The chef behind Soba Ulala and its predecessor, Hirohisa, known for his thoughtful approach to Japanese cuisine, including kappo, kaiseki, and house-made soba.
Insights
JapaneseSushi BarUpscaleLunchCasual
Last updated: 4/23/2026, 5:57:54 AM
Key Information
Soba Ulala is a new Japanese restaurant concept by the Hirohisa team, located in the same Thompson Street space in Soho, Manhattan, where Hirohisa operated for thirteen years. It focuses on beloved house-made soba noodles, offering a more relaxed, à la carte dining experience while carrying forward the flavors and philosophy of the original Hirohisa. The restaurant aims to provide thoughtful ingredients, refined technique, and attentive service in a serene setting.
Customer Perception
Not available.
Additional Details
Soba Ulala represents a new chapter for the culinary team, transitioning from the omakase-focused Hirohisa to a soba-centric, à la carte style, yet maintaining the high standards of its predecessor. It is situated in the vibrant Soho neighborhood of Manhattan and aims to provide a serene dining setting away from the bustle of the city.
The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday starting at 12:00 pm. Reservations are recommended for parties of 1-5 via Resy, and larger parties should contact the restaurant directly.
Booked this hotel for my sister’s
30th so we could visit Timesquare and the only complaint I have is not being able to enjoy the hotel more! Great hospitality. Everyone was nice at the front desk during check in. Very nice place inside. The room was a little tight (we booked 2 beds) but the beds were very comfortable and as random as it is, the complimentary products they had smelled amazing! I didn’t even know our room had a view but that was a nice surprise. Would definitely book with them again.
Right in Times Square, so a really great location. From the first minute to the last, everyone was very attentive, the service was impeccable. Breakfast was buffet style with an enormous array of choice to suit all pallets. I would recommend this hotel to anyone, it's a perfect location from which to explore the city and be within the lively Times Square. But rest assured, once inside the hotel, there is no sound of the hustle and bustle, guaranteeing a perfect night's sleep. We travelled from the UK and this was our first visit to the US, so for us the hotel was totally perfect in every way possible.
5
Had an exceptional stay at Riu Plaza Hotel Manhattan with my kids last week. From the moment we arrived, the welcome was warm, friendly, and genuinely caring. The reception team were fantastic, and the lady at the Riu World check‑in desk made a real impact on our stay — kind, attentive, and always happy to help.
The hotel was spotless throughout, and our room attendant greeted us daily with a smile and maintained an impeccable standard of cleanliness. Breakfast was another highlight: even at peak times, the team managed everything seamlessly. Great variety, thoughtful daily changes, and a lovely moment when the team sang Happy Birthday to a guest — the whole room joined in. Those small touches really elevate the experience.
A special mention to Christophe by the lifts — his energy, humour, and connection with guests was amazing to see.
Overall, a brilliant hotel in a perfect location. Thank you to the entire team for making our holiday truly memorable.
4
This hotel is in an excellent location to Times Square and Broadway. It sits on the corner of 46th Street and 8th Avenue. I walked one block to the center of Times Square and at night, you can see some lights from Times Square at a distance, but not enough light to be disturbing. The hotel is very modern, it is not your traditional Marriott or Hilton. We had a corner room on the 17th floor. It was small, but decent sized for New York. The bed covering is lightweight, not a heavy duvet. The room has a chiller, not a refrigerator. Your room key needs to be inserted into the slot when entering to power on the TV outlets and lights. You also need your room key in the elevator to access your floor. We tried appetizers and drinks at the bar. The drinks were really good, but we did not care for the BBQ and lemon pepper wings. They were dry and overly fried. The breakfast buffet was ok. We went once and went elsewhere the next day. The hotel staff were friendly and professional. Overall, the location, modern vibe and decor, and the security lent to the charm of this hotel.
5
An amazing experience from the start to the finish of our holiday.
The manager must be very proud of his amazing staff. From the receptionist who checked us in to the staff at breakfast, such a helpful and friendly experience from all. Every staff member we had the pleasure of meeting was always friendly and helpful, something you don’t always get in a large hotel.
A shout out to the breakfast team, a truly well organised group effort. The food was wonderful as were the choices, everything fresh and well cooked.
In all a wonderful stay and wonderful hospitality.
Thanks to all for making our stay one to remember.
