Omakase (お任せ) means "I leave it up to you" in Japanese. It is a chef-curated dining experience where the sushi master selects and serves seasonal dishes based on the freshest ingredients available that day.

What First-Timers Need to Know:

• Book reservations weeks in advance
• Inform the restaurant of allergies beforehand
• Arrive 5–10 minutes early
• Expect 10–20 courses over 90 minutes to 2 hours
• Trust the chef's expertise completely

What Is Omakase and Why Is It Different?

Unlike ordering from a menu, omakase dining places complete trust in the chef's craftsmanship. You sit at a counter, watch the itamae (sushi chef) prepare each piece by hand, and receive courses one at a time. The experience combines culinary artistry, seasonal ingredients, and direct interaction with the person creating your meal.

This differs from kaiseki, which follows a fixed multi-course structure rooted in tea ceremony traditions. Omakase is more spontaneous—the chef adjusts courses based on your reactions and pace throughout the meal.

Typical Omakase Course Flow

Course	Japanese Term	Description
Appetizer	Zensai	Light seasonal starter
Sashimi	Otsukuri	Raw fish slices
Grilled Dish	Yakimono	Charcoal-grilled seafood
Steamed Dish	Mushimono	Delicate steamed preparation
Nigiri Sushi	Nigiri	8–12 pieces, the main event
Soup	Osuimono	Clear or miso soup
Dessert	Kanmi	Light seasonal sweet

The progression moves from lighter, delicate flavors toward richer, more complex tastes. Each course builds upon the previous one, creating a complete sensory journey.

Essential Omakase Etiquette for First-Timers

Proper etiquette shows respect for the chef's craft and enhances your experience. These guidelines apply whether you dine in Tokyo, Bangkok, or New York.

Before You Arrive:

• Make reservations early—popular spots book weeks ahead
• Communicate dietary restrictions when booking
• Avoid wearing strong perfume or cologne

During the Meal:

• Greet the chef with "konbanwa" (good evening)
• Eat each piece within 30 seconds of receiving it
• Use fingers or chopsticks for nigiri—both are acceptable
• Dip fish-side into soy sauce, not the rice
• Consume each piece in one bite
• Say "oishii" (delicious) to compliment the chef
• Place chopsticks on the hashioki rest, never across your plate

After the Meal:

• Say "gochisosama deshita" (thank you for the meal)
• Tipping customs vary by country—not expected in Japan

Omakase Price Range: What to Expect

Pricing varies based on location, chef reputation, ingredient sourcing, and course complexity. Here is a reference from Yuzu Omakase in Siam Square, Bangkok—one of Thailand's top-rated omakase destinations:

Course Level	Price (THB)	Experience
Omakase Course 3500	฿3,500++	Lunch only, ideal for first-timers
Omakase Course 5500	฿5,500++	Entry-level dinner experience
Omakase Course 7500	฿7,500++	Premium seasonal selection
Omakase Course 9500	฿9,500++	Extended multi-course journey
The Experience 15000	฿15,000++	Elevated ingredients, intimate service
The Symphony 20000	฿20,000++	Signature experience with rare delicacies
Blue Diamond	฿50,000++	Ultra-premium, 7-day advance booking required

Note: ++ indicates prices before service charge and VAT

For first-timers in Bangkok, the lunch course at ฿3,500 offers an excellent introduction without overwhelming commitment. Dinner courses starting at ฿5,500–7,500 provide a more comprehensive experience with premium seasonal ingredients.

Is Omakase Worth It for First-Timers?

Omakase offers value beyond the food itself. You receive personalized attention, seasonal ingredients at peak freshness, and an educational experience as chefs explain each course. For sushi enthusiasts curious about authentic Japanese dining culture, the investment delivers a memorable culinary journey.

First-timers often discover new favorites they would never have ordered independently. The chef reads your preferences throughout the meal, adjusting subsequent courses based on your reactions—creating a truly personalized experience.

Key Takeaways for Your First Omakase

✓ Book reservations well in advance and communicate allergies when booking

✓ Arrive on time—lateness disrupts the carefully timed service flow

✓ Trust the chef completely and embrace the element of surprise

✓ Eat each piece immediately and in one bite for optimal flavor

✓ Engage respectfully with the chef—questions are welcome

✓ Allow 90 minutes to 2 hours for the complete experience

Frequently Asked Questions

What does omakase mean? Omakase translates to "I leave it up to you" in Japanese. When ordering omakase, you trust the chef to select the best dishes based on seasonal availability and their expertise.

Can I request specific items during omakase? Generally, you should avoid making requests during the meal. Inform the restaurant of allergies and strong dislikes when booking, but embrace the chef's selections once seated.

How many courses are in omakase? Most omakase meals include 10–20 courses, though this varies by restaurant. Courses typically include appetizers, sashimi, nigiri sushi, and dessert.

Should I use chopsticks or hands for sushi? Both methods are acceptable. Many traditionalists prefer using fingers for nigiri, as it provides better control and avoids compressing the rice.

How long does an omakase meal last? Expect 90 minutes to 2 hours for a complete omakase experience. Premium establishments with more courses may extend to 2.5 hours.

Is omakase suitable for picky eaters? Omakase works best for adventurous diners willing to try new items. If you have many restrictions, consider a la carte sushi dining instead.

When should I take photos during omakase? Ask the chef for permission first. If allowed, photograph quickly when each piece is served, then eat immediately—letting sushi sit diminishes the experience.