Nagomi — Restaurant in New Orleans

Sushi is sushi. Right? Wrong, VERY wrong! I’m not sure if I want to talk about sushi, the experience, the atmosphere, or the laughs first, because all of it was beyond what I thought some sushi for dinner was going to be. So, this is how it goes . . . This remarkably thought out restaurant exceeded any “sushi” experience I’ve ever had. There are two gentlemen doing the entire thing. When you go, let them tell you their story, you’ll enjoy it. I’m almost sure I fell madly in love with Eli! Kaz is very mysterious and only speaks here and there. The sushi chef, Kaz, is so focused and intentional on his craft. I spent a large portion of the evening watching his hands gently create each guest’s plate. His movements were smooth and familiar and he never missed a beat. Eli, Eli, Eli … he was as indescribable as the food. The guy's spirit is infectious and, frankly, I felt like we were friends from the moment we got there. If you don’t adore these guys after an evening with them .. umm, you and I probably won’t really get along. I saw a post that used the word, ‘Joie de vivre’, as a description for them and I can’t think of a better way to encompass them! JOY! The room was full of joy. Being with my good friends and their family, sharing a casual evening filled my spirit. What an honor that people so full of life shared their night with me. The restaurant is one room that seats 12 guests. In fact, that’s all that’s in there for each reservation. There are reservations available at 6p or 8pm Wednesday - Saturday and, currently, they’re booked until the end of September; for good reason. I have thought about how to describe the food and well, I can’t. I don’t know what to say to impress upon you what you’ll experience when eating at Nagomi NOLA. You just have to do it. Frankly, in my mind, this place is how all my meals should be. The fish was so fresh, the ingredients as well, and the thought and detail that went into the pairing of the items was and is something I don’t know how to do. Eli explains, in detail, each dish as you receive it and as you’re eating you can find each thing individually and collectively. I don’t think I have the proper words in my arsenal to give justice to my evening … I would, however, encourage you to have one of your own. This place...

"WOW" is the first word that comes to mind when describing the dining experience Kaz and Eli have provided at Nagomi. Located in the historic Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, Nagomi stands as the only Omakase style restaurant in the city, offering a new genre of dining typically reserved for only the largest metropolitan areas or Japan.

Omakase roughly translates to "I entrust that you will serve me yummy things at your discretion", and you are no doubt in expert hands with Kaz. His fusion style of sushi dished out over the multi-course dinner reflects a level of passion, perfection of craft, and attention to detail that I have not experienced in my many years of culinary adventurism. All of this served within a restaurant personally designed by Kaz with the same thoughtfulness that he applies to his sushi.

Equally a part of the experience at Nagomi, you will have another master of his craft in Eli serving you from start to finish. He is methodical in his execution, yet has a charm and liveliness that makes you want to stay for just one more bottle of sake. I should mention here that they do also have a generous assortment of sake from which to choose or be recommended.

Overall the dining experience is absolutely a must for anyone living in New Orleans or anyone visiting who enjoys sushi or trying something new. I am truly happy to have this gem right here in my hometown. Be warned though - after the last course has been served and your evening is nearing its end, you will be left with some entanglement of emotions. I'd compare it to summiting the peak of a mountain, and then having to take those steps back...

We ate here tonight and I am in awe. I did not take any pictures because having your phone out feels like it would ruin the experience. This was like an art exhibit with food. The food was absolutely delicious from the very first serving, surprisingly getting better with each course. Something I did not know was possible being the first course was better than anything I ever tasted. Hosting 16 people Chef Kaz and Elijah kicked ass and made the experience one I will not forget and one I want to experience again. Watching Chef Kaz masterfully craft each dish as you eat the previous one, was absolutely mesmerizing. With every bite you instinctively close your eyes and get transported to a world of flavors in your mouth. Elijah has the most welcoming warm charm that made service feel grand. 1000/10 I recommend. Everything about this experience was exceptional and delightful. These two men absolutely killed it. Thank you for an out of this...