Tsumo Omakase

- 132 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016

In a city saturated with incredible dining options, finding a sushi restaurant that offers both exceptional quality and outstanding value is a true gem. Tsumo Omakase, located in the heart of New York City’s Kips Bay neighborhood, is that gem. The term “omakase” is a Japanese phrase that translates to “I’ll leave it up to you,” and it represents a unique and personal dining experience where you entrust the chef to create a multi-course meal from the freshest ingredients available. Tsumo Omakase has perfected this concept, making it accessible and approachable without compromising on the artistry or flavor. This article is your guide to understanding why this restaurant has become a beloved spot for those seeking an authentic and memorable sushi journey.

Tsumo Omakase is not just a place to eat; it is an experience designed to be both delicious and educational. The skilled chefs, such as the often-praised Chef Henry and Chef Andy, are not only masters of their craft but also passionate storytellers. They take the time to introduce each course, explaining the origin of the fish, the techniques used, and the thought process behind each flavor combination. This personal interaction transforms a simple meal into a meaningful event, allowing you to connect with the food and the person who prepared it. The restaurant’s atmosphere is described by patrons as warm, welcoming, and intimate, making it a perfect setting for a special occasion or a delightful night out.

The commitment to quality at Tsumo is evident in every piece of sushi. The fish is consistently described as unbelievably fresh, and the knife work is precise. The balance of seasoning and texture in each bite creates a symphony of flavors that delights the palate. While many omakase experiences in New York come with a hefty price tag, Tsumo Omakase stands out for its remarkable affordability. This makes high-quality omakase dining more accessible to a wider audience, from seasoned sushi aficionados to curious newcomers. It's a place where you can indulge in the luxury of chef-curated sushi without having to worry about an exorbitant bill.

Tsumo Omakase is situated at 132 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016, placing it in the bustling and convenient Kips Bay neighborhood of Manhattan. Its location is a major advantage for both locals and visitors. The restaurant is easily accessible via public transportation, with a short walk from major subway lines like the 6 line at 28th Street and the N, Q, R, and W lines at Herald Square. This makes it a straightforward destination for anyone coming from work, exploring the city, or meeting friends from different boroughs.

For those who prefer to drive, the area offers both free and paid street parking options, although as is typical for Manhattan, securing a spot can require some patience. The restaurant's strategic placement on a side street provides a sense of a hidden gem, allowing diners to step away from the main thoroughfare and into a more intimate dining setting. The accessibility is a key part of the restaurant’s appeal, as it removes the logistical stress often associated with dining in New York City. The central location also makes it an excellent choice for a meal before or after visiting nearby attractions.

While the Kips Bay location is the most well-known, Tsumo Omakase also has an outpost on the Upper West Side, further solidifying its presence as a reliable and high-quality sushi option across Manhattan. The straightforward and easy-to-find nature of the Kips Bay address ensures that once you’ve made a reservation, arriving is a smooth and simple process, allowing you to focus on the culinary journey that awaits. The combination of a prime location and easy accessibility makes Tsumo Omakase a practical choice for any occasion.

Tsumo Omakase’s service model is centered around its curated omakase experience, though it does offer additional options.

• Takeout: While the main focus is on the dine-in omakase experience, the restaurant does offer takeout for some of its a la carte items.
• Dine-in: This is the primary service option, where guests can sit at the sushi counter and enjoy a multi-course meal prepared and served piece by piece by the chef. The seating is communal, creating a shared and social dining environment.
• Table Service: The experience is centered on a direct interaction with the chef at the sushi bar, which serves as a form of table service, with the chef presenting each dish and explaining its details.

The emphasis on the dine-in omakase experience means that reservations are a crucial part of the process. The restaurant operates on a reservations-required basis, with specific seatings for both lunch and dinner, ensuring that each group receives the chef's full attention and the freshest ingredients of the day. This structured approach helps maintain the high quality and intimate nature of the experience.

Tsumo Omakase has several standout features that make it a highly recommended spot for sushi lovers.

• Affordable Omakase: The restaurant is celebrated for offering an exceptional omakase experience at a price point that is significantly lower than many other high-end sushi establishments in New York. This value is a huge draw for customers.
• Expert Chefs: The chefs are not only skilled but also personable and informative, enhancing the dining experience by explaining each dish and engaging with guests.
• Fresh and High-Quality Fish: The quality of the fish is a key highlight, with customers frequently raving about its freshness and the precise preparation.
• Trendy Atmosphere: The dining space is designed to be modern and chic, creating a cool and inviting ambiance.
• Extensive Drink Menu: Tsumo offers a great selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including a variety of sake, Japanese beers, and unique specialty cocktails.
• Dietary Accommodations: The chefs are noted for their ability to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as shellfish allergies, by creating alternative dishes, which is a great relief for many diners.
• Small Plates and A La Carte Options: While the omakase is the main event, the restaurant offers a la carte items for those who want to add more to their meal, such as a hand roll or a special piece of sushi.

These features, from the quality of the food to the warmth of the service, are what make Tsumo Omakase a truly special place.

For those ready to book their omakase experience, here is the essential contact information.

Address: 132 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016, USA

Phone: (425) 393-1857

Tsumo Omakase is worth choosing for several compelling reasons, but it all comes down to the exceptional value and authentic experience it provides. The restaurant successfully bridges the gap between a high-end, intimate omakase dinner and an accessible, enjoyable meal. For a fixed price, you get a multi-course tasting menu that showcases the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. As one customer review highlights, the experience is not only delicious but also meaningful, thanks to the chef’s willingness to share the story behind each dish.

The food itself is a major draw. The menu, while curated by the chef, includes impressive items like Wagyu, Hokkaido Uni, and various cuts of fresh tuna. The ability to add a la carte specials like Wagyu Uni Hand Rolls or Scallop Ebi Uni further enhances the meal, allowing you to indulge in a luxurious treat without a huge commitment. The drinks menu is also noteworthy, with a great selection of sake and Japanese beers that perfectly complement the sushi. For a first-time omakase diner, Tsumo is the perfect entry point. For a seasoned sushi lover, it's a refreshing and affordable way to enjoy a world-class experience. The combination of an intimate setting, expert chefs, incredibly fresh fish, and a price point that is hard to beat makes Tsumo Omakase a must-visit destination for anyone in New York looking for an unforgettable sushi experience.

Tsumo Omakase

132 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016, USA