Omakase in NYC: A Guide to Chef-Curated Sushi Experiences

Omakase, a Japanese term meaning “I’ll leave it up to you,” is a dining experience where chefs craft a multi-course meal tailored to the freshest ingredients available. In New York City, omakase has evolved from a niche sushi tradition into a cultural phenomenon, with counters ranging from intimate eight-seat hideaways to lavish Michelin-starred venues. This article dives into the world of omakase in NYC, covering the best spots, price points, locations, hours, reservation platforms, and what makes each experience unique.

The Rise of Omakase in NYC

Over the past decade, omakase has surged in popularity across the U.S., but nowhere is this more evident than in NYC. The city’s diverse culinary scene and access to high-quality seafood—often flown in daily from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market—have made it a global hub for sushi. From exclusive counters charging upwards of $600 per person to more accessible options under $100, NYC’s omakase scene caters to every budget and palate. The appeal lies in the trust placed in the chef, the artistry of each bite, and the intimate setting, often limited to a handful of diners per seating.

According to industry estimates, NYC now boasts over 140 omakase restaurants, a number that continues to grow despite economic pressures like rising food costs and high rents. This boom reflects a shift in dining preferences, with New Yorkers seeking curated, high-quality experiences over traditional fine dining. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a first-timer, the city offers an omakase for every occasion.

What to Expect from an Omakase Meal

An omakase meal typically includes a series of courses—anywhere from 10 to 20—featuring appetizers, nigiri, sashimi, hand rolls, soups, and desserts. Chefs often employ Edomae-style techniques, emphasizing aged fish, house-made soy sauces, and perfectly seasoned rice. The setting is usually a minimalist counter where diners watch the chef’s knife work up close. Some venues incorporate theatrical elements like caviar-topped nigiri or gold leaf garnishes, while others stick to purist traditions.

Reservations are almost always required, often booked weeks or months in advance for high-end spots. Punctuality is critical, as seatings are tightly scheduled. Many restaurants use platforms like Resy or Tock for bookings, while others rely on their own websites or phone lines. Some even offer BYOB policies to keep costs down.

Top Omakase Restaurants in NYC

Below is a curated selection of some of the best omakase in NYC, spanning high-end splurges to affordable omakase NYC options. Each has been verified for accuracy as of June 2025, with details on pricing, addresses, hours, and booking methods. Note that prices exclude tax, gratuity, and beverages unless stated otherwise, and menus may vary seasonally.

High-End Omakase: Splurge-Worthy Experiences

Masa

The only three-Michelin-star Japanese restaurant in NYC, Masa offers an unparalleled experience under Chef Masa Takayama. Expect luxurious ingredients like Osetra caviar, truffles, and A5 Wagyu. The $950 price includes service but not drinks or tax. Located in Columbus Circle, it’s a bucket-list destination for sushi lovers. Bookings are highly competitive, so plan months ahead via their website or phone.

Yoshino

With one Michelin star and a top ranking on Opinionated About Dining’s 2025 North America list, Yoshino delivers a $646 omakase that’s both artistic and precise. Chef Tadashi Yoshida, who relocated from Japan, serves unique dishes like cod semen alongside pristine nigiri. The 10-seat counter on the Bowery is wheelchair-accessible, and reservations open 30 days in advance.

Sushi Noz

This Upper East Side gem, priced at $495, is renowned for its Edomae-style sushi and rare Tamo Ash wood counter. Chef Noz’s 20-course menu includes seasonal nigiri and grilled nodoguro. Bookings are available via Tock, with seatings at 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM. The restaurant’s meticulous attention to detail makes it a standout.

Shion 69 Leonard Street

Priced at $375, Shion offers an eight-seat counter experience led by Chef Shion Uino, formerly of Tokyo’s Sushi Saito. The menu emphasizes traditional techniques and fish sourced from Japan. Two seatings per night (6:00 PM and 8:30 PM) ensure an intimate vibe. Reserve via Tock.

Jōji

Hidden beneath One Vanderbilt, Jōji’s $375 dinner omakase features five appetizers and 15 nigiri, blending traditional and modern flavors. The $275 lunch option is a relative bargain. The space, designed by Shinichiro Ogata, pairs a vibrant playlist with impeccable sushi. Book via Resy for lunch or dinner.

Affordable Omakase: Quality Under $125

Sushi Katsuei

A favorite for value, Sushi Katsuei offers a $60-$65 omakase in Park Slope and the West Village, featuring nine nigiri and a hand roll. Highlights include firefly squid and barracuda, with fish quality rivaling pricier spots. BYOB is allowed, keeping costs low. Book via Resy for nightly seatings.

Sushi by Bou

With multiple locations, including Times Square and the West Village, Sushi by Bou delivers a fun, accessible omakase starting at $60 for 12 courses. The $100 17-course option adds sashimi and appetizers. The casual vibe and late hours (up to 11:00 PM) make it ideal for spontaneous dinners. Reserve via Resy.

Shiki Omakase

For $100-$115, Shiki in the West Village serves 12-18 courses, including standout A5 Wagyu and uni nigiri. The cozy 10-seat counter is perfect for date nights, and BYOB is available with a corkage fee. Bookings are available on Resy, with strong reviews praising the attentive staff.

Uogashi

Located in the Theater District, Uogashi offers three omakase tiers ($95, $135, $175) with 12-18 courses. Owned by a Japanese fish supplier, it ensures high-quality seafood at reasonable prices. The $95 option is a great entry point for omakase newbies. Book via Resy.

Booking Tips and Reservation Apps

Securing a spot at NYC’s top omakase counters can be challenging, especially for high-end venues like Masa or Sushi Noz. Here are some tips:

• Use Reservation Platforms: Resy and Tock are the go-to apps for most omakase restaurants. Set notifications for openings and check cancellation policies, as spots often free up last-minute.
• Plan Ahead: High-end spots like Yoshino and Shion release reservations 30-60 days out. Affordable options like Sushi Katsuei may have more availability but still book up for prime weekend slots.
• Consider Lunch: Restaurants like Jōji offer lunch omakase at lower prices, often with shorter waitlists.
• Third-Party Services: For sold-out venues, platforms like AppointmentTrader allow users to buy verified reservations from others, though prices can exceed face value. Use cautiously and verify legitimacy.
• BYOB Options: Spots like Sushi Katsuei and Shinzo allow BYOB, which can save on beverage costs. Check corkage fees in advance.

Unique Omakase Experiences

NYC’s omakase scene is as diverse as the city itself. For a theatrical vibe, Trust Bae in Brooklyn offers a $60-$100 omakase with caviar, truffles, and free soju shots in a nightclub-like setting. For a speakeasy twist, The Office of Mr. Moto requires decoding a cipher to enter and serves a $185 menu with historical Japanese sushi styles.

If you’re after off-the-beaten-path locations, Noksu in a former barber shop under the Martinique New York hotel offers a $225 omakase, while Shota Omakase in Williamsburg, a Michelin-starred counter, provides a $175 experience near Domino Park. These hidden gems combine exclusivity with exceptional quality.

Omakase Etiquette and Tips

To make the most of your omakase experience, keep these pointers in mind:

• Arrive on Time: Seatings are synchronized, and tardiness may disrupt the chef’s flow.
• Trust the Chef: Avoid requesting substitutions unless you have dietary restrictions, which should be communicated during booking.
• Eat Promptly: Nigiri is best consumed immediately to enjoy the rice’s warmth and the fish’s texture.
• Interact Respectfully: Feel free to ask about the fish or techniques, but let the chef focus on their craft.
• Tip Generously: Service is often included at high-end spots, but for others, 20% is standard unless noted.

The Future of Omakase in NYC

As NYC’s omakase scene continues to evolve, new counters are opening in neighborhoods like Harlem and Queens, driven by rising demand and creative chefs. While high-end spots face scrutiny for platinum-card pricing, the proliferation of affordable options ensures accessibility for a broader audience. Posts on X reflect this enthusiasm, with users praising venues like Yoshino for Michelin-star quality and deals like Sushi Masu’s $149 two-person omakase.

Whether you’re splurging on a once-in-a-lifetime meal at Masa or savoring a $60 omakase at Sushi by Bou, NYC’s omakase restaurants offer a spectrum of experiences that celebrate Japanese tradition and culinary innovation.

Pairing Omakase with NYC’s Culinary Scene

Omakase doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s part of NYC’s vibrant food culture. Consider pairing your sushi experience with a visit to nearby izakayas, ramen shops, or dessert spots. For example, after dining at Sushi Nakazawa in the West Village, stop by Dominique Ansel Bakery for a cronuts, or head to Sake Bar Decibel in the East Village post-Shinzo for a nightcap. These pairings enhance the evening while showcasing the city’s culinary diversity.