A clever and delicious reinterpretation of two potato-based staples. A thick, crispy-fried potato latke is dressed in the style of a Japanese pancake (okonomiyaki)—finished with a lattice of Kewpie mayo, savory brown sauce, and a handful of dancing bonito flakes. It is a favorite for those wanting a texture-rich appetizer that bridges both cultures. Reviewers highlight the crunch of the latke as being particularly impressive.
Tips from diners
This is much heartier than a standard latke. It's the best way to see the range of the kitchen's creativity. The bonito flakes add a great smoky umami that you won't find in a traditional Jewish deli.
The restaurant's most iconic and talked-about dish. A clear, intensely flavorful chicken broth (think high-end Jewish chicken soup) is used as the base for traditional ramen noodles. It's crowned with a large, remarkably light matzo ball that absorbs the broth perfectly. It's accompanied by bok choy and a soy-marinated soft-boiled egg. It is a brilliant example of how two distinct comfort food traditions can be seamlessly integrated into one destination dish. Reviewers consistently praise its balance and technical execution.
Tips from diners
Don't treat this as a novelty—it's a seriously good bowl of noodles. The matzo ball is the lightest in the city. Make sure to break it apart slightly to let it soak up more of the broth.
A refined and lighter option that bridges the gap between a lox platter and a chirashi bowl. High-quality Nova smoked salmon is paired with perfectly seasoned, vinegar-rich sushi rice and topped with traditional appetizing trimmings like onions and capers. It is a favorite for lunch or a lighter dinner main, showcasing the quality of the raw ingredients.
A robust and deeply savory main course. The beef is braised for hours until it is fork-tender, sitting in a pool of its own reduced cooking juices flavored with sake and traditional aromatics. It represents the heart of the restaurant's refined fusion style, providing a soul-satisfying meal beyond the lighter small plates.
Founded by husband-and-wife team Aaron Israel and Sawako Okochi, Shalom Japan is a unique culinary hybrid that celebrates the couple's Jewish and Japanese heritages. The space is a cozy neighborhood spot in Williamsburg, known for its fun, inventive menu that blends traditional techniques from both cultures. It is celebrated for its technical precision and its status as a city-wide favorite for adventurous comfort food.
Reservations are recommended for weekend dinner. They drop 30 days in advance on Resy. If you're a walk-in, the bar is often easier to snag than an individual table.
It's a cozy, neighborhood-y space that feels very 'Williamsburg.' It's perfect for a fun, adventurous date or a dinner with friends who are looking for something completely different.
The menu is designed for sharing. Start with the Okonomiyaki Latke and then move into the Ramen. Don't skip the creative cocktails—they often feature Japanese or Jewish-inspired ingredients.
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