What is the Omakase Experience in Sydney?

What does Omakase mean?

Loosely translated in Japanese to "I'll leave it up to you", the roots of this dining process were said to have come about in the Edo period (1603 to 1868)– with the term only catching on in the 1900s. 

As the definition stands, patrons yield to whatever the chef chooses to plate up, making the entire journey from start to finish an exhilarating experience. Because it is up to the person in the kitchen, diners only get the freshest and highest quality ingredients sourced.

How does Omakase work?

What does an omakase restaurant look like? Normally taking place in a seat-by-seat setting, where guests face the chef behind their preparation counter, the experience involves the chef having full control of the menu to create a sequence of dishes based on the freshest ingredients available. The idea is to give guests the chance to try what the chef recommends while also showcasing their culinary skills. 

Unlike a typical restaurant meal where diners choose from a menu (à la carte), omakase allows the chef to craft a bespoke dining process tailored to the preferences and seasonal ingredients. A dish featuring a specific ingredient is placed in front of you at small intervals, and it is expected of you to finish it before the next one is served. 

This gives diners a chance to enjoy and reflect on each serving, relishing its flavours and the craft behind it. How long omakase takes does depend on the restaurant, however, do expect to put aside at least two hours as a safe bet.

This dynamic approach means that no omakase meals are ever the same, offering each person a new experience every time.

Popularity over the years

The rise of omakase in Sydney can be attributed to many factors. As it offers an unparalleled level of personalisation, quests can trust the chef's expertise and creativity, knowing that each dish is made with care and precision. This element of surprise and trust makes for an exciting and adventurous dining experience.

Omakase also showcases the highest quality of ingredients– sometimes even rare or scarcer ones. The freshest seafood, premium meats, and seasonal produce are sourced by the kitchen or restaurant, ensuring that each dish is a true reflection of the best the market has to offer. As a result, it is mainly the reason why omakase is considered fine dining in its truest form. 

Another allure of omakase is its intimate setting. Across many, if not all, there is often a limited seating arrangement. Diners are encouraged to interact directly with the chef and gain insights into the preparation and inspiration behind each dish, so limited seating allows for both parties to achieve this. 

Yoshii’s Omakase at Nobu Sydney

At Crown Sydney, we pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional omakase experience. Chef Ryuichi Yoshii brings years of expertise and a passion for culinary innovation to the table, ensuring that each piece plated before you is both delightful and unique.

When you choose omakase at Nobu, you embark on an adventure where each dish is a surprise. From the moment you sit down, you are in the capable hands of our skilled chef who meticulously selects and prepares each course. The menu evolves with the seasons, incorporating the freshest seafood, premium cuts of meat, and vibrant produce.

Our omakase experience typically begins with a series of delicate and flavourful appetizers. These might include fresh sashimi or a creative take on traditional Japanese small plates. Each bite is designed to get you on the edge of your seat and set the stage for the courses to come.

As the meal progresses, diners can expect a variety of dishes that showcase Yoshii’s prowess. From perfectly seared fish to intricate sushi rolls, each course is a testament to his skill and creativity. 

Beyond Yoshii’s Omakase, the city's dining scene offers several other amazing omakase experiences. It’s a vibrant and highly sought-after culinary experience all done at the hands of highly skilled chefs.

With this being said, Japanese omakase aren’t the only options available to Sydneysiders, innovative Korean fusions and even Cantonese influences are melding into the omakase experience. As long as the intimacy and artistry of these meals remain key elements, we will continue to see the city cement its status as the destination for incredible omakase.

The growing popularity of this Japanese dining tradition in Sydney reflects a broader trend towards more personalised and experiential dining. As more people seek out new ways to be captivated by their meals, the personal connection and creativity behind this historical process is why it remains a prominent feature of Sydney's vibrant dining scene. One could even say that some of the best omakase comes out of this city.

Join us today at Crown Sydney and discover the traditional artistry and craft that defines this incredible gastronomical experience.