Omakase

Omakase

The ordering style where you entrust your dish selection to the chef.

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“Omakase” refers to the style of ordering in a restaurant where customers entrust all selections to the chef rather than choosing from the menu. While it originated as a unique culture in Japan, it has now crossed oceans like “sushi” and “kawaii,” becoming one of the most well-recognized Japanese words worldwide.

Omakase is a word that politely expresses the verb “to entrust,” meaning to leave the selection to someone else. It primarily refers to a style of ordering commonly found in Japanese restaurants, where instead of choosing dishes from the menu, customers entrust the selection to the chef and eat what is provided.
Distinct from omakase, there is another similar-sounding expression: “osusume.” “Osusume” is a polite form of the verb “to recommend,” meaning to suggest a choice to someone else.

Highlights

  • Omakase is a style of ordering where customers entrust the selection of dishes to the chef.
  • When ordering omakase, customers are served with dishes that make use of fresh ingredients procured on the day or high-quality ingredients in good condition.
  • It offers the opportunity to communicate with the chef and experience a sense of unusualness and specialness.
  • According to one theory, it originated in sushi restaurants during the Edo period (1603-1868).
  • Besides sushi restaurants, there are other types of eateries where customers can order omakase.

Photos

  • You can also order omakase at places like yakitori restaurants, not just sushi restaurants.

    You can also order omakase at places like yakitori restaurants, not just sushi restaurants.

  • With omakase, you can enjoy seasonal ingredients at their peak freshness.

    With omakase, you can enjoy seasonal ingredients at their peak freshness.

  • Enjoy interacting with the chef and savor their craftsmanship.

    Enjoy interacting with the chef and savor their craftsmanship.

Details

Name in Japanese
おまかせ
Word meaning
to entrust the choice to someone else
Types of restaurants where omakase orders are possible
・ Sushi restaurants
・ Japanese cuisine restaurants
・ Kaiseki cuisine (course meal) restaurants
・ Tempura restaurants
・ Yakitori (chicken skewers) restaurants
Note: Availability may vary by establishment, so be sure to check information beforehand.