KOBANO offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Brazilian cuisines. The menu includes a variety of dishes such as spicy edamame, shishito peppers, wagyu gyoza, tuna tartare, yellowtail tiradito, and a selection of artisan rolls like The Fogo and Amazon. For larger plates, guests can enjoy dishes such as Branzino Baiano, Feijoada Tradicional, and Churrasco de Fraldinha. A range of specialty items, including Brazilian-style feijoada, truffle corn benedict, and rich desserts like Yuzu Cheesecake and Warabi Mochi Parfait, are also available. Chef Nobu Hamazaki’s Artisan Rolls feature creations like The Fogo with salmon sashimi on yellowtail, jalapeño, tempura flakes, and yuzu miso, while Chef Ricardo Cardona’s Taste of Brazil offers dishes such as Branzino Baiano, a whole branzino with coconut sauce and dende oil, alongside a variety of Feijoada options, Churrasco de Fraldinha, and bone marrow with garlic-lime and chimichurri, all complemented by Arroz Frito, a selection of fried jasmine rice dishes with vegetables, truffle, shrimp, steak, or chicken.
KOBANO’s beverage menu features a mix of signature cocktails, including the Amazon Glow, Carnival Breeze Punch, and Coco Samba. Non-alcoholic elixirs are also offered, such as the Amazon Glow Elixir and Tropical Mojito Elixir, along with a variety of traditional Brazilian drinks like Caipirinha and Cachaça-based cocktails.
KOBANO is located at 299 Bowery, New York, NY 10013.
Days & Hours of Operation:
Tuesday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Wednesday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Friday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Saturday: 12 PM – 11 PM
