Hibachi Deals in New York

Description

The East has been meeting the West in glorious fashion ever since the Philippines started playing Thriller over loud speakers. But today, it's finally reached its delicious zenith just above 14th Street in Gramercy at Jack's Sliders & Sushi. Here, Japanese sushi staples and Hibachi awesomeness get equal billing with America's No. 1 food obsession—tiny hamburgers. Once Jebon Noodle House (which moved just next door), Jack's is attempting to turn traditional Asian-fusion cuisine on its ear, and we're listening with rumbling stomachs. Since no one should have to decide between a bacon-wrapped beef slider with grilled onions and jalapeno mayo and hand-rolled spicy tuna roll, everything on the menu is moderately priced, which lends well to a little mix-and-match sesh. And that's exactly what we did on a recent lunch trip. While we went for the namesake items (sliders and sushi) the bowl of spicy beef ramen at the table next to ours smelled heavenly, and we were assured the Hibachi Steak with white rice was worth a return trip. The bistro-style dining room is intimate and friendly, and the staff is smiley, polite and helpful. The meal couldn't have been better even if Michael Jackson's greatest hits were serenading us on the overhead speakers. Although, we're pretty sure as we were walking out, full and happy, we heard the beginning of Billy Jean. Menu Highlights: Jack's Slider, $4 The American Slider, $4 California Roll, $5 Rock Shrimps, $8 Hours: Daily, noon to 10 p.m.