About
BAR GOTO & BAR GOTO NIBAN
"For a lot of drinkers in New York, Goto is the go-to...
Bar Goto's signature drink is a Japanese interpretation of a martini with sake as the foundation and a cherry blossom floating Ophelia-ishly in the cold, clear liquid. A few sips encourage the mind to venture deeper into [the] clever, subtle drink menu. What really extends evening into night and unfastens one's inhibitions, though, is a friendly, unflappable "Welcome back, man" mode of service." -Esquire
BAR GOTO is an award-winning cocktail bar in New York City's Lower East Side. The warm amber lighting, rich green banquette, and framed bolt of silk kimono fabric from bartender-owner Kenta Goto’s family in Tokyo keep the atmosphere personal and inviting. Blending Japanese cocktail tradition with New York drinking culture, the focus is on excellent cocktails and a snackable food menu — a New York bar with a Japanese soul.
In 2020, Kenta and team expanded to Brooklyn, opening BAR GOTO NIBAN (Niban means ‘second’) in Park Slope. Located on Bergen Street near Barclays Center, guests at Niban can sit at an extra-long walnut wood bar top, window banquette, or enjoy a drink and a bite at the standing bar. A hand painted mural of a golden Japanese garden scene spans nearly 40 feet and anchors the sophisticated, wood paneled space.
Bar Goto and Bar Goto Niban have become must-visit destinations for locals and for cocktail lovers from around the world. The pair of bars are known for relaxed, welcoming service, superb drinks made with exacting technique, and some of the best bar food in the city.
Accolades
Eater "Essential Cocktail Bars of NYC" 2024
Food & Wine “Best Cocktail Bars in the U.S.” 2023
Esquire "Best Martinis in America" 2023
New York Times "100 Best Restaurants in NYC: For a Bar With Superb Snacks" 2023
World's 50 Best Bars, No. 83 2022
TOTC “Best U.S. Cocktail Bar” Finalist 2022 & 2018
James Beard Semifinalist “Outstanding Bar Program" 2018 & 2017
Esquire “Best Bars in America” 2017
Time Out New York "Bar of the Year" 2017
Bon Appétit “Bar of the Year” 2016
TOTC “Best U.S. Bartender” (Kenta Goto) 2011
Find Us
BAR GOTO: 245 Eldridge St, New York, NY. (map)
BAR GOTO NIBAN: 474 Bergen St, Brooklyn, NY. (map)