Omakase: A Unique Japanese Dining Style Where You Trust the Chef
What is Omakase?
Omakase, a Japanese term, means “I entrust it to you” (任せる/Makaseru). Derived from the verb “Makasu”, Omakase reflects complete trust in the chef. This is a unique dining style where diners do not choose the dishes but let the chef decide and serve the best dishes.
Origin and History
The Omakase style began to appear in the 1990s, when sushi was still quite new to diners. To help consumers easily enjoy sushi without worrying about choosing dishes, Omakase was born. In an Omakase meal, diners can enjoy many different dishes, from sushi, sashimi to miso soup and other diverse dishes, all selected and prepared by the chef.
Omakase Features
One of the highlights of Omakase is that diners do not choose their dishes or know the price of each dish. Instead, they put their complete trust in the chef, who will create a wonderful meal based on his creativity and skills. Diners just sit back, wait and enjoy the dishes served, while the chef ensures the quality of the dishes from fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Quality and Cost
Chefs at Omakase restaurants are often talented culinary artists with unlimited creativity. Ingredients are carefully selected to ensure freshness and suitability to the season. Because of the high artistic nature and exclusivity in the service style, the cost of an Omakase meal is often quite expensive. Diners will receive a total bill at the end of the meal.
When enjoying Omakase, you do not need to worry about your taste or specific dishes. Just trust the creativity and skills of the chef to have a unique and quality culinary experience. Omakase brings a delicate, rich and surprising meal, highlighting the essence of Japanese culinary art.
Principles to Know When Enjoying Omakase
Choose to Sit Near the Chef
In Japanese culinary culture, sitting near the chef not only helps you observe how the dish is prepared but also interacts directly with the chef. You can share information about your taste and culinary preferences, helping the chef create dishes that best suit you.
Trust and Respect for the Chef
When experiencing Omakase, it is important that you show trust and respect for the chef. Don’t let anxiety or fear interrupt your experience. Relax and wait with excitement, believing that the delicate and surprising dishes will come to you.
Don’t Ask the Price of Your Meal
When enjoying Omakase, you will not know the price of each dish and usually only receive the total bill at the end of the meal. Be mentally prepared and have a full wallet for this luxurious meal!
Why is Omakase Expensive but Still Popular?
No Need to Hesitation
Omakase is appealing because you do not have to worry about choosing dishes. Instead of thinking about choosing from a diverse menu, you just need to trust the creativity of the chef. Each dish is meticulously prepared, bringing a unique culinary experience without having to worry too much.
Provided by Professionals
Omakase chefs are often highly specialized and experienced. They have undergone extensive training in Japanese culinary arts and know how to combine ingredients creatively and harmoniously.
Sophistication in Ingredient Selection
Omakase uses high-quality and fresh ingredients. This not only ensures delicious food but also safety and nutrition. The meticulousness in choosing ingredients enhances the value of each Omakase meal.
Exquisite Experience
Omakase is not only about enjoying delicious food, but also brings a sophisticated experience from the presentation to the service. Every detail is carefully taken care of, creating a luxurious and attractive culinary experience, making spending money to enjoy Omakase worthwhile.
