The Japanese term izakaya is translated in English as “stay sake shop,” a place to hang out and drink on premises. It’s compared to a Japanese pub or tavern and has become sort of a trend here on Long Island. If the only Japanese cuisine you know and love is the local sushi shop or hibachi grill then this style of restaurant might be something you want to explore.

 

At MEET Bar & Izakaya you get cocktails and Japanese-style small bites in a fun atmosphere. According to the new restaurant's website their restaurant, like other izakaya places, is a casual hideout “where you can linger with good friends over tasty food and plenty of cold drinks.”

 

The menu includes appetisers like Miso Eggplant ($8) made of baked eggplant, chives and miso aioli, marinated pork belly buns ($10 for 2), and beef tartare ($13), which is quail egg, shichimi, sesame oil, shallot, and nori. They offer soup, salads, fried rice, ramen and yakitori (skewered meat).

 

The drink menu includes sake, beer, wine and creative cocktails like the Wasabi Bloody Mary and a Red Sake Sangria. 

 

Reviewers on Yelp appreciate the casual atmosphere and the food options.

 

“The atmosphere is nice and chill,” wrote Anthony L. from Valley Stream. “Good vibe. We had a great experience from the service to the lighting to the music. And the food was wonderful, I love the idea of smaller plates because you can try many different things.”

 

Teresa L. from East Rockaway gave the staff 5 stars.

 

“If this is how they keep things going I foresee MEET totally surviving the densely populated area,” she write. “I can't wait to go back again and again. Encouraging all hungry and thirsty tummies to MEET up here for some fabulous eats!”

 

Location: 216 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre, (516) 608-9190