Where to Experience Japanese Omakase on Long Island

LongIsland.com

Translating into English as “I'll leave it up to you,” omakase is when the customer wishes to leave themselves completely in the hands of their chef.

Print Email
Are you a fan of Japanese cuisine? Are you the adventurous type? If you answered “yes” to both of those questions, then a curious thing known as “omakase” might be right up your alley.
 
Translating into English as “I'll leave it up to you,” omakase is a phrase that is typically used at Japanese sushi restaurants when the customer wishes to leave themselves completely in the hands of their chef, as opposed to ordering à la carte directly off the menu. For some people, giving up control and letting a complete stranger decide what your entire meal be may be odd, but it’s also a fascinating way to experience dishes that you might ordinarily have never sampled on your own…and you might just discover a few new favorites along the way!
 
Omakase is taken very seriously by its practitioners, who often will view it is an artistic performance for their customers; to that end, they will usually be sure to use the very finest ingredients in the dishes they prepare. Omakase often involves sushi, but there are restaurants that will include cooked items in their meal choices as well.
 
Here’s a list of Japanese restaurants on Long Island that have omakase dining options for their patrons. If you’re feeling like a walk on the wild side and trying something new, be sure to check one of them out!
 
 
Sushi Ko
Sushi Ko is a sushi-centric, family-friendly restaurant that also serves classic Japanese entrees in a warm, contemporary space. They are located at 2063 Merrick Road in Merrick, NY. Phone: (516) 378-9888.
 
 
Torigo
Torigo Japanese Restaurant is a highly rated eatery in Floral Park serving authentic japanese cuisine. They offer a roster of rolls and tempura, plus fried ice cream for dessert. They are located at 196 Jericho Turnpike in Floral Park, NY. Phone: (516) 352-1116.
 
 
Koiso
Koiso Japanese Restaurant serves all the most popular authentic japanese dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere. They are located at 540 Westbury Avenue in Carle Place, NY. Phone: (516) 333-3434.
 
 
Miko Sushi & Hibachi
A high end restaurant that is typically cozy and not crowded. Reviewers say that the staff cares about your experience and does not rush you out. The food is authentic, tasty, and it is prepared quickly. They are located at 379 S. Oyster Bay Road, Plainview, NY. Phone: (516) 719-5900.
 
 
Kashi
Inventive sushi and other Japanese fare served in a lofty, neon-lit setting with a loungey feel. They are located at 343 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, NY. Phone: (516) 864-0900.
 
 
Kiraku Japanese Restaurant
Kiraku is a popular japanese restaurant serving a wide array of sushi rolls, sashimi, seafood & cocktails in a simple, snug room with dark-wood tables & tatami booths. They are located at 127 Glen Head Road, Glen Head, NY. Phone: (516) 676-3686.
 
 
Takumi
Sushi Chef Master, Yuki, has over 30 years experience in the art of creating sushi. Takumi also offers a wide range of Japanese imported sake, sho-chu, beer and wine straight from Japan. They are located at 149 Veterans Memorial Highway, Commack, NY. Phone: (631) 543-0101.