The Beginning

The roots of SAPPS began where SHI Owner, Shih Lee used to eat as a teenager in the East Village. A no frills, authentic Japanese restaurant serving izakaya style dishes before the popular explosion of Japanese food on St. Marks Place.

Fast forward to 2017, the vision starts with a determination to create a similar experience in LIC, but with a modern NYC vibe

SHI bartender Eric Lehrer, along with long-time waiter Selix Lai have partnered with Shih Lee, the well known owner of the Center Boulevard restaurant SHI to make this dream a reality.

“Shih has been a mentor to me,” Lehrer said, adding that he has learned a great deal about the restaurant industry from his long-time boss. “He is like an older brother.”

Our goal is to provide an upbeat spot for Manhattan residents that will be much more than a just a restaurant.