The East Village sake bar Decibel has been around since 1993. That's a long time in restaurant years, and it took me 20 years to get to this joint. And you know what? It's awesome. Walk down some unassuming stairs into this basement joint, and be whisked away to a divey izakaya, serving fun and tasty Japanese bites. I love trying a little bit of everything, and the menu of small plates at Decibel is perfect for just this.

Seaweed salad was pure seaweed perfection.

Raw octopus gets a huge kick from wasabi and will open up all your senses.

Tofu salad is wonderful.

Unagi (eel) is fabulous.

A bowl of udon noodles was splendid.

Edamame dumplings will surely hit the spot. Then end with that signature Japanese dessert mochi, and your night in Japan will be complete. Grab another sake, share some laughs, and all will be well in the World.

Decibel

240 E. 9th St. (bet. 2nd and 3rd)

New York, NY 10003

www.sakebardecibel.com

212-979-2733