America’s 9 Best Omakase Restaurants: New York City, a teeming metropolis known for some of the world’s best omakase restaurants outside of Japan, has seen an unprecedented boom in sushi popularity in the last decade, contributing to the phenomenon nationwide. Even though it is most commonly linked with sushi, the phrase “omakase,” which means “let the chef choose,” has gained considerable popularity. But its essence goes beyond this limited view and includes all kinds of food.

Speaking on behalf of New York’s highly regarded Two MICHELIN Star odo, Hiroki Odo, eloquently explains that omakase involves the chef’s careful selection of the best ingredients and the significance of seasonality, taking diners on a culinary adventure based on what’s in season. Restaurant Yuu’s Yuu Shimano takes this idea a step further by saying that omakase is about more than just the food; it’s about the whole dining experience, including the Japanese idea of omotenashi, which means “treating guests as cherished friends” through exceptional hospitality and personalized service.

Omakase is not limited to sushi alone, as is commonly believed. New York City restaurant owner Yuji Tani of HOUSE Brooklyn debunks this myth by claiming the idea works wonderfully with a wide variety of cuisines. To highlight this variety and highlight the many facets of omakase eating, we have carefully chosen a selection of top-tier American restaurants, each serving a unique take on this culinary art form

America’s 9 Best Omakase Restaurants

Hayato, Los Angeles: Nestled within the vibrant culinary landscape of Los Angeles, Hayato stands as an epitome of refined elegance, where Chef Brendan Hayato orchestrates an unparalleled kaiseki experience. Guests are treated to an intimate affair at the seven-seat counter, where each of the 13 meticulously crafted courses showcases the essence of Japanese seafood and seasonal ingredients, meticulously prepared through the five fundamental cooking techniques.

HOUSE Brooklyn, New York: Unveiling a hidden gem in the heart of Greenpoint, HOUSE Brooklyn epitomizes the fusion of French and Japanese culinary traditions. Led by Kyoto native Yuji Tani, this intimate eight-seat restaurant offers a rotating nine-course tasting menu, showcasing a harmonious blend of seasonal Japanese delicacies and French-inspired ingredients, curated with meticulous attention to detail.

odo, New York: Concealed behind a discreet door within the cozy confines of a Flatiron cocktail bar, odo emerges as a sanctuary for connoisseurs of traditional kaiseki cuisine. Chef Hiroki Odo masterfully curates an eight-course menu, showcasing the pinnacle of seasonal ingredients sourced locally and from Japan. Guests embark on a gastronomic odyssey, savoring each dish meticulously prepared to highlight the unique flavors and textures.

Restaurant Yuu, New York: Heralding a new era of fine dining in Greenpoint, Restaurant Yuu captivates discerning palates with its exquisite French-Japanese tasting menu. Under the stewardship of former Guy Savoy chef Yuu Shimano, guests are ensconced in an immersive culinary experience, where each of the 16 meticulously crafted courses unfolds like a symphony of flavors, artfully blending French culinary techniques with Japanese sensibilities.

Secchu Yokota, New York: Embark on a culinary escapade at Secchu Yokota, a quaint six-seat counter nestled in the vibrant East Village. Chef Atsushi Yokota showcases his mastery of tempura cuisine, presenting a seasonal 12-course omakase menu that seamlessly fuses traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary flair. From chilled parsnip and tofu soup to succulent tempura delicacies, each dish epitomizes the essence of culinary innovation.

Shibumi, Los Angeles: Step into the realm of culinary heritage at Shibumi, where Chef David Schlosser pays homage to ancient Japanese cooking techniques. Situated in Downtown Los Angeles, this One MICHELIN Star establishment offers an immersive eight-course tasting menu that evolves with the seasons. Dishes like steamed egg custard with house-made “bottarga” and whole yuzu filled with sweet white bean paste epitomize the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.

Torien, New York: Experience the artistry of yakitori at Torien, where Japan’s acclaimed chicken master Yoshiteru Ikegawa presents a 13-course chef’s choice menu. Located in Noho, this sleek 16-seat counter offers an unparalleled dining experience, with signature skewers like kashiwa (chicken thigh) and teba (chicken wing) showcasing Ikegawa’s mastery of traditional yakitori techniques.

Tsukimi, New York: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of modern kaiseki at Tsukimi, nestled in the vibrant East Village. Chef Takanori Akiyama crafts an 11-course menu inspired by the Japanese philosophy of “ohn-ko-chi-shin,” blending tradition with innovation to create a symphony of flavors. Each dish reflects the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence, from steamed egg custard with Dungeness crab to grilled goldeneye snapper.

Tempura Endo, Los Angeles: Indulge in a culinary spectacle at Tempura Endo, Los Angeles’ premier destination for tempura omakase. Chef Satoshi Masuda elevates fried cuisine to new heights, presenting a mesmerizing 15-course menu that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients. From delicate silver wakasagi to succulent saury, each tempura delicacy is meticulously prepared to perfection, ensuring a transcendent dining experience.

Shabushabu Mayumon, New York: Delight your senses at Shabushabu Mayumon, a hidden gem tucked away in the Lower East Side. Specializing in wagyu shabu shabu, this intimate eight-seat counter offers a 20-course tasting menu that celebrates the iconic buttery beef in all its glory. From paper-thin slices of Japanese and Japanese-American wagyu to indulgent house-made yuba wrapped around sea urchin, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering commitment to culinary excellence.

Indulge on a culinary adventure through the ever-changing world of Japanese cuisine with these extraordinary omakase experiences that push the limits of culinary innovation. From the simple sophistication of kaiseki to the irresistible aromas of tempura and yakitori, every restaurant offers a memorable culinary journey that goes beyond just providing food to become a beautiful homage to the creativity and expertise of cooking.