Kawa Ni

If you are looking for a place with a unique atmosphere and a bold culinary vision, look no further than Kawa Ni. This establishment is a modern Japanese izakaya—a traditional type of Japanese bar where people come to relax, drink, and enjoy delicious food with friends. Located near the city of Norwalk in the USA, this restaurant offers guests a cozy space where Japanese traditions meet the energy of a modern American town.

Founded in 2014 by talented chef Bill Taibe, Kawa Ni quickly won the hearts of foodies with its playful and unconventional approach to classic recipes. The name Kawa Ni translates from Japanese as "on the river," reflecting its location. The interior, crafted using red cedar and decorated with art pieces brought from Japan, creates a warm and homey feel.

The main feature of this place is its accessibility and casual nature. They do not take reservations, emphasizing the concept of spontaneous and lively social interaction. It's not just a restaurant, but a true gastronomic hub where every guest can feel like a regular while enjoying signature cuisine and a unique selection of drinks.

For your convenience, we have gathered the current contact details for the establishment so you can easily check details or book a table for a large group.

The main adventure at Kawa Ni begins with the menu, which constantly transforms with the seasons. Be sure to try the signature dumplings, hearty noodles, or exquisite rice bowls. Seafood lovers should check out the raw fish section, while fans of creative solutions will enjoy the hot smoked trout with crispy rice. The use of fresh local ingredients makes the flavor of every dish rich and honest.

The "sake bomb" ritual deserves special attention, with nine varieties available. It’s a whole show: when you order this drink, bartender Jeff Maron solemnly strikes a gong and shouts a traditional Japanese greeting. This instantly lifts the mood of everyone present and creates the interactive atmosphere that izakayas are so loved for.

For connoisseurs of quality spirits, Kawa Ni has prepared an impressive collection. You can dive into the world of Japanese whisky, taste various types of sake, or order one of the signature cocktails. The bar menu is updated regularly, offering bold ingredient combinations that perfectly complement the main dishes.

Kawa Ni is located at 19A Bridge Square in Westport, which is part of the Norwalk metropolitan area. The restaurant is cozily situated in a corner building on Bridge Square, catching the eye with its stylish and modern Japanese facade. If you are traveling from New York City, the journey will take about an hour (approximately 50 km to the northeast).

For those who prefer public transport, the Metro-North Railroad is an excellent option. You should get off at the Westport station, from which you can reach the restaurant in a few minutes on foot or by taking a local taxi. Travelers arriving by car can use the parking spaces located directly in the Bridge Square area.

The history of Kawa Ni began in 2014 when renowned chef Bill Taibe decided to bring his passion for Japanese culture to life. By then, Taibe was already a landmark figure in the Connecticut culinary scene, having opened the successful projects LeFarm and The Whelk. His journey from a butcher's shop assistant to an award-winning executive chef became the foundation for creating a place with a unique philosophy.

Over the years, the restaurant has not only expanded its Westport space, doubling its seating capacity, but has also gone national. A branch opened in Denver in 2023, which was recognized in the Michelin guide by 2024. Despite this growth, the original location's interior has remained true to tradition: the design features red cedar and authentic art pieces that the owner personally brought back from his travels.

Notably, Kawa Ni is not just about food, but also about social responsibility. Chef Taibe introduced the innovative Kitchen Share program. This involves a fair distribution of the service charge among all staff members—both those working in the dining room and those cooking in the kitchen—which set an important precedent for the US restaurant industry.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of a Japanese izakaya, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. This is enough time to leisurely explore the seasonal menu, try several types of signature snacks, and enjoy the house drinks.

If you plan to visit in the evening or on weekends, keep in mind that the establishment operates without reservations. During popular hours, there may be a short wait, which can easily be passed with a cocktail at the bar while waiting for a table.

When planning your gastronomic evening, please note the opening hours. Kawa Ni is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday, the establishment welcomes guests in two shifts: for lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and for dinner from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. On Sunday, the restaurant opens only in the evening, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Since the official schedule may change on holidays, we strongly recommend checking the official website before your trip to ensure the information is up to date.

A visit to this Japanese izakaya can be perfectly combined with a stroll through the neighborhood. The location near the historic part of town allows tourists to see many interesting sites just a few minutes' drive away.

Exploring local attractions will help you better feel the atmosphere of the Connecticut coast, whether it's boat trips or visiting classic 19th-century American mansions.