Bringing a sleek blend of Japanese-inspired aesthetics and high-fidelity audio to the heart of Williamsburg, Hear & There is the latest destination for those seeking an immersive dining and drinking experience. The debut concept from husband-and-wife team Howard Ng and Samantha Nie of Third Date Hospitality, the new opening offers two distinct yet intertwined experiences: a front cocktail bar serving playful takes on classics alongside a curated otsunami menu, and a hidden 22-seat omakase counter offering an intimate multi-course dining affair.
Designed by Danny Taylor and the HOUSE/UNDER/MAGIC team, Hear & There is a masterclass in mood and materiality. Both spaces embrace a palette of dark walnut, herringbone-patterned floors, and Italian Lapitec stone, but each has its own identity. The cocktail bar, an elegant 28-seater, features plush banquettes, a five-seat bar, and soft antique mirrors that bounce light from custom-built orb pendants. Meanwhile, the omakase counter is crowned with a striking dark green quartzite stone sourced from Brazil, setting the stage for a meticulously curated dining journey.
Sound is just as much a focus as taste here at New York’s latest listening bar. Custom speakers, textured ceilings for acoustic absorption, and theatrical lighting enhance the sensory experience, creating an ambiance that is both transportive and intimate.
Bringing this vision to life is a powerhouse team led by executive chef Mark Garcia, whose 25-year tenure in Japanese cuisine ensures a refined and innovative menu. The cocktail program has been overseen by Larry Gonzalez, and toys with seasonal ingredients and Japanese spirits to put a fresh spin on classics, while sommelier Amy Lim curates a wine list that seamlessly complements the experience.
Whether you’re indulging in the 13-course omakase or sipping a perfectly balanced cocktail with small plates upfront, Hear & There Williamsburg is an elegant ode to Japanese craftsmanship, sensory immersion, and the art of a well-composed night out.
@hearandthereny
@thirddatehospitality
@houseundermagic
Hear & There Williamsburg Photography, Ben Hon.
