TAKUMI OMAKASE Introduce
In a city as dynamic as New York, finding a dining experience that is both intimate and exceptional can feel like a rare discovery. TAKUMI OMAKASE, a premier Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of the Lower East Side, is one such hidden gem. The name "Omakase" translates to "I leave it up to you," and that is precisely the philosophy that guides every meal here. The chefs curate a multi-course, seasonal menu, allowing diners to surrender to a culinary journey of fresh, diverse, and artfully prepared dishes. This is not just a place to eat; it is a cozy and trendy sanctuary where the meticulous craftsmanship of Japanese cuisine is celebrated. With its focus on high-quality ingredients and a personalized experience, TAKUMI OMAKASE has become a cherished spot for those seeking an unforgettable dinner or a unique solo dining adventure.
TAKUMI OMAKASE is situated at 181 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, a prime location in the vibrant and bustling Lower East Side. This neighborhood is known for its rich history and contemporary cultural scene, making it a destination in itself. While the restaurant may have an unassuming storefront, it is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation. For guests with mobility needs, the venue is considerate and provides a wheelchair-accessible restroom, ensuring that everyone can dine comfortably. Its location is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy an exquisite meal before or after exploring the area's many attractions, from art galleries to the nearby Essex Market.
TAKUMI OMAKASE's dining experience is built on a specific and highly curated model to ensure quality and exclusivity.
- Dine-in Only: The restaurant focuses solely on providing an immersive dine-in experience. There are no options for takeout or delivery, as the omakase meal is designed to be savored in the moment, with each course presented and explained by the chef.
- Reservations Required: To maintain the intimate atmosphere and ensure every guest receives the highest level of service, reservations are required. Guests can book their table in advance, which is highly recommended for both lunch and dinner, as the limited seating often leads to a waitlist. This planning ensures a seamless and personal dining journey from the moment you arrive.
- Table Service: The restaurant features a traditional sushi bar, where diners can sit and watch the chefs work their magic. This close proximity to the culinary artists enhances the entire experience. The staff and chefs are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, providing excellent table service and creating a welcoming and engaging environment.
- Catering: While the primary focus is the in-house dining experience, TAKUMI OMAKASE also offers catering for private events, bringing the quality and artistry of their cuisine to your special occasion.
What makes TAKUMI OMAKASE a standout destination is its dedication to key elements that elevate the dining experience beyond just the food.
- Intimate Atmosphere: With its cozy and trendy setting, the restaurant provides an intimate dining environment. The sushi bar seating allows for direct interaction with the chefs, creating a personal and memorable experience.
- Premium & Fresh Ingredients: The foundation of their omakase menu is a commitment to sourcing the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Customers consistently rave about the incredible freshness of the fish, from yellowtail to shellfish, and the care with which each piece is prepared.
- Chef Interaction: A significant part of the TAKUMI OMAKASE experience is the interaction with the chefs. They not only prepare each dish with care but also take the time to explain the ingredients and the inspiration behind each course, making the meal an educational and engaging journey.
- Specialty Offerings: Beyond the standard omakase courses, the restaurant often has rotating specials and can tailor the experience to a diner's preferences, showcasing a diversity that keeps the menu exciting and unique with every visit.
- Health-Conscious Options: The menu's focus on fresh, clean ingredients naturally provides healthy options for diners, allowing for a guilt-free indulgence in exquisite flavors.
- Happy Hour: While it is a high-end experience, TAKUMI OMAKASE also offers a happy hour with drinks, including beer and other alcoholic beverages, providing a perfect way to start the evening.
For more information or to make the required reservation, you can contact TAKUMI OMAKASE directly.
- Address: 181 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, USA
- Phone: (646) 998-3030
Choosing TAKUMI OMAKASE means opting for an authentic and high-quality omakase experience that strikes a rare balance of luxury and accessibility. The fixed-price, multi-course meal eliminates the need to pore over a menu, allowing you to fully trust the chef's expertise and focus on the pleasure of the food. The rotating menu, which adapts to the freshest seasonal ingredients, ensures that no two visits are exactly alike.
The culinary journey typically includes a variety of meticulously crafted dishes, from appetizers to a selection of nigiri and hand rolls. Customers have singled out particular highlights, such as the Oyster with Yuzu Cream and Salmon Roe and the King Salmon, which is described as melting in your mouth. The diverse range of options, including both seafood and beef, ensures a well-rounded and delightful experience.
The chefs are a key part of the experience, with reviewers consistently praising their skills, kindness, and ability to make each guest feel special. This high level of personal attention, combined with the a la carte specials you can try after the main courses, makes TAKUMI OMAKASE an exceptional value for the quality of food and service. Whether you are a seasoned omakase enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the combination of incredibly fresh fish, the aesthetic and cozy atmosphere, and the knowledgeable, friendly staff makes this restaurant a must-visit destination in the Lower East Side. It’s the perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion, treat yourself, or simply enjoy a moment of culinary bliss in the heart of New York City.
TAKUMI OMAKASE Details
Service options
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Happy hour drinks
- Healthy options
Dining options
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Trendy
Planning
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
TAKUMI OMAKASE Photos










TAKUMI OMAKASE Location
TAKUMI OMAKASE Reviews
chefcoursebarnigiriBYOBfoie grasunagia5 wagyufoamking salmon
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1🦋 I could honestly eat this every single day. The food at Takumi Omakase was so fresh, so diverse, and absolutely wonderful. From yellowtail to shellfish, shrimp, and even beef options, every dish was crafted with so much care. We had something tailored to us based on our preferences, and I enjoyed every single bite. The chef was amazing, and the whole experience felt special from start to finish. Such a perfect spot to unwind after work or fuel up before a night out—I went at 6:15 PM and it set the tone for a great evening.
September 04 · Maya AcraAmazing omakase! Very nice chefs and servers. The food is incredible. They have rotating specials you can try after you finish the courses. Highly recommend this restaurant!
June 29 · Raymond CollinsTakumi Omakase is the best affordable choice for an omakase experience in NYC. They offer a $89 15 course omakase and a cheaper and a cheaper off menu omakase for slightly less and two less courses. Each hand crafted course is meticulously prepared in front of you and explained. Everything we tasted was extremely delicious and fresh. The flavors were unique and thoughtfully constructed with flavors and texture playing wonderfully together. You can ask for the amount of wasabi to be adjusted to your preference too. Takumi also offers complementary sake which was delicious.
July 08 · Matthew Frankowskieasily one of my favorite omakase spots. love interacting with our chef and constantly checking up on us. every piece of fish was fresh and can’t wait to come back!
May 20 · Cheryl WooHad a lovely omakase dinner. BYOB is the cherry on top. Chefs were knowledgeable and it’s definitely a fun date night spot. Favorite bites of the night were the hamachi appetizer with grape tomato and the unagi with foie gras. Already have recommended this to my friends!
July 17 · linagee
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