This week, I had the opportunity to enjoy some time outside the office with my new co-workers. In order to reduce the stress level, our manager though a fun team dinner was the perfect way to relax and get to know each other outside the office confines.

What better place than Ninja NY?

Any restaurant whose waiters dress in ninja costumes can’t take themselves too seriously. This meant that we as a team couldn’t take ourselves too seriously. We were laughing the whole way to the restaurant, in expectation of what was to come.

Hidden downtown near City Hall, it’s easy to miss the restaurant. The front door is unassuming and the lamp and menus flanking the door are the only thing which set it apart from another walk up apartment or barbershop.

We were expecting a line when we arrived since the hostess insisted that they are packed every night and could only fit us in at 5:45. There was no line but as we entered the restaurant we could hear the crowds and were surprised to find that it is still a popular spot, even after six years in the city.

Upon entering, our hostess directed us to a dark elevator, saying that there was a chance we’d be attacked at the next floor. As soon as the door opened we were in fact startled by an incoming “hi ya” and robed ninja. All we could was laugh at the absurdity of everything. Nothing gets you out of the work mood like ninjas and secret attacks. We proceeded down a winding dark hallway towards row of caves, or private dining areas. Each group has their own private cave which was perfect for our small group.

I have to admit, our cave area was very ninja like.  

Our waiter quickly greeted us and wipped out rolled up menus.

Our eyes were quickly attracted to the “chinese stars” featuring the house beers, Kirin Light and Sapporo. I chose a cold, delicious Kirin Light and we all toasted to our new team.

Our waiter was a bit over the top and aggressive with his Ninja jokes throughout the evening, but overall did a great job. I can’t imagine having to role play a ninja for 8 hours a day while also trying to provide customer service.

We decided to each order our own main courses and then a few of their special Ninja art dishes and rolls to share amongst ourselves.

The sushi and sashimi platter we shared was amazing. The tuna rolls were rolled in rice cubes which added a delicious surprising texture.

I went with the safe choice, an eel roll and their version of a rainbow roll. The fish was fresh but I was disappointed that they weren’t able to substitute brown rice. But, check out my “dish.” It was more than a bit intense.

My co-worker ordered their teriyaki chicken which featured chicken prepared three different ways. He loved it and actually ordered it the last time he was at Ninja NY.

Overall, we had a good time together as a team during dinner but I don’t think I’d go again on my own. The food was overpriced versus the quality and the staff is probably underpaid versus the hard work and humor they put into the experience.

Have you ever been to a “theme restaurant” like Ninja NY?