SHOGUN OMAKASE | Manhattan Sushi Restaurant — Restaurant in New York

5.23.2023

When visiting New York City, one must indulge in the incredible Omakase experience. Personally, I have a deep appreciation for Japanese cuisine, particularly Omakase, where the chef takes the reins and decides what to serve. NYC offers a plethora of options when it comes to Omakase, each offering a unique experience based on the price point. In my opinion, they can be grouped into three tiers: essential ($60-150), middle ($180-250), and high-end ($300 and above). The disparity in service, ambiance, fish selection, and preparation is evident across these tiers. Depending on the occasion, budget, and expectations, I have had fantastic experiences exploring various Omakase restaurants in NYC.

Recently, Shogun, a new establishment, opened its doors in midtown NYC. My friends Brooke Silvey, Savannah Bennett, and I had the opportunity to check out their soft opening dinner menu. We opted for Option A, a 15-course Omakase priced at $100. This experience included 2 appetizers, 10 pieces of nigiri, 1 Hokkaido uni rice dish, 1 hand roll, and a dessert.

Due to underestimating the notorious New York traffic, we were running a bit late. However, the staff graciously accommodated us upon arrival. We had booked seats at the counter, which, in my opinion, is the best way to enjoy an Omakase experience. I relished being able to witness the chef in action, as I'm always captivated by the process.

We started off with some sake, which was served in a sleek sake dispenser. Both appetizers were phenomenal—the abalone was tender, and the lobster tarts were bursting with flavors. The presentation of both appetizers was impeccable. The nigiri was incredibly fresh and delicious. Throughout the course of the Omakase, we enjoyed nigiri featuring scallop, kampachi, skipjack tuna, black cod with truffle, strapjack, king salmon, bluefin tuna, and otoro. The pacing was perfect, and we never felt rushed. The experience was more relaxed compared to higher-tier Omakase establishments, allowing us to engage in great conversations and share hearty laughter over delectable sushi. The Hokkaido uni rice was a delight, offering an incredible umami taste. I also thoroughly enjoyed the hand roll. Additionally, we were treated to a delightful waffle filled with tobiko. The Omakase experience ended on a high note with an exquisite ice cream sandwich.

I wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone seeking a fun, relaxing, yet high-quality...

I had been eager to try this place after reading the reviews, especially the omakase box to-go, which is on the pricier side at $68. Finally, I made a reservation with a friend for her birthday, and they kindly gifted her a can of sake, which was a nice touch.

Unfortunately, the experience was underwhelming and a bit of a letdown. It felt like they were trying too hard, focusing more on elaborate toppings than on the quality of the fish itself. The toppings didn't complement the fish well, and the combination felt forced, detracting from the overall authenticity of the meal. I wasn't surprised to learn that the restaurant is Chinese/Taiwanese-owned rather than Japanese.

We opted for the $150 omakase set B, which includes 19 courses--four appetizers, 11 pieces of nigiri, uni rice, a wagyu tasting, a hand roll, and dessert. The crab and lobster appetizers seemed frozen, and the lobster was overcooked and tough. The oyster appetizer, loaded with fish eggs, cucumber, and way too much mayonnaise, was overwhelming and unbalanced. The wagyu tasting was fine, though the chef recommended pairing it with cucumber to balance the flavors, alongside some strawberries. I didn't really get the idea behind that pairing--it felt unnecessary. The wagyu would have been fine on its own with foie gras, fish roe, and uni, without the added distractions.

The nigiri pieces were decent, but none of them stood out as particularly memorable.

At this price point, the meal is certainly a good value, but I wouldn't return. It seems they tried to be innovative with the flavors and combinations, but in doing so, they sacrificed authenticity and the natural taste of the fish. It...

We came here to celebrate my partner’s birthday, as we’ve been to about 6 different omakase experiences in the past couple years and have loved the variety of each, this was no exception—but may i say how wonderful it was now?

Atmosphere was clean and warm, with wood and stone features, plates, and interior. We were kindly able to move up our reservation from 5:00 to 4:40 as we had arrived in the city quite early. The staff was all wonderful and had made note from my reservation that it was a birthday celebration which is always SO appreciated, as i know it’s not always something spaces do or are even expected to. Service: so kind and attentive, everyone was very sweet to us and our chef seemed genuinely happy to talk about the selections for the day. Food: The best part, was immaculate. Truly a story telling of food that we enjoyed every single piece of. Variety, artistry, elegance and fresh. We went with the $150 19 course selection which came with 4 appetizers, 11 pieces of nigiri, 1 hand roll, a gorgeous wagyu sampler and dessert. (Forgive me if I missed anything, there was so much food and certainly worth the price) The appetizers were inventive and well presented, the sushi was classic and took us through this beautiful little adventure of light to deeper and rich flavors. Drinks: we got a bottle of cold sake which was served in a sort of wine chilling contraption that was not only a fun spectacle to look at and use, but very functional in keeping our alcohol chilled. Truly, truly a wonderful experience and would absolutely recommend. Thank...