Omakase is the way to go if you want a unique culinary experience in New Mexico.
Omakase is a Japanese term meaning “I’ll leave it up to you,” It refers to a style of sushi dining where the chef creates an ever-changing menu based on seasonal ingredients. Here are four highly recommended omakase spots in New Mexico that will give you unforgettable, delicious, and unique dining experiences.
Hayashi Japanese Steakhouse
Address: 6321 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109
Website: https://hayashinm.com/
Led by chef Renjie Qiu, Hayashi Japanese Steakhouse knows for hibachi and sushi dishes. Their hibachi experience is complete with skilled chefs performing culinary stunts like flipping shrimp tails into their hats.
Hayashi Japanese Steakhouse also offers an omakase menu, in which the chef selection of daily fresh ingredients for you; here are some of the set dishes you can order:
- Sashimi Deluxe ($30.99) – 18 pieces of sashimi and a rice bowl
- Sushi Regular ($16.99) – 8 pieces of sushi and one tuna roll
- Chirashi ($19.99) – 16 pieces of raw fish on beds of seasoned rice
- Sushi & Sashimi for Two ($55.99) – 8 pieces of sushi, 15 pieces of sashimi, one tuna roll, one dragon roll, and one California roll
You can expect salmon, tuna, red snapper, eel, mackerel, white tuna, uni, yellowtail, etc. It will depend upon the chef’s decision.
Omakase’s menu will be a la carte style, with no presentation from the chef, but you can be sure to have only quality sushi.
El Nido Santa Fe
Address: 1577 Bishops Lodge Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87506
Website: https://elnidosantafe.com/
The unique flavors of El Nido will tantalize your taste buds, a place where traditional cooking methods meet modern fare. El Nido kitchen is renowned for its homemade pasta, prepared using an open-fire cooking technique. On the custom wood-fired grill or Italian brick oven, dishes are kissed by the flame to create tender and savory dishes.
More than that, El Nido also featured sushi sessions with Chef Hattori. His omakase menu will be a one-of-a-kind experience for sushi connoisseurs, with chef Hattori omakase for $75. It will include a selection of nigiri, sashimi, and maki rolls. All the dishes are created with fish flown directly from Japan.
Or, if you are not in the mood for an entire course, El Nido also has a small set of sashimi or nigiri for $35 per five pieces.
El Nido is indeed crafting the perfect meal for you, whether you are in the mood for open-fire dining or sushi.
The dining room is a sight to behold; you can’t help but be enamored with the room’s grandeur. The walls are graced by stately murals depicting scenes of vibrant color and beauty. The ceiling is adorned with shimmering tin chandeliers that cast a warm, inviting glow throughout the room.
You can also view an open cooking station with an authentic live fire, a sure delight for any food connoisseur. The atmosphere of the space evokes a sense of elegance and refinement, helping to create an exquisite experience for all who dine here.
Izanami
Address: 21 Ten Thousand Waves Way, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Website: https://tenthousandwaves.com/food
Izanami is an upscale izakaya restaurant allowing guests to experience a unique, casual atmosphere. Izanami has a wide premium selection of Japanese sake and is renowned for being the finest within a thousand miles! Also, provide indoor or outdoor seating, depending on your preference.
Izanami takes tremendous pride in sustainability from organic food sources and traditional Japanese cuisine. With a focus on freshness, Freshie’s Farm, Romero Farms, Morgan Ranch, and Urban Rebel Farms are some primary suppliers.
Chef Shigeru Usuki’s creations are sure to impress those looking for sushi or sashimi then, having been handcrafted with expertise throughout his lifetime.
The omakase course here will happen only on special occasions like thanksgiving or the holiday season. It is a culinary experience that you must not miss out on! Be sure to follow Facebook or Instagram page to stay updated.
Miso Sushi
Address: 8019 Menaul Blvd NE suite a, Albuquerque, NM 87110
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/misosushi/home
Family-owned and operated, Miso Sushi is a beloved sushi spot that offers traditional Japanese fare at an affordable price.
For spicy lovers, we recommend trying Spicy Jalapeno Tempura. It is jalapeno stuffed with spicy tuna and cream cheese and then deep-fried. It is sure to tantalize your taste buds and be a great appetizer.
For sushi and sashimi, Miso’s omakase menu is an indulgent treat. The chef selects the freshest catch of the day to prepare a selection of nigiri and sashimi or upscale to Miso Boat($49 – $116) and discover a wide selection of exquisite sushi dishes.
Miso is also the perfect place to have a romantic dinner, with intimate seating and soft lighting. It is the ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in this tranquil atmosphere while savoring some of the best sushi.
