Hinoki

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

On Greenwich Avenue in Connecticut, Hinoki does something genuinely unusual: it brings two distinct Japanese dining philosophies under one roof without compromising either. The relaxed, shareable spirit of izakaya sits alongside an intimate omakase chef's table experience, separated into distinguished seating areas yet united by a single kitchen philosophy — top-quality ingredients, skilled technique, and an elegant twist on Asian-inspired cuisine.

Two Experiences, One Address

The izakaya side of Hinoki is built for sharing. The menu moves across cold and hot appetizers, dim sum, signature rolls, and main dishes, drawing ingredients from sources that include Tsukiji market in Japan. Dishes like Truffle Toro with almond and olive oil, Madai Coconut Ceviche with fried plantains, and Uni Foie Gras Toast — California uni with seared foie gras, with optional caviar — reflect the kitchen's ambition: familiar Japanese foundations reimagined with a precise, international sensibility. Signature rolls such as the Miyazaki Roll, topped with seared Miyazaki A5 Wagyu over spicy king crab and avocado, or the Greenwich Roll with toro and seared spicy lobster salad, show the same approach. Miso Black Cod, Ginger Scallion Lobster, and Grilled Filet Mignon with tempura wild mushroom round out the main dishes.

The omakase experience is reserved for the private room, where a traditional sushi bar becomes the stage for a chef-guided tasting. It requires a separate reservation and represents the more focused, ceremonial side of Japanese dining that Hinoki deliberately preserves.

The Room and the Beverage Program

Three indoor dining areas provide a modern yet sophisticated atmosphere, and comfortable outdoor seating extends the space onto the avenue. The beverage program — created by a celebrated local mixologist — is described as premier, and it's one reason Wine Spectator awarded Hinoki its Best of Award of Excellence in 2025, recognition that reflects both the depth of the wine list and the seriousness with which the restaurant approaches what's in the glass.

Background

Hinoki was designed and brought to life by an award-winning team with family-owned restaurants in New York and Connecticut. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with a full lunch menu that includes the Hinoki Lunch Box — served with green salad, steamed gyoza, and spicy tuna nori tacos — alongside sushi and sashimi platters. Catering, private events, and occasional guest chef and mixologist evenings round out the offering.