Weekly Highlights: Jan 6-12
This week was all about food—and I’m not mad about it! From the precision of omakase to the elegance of fine dining, here’s what made my week deliciously memorable.
Omakase Overload
Let’s start with omakase, the Japanese dining experience that’s taken NYC by storm. For the uninitiated, omakase (which translates to “I’ll leave it up to you”) is a sushi meal where the chef chooses and prepares each piece for you, often served one at a time. It’s intimate, artistic, and a performance as much as it is a meal.
In NYC, omakase has become synonymous with trendy dining, popping up in tiny spaces that are relatively easy to open and operate. Why? These spots don’t require sprawling kitchens or menus, and fish sourced directly from Japan or other global markets is easier to obtain than ever. Many of the fish used—like tuna, yellowtail, and uni—are shipped overnight from Japan’s famed Tsukiji and Toyosu fish markets, ensuring the freshest cuts arrive stateside.
I tried two omakase spots this week: Sushi Lab and Kazumi. If I had to choose, I’d give the edge to Kazumi for its slightly more cohesive experience, but honestly? I’m starting to feel over the whole “song and dance” of omakase. What happened to just sitting down for some great sushi without the theatrics? It feels like NYC’s omakase craze is reaching peak saturation, and I’m ready for a return to simpler sushi moments.
The Real Winner: Essential by Christophe
While the omakase outings left me lukewarm, my meal at Essential by Christophe blew me away. This prix-fixe fine dining experience is a true gem. The menu, crafted by Christophe Bellanca (a chef with an impressive Michelin-starred résumé), is a testament to his mastery of French cuisine.
The standout dishes were artfully plated, with each bite delivering balanced flavors and textures. The service was impeccable—attentive without being overbearing—and the atmosphere was both elegant and welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you feel like every detail, down to the way the napkins are folded, has been thoughtfully considered.
If you’re in the mood for an elevated dining experience, this is the spot. Unlike omakase, where you can leave feeling like the meal was more about the spectacle, Essential by Christophe makes the food the star—and it shines brilliantly.