Three Upscale Omakase Restaurants Set to Open in Midtown Manhattan This Fall
Midtown Manhattan is poised to enhance its reputation as a sushi haven this fall with the debut of three upscale omakase restaurants, each offering a unique take on Japanese cuisine. The area, long known for its high-powered executives and affluent tourists, has been a hotspot for sushi since the 1970s, and these new establishments are set to raise the bar even higher.
First among them is Mako, a Midwestern import where the omakase experience begins at $350. This location is designed to be more refined than its Chicago counterpart, which earned a Michelin star in 2020. With only 12 seats available, diners can expect a personalized experience as two sushi chefs cater to six guests each. Mako aims to impress with a detailed menu that includes two types of rice, elevating the traditional sushi experience.
Next, across Bryant Park, is the Kumiko Room, a 14-seat sushiya named for the intricate Japanese wood assembly style that decorates its interior. Chef Yoshihiko Kousaka, a veteran of New York's sushi scene, will offer a $325 seasonal menu featuring delicacies such as striped jack and bluefin tuna marinated in a blend of bonito broth, soy sauce, and Japanese cooking wine. Kousaka emphasizes a return to the classic omakase style, focusing on the quality of rice and fish, with a limited number of appetizers before the main sushi course.
Finally, Sushi Yoshitake, led by renowned chef Masahiro Yoshitake, promises to blend Edomae sushi refinement with New York's vibrant culinary scene. Although prices are yet to be announced, this marks the first time a Michelin three-star sushi chef has brought his expertise from Japan to New York. Yoshitake, who has not worked in the city since 1989, expresses excitement about reconnecting with diners and their perceptions of sushi today.
Interestingly, all three sushiya are part of larger multi-concept establishments. Mako is located within Shaver Hall, occupying the former Lord & Taylor building, while Kumiko Room is one of three restaurants at One Bryant Park, where additional culinary ventures are also in the works. Sushi Yoshitake is part of the ambitious 550 Madison project, which includes a Korean steakhouse and a brasserie.
What sets these new openings apart is their sense of exclusivity, with each restaurant featuring discreet entrances or hidden locations. This design encourages patrons to enjoy a full evening of dining experiences, from cocktails at Bar Chimera to an exquisite sushi meal at Sushi Yoshitake, all within the same venue. As these establishments prepare to open, they promise to contribute significantly to Midtown's already vibrant sushi scene.
