Translated into English, omakase is “I will hand it over to you”, meaning that the customer wants to give himself completely to the chef.
Are you a fan of Japanese cuisine? Are you the adventurous type? If you answered yes to both of these questions, a strange thing called an omakase might be right up your alley.
Translated into English, omakase is “I’ll leave it to you,” a phrase commonly used by Japanese sushi restaurants when customers want to leave themselves entirely at the disposal of the chef, rather than ordering directly from the menu. It might be weird for some to relinquish control and let a complete stranger decide what your entire meal will be, but it’s also a fun way to experience dishes you’d normally never try in person…and you might discover some new favorites along the way!
Practitioners of omakase take omakase very seriously, and they often see it as an artistic performance for their customers; to this end, they usually ensure that the best ingredients are used in the dishes they prepare. Omakase usually involves sushi, but some restaurants also include charcuterie in their meal selections.
Below is a list of Japanese restaurants on Long Island that offer customers omakase dining options. If you like to take a walk in the wild and try new things, be sure to check out one of these!
Sushi Ko is a family-friendly sushi-focused restaurant that also serves classic Japanese entrees in a warm, modern space. They are located at 2063 Merrick Road, Merrick, NY. Phone: (516) 378-9888.
Torigo Japanese Restaurant is a highly rated restaurant in the Gardens that serves authentic Japanese cuisine. They offer a variety of rolls and tempura, and fried ice cream for dessert. They are located at 196 Jericho Turnpike in Floral Park, NY. Phone: (516) 352-1116.
Koiso Japanese Restaurant serves all the favorite authentic Japanese dishes in a family friendly atmosphere. They are located at 540 Westbury Drive, Carl Place, NY. Phone: (516) 333-3434.
A high end restaurant, usually cozy and not crowded. Reviewers say the staff cares about your experience and won’t rush you out. The food is authentic, tasty and prepared quickly. They are located at 379 S. Oyster Bay Road, Plainview, NY. Phone: (516) 719-5900.
Creative sushi and other Japanese dishes, served in a neon-lit sophisticated setting for a casual ambiance. They are located at 343 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, NY. Phone: (516) 864-0900.
Kiraku, a popular Japanese restaurant, is simple and cozy with dark wooden tables and tatami booths, serving a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, seafood and cocktails. They are located at 127 Glen Head Road, Glen Head, NY. Phone: (516) 676-3686.
Head Sushi Chef Yuki has over 30 years of experience in the art of sushi making. Takumi also offers a wide range of sake, shochu, beer and wine imported directly from Japan. They are located at 149 Veterans Memorial Highway, Commack, NY. Phone: (631) 543-0101.
