Discover the best budget-friendly omakase experiences in New York City. Whether you're a seasoned sushi enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this comprehensive ranking of the top 20 budget omakase restaurants in NYC offers something for everyone. Each selection includes detailed pricing, key highlights, and insights into the quality and atmosphere to help you make an informed choice.

1. Omakase Room by Shin

• Price: $175 for 14 courses
• Location: Midtown
• Highlights: Enjoy a seasonal seafood journey curated by Chef Shin Yamaoka, featuring peak ingredients and a minimalist setup.
• Atmosphere: Intimate and sleek with an eight-seat counter, perfect for a personalized dining experience.
• Source: Thrillist

2. Sushi Noz

• Price: $150 for lunch omakase
• Location: West Village
• Highlights: Features traditional Edomae-style sushi with high-quality fish sourced directly from Japan.
• Atmosphere: Elegant and serene, focusing on craftsmanship and a refined dining experience.
• Source: Eater NY

3. Sushi by M-East

• Price: $80 for a set omakase
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Offers high-quality sushi at an affordable price with friendly and attentive service.
• Atmosphere: Casual and welcoming, suitable for all types of diners.
• Source: The Sushi Legend

4. Fuku Omakase

• Price: $75 - $100
• Location: West Village
• Highlights: Creative and elegant sushi with torched kanpachi and buttery sablefish, plus no corkage fee for BYOB.
• Atmosphere: Warm and inviting, ideal for a relaxing meal.
• Source: Timeout

5. DOMODOMO

• Price: Around $100 for omakase menu
• Location: 140 W Houston St, New York, NY 10012
• Highlights: Michelin bib gourmand dining with innovative dishes like blue crab hand roll and tobiko pasta.
• Atmosphere: Chic and modern, offering a versatile menu in a stylish setting.
• Source: Eater NY

6. Sushi Katsuei

• Price: $85 for omakase
• Location: Multiple locations in NYC
• Highlights: Traditional techniques with fresh, high-quality ingredients at an affordable price.
• Atmosphere: Laid-back and friendly, focusing on customer satisfaction.
• Source: Thrillist

7. Tanoshi Sushi

• Price: $75 for a set omakase
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Great value for quality sushi with an intimate, cozy setting.
• Atmosphere: Small and welcoming, creating a personal dining experience.
• Source: NoSleep City

8. Sushi on Jones

• Price: $85 for omakase
• Location: Lower East Side
• Highlights: Fresh ingredients and a relaxed vibe, perfect for a laid-back meal.
• Atmosphere: Casual and inviting, suitable for every occasion.
• Source: Eater NY

9. Matsu Nori

• Price: Under $100
• Location: Lower East Side
• Highlights: An approachable omakase experience with a choice of appetizers like oyster with ikura and uni.
• Atmosphere: Friendly and comfortable, ideal for both newcomers and regulars.
• Source: Eating NYC

10. Sushi Dojo

• Price: $100 for omakase
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Focus on traditional techniques with excellent service and high-quality fish.
• Atmosphere: Warm and welcoming, fostering a sense of community among diners.
• Source: Thrillist

11. Uogashi

• Price: $100 for a set omakase
• Location: Midtown
• Highlights: Fresh fish flown in from Japan with creative and seasonal dishes.
• Atmosphere: Casual and vibrant, perfect for sushi aficionados.
• Source: Eater NY

12. Yasaka

• Price: Under $100 for omakase
• Location: Upper West Side
• Highlights: Traditional Edomae-style sushi focusing on high-quality, fresh ingredients.
• Atmosphere: Elegant yet unpretentious, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Source: Timeout

13. Gouie

• Price: Under $100
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Known for its high-quality sushi and affordable omakase options.
• Atmosphere: Relaxed and modern, catering to a diverse clientele.
• Source: Thrillist

14. Kosaka

• Price: Under $300
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Offers a blend of traditional and innovative sushi creations led by Chef Yoshi Kousaka.
• Atmosphere: Small and ambient, creating an intimate dining experience.
• Source: The Sushi Legend

15. Sushi Kazu

• Price: $80 for lunch omakase
• Location: Midtown
• Highlights: Fresh fish and traditional flavors offering excellent value.
• Atmosphere: Cozy and intimate, ideal for sushi lovers seeking a personal touch.
• Source: NoSleep City

16. Sushi Tatsu

• Price: $75 for a set omakase
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Affordable prices with high-quality sushi prepared by skilled chefs.
• Atmosphere: Casual and friendly, great for families and groups.
• Source: Thrillist

17. Sushi Taro

• Price: $85 for lunch omakase
• Location: East Village
• Highlights: Authentic Japanese flavors with outstanding presentation.
• Atmosphere: Traditional and inviting, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Source: Eater NY

18. Sushi Yasu

• Price: $100 for omakase
• Location: Midtown
• Highlights: Unique flavor profiles with seasonal dishes that keep the menu fresh and exciting.
• Atmosphere: Modern and stylish, perfect for a memorable date night.
• Source: NoSleep City

19. J’s Kitchen New York

• Price: Reasonably priced omakase options
• Location: Various Locations
• Highlights: Overseen by Chef Sumimura, ranked among Japan's top 50 chefs, blending traditional Japanese recipes with locally sourced ingredients for cost-effective meals.
• Atmosphere: Cozy and welcoming, maintaining authenticity and quality without the high price tag.
• Source: J’s Kitchen New York

20. Sushi Katsu

• Price: $70 for a casual omakase
• Location: Midtown
• Highlights: Offers great value with friendly service and quality sushi.
• Atmosphere: Casual and relaxed, ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Source: Thrillist

Additional Recommendations

• Sushi Dojo - $65-$125, East Village. Known for its traditional techniques and excellent service.
• Noz 17 - Starting at $465, West Village. Michelin-starred with a highly personalized dining experience.
• Shinn East - $69 for 12 nigiri and a hand roll, East Village. Intimate setting with high-quality fish.

Key Observations:

• Most budget omakase experiences range from $50 to $200, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets.
• BYOB policies are common and can help reduce overall dining costs.
• The East Village and Midtown are hotspots for affordable omakase, providing numerous high-quality options.
• Quality varies, but many restaurants offer exceptional fish sourced directly from Japan, ensuring a memorable sushi experience.

Recommendations:

• Make reservations in advance as budget omakase spots are popular and can fill up quickly.
• Check current pricing and menu options, as rates may fluctuate based on seasonal availability.
• Consider BYOB options to manage your total dining expenses without compromising on quality.
• Explore different neighborhoods to find unique settings and specialties that match your preferences.

Embark on a culinary journey through NYC’s vibrant sushi scene without breaking the bank. These top 20 budget-friendly omakase restaurants offer a blend of traditional and innovative sushi experiences, ensuring that every sushi lover can find something to delight their palate.