Happy Kitchen in Jackson Heights, NY is a celebrated Japanese restaurant that offers an authentic and flavorful dining experience. Specializing in traditional Japanese cuisine, this location stands out with a menu that showcases the diversity and richness of Japan’s culinary heritage. From delicately prepared sushi and sashimi to hearty noodle dishes and grilled delicacies, Happy Kitchen Jackson Heights promises a journey for the senses.
While maintaining the core essence of Japanese flavors, the menu at this location has been carefully curated to reflect the unique tastes and preferences of the vibrant Jackson Heights community. Diners can expect to find both classic favorites and innovative twists, catering to adventurous palates and those seeking a taste of Japan’s culinary excellence. Whether you’re a connoisseur of Japanese cuisine or a curious explorer, Happy Kitchen Jackson Heights invites you to savor the flavors that have captivated diners for generations.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Kick off your culinary journey at Happy Kitchen with an array of tantalizing appetizers and small plates that showcase the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine. Start with the Mixed Salad, a refreshing medley of crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty house dressing ($5.95). For a classic Japanese snack, indulge in the Edamame ($4.95), steamed and lightly salted young soybeans that are perfect for popping as you peruse the menu.
Venture into the realm of Japanese pickles with the Oshinko ($3.95), an assortment of delightfully crunchy and tangy pickled vegetables that awaken the taste buds. Embrace the umami richness of Seaweed ($3.95), a nutrient-packed side that adds depth and complexity to your meal.
For a true taste of Japan, try the Oshitashi ($4.95), a delicate dish featuring blanched spinach topped with a savory dashi broth and a sprinkle of bonito flakes. These appetizers and small plates are the perfect way to whet your appetite and set the stage for the main event.
Sushi and Sashimi
Happy Kitchen in Jackson Heights offers an extensive selection of sushi and sashimi, showcasing the freshest and highest quality fish and ingredients. The sushi menu features a variety of nigiri sushi, including classics like tuna (maguro), yellowtail (hamachi), and salmon (sake), as well as more unique options like sea bream (madai) and Japanese amberjack (kanpachi).
For sashimi lovers, Happy Kitchen serves up beautifully presented plates of thinly sliced raw fish, including tuna, salmon, yellowtail, and more. The sashimi is always incredibly fresh and expertly prepared by the skilled sushi chefs.
In addition to traditional sushi and sashimi, Happy Kitchen also offers a range of specialty rolls and hand rolls. Some popular choices include the Rainbow Roll, a California roll topped with an assortment of raw fish, and the Spicy Tuna Roll, a classic tuna roll with a kick of spice. For those seeking something truly unique, the Volcano Roll is a must-try, featuring tempura shrimp, avocado, and a spicy mayo sauce.
Prices for sushi and sashimi at Happy Kitchen are reasonable, with nigiri sushi ranging from $2.50 to $6 per piece, depending on the fish, and sashimi platters starting at $18 for a combination of 10 pieces. Specialty rolls range from $8 to $16, with hand rolls priced at $5 to $8 each.
Bento Boxes
Happy Kitchen’s bento box offerings are a delightful way to sample a variety of Japanese flavors in one convenient meal. These traditional lacquered boxes contain a curated selection of dishes, typically featuring a main protein, rice or noodles, and an assortment of appetizers and sides.
The bento boxes at Happy Kitchen are highly customizable, allowing diners to mix and match their preferred items. The standard options include teriyaki chicken, beef negimaki (beef rolls), tempura, sashimi, and vegetable tempura, accompanied by steamed rice, a side salad, and traditional Japanese pickles.
For those seeking a heartier meal, the sushi bento box is a popular choice, featuring an assortment of nigiri sushi, California rolls, and a side of sashimi. Vegetarians can delight in the veggie bento, which includes a delectable combination of vegetable tempura, inari (fried tofu pockets), and a selection of seasonal vegetable sides.
Prices for the bento boxes range from $14 for the standard options to $18 for the sushi bento, offering exceptional value for the variety and quality of dishes included. Customers can further customize their bento boxes by adding extra proteins, substituting items, or requesting specific dietary accommodations.
Yakitori and Grilled Dishes
Happy Kitchen’s Yakitori and grilled dish offerings are a highlight of their menu, showcasing the flavors of traditional Japanese robatayaki cuisine. The yakitori skewers are prepared with care, using high-quality ingredients and expert grilling techniques.
One of the standout items is the Tsukune Yakitori, made with juicy and flavorful chicken meatballs skewered and grilled to perfection. Each skewer is $3.50 and comes with a tangy tare sauce for dipping. The Negima Yakitori ($3.50) features tender chicken thigh meat and crisp scallions, while the Tebasaki Yakitori ($4.00) offers crispy and delicious chicken wings.
For those who prefer beef, the Beef Yakitori ($4.50) is a must-try, with succulent beef skewers grilled over charcoal for a smoky flavor. The Gyu Tsukune ($4.50) features beef meatballs with a hint of ginger and garlic, making for a flavorful and satisfying bite.
Vegetarians can indulge in the Nasu Yakitori ($3.00), showcasing grilled and smoky Japanese eggplant skewers, or the Kinoko Yakitori ($3.50), featuring a variety of grilled mushrooms.
Beyond yakitori, Happy Kitchen also offers a selection of grilled meat and vegetable dishes. The Gyu Teppanyaki ($18.00) is a sizzling platter of thinly sliced beef, cooked on a hot teppan grill and served with vegetables and a savory dipping sauce. The Salmon Teriyaki ($16.00) features a grilled salmon fillet glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, accompanied by steamed rice and vegetables.
For a vegetarian option, the Yasai Teppanyaki ($14.00) is a delightful medley of grilled vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, served with a flavorful garlic soy sauce.
Udon and Noodle Dishes
For those craving comforting Japanese noodle dishes, Happy Kitchen offers a delightful selection of udon and other noodle options. The udon noodles are made fresh daily, ensuring an authentic texture and flavor.
The Kake Udon ($9.95) is a simple yet satisfying dish, featuring thick, chewy udon noodles in a warm, savory broth. For those seeking a heartier option, the Tempura Udon ($12.95) combines the noodles with a variety of crispy tempura vegetables and shrimp, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
Fans of rich, flavorful broths will enjoy the Kitsune Udon ($10.95), which features udon noodles in a savory broth, topped with a sweet and delicate aburaage (fried tofu pouch). The Niku Udon ($11.95) is a meat-lover’s delight, with slices of tender, grilled beef complementing the noodles and broth.
For those seeking a heartier option, the Nabeyaki Udon ($13.95) is a must-try. This dish features udon noodles in a flavorful broth, accompanied by a variety of toppings such as shrimp tempura, fish cake, and a soft-boiled egg.
In addition to udon, Happy Kitchen also offers Yakisoba ($10.95), a popular Japanese stir-fried noodle dish. The yakisoba noodles are tossed with a savory sauce and a medley of vegetables, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
Happy Kitchen’s menu in Jackson Heights caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. For those seeking plant-based or gluten-free dishes, the menu offers a diverse selection of flavorful and satisfying choices.
One of the standout vegetarian options is the Vegetable Tempura, a delightful assortment of crispy, lightly battered vegetables served with a tangy dipping sauce. The tempura selection includes favorites like sweet potato, broccoli, and shiitake mushrooms, ensuring a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Gluten-free diners can indulge in the delectable Sashimi Salad, a refreshing combination of fresh, raw fish slices served over a bed of mixed greens, accompanied by a zesty ponzu dressing. This dish is not only gluten-free but also a healthy and protein-rich option.
For those seeking a heartier gluten-free option, the Vegetable Yaki Udon is a must-try. This dish features gluten-free udon noodles stir-fried with an array of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers, in a savory sauce.
Vegetarians can also delight in the Vegetable Curry Rice, a comforting and flavorful dish that combines a rich, aromatic curry sauce with an assortment of vegetables, served over a bed of steamed rice.
Happy Kitchen’s menu also offers a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian sushi rolls, such as the Avocado Roll, Cucumber Roll, and Asparagus Roll, allowing diners to enjoy the flavors of traditional sushi without compromising their dietary restrictions.
With these delectable options and more, Happy Kitchen in Jackson Heights ensures that vegetarian and gluten-free diners can enjoy an authentic Japanese dining experience without sacrificing taste or variety.
Signature and Specialty Dishes
At Happy Kitchen’s Jackson Heights location, the menu features several unique and signature dishes that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Japanese flavors and innovative culinary techniques. These specialty offerings are exclusive to this particular location, making them a must-try for anyone seeking a truly memorable dining experience.
One of the standout dishes is the Wagyu Beef Tataki. This dish features thinly sliced, seared Wagyu beef, known for its exceptional marbling and rich flavor. The beef is lightly seared on the outside, leaving the inside rare and tender. It is then served with a tantalizing ponzu sauce, made with citrus juices, soy sauce, and a hint of dashi stock. The dish is garnished with delicate shredded daikon radish and fresh scallions, adding a refreshing crunch and aromatic notes to complement the succulent beef.
Another signature offering is the Uni Donburi, a decadent rice bowl topped with fresh, creamy sea urchin roe. The uni is sourced from the pristine waters of Japan and is known for its rich, briny flavor and velvety texture. The rice bowl is carefully prepared with premium Japanese short-grain rice, seasoned with a touch of dashi and rice vinegar. The uni is artfully arranged on top, allowing its natural flavors to shine. The dish is finished with a drizzle of fragrant sesame oil and a sprinkle of nori seaweed for added depth and umami notes.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Jackson Heights location offers the Grilled Miso-Glazed Eggplant. This dish features thick slices of Japanese eggplant, grilled to perfection and basted with a savory-sweet miso glaze. The glaze is made by combining white miso paste, mirin, and a touch of brown sugar, creating a complex and caramelized flavor profile. The eggplant is tender and smoky, with a delightful charred exterior. The dish is garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions, adding a nutty crunch and fresh aroma.
These signature and specialty dishes at Happy Kitchen’s Jackson Heights location are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to showcasing the depth and diversity of Japanese cuisine. Each dish is meticulously prepared using time-honored techniques and high-quality ingredients, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience for every guest.
Extras and Accompaniments
At Happy Kitchen in Jackson Heights, you can enhance your Japanese dining experience with a variety of extras and accompaniments. These additions allow you to customize your meal to your lifavor preferences and add an extra burst of flavor.
For those who love a kick of heat, extra wasabi is available for a small additional charge. This vibrant green paste made from Japanese horseradish will awaken your taste buds and complement the delicate flavors of sushi and sashimi.
If you prefer a more subtle heat, extra ginger is also offered. Thinly sliced and pickled, the ginger provides a refreshing and slightly spicy contrast to the rich flavors of your meal.
Soy sauce is an essential accompaniment for many Japanese dishes. Happy Kitchen offers both traditional soy sauce and a gluten-free tamari option to cater to different dietary needs.
For those who enjoy a little extra zing, a variety of Japanese-style sauces are available for an additional cost. These include a tangy ponzu sauce, made from citrus juices and soy sauce, and a creamy spicy mayo perfect for dipping or drizzling over your dishes.
Don’t forget to ask about any daily specials or seasonal accompaniments that may be available during your visit. The friendly staff at Happy Kitchen will be happy to guide you through the options and help you create the perfect dining experience.
Conclusion
Experience the authentic flavors of Japan at Happy Kitchen in Jackson Heights, NY. From the delectable sushi and sashimi platters to the hearty bento boxes and flavorful yakitori skewers, the menu offers a diverse range of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes. Vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions will find a selection of meatless and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Don’t miss out on the signature specialties, crafted with care and expertise by the skilled chefs at Happy Kitchen. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience, the restaurant’s warm atmosphere and attentive service will make your visit truly memorable.
Explore the full menu online and place your order for pickup or delivery through the convenient online ordering system. Better yet, visit Happy Kitchen in person and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of this beloved Japanese eatery in the heart of Jackson Heights.
Indulge in the culinary delights of Happy Kitchen and embark on a flavorful journey through the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine. Visit today and let your taste buds be transported to the streets of Tokyo.