Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileKatana Kitten
New York, NY · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Katana Kitten's cocktail program is a playful, precise take on Japanese-American mixology, with signatures like the Hinoki Martini and Lychee 3-2-1 earning regular praise. The bar backs it with a deep Japanese whisky list, a compact French-leaning wine selection, and a few local and Japanese beers. A bi-level space with nostalgic Japanese touches completes the package.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Hinoki Martini, a blend of gin, fino sherry, junmai daiginjo, and hinoki essence. The Shiso Gin & Tonic is a crisp, herbaceous follow-up. For something richer, the Amaretto Sour with rye and umeboshi adds a savory twist. Whisky drinkers should explore the Yamazaki 12 or Hakushu 12.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking inventive Japanese-American flavors will find much to like. Whisky collectors will appreciate the extensive Japanese whisky list. The bar's energetic, bi-level space also appeals to groups looking for a lively night out.
- When should I go?
- Weeknights or early evenings are best for a more relaxed experience, as the bar gets packed on weekends. The downstairs area offers a more intimate setting for a quiet drink.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $16 to $23, with the Hinoki Martini at $20. Japanese whisky pours start at $25 and can reach $600 for rare bottles. Beers are $8 to $12, and wines range from $15 to $95.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The cocktail menu's inventive use of Japanese ingredients like shochu, sake, yuzu, and umeshu sets it apart. The bi-level space, decorated with nostalgic Japanese movie posters and dollar-bill lanterns, adds to the distinctive atmosphere.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
The cocktail program is the centerpiece, featuring inventive Japanese-American creations like the Hinoki Martini and Lychee 3-2-1. Guests frequently praise the creativity and execution, with non-alcoholic versions available using Seedlip.
Menu strengths
- — Creative use of Japanese ingredients like shochu, sake, yuzu, and umeshu.
- — Well-received signature cocktails including Hinoki Martini and Shiso Gin & Tonic.
Standout selections
- — Hinoki Martini: Grey Goose, Spring 44 gin, fino sherry, junmai daiginjo, hinoki essence.
- — Lychee 3-2-1: Vodka or gin, dry riesling, junmai daiginjo sake, lychee.
- — Amaretto Sour: Wild Turkey rye, amaretto, umeboshi, honey, lemon, egg white, yukari.
Pricing: Cocktails range from $16 to $23.
Wine
A compact but curated wine list focusing on French producers, including a Sauvignon Blanc, a Provence red blend, an Alsace Crémant, and Ruinart champagne. Pours are reasonably priced, with a premium half-bottle option.
Standout selections
- — Pascal Jolivet Sauvignon Blanc, Coteaux du Giennois.
Pricing: Wine prices range from $15 to $95.
Beer
A small but thoughtful beer list includes Japanese lager, a local IPA from Other Half, and a non-alcoholic option. The Fancy Ramune, a blend of IPA and lemon daiginjo, offers a unique crossover.
Menu strengths
- — Includes both Japanese and local craft beer.; Non-alcoholic beer available.
Standout selections
- — Orion Lager: Japanese lager.; Other Half IPA: 16oz can.
- — Fancy Ramune: Other Half IPA x lemon daiginjo.
Pricing: Beer prices range from $8 to $12.
Nonalcoholic
Non-alcoholic versions of cocktails are made with Seedlip spirits, offering a thoughtful alternative for abstainers. Non-alcoholic beer is also available, ensuring a range of options beyond just soda.
Standout selections
- — Seedlip Garden, Notas de Agave, or Spice-based cocktails.
- — Good Time IPA or Pilsner: Non-alcoholic beer.
Pricing: Non-alcoholic beer priced at $8.
Spirits
An extensive Japanese whisky list featuring major distilleries like Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, and Mars, with pours ranging from accessible to ultra-premium. This is a destination for whisky enthusiasts.
Menu strengths
- — Deep selection of Japanese whiskies including rare and limited editions.
Standout selections
- — Yamazaki 12yr: Japanese whisky.; Hakushu 12yr: Japanese whisky.
- — Hibiki Japanese Harmony: Japanese whisky, $85/$170.
- — Mars Komagatake 2018: Japanese whisky, $34/$65.
Pricing: Whisky prices range from $25 to $600.
How it sits with the food
The food menu, featuring items like mortadella katsu sando and nori fries, is designed to complement the drinks. These savory, umami-rich bites pair well with the cocktails' bright, herbal notes and the clean profile of Japanese whiskies.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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