Backfill · 2023
#338 of 420Omakase at Sushi Nakazawa
Press shot: A single piece of nigiri sushi placed on a dark wooden counter, with the chef's hands visible in the background preparing the next piece.
I went to Sushi Nakazawa in the West Village for my birthday and the omakase format made me reconsider how I normally eat. About 20 pieces arrive over 90 minutes, each placed directly on the counter in front of you. Pacing is deliberate enough that you actually taste each piece before the next one arrives. The rice is warm, which I did not expect. Fish quality is obviously high but the real draw is how the presentation makes each piece feel like a small event. Counter seats maybe 10 people and the room is quiet. For $150 per person before drinks, it's not an everyday meal, but I wanted to try the format at least once.