Orris & Robata-Ya Tables

[WileysHungryAgain]

Have not had the chance to experience either restaurant. Have been meaning to try, but the thought of standing around the sidewalk, waiting for a table (no reservations accepted) for an hour seems to lessen my appetite.

If I were to try to snag a table for two tonight, at prime time (8:00pm) would it be a total PITA?

Thanks

[ladius]

My family and I went to Robata-ya on a fluke (the line at Chabuya was too long!). I think we went there before it blew up here on Chowhound so we were able to be seated right away.

[WileysHungryAgain]

Thanks for all. Maybe do a round robin. Start at one then jump next door.

[jdwdeville]

i've been to both in the past 3 months, Orris on a Friday and Robata-Ya on a Saturday, with no wait at prime time for two. Incidentally, we went to both because we couldn't stand the wait for Fu Rai Bo...
Must say I preferred Robata-Ya, but that may just be the NYC yakitori house craving in me...

[mollyomormon]

I've had the same experience with both. Love both places and you can't go wrong with either. If you end up at Orris, try the grilled romaine. It's delicious. I also love the foie gras, the scallops, the seared duck carpaccio and usually anything from their specials board. At Orris, the fried pork belly is ridiculously good, as is their foie gras. Also really enjoy the chicken skin, chicken meatballs and the gizzards there from the robata menu.

[jdwdeville]

honestly, I thought the food at Orris was very creative, the only reason I liked Robata Ya better was the fried dishes at Orris tasted as if the restaurant hadn't changed the oil in some time, and that "burnt oil" flavor threw off the delicate squash blossom dish.
oh, and Robata Ya does chicken skin yakitori. mmmm, grilled chicken skin...