Omakase is the Japanese tradition of entrusting the chef with the meal choice. It’s a popular way to enjoy sushi, allowing diners to try different kinds of fish and creative combinations they wouldn’t otherwise have access to.
Fortunately for Rhode Island residents, there are plenty of omakase spots around the area to get your sushi fix. Here are six of the best:
Nami Japanese Restaurant
Address: 198 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI 02903
Website: https://namiprov.com/
Nami provides an inventive spin on classic Japanese cuisine in the iconic Atwells Avenue of Providence’s Federal Hill district. Crafting a menu that ranges from sushi and hibachi to more contemporary entrees with New American influences, they have become the definitive face of advanced Japanese gastronomy within the city limits.
Nami is an homage to traditional flavors while pushing them through a new lens through its refined atmosphere, top-notch ingredients, and expertly prepared dishes. Experience a culinary journey as you indulge in the flavors of Japan, from the traditional hibachi entrees to the sushi bar’s well-prepared rolls.
Fancy a juicy steak? Alongside these exquisite creations is an array of kitchen entrees with subtle New American influences that add a unique twist to each plate. A variety of cuts are available for your enjoyment and cooked to perfection.
If you want chef tasting course dinner, Nami offers the Omakase course dinner option*. Enjoy a selection of their chef’s best-included 16 dishes in one sitting and indulge in a unique dining experience. This is the best way to experience the flavors of Nami, and it’s worth a try!
In addition to their culinary excellence, diners will find an attentive staff eager to provide stellar service in a sophisticated setting. The restaurant is sleek and modern without being overly flashy; from the rich natural woods draped in soft lighting to the minimalist decor accents, each detail has been carefully considered for its patron’s enjoyment.
Whether you’re savoring one of Nami’s exquisite specialties or want to get away for an evening out on the town, it’s no wonder why this outpost is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for Japanese dining in Rhode Island.
*Available via reservation only. Please visit their website for more information.
Newport Tokyo House
Address: 6 Equality Park Pl, Newport, RI 02840
Website: https://www.newporttokyohouseri.com/
Casual yet refined, Newport Tokyo House is the place to go for an authentic Japanese cuisine experience. Located in the heart of Newport’s Easton’s Point neighborhood, this sushi spot is beloved by locals for its wide selection of fish and creative rolls.
The main course here is hibachi, where you can sit at the counter and see the chef prepare your meal. But if you’re looking for something that can substitute omakase, the sushi bar entree is your best bet. Here, you can try an array of classic fish and inventive rolls that will tantalize your taste buds.
You can enjoy the best sushi & sashimi of the day selected by the head sushi chef. You can also sample a wide array of special rolls made with the freshest ingredients, so you know you’re getting top-quality food.
If you’re looking for a complete experience, Newport Tokyo House has an extensive menu with Japanese staples like tempura and udon. And to top it off, you can interact with the chef and staff to get a natural flavor of Japanese culture.
With vibrant decor and soft music playing in the background, Newport Tokyo House is ideal for any occasion. Stop by to sample their extensive menu and discover why many people consider it one of the best sushi spots in Rhode Island!
Mambo Sushi
Address: 380 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI 02909
Website: http://mambosushiprovidence.com/
Fusion lovers who are in the mood for a modern take on traditional sushi will find it at Mambo Sushi. This Atwells Avenue restaurant opened its doors just a few years ago and is quickly becoming one of Providence’s favorite spots for Japanese fusion cuisine.
The menu includes everything from classic rolls to inventive maki crafted with locally-sourced ingredients. Some must-try items include the Shang-Chi roll, the Yoyo roll, and their signature Mambo Roll.
Mambo Sushi also offers a wide selection of entrees like:
- Lomo Saltiado – Peruvian-style beef stir-fry
- Churrasco – 10oz skirt steak with chimichurri sauce and tostones
- Mambo Burger – Angus beef signature burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, fried egg, and bacon served on a brioche bun with a side of fries
- Arroz Chaufas – Peruvian-Asian fried rice served with a fried egg
Moreover, a Mambo platter containing appetizers, assorted sushi, sashimi, and rolls selected by the chef is a great way to enjoy omakase-style dining at Mambo Sushi.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with a selection of their unique sake and drinks. The restaurant has Hookah if you want to enjoy friendly conversation over a post-dinner smoke.
Whether you’re in the mood for fresh sushi, hearty entrees, or drinks with friends, Mambo Sushi is the perfect place! Visit this restaurant and experience Japanese fusion cuisine at its best. Enjoy!
ENN Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar
Address: 600 George Washington Hwy, Lincoln, RI 02865
Website: https://www.ennri.com/
Lincoln’s ENN Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese cuisine.
This restaurant offers a wide variety of flavorful dishes like Unaju, Teriyaki, Tempura, Agemono, Hibachi, Japanese curry, and so much more.
Moreover, their sushi selection is something to behold. They have a wide range of rolls like the Dragon Roll, Lobster Tempura Roll, and ENN Special Roll. There’s also an extensive selection of sashimi if you’re in the mood for fresh fish served unadorned.
Or if you don’t want to choose by yourself, opt for the Omakase menu, where the chef creates a unique selection of sushi and sashimi just for you.
ENN also offers an extensive list of sake, beer, and cocktails to pair with your meal. Their cozy atmosphere is perfect for a special dinner with family or friends.
Osho Sushi & Bar
Address: 1525 Smith St, North Providence, RI 02911
Website: https://www.facebook.com/OSHOsushiandbar/
Asian cuisine lovers looking for a unique dining experience should visit Osho Sushi & Bar. Located in the heart of North Providence, this small and cozy restaurant offers an authentic taste of Japan through its delicious dishes.
From classic rolls like California and Spicy Tuna to more inventive creations like the Dynamite Roll and Red Dragon Roll, you’ll find something to satisfy any sushi craving at Osho.
This place is suitable for those looking to explore the world of Asian cuisine. The menu includes entrees like Miso Soup, Salmon Teriyaki, and Katsu Curry. Or, if you want to taste the menu of Asian cuisine, you can also find dishes like Pad Thai, Ma La Chicken, Lo Mein, etc.
There also have sushi & sashimi platters that provide a little of everything the chef selects, served with hot miso soup and salad. Prices are also affordable at Osho Sushi.
For traditional omakase experiences, Nami Japanese Restaurant is the only Rhode Island restaurants to offer real Omakase. Enjoy a hand-selected sushi course created by the chef and watch an artful display of fish cutting and masterful preparation. SO we decide to include nearby options from Massachusetts for you in this post. (1.30-hour drive from Rhode Island)
Umami Omakase
Address: 2372 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
Website: https://www.umamiomakase.com/
Umami Omakase may be your perfect chance to experience authentic omakase. Led by chef Gary Lei, this unique restaurant offers a luxurious omakase experience.
The whole journey is 18-course includes:
- Soup
- Assorted Sashimi Plates
- Assorted Sushi
- Kitchen Specials
- Hand Roll
- Umami Desserts
You can expect premium ingredients like Japanese Fish, Caviar, Toro Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef, Foie Gras, Truffle, and more in your course. ($168 – $178 per person)
If you have a special occasion, or just wish to feel Japan’s fancy atmosphere and authentic flavor, Umami Omakase is definitely worth it. Reserve your spot for an unforgettable dining experience!
And there you have it – five Japanese restaurants in Rhode Island and one in Massachusetts that offer a wide selection of Japanese dishes, including omakase. From Lincoln’s ENN Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar to O sushi restaurant & Bar to Umami Omakase in Cambridge, you can enjoy some delicious and unique cuisine as you explore all these spots. Enjoy!
