Omakase Shihou - Upper East Side (Lunch Available)

- 1586 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028

In a city as culinarily diverse as New York, finding an exceptional Japanese dining experience can be both a quest and a triumph. For those of us who live and breathe the city's food scene, the word "omakase" holds a special weight—it's a trust-based culinary journey guided by the chef's expertise. Omakase Shihou on the Upper East Side is one of those rare and wonderful finds that delivers an outstanding omakase experience without the prohibitive price tag. A true "hidden gem," as one reviewer put it, this restaurant might be easy to miss if you're not looking for it, but once you step inside, you are transported to a cozy and intimate space dedicated to the art of sushi.

Omakase Shihou is a place where every detail is considered, from the freshness of the ingredients to the thoughtful presentation of each piece. It's the kind of spot that is perfect for a special occasion, a celebratory meal, or simply a night when you want to treat yourself to something truly extraordinary. The atmosphere is both cozy and trendy, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated backdrop for the culinary show. This establishment is particularly notable for making the premium omakase experience accessible, offering what many consider to be the "best omakase experience...for this price point" in all of NYC. It’s an ideal place for solo dining, a date night, or an intimate gathering with friends who appreciate the finer things in life.

This overview is designed to give you an inside look at what makes Omakase Shihou such a treasured spot among New Yorkers. We’ll explore the specifics of its location, the variety of services and features it offers, and why the food and service are consistently praised by its patrons. We’ll delve into the menu, highlighting the fresh ingredients and thoughtful pairings, and touch on the unique chef-customer interaction that is so central to the omakase tradition. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or new to the omakase experience, this article will provide you with all the information you need to understand why Omakase Shihou is a must-visit destination in New York City.

Omakase Shihou is perfectly situated on the Upper East Side, a neighborhood known for its mix of residential calm and bustling city life. Its address, 1586 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, places it on a major thoroughfare, making it relatively easy to locate. The restaurant's design as a "hidden gem" means it doesn't draw a lot of attention from the outside, but for those in the know, its location is a definite plus. For accessibility, the restaurant is well-equipped to accommodate a wide range of needs. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming experience for all guests.

For those traveling by public transportation, the Upper East Side is well-served by the Q and 4/5/6 subway lines, which are within a reasonable walking distance, a common and appreciated convenience for New Yorkers. This connectivity makes Omakase Shihou an accessible destination from various parts of the city. Parking is a mix of free and paid street options. While finding a spot in this part of Manhattan can be challenging, the availability of both free and metered street parking provides options for those who choose to drive. The location on a main avenue also makes it easy for rideshare services to find and drop off passengers, another common mode of transport for city dwellers. The strategic location of the restaurant allows it to serve both local residents and visitors from other boroughs or even tourists who are looking for an authentic and high-quality Japanese dining experience.

The surrounding neighborhood is filled with a variety of businesses, creating a lively atmosphere. However, Omakase Shihou itself offers a serene and intimate escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The combination of a central location and the intimate nature of the dining experience makes it a unique and appealing choice. The ease of getting there, regardless of your mode of transportation, is a key element of its appeal, ensuring that once you have a reservation, the journey to this culinary delight is as smooth as possible.

Omakase Shihou is dedicated to providing a high-quality dining experience through its various service offerings.

• Dine-in: This is the primary and most important service option, as the omakase experience is designed to be enjoyed at the restaurant's counter or tables. The intimate setting allows for a direct connection with the chef.
• Lunch and Dinner: The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, with a special emphasis on lunch availability, making it accessible for a midday treat or a weekend culinary adventure.
• Reservations: Reservations are required for this establishment, and dinner reservations are highly recommended. This ensures that the restaurant can provide a personalized and unhurried experience for every guest, as the omakase format requires careful planning.
• Counter and Table Service: Guests have the option of enjoying their meal at the sushi counter, which offers an up-close and personal view of the chef's work, or at a table for a more traditional dining experience. Both options are attended to with excellent table service.
• Dessert: In addition to the main courses, Omakase Shihou offers dessert, providing a sweet finish to a savory meal.

The focus on dine-in service and required reservations underscores the restaurant's commitment to creating a curated and high-quality experience for its patrons.

Omakase Shihou stands out for a number of features that contribute to its glowing reputation and loyal customer base.

• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The interior is described as both cozy and trendy, striking a balance that makes it feel both intimate and modern. This atmosphere is perfect for a quiet, focused meal.
• Onsite Bar: The restaurant has a bar onsite, offering a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including various types of sake, Japanese beers, and a well-curated wine list. This allows for excellent pairing options with the sushi.
• Healthy Options: With a menu focused on fresh fish and healthy ingredients, Omakase Shihou is an excellent choice for those looking for nutritious and delicious food.
• Chef Interaction: A key highlight of the omakase experience here is the interaction with the chef, who "explained each dish," enhancing the dining experience and educating patrons about what they are eating.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The ingredients are consistently praised for being "so fresh," with each bite being "superbly well balanced." This dedication to quality is evident in every piece of sushi.
• Gender-Neutral Restroom: The establishment features a gender-neutral restroom, a small but important amenity that speaks to the restaurant's inclusive and modern approach.

These features, from the ambiance to the quality of the ingredients and the personalized service, work together to create a truly memorable dining experience.

To book your reservation or to inquire about a meal, please use the contact information provided below.

Address: 1586 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028

Phone: (212) 980-1299

Choosing Omakase Shihou is a decision to invest in a culinary experience that is exceptional in both quality and value. What is worth choosing about this place is its ability to deliver an authentic, high-end omakase experience at a price point that is almost unheard of in New York City. As one customer passionately states, you should "RUN THERE NOW, don’t walk!!" This level of enthusiasm is a direct result of the incredible value proposition. Customers are consistently amazed at the quality they receive for about $100 per person, a price that includes not just the sushi but also cocktails, as noted in a review. This makes it a fantastic deal for the quality.

The freshness of the ingredients is a recurring theme in customer feedback. Phrases like "incredibly fresh" and "superbly well balanced in terms of flavors" highlight the meticulous care taken with each piece of sushi. The chef's consideration and attention to detail, such as dishing out pieces "at lightening speed" for a customer with a flight to catch, demonstrate a level of personal service that goes above and beyond. This attentiveness makes patrons feel valued and cared for, transforming a simple meal into a truly memorable event. The fact that the restaurant is a "hidden gem" also adds to its allure; it feels like a personal discovery you're eager to share with others. For New Yorkers seeking a high-quality, intimate, and surprisingly affordable sushi experience, Omakase Shihou is an easy and rewarding choice. It's a place where the passion for Japanese cuisine shines through in every bite, making it a destination you will want to return to again and again.

Omakase Shihou - Upper East Side (Lunch Available)

1586 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA