The best of the best. Service, incredible. Fish, incredible. Sake pairing, you know what I'll say - incredible. Trust me, just go. read more

We spent $680 on a meal for two. It was worth every single solitary freaking penny. Take your wallet and gently place it on the Altar of Ukemochi No Kami The Japanese Goddess of Physical Nourishment. She will bless you with a night at Craft Omakase, on North Lamar Boulevard in Austin, Texas. You will experience Pleasures Far Beyond the Reach of Mere Mortals. These Pleasures Are Attainable Only By Gods and Goddesses. Gods, and Goddesses. And Trust Fund Kids, Even Ukemochi No Kami has to put up with trust fund kids. * * * The pleasures here are amazingly intense. But we almost did not find the place. This is despite living in the neighborhood And driving by the building several times a week. Craft Omakase is between a Starbucks and a Chipotle Grill. How often do you go to a Starbucks or a Chipotle Grill and find a Five Star appointment-only restaurant right next to it? Craft Omakase is in the back of the building - and is invisible from the street. Even if you are in back, the door is hidden on one side by a vertical wall jutting out of the building. You can be looking right at the front door and still miss Craft Omakase. The sign for the establishment is not much bigger than a license plate - and painted in inconspicuous colors. We had to stare at the front door until we realized we had found the place. * * * They seat no more than 12 people at a session. Two sessions a night. This is intimate dining. What you get is twenty two dishes selected by the chef. They will make mild alterations for allergic people or fussy eaters. But most dishes are exactly what the cook intended in Plan A or something that looks very similar to what the cook intended in Plan A. Plan A will change your life. * * * I will not describe everything that went into Plan A. I will say the following things. a) Because soy sauce and wasabi sushi is strong tasting stuff - dishes built around that concept are served late in the meal. You remember the first time you had really good sushi and how magical that first sushi was? This is that magic raised to the millionth degree. b) No rational human being would mix raw grape and raw oyster. They do. Add their special balancing ingredients and the earth moves. c) Similar sounding dishes are not at all similar in execution. Consecutive dishes have lemon zest and preserved Meyer lemon. They don't taste remotely like each other. d) Daikon in brown butter is just insane e) I didn't know cold smoke was a real ingredient. It goes with amberjack superlatively well. f) The cook proves that green curry is much better on sashimi than it is in Thai curry dishes. I guess generic Asian fusion restaurants that serve both Thai food and sushi now have a new trick they can do with their sushi. g) Custards or variations on the theme of custard show up only two times. They steal the show whenever they do appear. h) It will not surprise you that the fish and shellfish that you are being served are very good. They could have left all the sauces and garnishes off of all the fancy dishes. They would still be serving you one of the best meals of your life. i) The sommelier is very good. If she tells you to order a specific wine or a specific sake, do so. j) Their "after-party" drink menu consists of three fine ports and if you want to go more upscale, Kanbara Ancient Treasure 12 Year Koshu. This is a special aged sake made with secret technologies that I was too drunk to remember when they were explained to me. That said - the Koshu goes supremely well after whatever sake you might have been drinking. (The same would NOT apply to port.) It is a fascinating and massively entertaining beverage. We lingered for a long time in the vestibule with me savoring every molecule of that 12 Year Koshu. The wife and I discussed all of the important questions of the universe. In Metz, I once finished a superlative (and much cheaper) French meal with a legendary German Mark. That set the standard for me as to what an after dinner beverage is supposed to be like. Forty years later, I had the Kanbara Ancient Treasure Koshu. It is the only beverage I have ever had that could compare favorably with that Mark. * * * None of that would make a damm bit of difference if I had not had 22 legendary dishes before hand. You go to the Temple of the Gods. You are taken on an excursion reaching upwards and upwards. At the very high point of the altar, you are given a cup of Nectar of the Gods. They tell you "Drink of this Nectar. The Truth Will Be Revealed." I Drank of the Nectar. The Truth Was Revealed * * * The Ultimate Truth: "The Cooks at Craft Omakase Are Not Too Shabby." read more

After exploring the Austin sushi scene extensively, I can confidently say that Craft Omakase has officially claimed my #1 spot. It is immediately clear why they received Michelin recognition; the entire evening was a masterclass in precision and hospitality. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between high-end elegance and an intimate, welcoming vibe. Every bite of the progression felt incredibly purposeful--nothing was there just for show. The fish quality is unparalleled, and the chefs do a phenomenal job of explaining the lineage and preparation of each piece without making the experience feel rushed. Pro Tip: Do not skip the sake tasting. It was expertly curated to complement the flavor profiles of the nigiri and truly elevated the meal. While some Omakase spots can leave you feeling either overwhelmed or still hungry, the portions here were absolutely perfect. You leave feeling satisfied and impressed by the artistry. If you are looking for the gold standard of sushi in Austin, this is it. I'm already looking forward to my next reservation! read more

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THE BIG: Crafted perfectly (no pun intended). One michelin starred restaurant and rightfully so. Tastefully minimalist interior with a big half square dining bar area for the guests. Parking is available in the lot outside. THE BLACK AND WHITE: My wife and I booked a reservation for Craft for her birthday. We got a reservation as soon as they opened back up from their holiday break. They do 3 slots per day. One at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm. We got the 5pm since we had to go back to a young newborn afterwards. When we walked in, we were greeted with a welcome sparkling wine beverage. Then we were escorted to our seats in the dining area. This was a 22 course menu with service that was impeccable. My favorite bites from the meal was the tartare tartlet, the burst of umami set this bite apart. Then the scallop, otoro, and chu toro. Really hard to beat the toros when it comes to tuna. At the end of the meal, the servers came by and gave us personalized cards that were signed by the staff. Very cute and definitely left a great taste in our mouth. THE FINAL BAMBOO: Overall, the damage done was around $700 with tip and a reserve wine tasting. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I'd definitely be back here again for another sushi omakase fix. read more

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What an incredible experience! My husband and I booked a reservation about a month in advanced for a 5pm seating on a Thursday. We were running a few minutes late, but it was just in time for a few sips of the welcome beverage and to be seated in the dining area. The welcome beverage was a sparking wine cocktail. Light and refreshing! The dining area seats 12 people. Service overall is top notched. 22 courses is a lot for 2 hours, but they keep the dishes flowing and moving. They also take care of any dietary restrictions. My husband and I opted to share a wine reserve pairing and it was SOOOO good with the omakase. My favorites were the otoro with caviar, the tartare and the smoked mackerel. I like how they add a small curry and aguachile dish in the mix. I was pretty satisfied by the end of the night. They also give you the menu at the end with a special shoutout for whatever you're celebrating! 2 hours flew by but so well worth it. read more

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Hard to get a reservation. The owner Charlie cooked for us. 22 dishes. My favorite is uni, fatty tuna, amber jack and striped jack. read more

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4.5 stars Just went back a second time and this time it was definitely better than the first time. The fish was all very buttery, soft, and delicious. My fave was the otoro. The chefs were very engaging. read more

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The experience itself was pretty straightforward - you show up, you enjoy everything the chefs have in mind for you, then you leave, happy. Unlike some of the other omakase establishments in town, there were no extras, no add ons, what you see is what you get. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a welcome drink, then were shown to our seatings. The intimate 12-seat setting was about the same size as other Omakase places we've been to. Reservations are not that hard to get in advanced (at least not as difficult as Tsuke). The 22-course meal heavily features a combination of fresh seafood and dried age fish, with condiments and flavors that complement the tastes and textures of the fish very well. Each bite was something different, which is hard to achieve bite after bite. The chefs were good at keeping conversation and meal flows going, yet gave just enough space for each group to enjoy and chat among themselves. All in all, it was a great time - not pretentious, but rather very down to earth (still pricey, don't get me wrong) given they've retained their Michelin star for a second year in a row. read more

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This place was spectacular! I can't wait to go back, it was absolutely delicious. It is such a intimate environment and the chef's make it such a good experience. Every dish was delicious, there isn't anything to complain about. You walk in and it's very calming. They give you a drink while you wait to take a seat. They already have your seats selected and just make the experience very easy. MUST TRY! read more

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Went to Craft during the week with a small group and overall had a really solid experience. The vibe is intimate--only a handful of seats--and the whole omakase setup feels really exclusive, which we liked! Definitely a cool place to go if you're looking to celebrate or just want something a bit more elevated than your typical sushi spot!! The service was professional and mostly attentive, though at times it felt a little rushed between courses. Not a huge deal though. The chef clearly knows what he's doing --the fish was incredibly fresh, and the plating was beautiful. Highlights were the toro and the uni for sure. Also, they do a few warm dishes in between that were unexpected but really good. Drinks were tasty too! The seating area is small but very clean and well-designed. They give you warm towels at the start, which was a nice touch, and the flow of the meal was thoughtful. Felt very curated. Parking is also free and easy. Overall, we were impressed. It's definitely on the pricier side, but for a special night out, it delivers. Would come back again for another menu rotation or to bring someone new. read more

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Craft Omakase has been my favorite omakase experience in the U.S. so far, simply because it hit my personal preferences perfectly. I'm particular about a few things when it comes to sushi: I want balanced saltiness (not overly soy-heavy), well balanced and expertly cooked rice, and fish that's fresh and clean--not fishy. On all these fronts, Craft absolutely delivered. The rice may not have been the best I've ever had, but it was spot-on for me. The fish was consistently delicious and flavorful, with thoughtful topping combinations that added dimension without overpowering the main ingredients. I appreciated the creativity--it aligned with how I often build "the perfect bite" myself. The portion sizes were just right, and the fish-to-rice ratio was perfect. And the uni? The best I've ever had, at least for my palate. As for the service, I didn't mind that several pieces were prepared in batches before serving. What did bother me was the late start--our reservation was for 8 PM, but we didn't get our first bite until after 8:20. My biggest critique is about the seating arrangement. My partner and I were placed at the corner of the bar, with an awkward distance between us. It made conversation difficult and took away from the intimacy we were hoping for. The space is small and meant to feel exclusive, but the volume of the room--plus other guests on their phones--dampened the atmosphere. Still, despite a few misses in timing and ambiance, the food itself was exceptional and exactly what I was craving. For those who are particular about flavor balance, freshness, and texture, Craft is a standout. Especially if you want a little more flavor dimension beyond tasting just the fish from your sushi. read more

Craft Omakase - the Michelin sign - Japanese Near Me - Austin, Texas

Anything less than five stars for Craft would be an understatement because they really are that good. As a diehard omakase fan, I've tried most in the city, so this was one of the last remaining ones on my list. I would say Craft is most definitely top two, and it's immediately apparent how and why they've retained their Michelin star for two years in a row. Everything from service to timing to vibes were immaculate, and the menu is genuinely perfection. I really love when omakase restaurants stick to the traditional taste of the fish and add a few ingredients to enhance or bring out the flavor instead of completely remaking each course, and Craft does that really well. The entire staff is so friendly and sweet, and you won't come in here and experience any pretentiousness. Many of the chefs came from the Uchiko group, and they have years and years of experience under their belts. They emphasize a good time, so you know you'll certainly have one. This is definitely a restaurant that is worth the price and the recognition, and it has earned a top spot in my list for best restaurants in the entire state of Texas. read more

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Wow I wish I could eat at Craft Omakase every month. The best sushi and small bites I've had in town. It is very pricy for me, but I am glad I was able to have this experience with my best friend. You pay the total for the 22 course omakase when you make your reservation, and they ask if you are celebrating anything. We did not have a particular occasion but we put down that we were celebrating 25 years of friendship. Most of the time when you make comments in a reservation, restaurants never really mention it or notice, but multiple times in the night the wait staff knew we were celebrating friendship! It was so nice and made the evening more special. You really feel taken care of here. When you check in the day of, you are greeted with a free welcome drink in their cute lounge area. We decided to do the sake pairing and Tim presented all of them to us and he was the sweetest. My only complaint was that it was 4 full size drinks, and along with the welcome drink I was pretty drunk by the end of the night! I would recommend smaller servings for the pairing experience. At some points of the night I wished the chefs would speak more about the dishes, or the story behind it, but we also enjoyed chatting with people around us. I was also surprised to not have a wagyu bite. Not sure if that is on purpose or if it was because of an ever-changing menu. At the end of the meal we were given customized menus of everything we ate. I know the menu can change with each seating, so that will be a cool souvenir to keep. read more

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Such a magical experience! The food is outstanding. My favorite bite was the finale with the fatty tuna and caviar. Such a fun experience for omakase. Great vibe. Wine service is curated to perfection. read more

Came again for their 5pm Valentine's Day service and yet again, the team proves why they're more than worthy of the Michelin star they've earned. Every bite was well crafted and delicious - left deliriously happy and looking forward to our next special event/reason to visit. Again, no pics because I wanted to be fully present for every moment but suffice to say it's all picture perfect. read more

Craft Omakase - Menu 7/12 - Japanese Near Me - Austin, Texas

The Michelin star as well as the 5 star Yelp ratings are well deserved. This is Omakase done right. The sushi here is of the highest caliber. Many of the fish they use are dry aged to give them a deeper, more savory flavor. The Nigiri pieces were simple with only a touch or two of other ingredients to lightly enhance the flavor. Too many other places overpower the fish with a kaleidoscope of flavors that the essence of the fish is lost. Here, the fish is the star. Loved the creativity and the attention to detail. Nothing left to chance. Service was also amazing. Friendly, professional and on point with their drink recommendations. read more

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Craft Omakase deserved their Michelin star. Every single item was delicious and the service was amazing and friendly. Chef Christian did a great job with the fish. High recommend. Really enjoyed the caviar on otoro. The mackerel was flavorful and the traditional Japanese egg dish was warm and satisfying. Complimentary Paolo cocktail was amazing. Thank you to the staff for a wonderful dinner. read more

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Craft Omakase is the first Michelin starred restaurant I've been to in the US and I'm so glad I went. Most sushi are traditionally eaten by hand, which is why they provide a warm towel for you to clean off your hands. They explain the ingredients to each course as they are serving them and almost as soon as we finish a bite, you'll see another one. My favorite courses are definitely the ones with tuna, such as the tartare and the fatty tuna. They are so soft and I loved watching the chefs slice through the sashimi. Additionally, their attention to detail was not to be missed! Whenever anyone got up to go out the hallway, there would already be staff opening the doors and folding the table napkin neatly. Not only are all the courses delicious and beautiful, but the staff are friendly and able to engage in conversation about hobbies and their families. This was a wonderfully executed omakase and I highly recommend! read more

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I booked this place for my birthday and it was absolutely so special. The room is an intimate experience with seating for roughly 12 individuals. You start the experience with complimentary cocktails before being taken back to the room. The tasting menu had 22 dishes. At first I thought I would still be hungry at the end since most were small bites of sushi but by the end I could barely eat another bite! I was so content with every item. Some highlights: the strawberry oyster, the shiitake brown butter dish, kanpachi, bluefin truffle tuna, and the bluefin otoro. This experience was all around amazing. The service was fantastic, the food was to die for - I cannot recommend this enough! 1000/10 read more

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The is an absolute must try. They have a Michelin star for a reason. This is a beautiful and vibey venue. Had the most deliciously refreshing cocktail made my Tim. I really don't know how to put into words how good every single of the 22 courses was. Fresh ingredients with masters at their craft and you just can't go wrong. Chef Charlie, Nguyen, Tim and team - thank you for such a special, welcoming night. We loved not having to choose to add more courses or not and were very full by the end of the evening. I hope to be able to get a resy in the future and return. It was worth every penny and more. read more

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Incredible experience here from start to finish. Service was on point from the moment you walk into the establishment. Greeted by the staff and given a cocktail while you wait to be seated. Really cool ambiance and vibes throughout the whole place. I loved the feel of everything. All of the fish were extremely fresh. The uni was some of the freshest and most delicious I've ever tasted. I love that they kept it more on the simple side, but still added enough flair and excitement through the toppings, sauces, and accompaniments. The most memorable bites for me were the chu toro with truffle, and the Japanese mackerel. Opted for the wine pairing which greatly enhanced the experience. I was pleasantly surprised with how good this meal was. I know they have a Michelin star, but I didn't expect them to rival some of the better mid-upper tier omakase places that you would experience in NYC. The chefs were really fun to talk to and all staff were excellent. 5 star experience from beginning to end! read more

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I was surprised Craft had 9:30pm dinner reservations on a Saturday, but a couple reservations opened up and so a friend and I swooped in. I've had a few different omakases around Austin so I'd say I have a pretty good baseline for comparison while also taking their Michelin star out of the equation. This 22 course omakase was $175 and offered a good mix of sushi and other dishes. We were offered a welcome drink upon walking in and waited in the lobby area, which was cozy and intimate. Huge kudos to the bartender, who was personable, knowledgeable, and attentive. In the dining room, we started off strong with an oyster dressed in fried apple and cucumber. Below are a few standouts of my standouts across the course of the service: - Madai: The honey yuzu vinegar flavor really brought out the sea bream. - Kinmedai: Eye snapper can be underwhelming, but this was dressed up in a subtle lemon flavor. - Hirame: The zest was a simple addition without being overpowering. - Aguachile: The shrimp was so tender and the addition of the sweet potato was creative. - Kurodai: Perfect combination of sweetness and creaminess. - Shima aji: This one piqued my taste buds. It was fresh and fishy with a pleasant shiso smell and slightly salty aftertaste. - Crudo: Mellow and enjoyable. While there were a good amount of standouts, there were also a few that weren't quite as highly regarded for me. The tartare was a little too salty (especially as they packed such a large amount on a little tart), the chawanmushi wasn't very velvety, the winter vegetables surprised me because it was a warm dish, but unfortunately the brown butter muted the daikon flavor, the kanpachi was too smokey as the taste of it lingered long after it was eaten, the chili oil in the sawara was too overpowering making the dish taste one-dimensional, and to my dismay, the uni, chu toro, and otoro weren't that memorable. While I usually love the rich taste each of them bring, there wasn't much added to enhance the flavor (for example: the wasabi didn't come through). Chef Nguyen was very skilled in his knife work and preparation of each dish. He paid careful attention and it's evident he's honed in on his craft. Unlike other omakases I've been to, he didn't engage with us at all and wasn't very personable. However, with 22 courses, the flow of the dinner was quick and efficient. No additional courses were offered afterward. I'm glad I was able to try this place, but overall would give this a 3.5 star experience (rounded up to 4 as my dining partner thoroughly enjoyed our time there). read more

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First, I will happily admit the rumors about potential Michelin award recipients in ATX were running rampant during the months prior to the ceremony on 11/11 so I made a reservation as quickly as I could. Craft had been on our list to visit but the rumors (and celebrating a raise/promotion) pushed us there and I have ZERO regrets. We dined at 7pm on Friday, November 1. I'll say the communication even prior to the reservation was attentive and much appreciated. They ask you to complete a form prior to your reservation so as to get to know you, which is a really nice touch. Julianna was wonderful to speak to via email and even more wonderful in person. She greeted us when we arrived 20 minutes early (as they requested) and was just so bubbly. The complimentary welcome drink was delicious. The "lobby" and bar area were comfortable, we loved the decor and excellent ambiance. Having done omakase before I knew I was in for an experience but this was really unlike any other. Chef Charlie and Chef Nguyen are top tier. They engage with their customers as if they've known them their whole life and it truly sets them apart. Everyone in the room is the most important person in the room. They genuinely, slowly, eloquently describe what is being put in front of you. Watching them create and handle with such care and precision, well, it is nothing short of an art form. Needless to say, every bite was phenomenal. I left feeling satiated and full [of joy], wondering if/when we can make up a celebratory reason to return asap. We even stayed and hung out at the bar after our meal because we were enjoying a great conversation with Tim (shout out to Tim -- amazing guy!). Congratulations to the team at Craft on a well deserved Michelin star. For all you readers: just get here. You deserve it. :) read more

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Omakase - or Chef's choice - is their Craft, and this a magical destination to enjoy a special selection of some of Austin's best. Reservations can be more challenging since they made the Michelin in 2024, but just as worthwhile to plan ahead at their intimate 12-seater dinner service, with reception at a romantic lounge offering wine & sake pairings, also mindful to include creative zero-proof options. I enjoyed a delicate Yuzu, Lemon, Thyme Mocktail in a vintage coupe - every bit as fancy, pairing nicely with several dishes. Chefs Nguyen, Jonny, and Christian have beautiful synergy, creating a casual but warm atmosphere, with harmony played out across cool and warm dishes. Service was elevated yet personalized, creating an intimate yet cohesive experience. Some favorites from my first visit - an archetypal Chawan Mushi (weightless, warm yet cooling, crab & spicy XO sending similar fireworks) -- ecstatic melt-in-mouthfeel. Nigiri is subtle, elegant, focusing on beauty of the fish - a Bluefin Akami (dry-aged tuna): sushi's nod to Texas, Masu (ocean trout) buttery to contrast with accents of crisped skin & garlic, creamy Kanpachi (amberjack) also dry-aged for 10 days with smoke, touch of wasabi. While the fish is understated, elegant, intermixed warm dishes surprise and delight the palate - my favorite: a miraculous Green Curry topped with ocean trout, squash, and shishito. Flavors dynamic, texture intriguing, every bite better than the last. Like any great omakase, each seating and serving is unique, and this was one for the books! read more

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Service - staff was super friendly, very attentive, greeted us with drinks upon our arrival, did a great job explaining the dishes that were curated - the one thing I will say is I have been to other omakase experiences and it just felt like there were too many people coming out/whizzing around the space. The bartenders were creating drinks in the corner and it just made the dining experience feel a little too cramped Food - I would say the cooked foods were great. The fish was good, I wouldn't say the best I've had but it was good. Overall experience - Craft is a great spot, the price point is definitely on the higher side. I wish the fish, which is supposed to be the star of the show was a bit more elevated (for the most part everything is dry aged). A lot of the fish kind of had one note, the wasabi/yuzu wasn't all that noticeable - so there wasn't much differentiating each of the pieces of fish. Will I be back? Maybe? read more

4.5 stars! We visited Craft Omakase to celebrate my birthday. Prior to our reservation, we were asked to fill up an intake form, with questions that told me the team values intention and tailored service. Arrival & Beverage Service: Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and offered a selection of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. My husband and I both opted for glass of sparkling wine. It was crisp, vibrant, and remarkably smooth. Once we were seated, we chose to have the sake pairing for an additional $100/person, which was well worth it (even for a lightweight like me). The sake pairings were astounding and palpably well-curated to complement the omakase dishes served. Ambiance & Setting: The interior evoked a modern yet traditional Japanese sensibility with its natural wood tones, minimalist design, and a direct view of the chefs at work. Service: The service was immaculate. Both the waitstaff and chefs showcased well-honed attentiveness, sharp timing, and a genuine enthusiasm for their craft. Cuisine: The meal was thoughtfully paced and well-executed overall. Our favorites were the following: * Bluefin tartare - A masterstroke in balance, the bluefin, nori tart shell and kombu delivered a perfect interplay of umami and texture. * Madai - The honey yuzu vinegar provided bright acidity that enhanced the subtle sweetness & freshness of the sea bream. * Dry-aged selections (akami, kurodai, shima aji, masaba, chutoro) - These were perfectly done, with each piece melting on the palate. I always enjoy when restaurants subvert my expectations around fish textures. Disappointments: The bafun uni lacked the briny freshness and creamy texture we expected from Hokkaido sea urchin, which essentially changed our lives when we had it in Tokyo. The otoro, though visually beautiful, was unfortunately sinewy and fell short of its melt-in-your-mouth promise. Lastly, while it's true to Japanese tradition, the dessert leaned more towards being palate cleanser. While this aligns with the ethos of omakase & traditional Japanese cuisine, I personally prefer desserts that offer richer, more decadent notes. That said, this is a matter of taste, not technique. Final Thoughts: Would we come back? Maybe for special occasions (any excuse to get omakase twice in one month is more than enough reason). While we already have a beloved monthly go-to for omakase, Craft Omakase offered a great experience & we know we'll have a fun time. read more

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We came to Craft Omakase for their 22-course omakase after failing to secure reservations at another omakase restaurant, and I truly think it was destiny! One thing I really appreciated is how their reservations work: spots for a month away are released every Sunday around noon. This makes it so much easier to plan without the stress of rushing to reserve at the beginning of the month like many other restaurants. The service was fantastic - every employee we interacted with was super nice, patient, and friendly. Nguyen and Tim primarily served our side, and I enjoyed chatting with them throughout the meal. The staff was incredibly attentive, consistently refilling the tea we ordered and ensuring we had a great experience. The fish was very high quality, and I liked the majority of the ingredient pairings they came up with. Some memorable combinations were the oyster with apple and the daikon braised in miso with mushrooms and miso(?) foam. The chu toro and ootoro were probably the fattiest I've ever had in my life! That said, the flavors seemed to cater more toward white people's tastes (and I don't mean this in a bad way). I've had omakase experiences in SF and NYC at various price points where the fish didn't feel as high quality, but the flavor pairings were more tailored to an Asian palate or a specific cultural group. At the end of the meal, they handed out super cute menus listing everything we had that day. Each menu featured a cat on the back, and the biggest surprise was that they played along with what we wrote we were celebrating (one year of unemployment!) and chose the chonkiest adventure cat to feature on our menu. Thank you for being so fun and flexible! I also loved their fun cat-themed details throughout the meal, like cat chopstick holders and a cat wet-towelettes holder. The two bathrooms were nicely decorated and clean, though one did get clogged at the end, but these things happen. Parking was super easy to find thanks to the giant lot, but finding the actual restaurant was a bit tricky since it's tucked away behind what's visible from the street. Overall, we had a lot of fun! Craft Omakase absolutely deserves their Michelin star, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality omakase experience. read more

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We snagged a reservation here right before Valentine's Day! Craft did not disappoint. Great service and wonderfully personable chefs. The night started strong with a delicious welcome drink. I opted for the non alcoholic version which was a grapefruit mixed drink. Each bite of this meal was great but my personal favorite had to be the egg custard and the daikon with brown butter. The sushi pieces were great but the standout for me was the vegetable. Their star is well deserved! Also really enjoyed the souvenir menu that were printed with our names. read more

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Craft Omakase absolutely blew us away. Every course felt really thoughtful, with crazy good flavors and beautiful presentation. The vibe is intimate but relaxed, nothing pretentious, and the chefs are super engaged and fun to talk to. We walked out smiling, full, and already talking about when we're coming back - 10/10, totally worth it. read more

Craft Omakase - Japanese Near Me - Austin, Texas

We don't regret our experience here! Every bite was beautifully different and exciting! Every time I thought that one bite was my favorite, the next one was even better! A bit on the pricier side, but great experience for special occasions. :-) read more

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This was our first omakase experience and we had a great time! The staff and chefs were very friendly and personable. The entire menu was amazing and we were impressed with the quality of ingredients. We also loved the intimate setting of a maximum 12 people read more

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Dining at Craft Omakase was nothing short of extraordinary--every detail was thoughtfully curated, making for a truly special evening. Before our visit, we received a pre-visit questionnaire to confirm dietary restrictions, special celebrations, and personal preferences. We were celebrating my boyfriend's birthday, and the level of acknowledgment was next level! Every staff member wished him a happy birthday, and at the end of our meal, he received a personalized menu with a birthday message--such a thoughtful keepsake. From the very first bite, each of the 22 courses was phenomenal--I'm still speechless. Sitting front and center with Chef Charles was an absolute honor. From the start, he emphasized that this was a communal experience--even though he and Chef Nguyen were meticulously preparing each dish, we were encouraged to ask questions and engage. And of course, I took full advantage! We talked about dry-aging fish, fresh wasabi, preparation techniques, and even his plans for a new San Antonio location. Fun fact: he even shares a birthday with my boyfriend! Upon arrival, we were greeted with a welcome cocktail, and I loved it so much (Paola) that I ordered it two more times during dinner. Tim, was also fantastic--he made check-in a breeze, was super welcoming, and provided excellent beverage recommendations and service during our visit. Pro Tip: How to Snag a Reservation- With only 12 seats per service, reservations are hard to come by (which is a great problem for Craft to have!). My recommendation? Sign up for the cancellation list on the dates you're most interested in--that's how I was able to get mine! All in all, Craft Omakase exceeded every expectation--from the world-class sushi to the personalized experience, this was an unforgettable evening. Can't wait to come back! read more

Well deserved Michelin Star. 22 Course Omakase is consistent every time. Menu changes slightly from time to time. Great service from great staff. Super chill and fun ambiance. read more

This is a 3.5 stars review Craft Omakase offers an elegant and meticulously crafted 22-course Michelin-starred experience. The service was impeccable--attentive, knowledgeable, and perfectly paced. Some bites were absolutely incredible, with a focus on premium ingredients like uni, fatty tunas, and a couple of mackerel selections. One thing I wish I had done was inform them in advance that I'm not a fan of wasabi, as around seven of the bites were quite wasabi-forward and just not for me. That was entirely on me, but it did impact my overall enjoyment. Having tried all the Austin omakase experiences, what stood out here was the absence of wagyu beef and unagi--typically a staple in high-end omakase. While they made up for it with premium bites, the delightful and innovative flavor profiles made it an enjoyable overall meal. The aguachile served as a great palate cleanser, refreshing and resetting our taste buds for the next round of bites. The winter vegetable bite was an unexpected highlight--thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavor. The restaurant also offers a nice zen ambiance in the waiting area, setting a calm and welcoming tone before the meal. The dining area itself is quiet and intimate, allowing for a focused and immersive omakase experience. Overall, it was a great experience, and the attention to detail was evident throughout the meal. Plus, the location in the 4400 N Lamar shopping complex offers plenty of parking, making it an easy and accessible dining destination. read more

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I wanted to update my review because, upon a third visit, it made no sense for me to give a 4/5 based on personal sushi preferences. While I still generally prefer stronger flavor profiles in my nigiri, the bottom line is that Craft Omakase has 5 star service at all levels (you are treated with professionalism and hands on service from the second you walk in the door), and the food is thoughtful, delicious, and unique. I also very much appreciate the parking and comfort of the restaurant. They've done a lot with a small space, and that adds to the excellent ambiance. 5/5 is well deserved. I included a few pictures from my recent visit. While there are no photos of the nigiri, that's not because it wasn't amazing and photos never do justice to how good the actual bites taste. The plating on the non-nigiri pieces are just inherently more of a show piece, so that's why there's only photos of those. read more

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I had known about Craft Omakase but it wasn't until Austin's Michelin awards were released and it being my birthday month for me to bump it up my list. I've tried many of the amazing Austin omakase, and I would say Craft Omakase is most similar to Tsuke Edomae with its more traditional preparations and subtle flavors. You pre-pay for the 22-course meal when you secure your reservation, totaling $175 (~$230 with tax and tip) per person. There are two seatings a night at 5:30pm and 8pm. Craft is located somewhat discretely in the back of a complex, next to a Chipotle. The dissonance I had before I walked in disappeared upon entering and being transported to the swanky interior. After checking in, we were served a welcome cocktail until we were ready to be seated. The staff were all friendly and professional, and open to conversation. The symmetrical u-shaped sushi counter is really beautiful, looking like it can sit up to 14 people. Craft's belief is that there should just be one price with enough food to fill you up without pricey premium add-ons. Usually the pricier options are left off of some omakase menus but offer it as an add-on (ie Toshokan, Sushi Endo). I could go either way but I can't leave an omakase without having uni so I'll pay for it if I have to. At my dinner, my 22 courses consisted of 14 nigiri, 4 raw seafood dishes, 2 cooked seafood dishes, 1 warm vegetable dish, and 1 chilled dessert. My favorites were the akami, otoro, uni, shrimp aguachile, and chawanmushi. All the seafood were fresh and great quality. I did find some of the nigiri to be too subtle in flavor. I was craving salt for a few of them so I could taste the fish more. Yet Craft is not shy of flavor and seasoning as they really go for it with its use of brown butter, smoke, and leche de tigre. It's definitely possible that the sensitivity of my palate has degraded over the years. After 22-courses, I was sated but not uncomfortably full. Is Craft my favorite omakase in Austin? I would say no, but that designation changes consistently depending on the meal on any given day with differing offerings as is customary of omakase sushi determined by seasonality. The price is on par with most of the other omakase in Austin, especially if you add on extra premium items at other places. Although the price point makes it hard for the average diner to come frequently, Craft is a solid omakase, deserving of a special occasion. read more

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Number 3/6 for my birthday weekend was the newly awarded Michelin Star @craftomakase. I booked this experience months in advance. I wanted a night just for me, a celebration price I'd only give wifey material. Franklins in the morning cured the hangover but sadly I never found my glasses from the adventure the night before.       Worth it‼      Devouring each piece of perfection, like eating art, filled my heart with gratitude. I'm grateful that I have the ability to work my ass off & enjoy these experiences. The older I've gotten the more awake & refined I've become. To my friends & family who think they can't go out with me, trust me, I always say this, I still eat edibles & ring Taco Bell. I don't always eat like this. Truth be told I eat the same boring ass meals every day. Designed for gym fuel, far from bougie anything. For my birthday though...      This menu was a roller coaster of perfection. Every piece was out of this world, the sake pairing was fire, I could have slammed each of them, and the service? Flawless. Not only was chef Nguyen Nguyen hilarious, his meticulous attention to detail demanded the utmost respect. The real hero! I still can't believe the menu they printed for me had a cat on it. My favorite animal!       Fate‼      My focus that night was this quote: "The portal to every next level is through the parts of yourself you avoid." -- The Universe - What do I need to change to be the best I can be? read more

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It's clear that Craft is doing something very special when they reach out a few days before your reservation to request dietary restrictions and ensure that the program is tailored to the guests. Once we got there, we enjoyed complimentary cocktails in the lounge, and then we were whisked away into a lovely private dining room, where we watched the chefs prepare all 22 courses meticulously with a front row seat. The oyster with the strawberry and tarragon was perfection. The shima aji was bouncy and textured. The uni was to die for. The mango dessert was incredible. Everything was fantastic. Not one course fell short of my ridiculously sky-high expectations. In fact, not one aspect of the entire dining experience fell short. 10/10 recommend. read more

Craft Omakase was a wonderful experience from start to finish! Before booking we were a little afraid that we may not be able to get a reservation, but even though we were a little late to the party relative to when the seating reservations were released we were still able to secure two spots without any difficulty. So even though it is a very high end omakase with Michelin acknowledgement, it is still more accessible than some comparable restaurants in Austin. All of the staff were very attentive and took clear pride in their work. The sushi chefs themselves were also very knowledgable and personable - they obviously love what they do, and the energy they brought to the dinner really enhanced the omakase experience. While a pricey meal overall, we also felt like we got a lot of bang for our buck. Twenty-two courses is the most extensive omakase we've ever done, and we definitely did not leave hungry! The only bite that disappointed at all was the chutoro course, which had too much truffle mushroom on it for my taste (though to be fair I had never tried truffle and didn't already know that I didn't like it; Craft asks about dietary preferences and restrictions prior to the seating and I have no doubt they would have omitted it from my nigiri if I had indicated a dislike for it beforehand). All in all, this was a wonderful meal and experience and we will definitely be back for special occasions in the future! read more

Best way we can describe Craft Omakase is that it is an "Experience" and one not to be missed! The 22 course tasting menu was out of this world, and you quickly discover why they have earned a Michelin Star! Had to be the most creative sushi experience I've ever had. Private dining room, where they only accept 12 people per sitting. Chef describes what he is doing as he prepares everything in front of you. The saki pairing was pricey, but worth every pairing! Service was exceptional, very played back, and super friendly. Upon arrival, you greeted warmly and offered a glass of prosecco while we wait for everyone to arrive. We definitely plan on doing it again for our next special occasion. read more