We had the pleasure of dining at Sushi Katsuei, and I can confidently say that it was an unforgettable culinary experience. From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere that set the stage for what would be an exceptional meal.
We opted for the omakase, which is a traditional Japanese dining style where the chef selects and serves a series of dishes based on the freshest ingredients of the day. This experience allows diners to sit at the counter right in front of the sushi chef, creating an intimate interaction as they prepare each piece of sushi right before your eyes. It's a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and precision that goes into crafting each dish, while also receiving personal attention and insights from the chef about the ingredients and flavors.
Our sushi chef was not only skilled but also incredibly friendly and engaging. He made us feel right at home and took the time to explain each dish as it was presented, sharing stories about the fish and its origins. It was clear that he had a deep passion for his craft, which made the experience all the more enjoyable.
The sushi itself was outstanding. Each piece was a work of art, showcasing fish from all over the world, with a particular emphasis on selections from the waters south of Japan and Cape Cod. The freshness and quality of the fish were truly remarkable. From buttery tuna to delicate flounder, each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor. The chef’s expert knife skills and attention to detail were evident in every piece, making the omakase a true testament to the artistry of sushi making.
One of the highlights was the chef’s unique presentations and the thoughtful combinations of flavors. It was evident that each dish was carefully curated to provide a perfect balance of taste and texture. The accompanying sauces and garnishes enhanced the experience without overpowering the freshness of the fish.
Furthermore, my husband, who is gluten-free, appreciated that the chef was accommodating and made adjustments based on his dietary needs. This level of consideration added to our positive experience, as it allowed us both to enjoy the meal without any concerns.
The intimate setting of Sushi Katsuei added to the experience, allowing for a personal connection between the chef and the diners. The ambiance was relaxed, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a memorable night out.
In conclusion, Sushi Katsuei exceeded all my expectations. The omakase was a culinary journey that showcased the best of what sushi has to offer, all while being guided by a friendly and talented chef. If you’re a sushi lover in NYC, I highly recommend making a reservation at Sushi Katsuei. It’s an experience that celebrates the art of sushi and will leave you craving more long...
Read moreI would give a Zero star if that was an option.I live nearby and went last night ( Friday night) at 8:30 pm, with a reservation for two for table since bar was only for Omakase, they told me over phone (my companion has been to their Brooklyn original so we wanted to try this place). The minute we sat down, the waiter was very pushy we order alcohol and suggested what we should each have. I didn't even want alcohol but we ordered a sake carafe, which was the tiniest flask I have ever seen at a Japanese restaurant, at 30 dollars (it barely poured two tiniest cups each). Then he told us we should order Omakase for $60 each, but we said we just wanted two Sushi Deluxe, which costs $32 each, and he said NO, we must order appetizer too. There was no mention of a minimum order in the menu, and we repeated we just want the Sushi Deluxe each. He insisted the order could take a long time and we must order something else to fill the time, and suggested what else we should order from the menu. We told him we do not want to order extra of what we do not want, but he insisted we order it. I have NEVER in decades of living in Manhattan been at a restaurant, Friday night or not, of being forced to order an extra dish when we said we didn't want it, and made to feel so unappreciated as customers when we were already ordering a sizable entree each. It was DEEPLY unpleasant and offensive, and RUINED our night. This restaurant does not realize people come to restaurants to enjoy the experience, not be "told" what to order for them to just make a buck. As I said , I do live in the neighborhood, and I generally live on Sushi as my outing food of choice and would have been a regular if the food was good (yes, been to Japan several times on foodie trips etc), but I never experienced it as I left right after finishing that meager tiniest sip of sake. It was simply one of the worst restaurant...
Read moreExtremely unprofessional host interrupted my partner and I during her birthday dinner 90min saying to me that there was another reservation afterward. He kept saying that when the reservation was made (over a week ago) that we were told this on the phone: I was absolutely not told. Omakase depends on the speed with which your sushi chef delivers the pieces to you. Our chef was slammed, putting together takeout orders between platings. We were not stalling or waiting for long periods of time to eat our fish. The host also did not provide a solution, instead kept saying I was told on the phone that this was a short seating. I asked what he wanted me to do when there were about four more platings to sit through? He had no answer because all of the other tables in the restaurant were full anyway. To be interrupted in this way, when purchasing a $375.00 meal is the most absurd and awful experience I have ever had in a restaurant in my life, and I have also been a server for six years, some in fine dining. The chef was waving the host away, the waiter apologized to us profusely. Despite this clear error and rudeness, only my partner's birthday dessert was comped. I don't even care about the comping or money in the end, it's that we never received an apology. The chef was amazing and the food was delicious, and I have been coming to Katsui Brooklyn and Manhattan for over 8 years. This restaurant will no longer be on my list after this awful experience. There are other reviews here with similar comments. I truly hope they adjust their seatings to accommodate a better experience, especially when demanding a premium...
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