Top Budget-Friendly Omakase Experiences in NYC: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding exceptional omakase in New York City without exceeding your budget is entirely possible. This guide compiles a list of the top 20 budget-friendly omakase options, focusing on quality, value, and customer satisfaction. Prices are approximate and may vary, so it's always best to check with the restaurant directly. Reservations are highly recommended, as these popular spots tend to fill up quickly.

Ranked Omakase Options

1. Sushi by M

   • Location: 75 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003
   • Menu Highlights: Known for its innovative and playful approach to omakase, Sushi by M offers unique combinations, including their signature "Big Mac" sushi featuring chopped toro, seared toro, wagyu, and uni. They offer a 12-piece omakase for $50 and a 19-piece option for $95.
   • Approximate Price Range: $50 - $95
   • Notable Features: Chef Tim Lin's creative style, intimate setting with limited seating.
   • Source: Eater NY

2. Shinn East

   • Location: 119 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
   • Menu Highlights: Seasonal omakase with standout pieces like botanebi (sweet shrimp with sea urchin) and hotate (scallop).
   • Approximate Price Range: $69 for 12 pieces of nigiri and a hand roll.
   • Notable Features: Intimate setting, fresh and seasonal ingredients, highly rated on Google Maps and Yelp.

3. Sushi W

   • Location: 2673 Broadway, New York, NY
   • Menu Highlights: Offers a 1-hour dining experience with 15 pieces of nigiri and 2 hand rolls for $68. Standout pieces include torched sablefish, silky unagi, and chutoro with salt.
   • Approximate Price Range: $53 - $68
   • Notable Features: Ideal for solo diners, known for its efficient and high-quality service.
   • Source: The Infatuation

4. Mojo Omakase

   • Location: West Village, NYC
   • Menu Highlights: Offers a 12-course omakase (2 appetizers, 10 nigiri) featuring ingredients sourced from Japanese sea markets. Includes uni, wagyu, foie gras, and multiple types of toro. Mochi dessert options are also available.
   • Approximate Price Range: $65
   • Notable Features: Creative sushi options, progressive house music ambiance.
   • Source: Eater NY

5. Sushi by Boū

   • Location: Multiple locations in NYC
   • Menu Highlights: Offers a 12-course nigiri omakase with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
   • Approximate Price Range: $60 for 12 courses, $100 for 17 courses.
   • Notable Features: Laid-back atmosphere, highly affordable, multiple locations, fast-paced experience.

6. Teisui

   • Location: 246 5th Ave, New York, NY
   • Menu Highlights: Provides three omakase options, using traditional red vinegar (akazu). The lite option includes 7 pieces and 1 hand roll, the regular option includes 11 pieces and a hand roll, and the largest option includes 16 pieces and a hand roll. Kosher options are available.
   • Approximate Price Range: $48 - $85
   • Notable Features: Traditional preparation methods, variety of omakase options.
   • Source: Eater NY

7. Sushi Lab

   • Location: 320 East 11th Street, Manhattan, NY 10003
   • Menu Highlights: Offers a 12-piece omakase, featuring thoughtfully seasoned sushi with unique flavorings.
   • Approximate Price Range: $69
   • Notable Features: Minimalist lab-like setting, sushi delivered one piece at a time.
   • Source: Eater NY

8. Sushi 456

   • Location: 456 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
   • Menu Highlights: Special sushi with eight pieces of nigiri plus a roll for $50; chirashi for $45.
   • Approximate Price Range: $45 - $50
   • Notable Features: Affordable omakase options with high-quality fish.
   • Source: Eater NY

9. Matsu Nori

   • Location: Lower East Side, NY
   • Menu Highlights: Offers a choice of appetizers like oyster with ikura, bluefin tuna sashimi, and 12 pieces of nigiri.
   • Approximate Price Range: $78
   • Notable Features: BYOB, no-frills, approachable experience.
   • Source: Eating NYC

10. Shiki

    • Location: Soho, NY
    • Menu Highlights: Seasonal ingredients with 10 pieces of nigiri and a handroll.
    • Approximate Price Range: $65
    • Notable Features: Focus on seasonal ingredients, intimate setting.
    • Source: Eating NYC

11. Sushi Kai

    • Location: West Village, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: Entry-level omakase with a variety of sushi pieces, not limited to typical salmon-tuna fare. Also offers a trio appetizer, 10 pieces of nigiri, and uni ikura don.
    • Approximate Price Range: $85
    • Notable Features: Affordable, quality sushi, suitable for first-timers and casual dining, creative toppings including truffle and yuzu, BYOB.
    • Source: Eating NYC

12. Uotora

    • Location: Crown Heights, Brooklyn
    • Menu Highlights: High-quality sushi in a less conventional location, run by experienced NYC sushi chefs.
    • Approximate Price Range: $95
    • Notable Features: Reasonably priced real estate allows for affordable high-quality sushi.

13. Uogashi

    • Location: Midtown West, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: High-quality sushi, table-serviced omakase option available.
    • Approximate Price Range: $95 (table-serviced), $185 (counter).
    • Notable Features: High-quality sushi, successor to the original East Village location.
    • Source: Eater NY

14. Katsuei

    • Location: Park Slope, Brooklyn
    • Menu Highlights: Outstanding sushi experience at an affordable price, though maki could be improved.
    • Approximate Price Range: $55
    • Notable Features: Affordable price due to less convenient location, great pictures and experience.

15. Shinzo

    • Location: 89 E 2nd St, East Village, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: Traditional omakase with great quality fish, 13 pieces.
    • Approximate Price Range: $69
    • Notable Features: BYOB option, refined traditional omakase experience.

16. Sushi Lin

    • Location: Various Locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn
    • Menu Highlights: Fresh fish sourced from the Tsukiji market, mini omakase menu available.
    • Approximate Price Range: $35 (mini omakase), $85 (12 courses), $125 (17 courses).
    • Notable Features: Multiple locations, a la carte options in Brooklyn, strictly omakase in Manhattan.

17. Thirteen Water

    • Location: 208 E 7th St, East Village, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: Nigiri pieces layered with fresh, cooked, or homemade ingredients like truffle and tomato.
    • Approximate Price Range: $75 for 13 courses.
    • Notable Features: Unique layering of ingredients, cozy and trendy ambiance.

18. Temakase

    • Location: East Village, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: Temaki (handroll) focused, fillings prepared to order, includes Salmon, Ikura, Toro Taku, and Negi Toro.
    • Approximate Price Range: $35 for 6 temaki.
    • Notable Features: Reasonably priced, unique temaki experience.

19. Moko

    • Location: 138 2nd Ave, East Village, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: Modern twist on traditional Japanese flavors, 15 courses or 18 courses available.
    • Approximate Price Range: $95 (15 courses), $120 (18 courses).
    • Notable Features: Cozy yet trendy ambiance, table and counter seating.

20. Sushi On Jones

    • Location: Lower East Side, NYC
    • Menu Highlights: Offers a casual omakase experience with dishes like tuna belly and salmon roe.
    • Approximate Price Range: $60
    • Notable Features: Known for its affordable omakase and BYOB policy.
    • Source: The Sushi Legend

Additional Considerations

While the above list provides a solid starting point, here are some additional factors to consider when choosing your omakase experience:

• Location: Consider the convenience of the location, especially if you're traveling from another part of the city. Many of the most affordable options are located in the East Village, but there are also great choices in Brooklyn, Queens, and other parts of Manhattan.
• BYOB: Several budget-friendly omakase spots allow you to bring your own alcohol, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of your meal.
• Dining Style: Some omakase experiences are more formal and intimate, while others are more casual and fast-paced. Choose a spot that matches your preferred dining style.
• Menu Variety: While most omakase menus focus on sushi and sashimi, some restaurants offer unique appetizers, cooked dishes, and desserts. Consider what type of experience you're looking for.
• Reservations: Due to their popularity, many of these omakase spots require reservations, often well in advance. Be sure to plan ahead and book your table early.
• Dietary Restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to inform the restaurant when making your reservation. Many places are able to accommodate special requests.

Pricing Trends and Observations

Based on the information gathered, here are some general pricing trends and observations:

• Budget-Friendly Range: Most budget-friendly omakase options in NYC range from $50 to $100.
• Typical Offerings: A typical omakase experience in this price range includes 12 to 15 pieces of nigiri, sometimes with a hand roll or appetizer.
• Sourcing: Many of these restaurants source their fish directly from Japan, ensuring high quality and freshness.
• Dining Time: Expect dining experiences to last between 30 and 75 minutes, depending on the restaurant and the number of courses.

Recommendations

To make the most of your budget-friendly omakase experience, consider these recommendations:

• Book in Advance: Reservations are essential for most of these popular spots.
• Check Current Pricing: Prices can fluctuate, so always confirm the current rates directly with the restaurant.
• Consider Lunch Options: Some restaurants offer lower-priced lunch omakase options.
• Be Open to Chef's Interpretations: Omakase is a chef's choice experience, so be open to trying new and unique flavor combinations.

Conclusion

Enjoying a high-quality omakase experience in New York City doesn't have to break the bank. By exploring these budget-friendly options, you can savor the artistry and flavors of exceptional sushi without compromising on quality. Remember to check the latest reviews and make reservations where necessary, as these spots can fill up quickly. Happy dining!