By now, any even moderate-level foodie would have probably heard of ‘Omakase’. What is this Japanese dining experience about, and where can you experience one? Here’s all you need to know and how to make your table reservation!

What does Omakase mean?

Loosely translated, Omakase means “I’ll leave it up to you” in Japanese, meaning you are essentially ‘respectfully leaving another (the Chef) to decide what is best’.

How is Omakase different from a regular dining experience in a Japanese restaurant?

Usually, going to a Japanese restaurant means you make your own meal choices, either choosing what you would like to order from the menu, or picking the food items yourself from a buffet spread.

In an Omakase dining experience, you are leaving it up to the Chef to decide your multi-course menu, allowing your Chef to serve you seasonal and personal specialties.

What if I have specific meal preferences or allergies?

It is advisable to inform the restaurant (either when making your table booking or at least when you arrive) of any food allergies you might have such as if you are lactose intolerant, allergic to nuts, etc. However, it is important that when booking yourself for an Omakase meal that you remain open-minded and allow the Chef’s selection to surprise you!

What kind of dishes can I expect from an Omakase meal?

It is not unusual for Omakase dining to offer multiple courses (even up to 20 courses)! Expect a truly quality selection of Japanese ingredients covering appetisers, sushi and sashimi, hot dishes and even a dessert. As always, the menu will be decided by the Chef, with some restaurants changing up their Omakase selection regularly.

Is Omakase a super exclusive dining option only available at 5-star hotels?

While it can be considered a kind of ‘haute dining’ experience, the popularity of Omakase has made it more accessible in recent years. Besides reputable Japanese restaurants within hotels, more standalone restaurants around the Klang Valley are offering an Omakase menu. And while it is highly recommended that you experience Omakase as a dine-in meal, some restaurants are even offering children’s menu, allowing Omakase to be enjoyed as a family.

So how much will an Omakase meal cost?

Depending on a number of factors including the grading of the restaurant, the popularity of the Chef, as well as the kind of Omakase menu you might select (sushi only, sushi and hot dishes, etc), an Omakase meal in the Klang Valley might range anywhere between RM200 to RM1,200/++ per person.

Check out the GemSpot app to see a list of restaurants offering Omakase dining, and book your table today!