Omusubi Gonbei - Image 1
1 / 3

Omusubi Gonbei

4.7
·493 reviews·New York, United States

Affordable Japanese onigiri and snacks inside a bustling grocery store. Perfect for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly bite.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday lunch

Beat the peak crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Omusubi Gonbei - Image 1

Omusubi Gonbei

Best Time

Weekday lunch

Beat the peak crowds

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Affordable Japanese onigiri and snacks inside a bustling grocery store. Perfect for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly bite.

4.7
(493 reviews)

"Super affordable and delicious!! This is a gem tucked into a Japanese supermarket."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Affordable Lunch Deal

Get two delicious onigiris for under $6! Perfect for a budget-friendly meal.

🚶‍♀️ Takeout & Picnic

No seating available. Grab your food and head to nearby Battery Park for a scenic meal.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Onigiri Selection

Onigiri Selection

Counter inside Katagiri Japanese Grocery

A wide variety of classic Japanese rice balls with diverse fillings. Perfect for a quick, satisfying snack.

Spicy Tuna Onigiri

Spicy Tuna Onigiri

Counter inside Katagiri Japanese Grocery

A crowd favorite! This flavorful onigiri offers a satisfying kick and generous filling.

Shrimp Tempura Onigiri

Shrimp Tempura Onigiri

Counter inside Katagiri Japanese Grocery

Another popular choice, this onigiri offers a delightful crunch and savory flavor.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Budget-Friendly Bites

Score delicious Japanese snacks for under $10! Omusubi Gonbei is your go-to for affordable onigiri and other treats, perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.

Grab-and-Go Gem

This spot is a counter-serve within a Japanese grocery store, meaning no seating. Plan to take your tasty finds to a nearby park or your hotel.

Best Times

When
Weekday lunch
Why
Beat the peak crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Fewer people, more options
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🍙 follow for the best of NYC under $10! 📍 Omusubei Gonbei @ 370 Lexington Ave 

#omusubeigonbei #midtown #onigiri #asianbakery #japanesefood #japanese #chinatownnyc #chinatowneats #streetfood #nycchinesefood #nycsushi #nycasianfood #sushi #nycfood #nyceats #asiancuisine #nycfoodies #manhattan #nycrestaurants #wheretoeatnyc #cheapeats #nycforcheap #nyccheapeats #nycsnack #nycforfree #hiddengem #vi...
@leaistraveling
1.6K likes • 39.5K views

🎯 Affordable Lunch Deal

Get two delicious onigiris for under $6! Perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Takeout & Picnic

No seating available. Grab your food and head to nearby Battery Park for a scenic meal. Reddit

PSA ‼️ $4 lunch in New York is possible 🍙 #onigiri #cheapeatsnewyork #newyorkfood #newyorkrecommendation #newyork #cheapeats #japanesefood #omusubigonbei #CapCut
@diana.explores
142 likes • 3.2K views
📍omusibi gonbei - the perfect portable picnic snack. such a tasty treat and reminded me of the musubis in hawaii #nycfood
@tylerkowta
8.8K likes • 124.9K views

🍣 Try the Spicy Tuna

This flavorful onigiri is a must-try, often praised for its generous filling and kick. Reddit

💡 Explore the Grocery

Don't miss the surrounding Japanese market for unique snacks and imported goods. TikTok

🏙️ BIG APPLE, little bites 🤏🏻 #grubgalz 📍 Omusubi Gonbei in Manhattan #snacks #japanesefood #nyc #nycfood #travel #asianfood
@grubgalz
28.5K likes • 250.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Affordable Lunch Deal

Get two delicious onigiris for under $6! Perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Takeout & Picnic

No seating available. Grab your food and head to nearby Battery Park for a scenic meal. Reddit

🍣 Try the Spicy Tuna

This flavorful onigiri is a must-try, often praised for its generous filling and kick. Reddit

💡 Explore the Grocery

Don't miss the surrounding Japanese market for unique snacks and imported goods. TikTok

⏰ Check Closing Time

Options can be limited if you arrive close to closing. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(493 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Omusubi Gonbei is praised for its incredibly affordable and tasty onigiri, making it a budget-friendly gem in Midtown Manhattan. While some find the fillings minimal, most agree the rice is perfectly cooked and the variety is appealing. It's a popular counter-serve spot within a Japanese grocery store, ideal for takeout.

"This place is amazing. Shoutout Instagram Reels for bringing me here. I spent $5.88 for two onigiris (spicy tuna and salmon) priced individually at $2.80 and $2.60. Super affordable and delicious!! This is a gem tucked into a Japanese supermarket that contains an assortment of premade Japanese cuisine and Japanese food and home products. Next time I look forward to trying the tuna and mayo onigiri. The spicy tuna definitely took the cake between it and the salmon onigiri, although both were still good. My friend got a shrimp tempura onigiri which was also all the rage. They’re pretty big and filling. There’s no seating and it’s counter service so we walked 9 minutes to Battery Park and enjoyed our lunch there. I can’t wait to go back."

julia safrin

"The onigiri is very small with minimal fillings or flavor,that is why it is so much cheaper. The tiny jello drink was reasonably priced ($1.99) and was good(I recommend getting a different flavor tho).It is a very small place and is usually crowded so keep that in mind."

Imani

"It’s such a nice cute shop/eatery in midtown. The location is super convenient. Only one street south of the Grand Central Terminal.

I tried their nigiri for the first time. I got salmon, spicy tuna, shrimp, chashu, and mentaiko ones. The size was perfect. You can tell from the generic shapes that they are most likely hand made. Overall, it’s a little bland. Good thing was that they cook the rice perfectly, and after chewing slowly over and over, you can taste the naturally sweetness of the rice. They also put somewhat generous amount of stuffing inside.

I also got a spicy fried chicken don and a box of sushi. The spicy fried chicken was indeed quite spicy. The flavor was nice. The chicken pieces were also nicely cooked. It was about average. The sushi was actually surprisingly nice. I got it because of the after 7pm sale. All sushi was 15% off. The box I got had salmon roes, salmon, tuna, some kind of white fish, cooked shrimp, and eel. It also came with tuna and salmon rolls. It was pretty delicious.

It’s not only a takeout spot. There is a ramen restaurant hidden inside. It’s also like a bodega selling goods imported from Japan, including cosmetic products, fresh produce, drinks, and snacks. It’s such a cute shop. I’d like to come back and try their other items."

Bradley C

What People Like

Affordable prices
Delicious onigiri
Convenient location

What People Dislike

Minimal fillings (sometimes)
No seating available

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Omusubi Gonbei is conveniently located inside the Katagiri Japanese Grocery store at 370 Lexington Ave, just south of Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. It's easily accessible via the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S subway lines to Grand Central-42nd Street. TikTok+1

Yes, Omusubi Gonbei is very close to Grand Central Terminal, making it a perfect stop for a quick bite before or after traveling. TikTok+2

The closest subway station is Grand Central-42nd Street, served by multiple lines. From there, it's a short walk to the Katagiri Japanese Grocery store. TikTok+1

Yes, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from Times Square to Omusubi Gonbei, offering a pleasant stroll through Midtown Manhattan. TikTok

Street parking in Midtown Manhattan can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach Omusubi Gonbei. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Omusubi Gonbei is a counter-serve spot within a grocery store, so no tickets are required. You simply order and pay at the counter. TikTok

Omusubi Gonbei is located within Katagiri Japanese Grocery, so its hours generally align with the store's operating times. It's best to check the store's specific hours, but they are typically open throughout the day. TikTok

No, there is no admission fee to enter Katagiri Japanese Grocery. You can browse the store and purchase items, including the onigiri from Omusubi Gonbei, freely. TikTok

While not explicitly stated, it's unlikely that reservations are available for individual onigiri due to the grab-and-go nature of the establishment. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended for the best selection. TikTok

Some reviews mention a 15% discount on sushi boxes after 7 PM, which might extend to other items. It's worth checking for any late-day sales. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Yes, Omusubi Gonbei can get quite crowded, especially during peak lunch hours. The staff works efficiently to keep the line moving. TikTokReddit

No, Omusubi Gonbei is a counter-serve establishment within a grocery store and does not have any seating. You'll need to take your food to go. Reddit

Wait times can vary depending on the time of day and crowd levels. During busy periods, expect to wait a few minutes, but the line generally moves quickly. TikTokReddit

The atmosphere is that of a bustling Japanese grocery store with a dedicated counter for fresh onigiri and other prepared foods. It's lively and efficient. TikTokReddit

While not explicitly mentioned, most establishments in NYC accept contactless payments via phone. It's advisable to have a backup payment method like a credit card. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The spicy tuna and salmon onigiri are frequently mentioned as favorites. Shrimp tempura and mentaiko are also highly recommended. TikTokReddit

Onigiri are very affordable, typically priced around $2.60 to $2.80 each, making it possible to get two for under $6. TikTokReddit

Reviews are mixed; some find the fillings minimal, while others describe them as generous. The spicy tuna is often cited as having a good amount of filling. Reddit

Yes, there is a ramen restaurant hidden inside the Katagiri Japanese Grocery store, separate from the Omusubi Gonbei counter. Reddit

Besides onigiri, you can find bento boxes, sushi boxes, spam musubi, and other pre-made Japanese dishes within the grocery store. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

While the focus is on quick service, the colorful onigiri and the vibrant Japanese market offer opportunities for appealing food photography. TikTok

The onigiri with distinct fillings like spicy tuna, salmon roe, or shrimp tempura tend to be visually appealing. The variety of colors and textures makes for great shots. TikTok

Generally, taking photos inside retail spaces is acceptable, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other shoppers or staff. TikTok

Yes, taking your onigiri to nearby Battery Park or Grand Central Terminal provides excellent backdrops for photos. Reddit

Daytime offers the best natural light for food photography. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have more freedom to capture your shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Omusubi Gonbei is a great spot for families looking for a quick, affordable, and kid-friendly meal. The onigiri are easy for children to hold and eat, and the variety of flavors means picky eaters can likely find something they'll enjoy. Consider the simpler flavors like plain salmon or tuna mayo. TikTokReddit

Since there's no seating, plan for a picnic! Nearby Battery Park is a fantastic option for families, offering open spaces for kids to play while you enjoy your onigiri. The surrounding grocery store also has a fun selection of Japanese snacks and drinks that kids might find exciting to explore. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers in NYC, Omusubi Gonbei is a must-visit. You can easily get a filling and delicious lunch for under $10, which is a steal in Manhattan. Two onigiri are often enough to satisfy hunger, costing around $6. TikTokReddit

This makes it an ideal choice for backpackers, students, or anyone looking to save money on food without sacrificing taste or quality. The grab-and-go format also means you can enjoy your meal in a scenic spot like Battery Park, turning a cheap eat into a memorable experience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers

Solo travelers and day-trippers will find Omusubi Gonbei perfectly suited for a quick and satisfying stop. Its convenient location near Grand Central makes it easy to access, whether you're arriving in the city or passing through. TikTok+1

The grab-and-go nature means you can grab your onigiri and continue exploring the city, perhaps heading to Central Park or the nearby United Nations Headquarters. It’s an efficient way to fuel up without a lengthy sit-down meal, allowing you to maximize your sightseeing time. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Onigiri

Omusubi Gonbei specializes in onigiri, the quintessential Japanese rice ball. These aren't just plain rice; they're typically seasoned, filled with various ingredients, and often wrapped in nori (seaweed). The name 'Omusubi' itself refers to the triangular or round shape of the rice ball. At Omusubi Gonbei, you'll find a wide array of classic fillings, from savory salmon and spicy tuna to more unique options like mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and shrimp tempura. The rice is usually cooked to perfection, offering a naturally sweet and satisfying base for the fillings. TikTok+1

Many visitors compare the onigiri here to those found in Hawaii, highlighting a shared appreciation for this portable and delicious snack. The convenience factor is huge; these rice balls are designed to be eaten by hand, making them ideal for a quick lunch on the go or a picnic in a nearby park. The variety ensures there's something for every palate, and the affordable price point makes it easy to try multiple flavors. TikTokReddit

While the onigiri are the stars, it's worth noting that the Katagiri Japanese Grocery store itself offers a treasure trove of Japanese culinary delights. From unique snacks and beverages to pre-made meals and ingredients, exploring the store adds another layer to the Omusubi Gonbei experience. TikTok

Budget-Friendly NYC Eats

In a city known for its often-hefty dining prices, Omusubi Gonbei stands out as a beacon of affordability. Many visitors are delighted to discover that they can enjoy a substantial and delicious meal for under $10. For instance, two onigiri, which are quite filling, can cost less than $6, a rarity in Manhattan. TikTokReddit

This makes Omusubi Gonbei a fantastic option for budget travelers, students, or anyone looking to savor authentic Japanese flavors without breaking the bank. The value proposition is clear: high-quality, tasty food at incredibly reasonable prices. This focus on affordability, combined with the quality of the ingredients and preparation, has earned it a loyal following and frequent mentions on social media for its 'cheap eats' appeal. TikTok+1

Beyond the onigiri, the surrounding grocery store also offers affordable Japanese snacks and drinks, further enhancing the budget-friendly experience. It’s a place where you can assemble a complete, satisfying meal or snack haul without overspending. TikTok

The Katagiri Japanese Grocery Experience

Omusubi Gonbei is nestled within the Katagiri Japanese Grocery store, a vibrant marketplace offering a wide array of authentic Japanese products. This integration means that your visit to Omusubi Gonbei is part of a larger, immersive cultural experience. The store itself is a destination, filled with everything from fresh produce and pantry staples to unique snacks, beverages, cosmetics, and home goods imported directly from Japan. TikTokReddit

This unique setting provides a fantastic opportunity to explore Japanese culture beyond just the food counter. You can browse shelves stocked with interesting items, discover new favorite snacks, or pick up ingredients for home cooking. The presence of a hidden ramen restaurant within the store also adds to the culinary exploration possibilities. Reddit

The grocery store environment contributes to the grab-and-go nature of Omusubi Gonbei. While there's no dedicated seating for the onigiri counter, the store's layout and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy your purchases. Many visitors opt to take their food to nearby parks, like Battery Park, to savor their meal in a more relaxed setting. Reddit