Hands down the best omakase I've had in my life! I been here twice for my birthday and each visit was amazing. The sushi is out of this world and I've had my fair share of omakases in my life. I recently went to Japan and had a few omakases there and still think this place is #1. So trust me, this place is that good. If you like an elevated and luxurious experience please come here! The price is super reasonable for the quality and amount you receive. Ray is a great chef and he's super funny. During my last visit there was a couple who were a no-show so Ray hooked us up! The setting is intimate and only seats about 10 guests. Parking can be a bit tricky as it is limited so arrive earlier if you can. The service, vibes, and quality is well worth your time. So please come and try this place out if you're visiting! I hope to be back soon :) read more

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Off the hook excellent! Chef Ray is a Sushi Master and being able to dine with him was a special treat. His sense of humor and willingness to engage made his artful preparation of the finest/freshest seafood in the world completely amazing. We went Friday night, and as someone who was dining with her family I was actually glad when the late diner who gave the 1* was not allowed to crash over an hour late (which is when they said they'd arrive). We've been to several Michelin starred restaurants and this was beyond those. It's an entire experience and we felt fortunate to be able to participate. Thank you, Chef. I highly recommend as a special splurge! read more

Unfortunately, I am updating this review to a 1 star. My wife and I were so excited to come back here. We had a bike tour that got delayed due to a downpour. We were running about 20 mins late and called them to see what our options were. They offered zero solution. Basically told us too bad too sad. They wouldn't even put our food to the side. Nor did they offer any resolution outside of "sorry we need to charge you $200 for a no show". I understand this isn't their fault but their attitude really put us off. Will find other places when in town. I know a lot of other reviews talk about their bad attitude and they definitely aren't wrong. read more

Hihimanu sets the standard for omakase. From the outside, it is unassuming, but the experience is exceptional from start to finish, with amazing fish quality, creative courses, generous portions, and warm service. They spoil you with luxurious ingredients like lobster, oyster, scallop, and wagyu. One standout course had three types of uni layered over chu toro, topped with salmon roe. The dinner felt like we got a taste of the ocean. The interior is somewhat eclectic. They have ten seats at the chef's table and have two offerings in a day: a smaller lunch omakase with 15 courses for $185 and a dinner omakase with 19 courses for $245. The complimentary green tea paired nicely with the sushi. One of the best meals I'll probably ever have. This will be a must stop when I visit Oa'hu. read more

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Hands down the best omakase place we have ever been to. From high end omakase on US west coast, to Japan , the quality of fresh seafood you can definitely taste! However, it's really the chef's creativity and his fine delicate balance of fresh ingredients. It's our family to go whenever we are in town and one of these day we hope to see Jason Mamoa and his crew. Highly recommend but advance warning... every other place will be disappointing. Make sure you book reservations in advance though. read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Delish!!! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Mahalo nui loa Raymond & staff of Hihimanu which brought a great experience to omakase sushi dining. I been to a few and this has been the best so far. A mix up in reservations through open table but glad could accommodate us for my birthday. My friend recommended awhile back so didn't really do any digging in reviews until before writing mine. Raymond's personality didn't bother me and loved the conversations. Can't wait to return and experience the spoiled omakase. Haha, there's good, Ono and spoiled to be the top. read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Chose this spot on a whim during our vacation in Hawaii and turns out my husband knew chef Ray from a previous sushi restaurant. Hihimanu only takes resos for their omakase with a lounge area for drinks. They had an opening for us at 5:30pm and our meal lasted until 8pm. Attire is tastefully casual; when in doubt, wear all black and you're good. Chef Ray is so creative and unique in his flavor profiles and plating. You're coming here for the full experience of sushi modern art. read more

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Hands down, BEST omakase. We have been here a few times over the years and every time we leave so happy and just amazed by the mastery, artistry, depth of flavors and textures, and culinary experience. Service is top notch and I never leave without laughing at something Chef Ray said (I love his comments and jokes). Never the same meal twice and perfect scene. The outside is unassuming but that's why we love this place. The food speaks for itself. I took some photos and they probably should be banned bc they do NOT do it justice. Can't wait to come back again. This place always leaves me dreaming for more. Do not be dissuaded by the price. We have tried so many omakase options on island, in NYC, etc and this is 100% worth the wait, reservation months in advance, and price. They require credit card on file and will charge for last minute cancellation. But he has ingredients flown in from Tokyo auction same day (always), Hokkaido scallops fresh, and we've had caviar from Europe... I mean, these are top quality ingredients, flown in fresh, designed and curated to be enjoyed... so yes, it makes sense if there is a last minute cancellation, there will be ingredients wasted and customers lost. So, book the reservation, don't get sick or be late, come ready to enjoy the best omakase experience. The only downside is you'll find others far more disappointing... you've been warned! read more

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Dining at Hihimanu with Chef Ray feels like stepping into a performance. The counter is lined with pristine cuts of otoro, kinmedai, akamutsu, iwashi and sake, each piece glowing under the lights like it belongs in a gallery. Ray works with calm precision, brushing soy with painterly strokes, searing edges with the lightest touch, and presenting each plate with elegance that makes you pause before eating. The omakase is a journey that builds beautifully. It begins with clean flavors and slowly moves toward indulgence. Lobster crowned with caviar was rich and briny in perfect balance. Scallop paired with uni in crisp nori was so decadent it stopped conversation. Kinmedai topped with caviar and gold leaf shimmered like something from a jeweler's case. Even the fried baby octopus had its own spotlight, crunchy and fun, a playful interlude between courses. The uni, ikura and toro bowl arrived like an artist's palette, a riot of color that tasted even more vibrant than it looked. Other highlights carried their own weight. Seared katsuo left a smoky depth that lingered. Nodoguro melted with sweetness unlocked by a careful sear. Anago dissolved instantly with warmth and richness. Every piece was purposeful, with a touch of citrus, salt or seasoning that revealed its best qualities without ever distracting from the fish. What sets Hihimanu apart is not only the food but Chef Ray himself. He is proud of his ingredients and his creations, and he is not shy about letting you know the quality of what you are eating. When he explains the sourcing of the uni or points out the fattiness of the tuna, it comes with the confidence of someone who knows he is serving the very best. That pride comes through in every bite. During the meal Chef Ray mentioned that Jason Momoa, Aquaman himself, flies in just to eat here and had been at lunch earlier the same day. We missed him, but with sushi of this caliber, you do not feel like you missed out. The fact that someone would fly across the ocean just to sit at this counter says everything. Service was warm, attentive and perfectly in sync with the flow of the evening. The pacing was flawless, each course arriving at exactly the right moment, never rushed and never dragging. By the end I was not just satisfied, I was amazed. Hihimanu with Chef Ray is not simply another sushi bar in Honolulu. It is the experience by which all others will be measured. Aquaman may fly in, but after this night, I would swim here if I had to. read more

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Everything exceeded my expectations! From the exceptional food to the unforgettable experience, you truly couldn't ask for more! Chef Ray was outstanding and the food ...absolutely incredible! Each course was expertly curated and uniquely crafted to awaken your taste buds. I rarely leave reviews but I felt compelled to share my incredible experience. Thank yous so much Chef Ray and to the amazing staff!!! read more

If I could, I'd give this 6 stars. Oh my goodness, I think this is the best meal I've ever had. I was in heaven with the first bite, and it just kept going. Chef Ray is incredible, and his staff are on point. I wish he were located in my hometown, because I'd be going here as much as possible if I lived in the area. Thank you so much for a delightful experience. read more

My goodness! Such a lucky last minute find. Visiting Honolulu and as our last day looking to eat delicious sushi when I stumbled on one open rvsp! Omakese to cap off our trip was such an amazing experience! 18 course and other than eel which I am not a fan of this was such an elevate experience. Every bite with an explosion of intricate flavors. Friendly awesome environment to top it off. I only added a few photos to ensure you are pleasantly surprised read more

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I like this Omakase very much . Chef's the best in Honolulu . We had a good time yesterday .谢谢 read more

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If omakase is an art form, then Hihimanu is the gallery where every piece deserves a standing ovation. What We Ordered We went with the omakase course, and from the very first bite, it was clear this wasn't just a meal -- it was a journey. Each course flowed seamlessly into the next, with the chef carefully explaining the story behind each piece of fish. The highlights? A buttery otoro nigiri that melted instantly, a uni bite that tasted like the ocean's best-kept secret, and a perfectly torched nigiri that nearly made me weep. Service & Atmosphere The experience feels new yet intentional. The chef and staff were welcoming, balancing professionalism with a genuine aloha spirit and a lot of witty banter. The space itself is not a typical omakase style but -- it lets the food shine while still feeling special. Standout Details What really sets Hihimanu apart is the precision. The balance of flavors, the temperature of the rice, the way every piece was served at its peak -- nothing felt rushed, nothing felt overlooked. You can taste the craftsmanship in every bite. Wrap-Up If you're in Oʻahu and want a meal that's equal parts delicious and unforgettable, the omakase at Hihimanu is the move. It's not just sushi -- it's storytelling, hospitality, and artistry on a plate. read more

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Coming from SF we've had a many omakase with fish flown from Japan, but this has got to be the BEST omakase we've had almost the west coast & Miami. Each dish was thoughtfully curated and fully embodies the definition of omakase in entrusting chef Ray with every dish. Every bite was superb! His personality overall added to the vibe of the experience! Highly recommend & he ruined omakase for us as now nothing compares..... read more

This place is truly amazing. Best omakase, sushi, heck - food in general - I've ever had. Chef Ray goes beyond the traditional rice+fish+wasabi+sauce to elevate each dish. Every ingredient has a story: a seasonal fish flown in from Japan fresh, not frozen, a sauce made in house, a caviar that is different from the other caviar two dishes ago, or a flower garnish grown in house. Chef Ray is a warm and gracious host with a sense of humor. He is a master of his craft. He is also fluent in English so very easy to converse with. A few days after coming to Hihimanu, I went to Sushi Sho, the most expensive and hardest to book omakase in Honolulu. I was disappointed the whole time because Hihimanu was better in basically every way. read more

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We spend hours reading restaurant reviews before we travel, and I'm so glad we found Hihimanu! Chef Ray has a unique and creative personality, and his 15 course+dessert omakase was the food highlight of our ten-day trip to Honolulu! I believe we booked about a month out, and the only reservation we were able to get was a 2pm on a weekday. We spent $185 each with no alcohol before taxes and tip. As other reviewers have noted, this is not the restaurant for a sushi "purist", most dishes have glazes and relishes like caviar or micro greens - but in my opinion, they really really add!! I generally am a sushi-purist, but I really was blown away by the flavor combinations, textures, freshness, etc. We will absolutely plan on coming back the next time we're in Honolulu! read more

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We had a great experience at this restaurant the chefs are pretty engaging and joking and like to have fun and the menu is inventive with clearly a lot of thought going into the dishes creating a lot of unique and amazing flavours. read more

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Dined in here on February 27 at 5pm and we had a great time! All my friends who came to Oahu recommended this place. Booked a week advance on open tables. I really enjoyed every single item I had here. Chefs were kind and funny. All their fish are super fresh due to it being imported from Japan. Will definitely be back! :) read more

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Ok, so I was given the warning to not eat a lot before this meal... and I failed and hugely regretted it. We ate a coursed meal most nights and this one was by far my favorite experience. The setting is more intimate, 9 people were seated across the countertop, and I loved the personalization of the experience. When you walk in, you are seated at the countertop, we sat on the left side by the owner, Ray (who is extremely charismatic and funny). I have to admit, this was my first omakase sushi experience and I was slightly nervous to not like a certain fish. We ordered a midrange bottle (or what I think a midrange bottle was) of sake called manju ($145), 1 of 5 in which Ray recommended based on my palette. Honestly, I loved it a lot. It was definitely smooth, delicious, and an easy drink. As far as the sushi goes, it was easy to love each piece and like an art watching them make it. From the specialized salts to caviars, truffles and smoke, to everything in between- it's like everything he touches turns to gold... like a very delicious sushi piece of gold. I wish I could say what my favorite was but it would indicate that I had a less favorite and I can't really describe anything as "less". I truly loved every bite even of fish I didn't think I liked. Everything was insanely fresh and beautifully paired and presented! I love trying new restaurants and it's rare for me to want to revisit a place based on a restaurant, but this would be the one. Great experience start to finish!!! read more

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It has been 2 weeks and I am still floored by how incredible this place is. Chef Ray and his staff (wife included) go above and beyond in delivering a thoughtfully curated menu with incredible drinks to pair with. This was without a doubt - an immaculate experience. I will run out of adjectives describing how outrageously delicious the food was. For anyone that loves Sushi, this is the pinnacle and this Omakase experience is authentic as any in Japan. The setup is extremely intimate, cozy and reflective of all those shops in Japan where you are close to the creator of the food! Perfect for Omakase. Aside from the 8 stools there are lovely touches and accents around the room which makes you feel relaxed and welcomed! Chef Ray's commentary is excellent! He is funny and informative, providing detail around each dish which also goes to show the amount of thought he puts into everything and it's just such a magnificent level of dedication, you really feel part of his journey. I came for an early birthday dinner with my wife and it did not disappoint with 18 courses plus dessert. As mentioned the presentation was gorgeous without being ostentatious even for the most decadent dishes which would have caviar, gold flakes or truffles. Nothing went to waste and every bite is well balanced with some minor customizations that the chef provides (add some salt or shoyu or perhaps a little juice from a calamansi etc.). The price point is high but accurate for the quality delivered and the freshness of all the dishes (majority of which comes directly from Japan!). This is the kind of treat you will never forget and I want to thank Chef Ray + Crew for keeping this little shop open for the rest of us to enjoy! Oishi! read more

Probably my favorite omakase spot on the island. The sushi is incredibly fresh, and every dish is so thoughtfully and beautifully crafted. I love the modern twist with micro garnishes--it adds a delicate, elevated touch to each course. Even though I was full by the end, I still wanted to try the additional sushi add-ons because everything just looked too good to pass up. It's definitely on the pricier side, but 100% worth it--especially when you're treating someone special. I'd absolutely come back here for a special occasion with the right person. read more

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This is definitely a place we will be going to every time we visit! The food was amazing and I definitely loved the Chefs home made salts. He should bottle it and sell it!! read more

Chef Ray ( aka Deeana.. ) was amazing! Omakase was 100% so authentic! Atmosphere was 101% dalmatian! Will visit again when im back in Hawaii! read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Visited there for lunch. The chef, Ray's presentation is great however I have couple points that made me deduct the points. 1the chef called Uzukuri but Usuzukuri (the second dish) was served for two persons , however since it was prepared earlier and waited for other guests to be seated, it was warm and unfortunately it didn't taste fresh. 2 As you can see from my photos, the chef served sushi with caviar (5 dishes ) a lot which I think a bit salty and all the fish taste caviar. 3 Ikura rice seems to be not ikura from salmon maybe from trout: trout Ikura is small and not much fun of eating its bubbles. (I am sorry I missed the chef's explanation) 4 dessert: mint did not go well with sorbet (I don't think we need mint). The chef is ambitious and I am sure his creativity and sense will improve his omakase course. Gochiso sama deshita! read more

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Beautifully crafted one or two bite creations with hand crafted custom seasonings and sauces that add nuanced, multi dimensional micro flavors. BUT... First, my cred; I've been fortunate enough over the years to dine at five Michelin three star and literally dozens of Michelin awarded sushi restaurants across Japan. One thing all their omakase have in common, the progression from one piece to the next is deliberate. The flavor of the next piece relies on the memory of the flavor of the previous creating an experience. The omakase at Hihimanu does NOT at all try to accomplish this. Rather each plate is a complete expression. It's not a bad thing, just not traditional Japanese. Fresh, well sourced seafood. Some treated simply to showcase the extreme seasonal freshness, some aged a week to bring out their deeper flavor. Some very innovative and unexpected ie a piece of uni teased with the essence of blood orange; a brilliant use of citrus that subtly balanced the richness with acidity and almost transformed the Japanese delicacy into in Italian one. Excellent use of caviar. Unlike some sushi eateries that pile it on just because its luxe, here its purposeful adding salinity, oceanic, yolky flavors that enhance the seafood. Micro greens (onion sprouts), edible flowers (garlic chive flowers) and herbs each lend their flavors to the completed bite. Great use of self created seasoned salts that not only carry the flavor of the enhancement such as sakura, but add a hint of color. Like all multi coursed meals, not everything will be to one's liking. Personal preference, the soy topping the chu toro overpowered it. Chef is very theatrical with movements that mimic a teppanyaki chef. Entertaining for sure. Good list of fairly priced sake. A page of seasonal offerings a plus. Reservations required with a credit card required to warranty them. Substantial charges for no shows, last minute cancellations, or reduction in party size. Book the day they become available to secure. In the end, for a Hawaii reference, Sushi Sho this is not but for those wanting to try a new, non traditional take on a modern multi coursed Japanese meal, a must try. read more

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Just... wow. I would like to point out that my sushi experiences have been officially ruined. I thought I've had fresh sushi before in mainland US, but it doesn't come close to my sushi experience at Hihimanu. The executive chef let us know that unlike other parts of the US, where fish has to be frozen first, that's not the case for Hawaii. And therefore, the fish were fresh. It is reservation based with limited seating times throughout the day, so don't forget to get a reservation prior. We got here a little early so we were sat at the lounge before being seated. Then the true experience started! We got the 18 course + complimentary dessert. Every course was carefully curated for a memorable omakase experience and after dining, I can see how it's a top omakase experience in the US. While I can't remember all the dishes because I was too busy stuffing my face, I don't think there was a single item that I didn't enjoy. For one course, I found a stray item (probably a thread from a towel that is used to cover up the rice), and the chefs were so quick to make me a fresh course to replace it. I've never seen such attention to detail and truly the best service at an establishment before. When you walk in, it seems unassuming and just another sushi spot, but you're in for an experience! Prior to this experience, I had this myth that omakase was a waste of time because it's small portions and such little food, but I'm happy to say that I was so wrong. After finishing the 18 courses and the complimentary dessert, I was stuffed! There is a small parking lot on site! read more

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Another epic omakase with Chef Ray. Mink fish liver, otoro, Hokkaido uni,Russian caviar, loaded Chawamushi and more with 18 courses. Great attention to detail in the presentation of each course. And always the best sake selection in Hawaii. Service was excellent and attentive. Ray is very creative and he always has something new. We always enjoy ourselves here. read more

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Fresh fish and uni from Japan, with balanced ingredients of shirako, Russian caviar, shave foie gras, yuzu, home made salt. Chef Ray told us his fish is never frozen thats why the taste of each dish was better than normal sushi places we had. Service was friendly, light and attentive. Drink menu was wonderful too. Defintely one of the best omakase in Hawaii. read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Came here for my girlfriend's birthday dinner since she had never tried an omakase experience before and I'm really glad I picked this place. The dinner is an 18 course set that takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The chefs explain each dish and how best to enjoy it which makes the experience even more enjoyable. Every ingredient was super fresh with many imported from around the world. Pretty much every dish was perfectly executed and the flavors complemented each other really well, taking you on a little journey with each bite. The atmosphere is relaxed and homey, making it easy to just sit back and enjoy. The A/C was also at the perfect temperature. The servers and bussers were very attentive and cleaned up each dish as we finished, even wiping away small crumbs to keep the table spotless. I'd definitely recommend this omakase if you're celebrating a special occasion. read more

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One of the best meals of my life...mind blown...beautiful combinations. I was scared to go back for a long while after that first time because I didn't want to be disappointed. But, I've been back a few times and it never disappoints. Thank you Chef Ray! read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

The food is amazing!! Everything is super fresh and delicious! Great service and you get to interact with the chef too. Make sure to get sake to go with the sushi! read more

amazing! best omakazi in hawaii! I've eaten at a lot of places and this is hands down my new favorite! read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Update: Still as good as the first time. I love how they change up the different sushi to make it a whole new experience. This time around, I got to taste 3 different uni from different parts of the world. Also, I had sturgeon and kaluga caviar, and a squid tempura that was so tender and scrumptious. Service here is top notch and I love that it is such a small restaurant decorated to make you feel like you're in Japan. It is pricey; however, you are paying for high quality products. read more

Hihimanu Sushi - Wagyu tartare - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Every course was absolutely delicious and loved how everything had the chef's own personal spin on it. Excellent sake recommendation. In addition to the food being amazing, Ray himself was super personable and fun, making the experience all the more enjoyable. Had great food and a lot of laughs. All the fish was super fresh, buttery, and expertly prepared, but I have to give 10/10 on the hand-cut veggies. Truly amazing. Hihimanu was such a great find and we will definitely return on our next trip to Hawaii! read more

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The most delish fish. Everything was plated so beautifully that I had a hard time eating Chef Ray's creations (just kidding - every dish was so dang delicious that I stopped feeling bad as soon as I tasted it). Incredible service; our sake cups were never empty. Totally fell in love with Chef Ray himself as he was so much fun. Had the best time. Absolutely will be back. 100000/10 recommend this incredible omakase experience!! :) read more

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Ok after so many trips here I am making a review. Ray is amazing! This is non-traditional amazing omakase! Your pallet will be blown away! This is must go to! All fresh, flown in daily! I can't wait for my next trip! read more

The owner was the rudest person I've ever met. He completely ruined what could've been a decent meal I was treating my parents out to for their 35th anniversary. I was memorable in all the worst ways. He repeatedly made fun of my parents' English (as Chinese immigrants) loudly behind the divider as if none of us could hear or understand him. Then, when my dad asked him to restate what fish one of the courses was, he turned to one of the other chefs and said, sarcastically, "Oh as owner, am I answering questions like that now? I guess it can't be asked to one of you guys huh?" The food didn't stand out to me at all because the experience and service was the worst I've ever experienced and overshadowed everything that night. Also, we were the only party in the restaurant that night because the other party cancelled last minute. I can't say for certain if this owner's attitude was due to that or racism, but considering he made fun of my parents' English, I'm not giving him the benefit of the doubt. Stay far far away! You can get equally fresh (despite what the owner likes to repeatedly tell you) and delicious sushi for way less and without the rudeness and side of racism elsewhere. read more

This was my first time here. My cousin has been here over 6 times and decided to bring me here on a spontaneous trip. He said be prepared for a fun atmosphere and great food. Chef Ray was inviting through the whole dinner. He told stories, joked with us, explained everything in detail, and even offered extra. I've had lots of experience of omakase over the years and this one definitely changed my view on fresh fish and great flavor. I definitely will be coming back with others. 18 courses, sake, memories, maybe some loss of digity on my own behalf but it was a great experience. I can't wait to come back here again in the future. Also. That review with 3 stars for too much caviar and uni. Maybe he should let his balls drop a bit more cause I've never heard complaints of too much good ingredients. That was a new one and I'm sure for many. read more

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Best omakase EVER!! My brother and I take my dad to omakases at least twice a year for his birthday and Father's Day. I've also been to other omakases but this by far has been the best omakase! Thank you chef Ray and family for such great hospitality and ono food! We will definitely be back! read more