Kenta Goto moved from Tokyo to Manhattan in his 20s to pursue a career in fashion. Bartending to cover his costs, he wound up at New York’s famed mixology mecca, Pegu Club, and was named “American Bartender of the Year” in 2011. Seven years later, he opened his Japanese inspired, namesake boite, Bar Goto on the Lower East Side. With cherry blossoms floating in Sakura Martinis, umami Bloody Mary’s, a list of fine Japanese whiskies, and a menu of Izakaya-style bar snacks (including spiced Miso Wings that New York magazine deems the best in the city), Bar Goto was immediately nominated for the James Beard ‘Outstanding Bar Program’ and made Bon Appetit’s ‘Best Bars’ list. Tiny and cool, it's crowded at the weekend; go during the week if you want a bar stool perch and some elbow room. bargoto.com