Sushi of Gari spent decades defining a certain kind of New York sushi, and Chikara is what happens when two of its people go out on their own. Yumi Matsumura was a vice president of the group; Atsutaka Chikaraishi cooked in its kitchens and gave the new place its name. The Upper West Side has not had many serious sushi openings lately, which is precisely why this one landed.
What to expect
A high-end Japanese room on West 70th Street between Broadway and Columbus Avenue, from a team steeped in the Sushi of Gari house style. Expect the sauced, composed nigiri approach that made the original group's name rather than a strict, austere Edomae presentation, in a neighborhood short on serious sushi.
Good to know
- From Sushi of Gari alumni Yumi Matsumura and Atsutaka Chikaraishi
- The restaurant takes its name from chef Chikaraishi
- This is a full-service high-end room, not a counter-only omakase bar
- At 150 West 70th Street between Broadway and Columbus Avenue
- Closest subway is 72 St on the 1, 2 and 3
Planning Sep 25–27, 2026 in NYC?
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Common questions
When did it open?
Thursday, August 6, 2026, per Eater NY, which cited West Side Rag.
Is it related to Sushi of Gari?
Not formally — it is an independent restaurant from two people who worked there, one as a group vice president and one as a chef.
