4.9
- 4.9Food
- 4.8Service
- 4.8Ambience
- 4.7Value
Noise • Moderate
2026
From the OpenTable editors: Spearheaded by acclaimed chef Bill Taibe, Kawa Ni brings a playful, masterfully executed take on the traditional Japanese izakaya to Bridge Square. The cozy Saugatuck River gem—anchored by vintage posters and warm woodwork—has an inventive menu focusing on rich noodle bowls, Szechuan dumplings, and unique pub snacks. A stellar selection of sake and rare Japanese whiskeys rounds out an elite, high-energy dining experience.
Our AI assistant, Concierge, is here to answer your questions about this restaurant.
OpenTable reviews from verified diners
Reviews from people who have dined at Kawa Ni - Westport.
4.9
Noise • Moderate
Connecticut
Best Overall
Connecticut
Best Food
Fairfield
Best Overall
Fairfield
Best Food
Fairfield
Healthy
Jeffrey
San Francisco2 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
Is this helpful?
Patrick
New York City2 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
Is this helpful?
Chandler Gold
Greater Boston13 reviews
Dined on October 24, 2026
Is this helpful?
Lee Anne
Grand Rapids1 review
Dined on October 23, 2026
Is this helpful?
Roselle
Unspecified2 reviews
Dined on October 21, 2026
Is this helpful?
grace
New York City8 reviews
Dined on October 17, 2026
Is this helpful?
Craig Gold
New York City4 reviews
Dined on October 16, 2026
Is this helpful?
Jordan Gold
Palm Springs58 reviews
Dined on October 14, 2026
Is this helpful?
Greg
New York City29 reviews
Dined on October 1, 2026
Is this helpful?
Meg
New York City5 reviews
Dined on September 27, 2026
Is this helpful?
October 3, 2026
Kawa Ni has participated in Restaurant Week for at least four years and sees slightly more business during the event. It is offering a $25 lunch prix fixe.
Published in Westport Journal
February 4, 2025
Bill Taibe now owns Kawa Ni in Westport, while Massimo Tullio takes over Don Memo and The Whelk. Taibe also owns Kawa Ni’s Denver location.
Published in Connecticut Post
February 3, 2025
Bill Taibe takes ownership of Kawa Ni in Westport and Denver under the partners ’ new arrangement. The article describes Kawa Ni as a Japanese izakaya-style pub.
Published in Westport Journal
Sundays are a favorite, guests note Kawa Ni can be packed on Sunday evenings and offer a great booth experience; Thursdays also shine for the Wagyu/burger Thursday special.
Yes, Kawa Ni is frequently recommended for date night, with guests praising its cozy, modern izakaya vibe and reporting lovely anniversary and couple visits.
Portions at Kawa Ni tend to be generous, guests mention large ramen bowls, a broccoli salad that's easily enough for two, and many parties saying they over-ordered.
Casual dress, comfortable, informal clothing is appropriate; nothing formal is expected.
Yes, Kawa Ni welcomes families: guests report dining there with children, there’s a sizable kids’ ramen option, and staff are attentive; booths or lower tables are often suggested for younger children.
Kawa Ni feels like a stylish, modern izakaya, warm wood, Japanese-inspired decor, and a vibrant, energetic dining room; guests also note the space can be on the louder side and dimly lit.
For a calmer visit, try lunch (Tue–Sat, 12:00–2:30 pm), many guests praise the lunch service; dinner, especially weekend evenings, tends to be livelier and often busy, so reserve or try the bar.
How FAQ content is generated