The Best Omakase Restaurants Across America

Japanese for “I will leave it to you,” omakase offers seafood experts a whole new way to enjoy sushi. And, as of late, the foodie trend has been taking the U.S. restaurant scene by storm. If you have yet to embrace this totally freeing, traditional Japanese dining experience—which involves a chef-curated meal that prioritizes the day’s freshest picks—you’re in for a flavorful (and very personal) treat. Not sure where to start, but only want best? Then follow our nationwide guide to the finest omakase restos.

Shuko, New York

At first glance, you may never guess this Union Square eatery is one of Manhattan’s omakase must-visits, due the building’s nonchalant exterior. Inside, guests will discover Chefs Nick Kim and Jimmy Lau thoughtfully crafted menu that uses the best local and international fish selections, as well as other ingredients that Lau grows and forages himself—from star peas to sunchokes. Shuko asks sushi enthusiasts to choose between two menus—Sushi Omakase or Sushi Kaiseki. Adventurous eaters will want to opt for the latter: A multi-course tasting menu that also offers chefs the opportunity to showcase their French culinary training.

Sushi Nakazawa, New York

Another NYC omakase-must? Sushi Nakazawa. Situated in Greenwich Village, this chic sushi hangout—helmed by Chef Daisuke Nakazawa—promises to put your taste buds to the ultimate test with a 20-course meal. As goes for any omakase restaurant, try to sit at the bar if you can—you’ll want to be as close to the chef as possible. Here, get inspired by their fall menu.

Robin, San Francisco

A hip and colorful spot to nosh on pristine dishes from the sea, Adam Totosa’s contemporary SF eatery offers a more flexible omakase experience by dividing the menu into lean fish, fatty fish, not fish, and hand rolls. Depending on your hunger level and preferences, you can opt for more or less food,  as Totosa’s omakase-style menu operates on a sliding scale. Meal options range from $79-$179.

n/naka, Los Angeles

Devoted to an ever-changing menu, this LA-based hotspot is constantly adapting their menu to what’s currently in their private garden. Chef Niki Nakayama’s consistently engaging, curated offerings come in two forms: a modern kaiseki menu (approximately $185) and a vegetarian taste testing menu (approximately $160).

Otoko, Austin

Open to small parties only, this intimate, 12-seat omakase destination at the South Congress Hotel blends Tokyo-style sushi and Kyoto-style kaiseki into one noteworthy tasting menu that’s selected and prepared by Head Chef Yoshi Okai on a daily basis. Texans craving a solo sushi night need not look further.

O Ya, Boston

Decidedly the most expensive omakase eatery around, O Ya couples their set-menus with out-of-this-world prices—but, trust us, it’s worth every cent. When you sit by the bar, the build-up doubles as a grand performance. And the bite? A museum-worthy work of art. This is one stream of steady regulars you’ll want to join.