From the Chef’s Table: A Beginner’s Guide to Omakase

Omakase is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary adventure where you place your trust in the hands of a skilled chef, allowing them to create a personalized dining experience just for you. The word “omakase” means “I leave it up to you,” and it embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery. You may hear “kaiseki” which is a meal consisting of dishes served in a specific order based solely on seasonal produce. When you sit down for an omakase meal, you aren’t just eating, but you’re part of an experience with carefully selected ingredients, masterful techniques, and the chef’s artistic vision.

Each course is a surprise and is meticulously crafted to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chef’s expertise. Omakase is based on the reactions of the customer, taking their likes and dislikes into account. For beginners, omakase is the perfect way to dive into Japanese cuisine, as it offers a unique opportunity to experience a variety of flavors and textures you might not have ordered on your own. It’s a dining experience that is intimate and exciting. In this article, we will cover all the tips and tricks for those looking to try this omakase experience in Japan!

What To Expect

When you opt for an omakase experience, you can count on the chef to take the lead and make a personalized meal just for you. Expect an intimate atmosphere where the chef is your guide, and will curate your meal in courses. Each dish is a reflection of the season’s best ingredients, prepared and presented with artistic flair! Here is a typical step-by-step of an omakase experience:

Personalized Menu: The chef will create a unique menu for you, based on the fresh ingredients available for the day. There is no set menu with omakase, and the chef may change your next dish based on your reaction to the course!

Seasonal Ingredients & Local Delicacies: Dishes are crafted with the best ingredients of the season, which ensure peak flavors and freshness. Omakase has evolved to include a wide range of Japanese foods like nigiri, sashimi, tempura, and dashi.

Interaction with the Chef: You’ll have the chance to engage with the chef, learning about each dish as it’s prepared and served. Omakase experiences are hosted directly in front of the chef, so you will get a chance to see everything up close.

Artistic Presentation: Every course is presented with an eye for detail, making the meal as visually stunning as it is delicious. Chefs have the chance to be innovative with their selection of dishes and how it is presented. This creative freedom allows for some amazing courses that you may not find elsewhere!

Wide Range Of Flavors: Expect a variety of dishes that showcase different textures, flavors, and culinary techniques. This could be anything from delicate sashimi to rich, savory bites.

Create Your Plan

Planning your omakase experience is key to ensuring you get the most out of this dining adventure! Omakase restaurants can range from high-end, Michelin-starred restaurants to more affordable, yet equally impressive, hidden gems. Consider your budget, location, and the type of experience you’re looking for when planning your visit.

Set A Budget: Omakase can vary widely in price, so decide how much you’re willing to spend and seek out restaurants within that range. Since there is a set amount of courses, there will typically be a price for the type/number of courses you would like to receive.

Choosing The Setting: Whether you’re looking for an intimate, upscale environment or a more casual vibe, pick a setting that will fit your preferences. Depending on the amount of people joining your dining experience, you may need to look for a bigger or smaller omakase restaurant.

Plan Ahead: Oftentimes, you will need a reservation a few months in advance to secure a spot at very popular Omakase spots. Not to worry – there are amazing restaurants that can be booked just a few days in advance!

*Additionally, be sure to check if the restaurant can accommodate young children or any allergies/food restrictions you may have.

Research

Researching where you go for omakase is crucial, as the experience can differ significantly from one restaurant to another. Use a mix of resources to find the best spots to align with your budget and expectations. It may be best to visit the restaurant’s website rather than a third-party website when making a reservation in case any changes need to be made.

Michelin Guide: Check the Michelin Guide for top-rated omakase restaurants. These may be quite pricey compared to other options and depending on the popularity, need to be reserved months in advance.

Reddit/Social Media: Dive into travel and food communities for recommendations, reviews, and insider tips from fellow foodies.

Explore Different Price Points: Look at both high-end and more affordable options to find a restaurant that offers the experience you’re after within your budget.

Read Reviews: Research customer reviews to get a sense of the dining experience, quality of service, and atmosphere at each location.

Etiquette

When it comes to omakase, a little bit of etiquette goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Many omakase restaurants are intimate and high-end, so it’s best to dress smartly – business casual or elegant attire is typically appropriate. Also, as a general cultural rule, try to avoid wearing any perfume, lotion, or products with strong scents due to the intimacy of the dining experience. Oftentimes, the overpowering scents can disrupt the ambiance and subtle aroma of the dishes.

While enjoying your meal, be mindful of your behavior to respect the chef and fellow diners. Talking should be kept to a minimum, especially during the serving and savoring of each course, allowing everyone to appreciate the flavors. Flash photography is generally discouraged, as it could be disruptive. If you do wish to take photos, do so discreetly and without flash.

Here are some of my favorite Omakase restaurants to visit:

Tokyo

Sushi Umi – https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/77

Udatsu Sushi – https://www.udatsu-sushi.jp/en

Ginza Saisho – https://saisho.net/menu

Osaka

Sushidokoro Amano – https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/179

Jinen – https://jinen.org/content1/unagidani/

Sushi Hasegawa – https://www.sushi-hasegawa.com/

Kyoto

Sushi Gion Matsudaya – https://gion-matsudaya.com/en/

Fujiwara – https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26032207/

Muromachi Wakuden – https://www.wakuden.jp/

Sapporo

Sushisai Wakichi – https://www.tableall.com/restaurant/103

Sushi Musou – https://sushimusou.com/en/index.html

Sushi Watanabe – https://www.sushi-watanabe011.com/

Fukuoka

Kiku Zushi – http://kikuzushi.org/

Yoshitomizushi – https://yoshitomi-sushi.com/

Sushi Gyoten – https://gyoten.jp/en/

Embracing the omakase experience is a journey into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition. From the careful planning and research to understanding the nuances of etiquette, every step adds to this unique dining adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious beginner, omakase offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore new flavors, engage with skilled chefs, and an experience to immerse yourself in a truly personalized meal. By respecting the customs and savoring each moment, you’ll not only enjoy an amazing meal but also gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and culture that make Omakase so special. The next time you’re looking for something extraordinary in Japan, trust the chef and let Omakase guide you through a culinary experience like no other.

Featured Photo Credit: Ginza Saisho

Love Japanese cuisine? In addition to booking an Omakase restaurant, why not explore more flavors of Japan with one of our locally guided food tours?