Happy Kitchen

This Japanese dining nook in Jackson Heights’ historic district is charming enough to deserve the Hello Kitty–ish name. Takeout trade is brisk, but eat-in patrons can enjoy the specialty: one-bowl meals. Chicken- or beef-topped rice ladled with mild, creamy Japanese curry sauce, soups thick with seafood and plump white udon noodles, and sukiyaki broth brimming with meat and vegetables are all enormously satisfying. The sushi bar is tiny but the selection is tremendous—spicy, crunchy and roe-laden dragon rolls stand out. Order the sweet, punchy ginger tea and you’ll leave happy, too.