Mr. Nobu’s Sushiya — Restaurant in Tulsa

Atmosphere and Service

Mr. Nobu’s atmosphere is a refined blend of simplicity and modern design. The interior pairs classic red, black, stone, and wood with well-spaced, comfortable tables. Neon signage adds a contemporary edge, while koi fish and cherry blossom motifs bring in traditional charm. It’s elegant and rooted in wa—perfect harmony. A hidden door leads to a traditional sushi bar, offering an elevated omakase experience that may be among the finest in Oklahoma. excellent service was provided throughout the evening.

Dining

Mr. Nobu’s sushi rice is the best in Oklahoma and matches the likes of Mako in Chicago,

Crab Cakes

The first test came with the dreaded eel sauce and extra spicy mayo—and Chef Snow nailed it. Golden brown, delicately crisp on the outside, the crab cakes delivered a layered bite: soft, sweet crab melting into a creamy spice, then finishing with a bold jalapeño smoke that lingered just long enough. Americanized, yes—but rendered with skill and respect.

Crispy Lotus Root

Visually striking and texturally complex. The lotus root provided a sturdy crunch, while the tuna tartare blanketed the bite with velvety richness. Each element had purpose—the black garlic soy and hatch chili sauce offered smoky depth, while the roasted shishito hinted at bitter earth. A compelling bite with a surprise touch of char that kept pulling me back.

Hamachi Sashimi

Thinly sliced yellowtail presented beautifully, though the ponzu veered too acidic, drowning out some of the fish's more delicate flavors. That said, the jalapeño slice added a welcome kick, and the roe brought necessary texture and saline pop. A dish that came close—but ultimately leaned too far toward boldness at the cost of balance.

Volcano Roll

An American classic, elevated. The spicy mayo was used with restraint, allowing the seafood—scallop, crawfish, mussel—to show through. Each bite was warm, creamy, and rich, but still let the texture and flavor of the shellfish speak. Easily one of the most successful volcano rolls I’ve had in Tulsa.

Dressed Nigiri

Part of the omakase plate, each piece was thoughtfully composed. The otoro was a marvel—unctuous, rich, and nearly A5 wagyu in mouthfeel, coating the tongue in silken harmony. The chutoro was lifted with lemon zest and shiso, bringing brightness and lift to an otherwise buttery bite. The hamachi and mauro were well-prepared, but the hotate was overwhelmed by fiery yuzu kosho, masking the scallop’s gentle sweetness. Still, overall, an impressive display of technique and restraint.

Shrimp Boat

Visually dramatic, this dish promised indulgence and delivered—almost. The firm shrimp, quail egg, and roe made for an engaging, layered texture. Unfortunately, the aggressive acidity from ponzu and Tabasco overwhelmed the palate.

Matcha Tres Leches

Silky, creamy, and visually appealing, this dessert leaned toward familiarity over innovation. The three-milk base was well-balanced and not overly sweet, but the matcha and coconut played only supporting roles. A dusting of matcha added just enough bitterness to lift the bite, but the overall effect was more restrained than memorable.

Yuzu Cheesecake

Bright and beautiful, this cheesecake was a standout. Notes of citrus cut through the richness with precision, while nutty sesame at the base added grounding texture. Each bite shifted gracefully from tart to creamy to toasty, making for one of the most thoughtfully constructed well composed cheesecakes in Tulsa.

Sake Crème Brûlée

The custard was velvety and perfectly set, with subtle sake notes warming the finish. A whisper-thin brûlée shell cracked delicately under the spoon, giving way to a creamy core that lingered with elegance. Refined, precise, and...

After arriving for our reservation, we were invited to sit where we liked, including the sushi bar. The host pulled open a sliding door (which I had assumed was a wall), and we found ourselves in an intimate setting, hidden almost, transported away from south Tulsa and into the best sushi dining experience of my life. My partner, who had lived several years in Japan, said it was the best sushi she's had since returning to the States.

I can't recommend the nigiri enough. Carefully, thoughtfully prepared. You don't need to add your own wasabi or dunk it or drown it it anything. Each order of nigiri is like two copies of a brief poem, perfect for sharing.

I'm eager to return and try the old fashioned again, this time with a Japanese whiskey described to me as being aged in a cherry...

Just tried out Mr. Nobu for the first time and wow… easily a 10/10 experience. From the moment I walked in, the vibe was on point — clean, modern, but still warm and welcoming. The ambience hit that perfect balance of chill and classy without trying too hard.

Now the food… insane. Every bite had that perfect texture — like, you can tell they really care about how everything’s prepped and presented. Super fresh, well-seasoned, and just melts in your mouth. I legit couldn’t pick a favorite dish because everything was fire.

Service was great too — friendly, quick, and on top of it without being overbearing. You can tell they know what they’re doing.

Highly recommend checking it out. Easily one of the best new spots I’ve been to in a while. Will...