I had such a blast at Omakase by Aung on my first night in Waikiki. I made my reservation using OpenTable. Chef Aung and his staff were so friendly and wholesome. As for food, every dish and nigiri seemed to be thoughtfully and delicately prepped with fresh ingredients. Everything tasted great - Nothing tasted fishy or off. Can't wait to come back again! read more

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This omakase is a delicious party! Came here for my birthday and Chef Aung made it super special! I will definitely come back. Every bite was glorious. Just go! It's BYOB so pace yourself! Enjoy! read more

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My wife and I wanted to try omakase for the first time and this spot did not disappoint! Food was great and the vibes were fun, chef aung and the workers were on point from start to finish. We brought a few bottles of soju because it was BYOB, so I definitely recommend bringing something to drink. Overall worth the experience! read more

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What a vibe! Chef Aung created a vibrant welcoming atmosphere... so much so that by the end everyone at our in the restaurant were singing, laughing and vibing. I highly recommend. read more

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Another visit!! Since I loved my first time here, when my best friend was thinking about where to go for her birthday, my positive review locked in the choice. We got the 8pm slot, though they didn't open the door until about 8:05-8:10pm. Very loud but friendly atmosphere. Casual but not too casual. About 10 seats, all counter. Intimate. There were a couple courses that I thought could be adjusted to be better, but overall everything was enjoyable! Last I came it was about 2 years ago, price point was ~$140/p not including tip. Now it's about $175/p. Nice dinner and experience but definitely not friendly to the pockets haha. Great for special occasions. I believe it was about 2hrs, and they give birthday dishes so make sure to mention that!! I wish I could add the new pictures from this visit without deleting the ones from 2 years ago :( read more

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We came to Omakase by Aung to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary, and it turned out to be such a memorable experience. From the moment we sat down, Aung made everything feel comfortable, fun, and personal. This is definitely not your typical omakase experience--Aung truly knows how to entertain his guests while still delivering top-notch food. Every course was superb, and the entire experience felt thoughtful and special. His sous chefs were also incredibly sweet and fun, which added even more to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It's a BYOB spot and a true hole-in-the-wall along Kapahulu Ave, but don't let that fool you--this place delivers an amazing dining experience. Aung made our anniversary unforgettable, and we're so glad we chose to celebrate here. Highly recommend. read more

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What a surprise experiencing this Anniversary dinner that was planned by my son where we learned upon entering that this 18 course omakase would be in an intimate 12 counter seat where Chef Aung and his Assistants Nunu and Lexi would be presenting in front of us as their only guests. To explain further, there are only 2 seatings at 5:30 and 8 pm. Arriving at 5:30, there were no tables like a traditional restaurant and instead a total of 12 seats at the Exhibition Counter hence a reservation to dine is needed. We were the only ones there during our time slot which made it more personable as we got to know the Chef. Since my son mentioned it was for my wife and I 's anniversary he surprised us by opening up a bottle of Cabernet. But wait, it wasn't until I was seated for 10 minutes that they do not sell alcohol hence it is BYOB which is allowed with no corkage fee. The food was amazing coupled by the fact that we learned he lived in San Francisco for a period of time graduating from SF State and he was familiar and had dined at my favorite Italian Restaurant. Pictured are the major of the 18 items and ended with a popular R&B song which played during our complimentary dessert. Hands down this was comparable to the French Laundry in Napa but even better since we're the only guests during that time slot. If I could give more than 5 stars for this review I would. Definitely recommend for a special occasion or if one is on an expense account. read more

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Compared to the traditional omakase places where you sit and eat your meal quietly, Omakase By Aung is LIT. Maybe a little too lit. I've been here twice now for the later seating and it's always been so much fun and the food is great too. There are about 17 courses (including dessert) in total. Every course is thoughtfully prepared by Aung right in front of you. We all though the uni toast was amazing but my favorite has always been the scallop. The quality of the fish is amazing and it's super fresh! Seating here is limited so reservations in advance are a must. This place doesn't sell alcohol so it's BYOB and our group took turns taking tequila shots with Aung. Will definitely be back again! Food is great, pricing is reasonable, and the people there are fantastic. read more

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Unlike the other Omakase I've had, this one was definitely the most unique and fun! We really enjoyed our dinner here!! * Parking: There's a small lot behind the building, otherwise you'll have to find street parking. * Ambiance: This is literally a hidden gem as there's no exterior signage. Inside is small, with less than 10 seats on the sushi counter. Aung was on aux and lemme tell you.. his playlist was fire! I loved jamming out to his mix of r&b, rap, and classics during dinner. * Service: Chef Aung and his crew were the best! The staff were so personable, attentive, and fun! In contrast to traditional omakase, the rapport with our chefs were more laid back and casual which I enjoyed. I also appreciated the rounds of shots they gave us, as well as the special treat for my husband and I's anniversary. * Food/Drink: Ugh don't even get me started on how fresh & rich the fish was--all the sushi literally melted in my mouth. And the flavors were just chef's kiss. TBH i can't even pick out a favorite course bc everything was so yummy! It's also BYOB so don't forget a bottle (and don't forget to share some with the chefs!) Overall, this dinner was worth the splurge. I can't wait to come back! read more

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My bf and I came here to celebrate our 5 year anniversary, and we had the best experience with Chef Aung. What truly makes Omakase by Aung unique is the experience itself. It is fun and personal, and Chef Aung makes an effort to connect with his guests. Not only was the food delicious, but the connections and memories made the entire experience so worth it. Each seating has only about 8 to 10 guests, which makes it feel cozy and intimate. At the end of our meal, Chef Aung surprised us with a final course to celebrate our anniversary, and everyone cheered along, which made it incredibly sweet and memorable. I cannot recommend this place enough. If you're visiting Oahu this place is a must! read more

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I always come here whenever I'm in Oahu. My fave omakase in the island. Chef Aung doesn't disappoint. Good vibes as well. read more

Omakase By Aung - Amazing! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Our party of five had an amazing time with Chef Aung as we celebrated birthdays and a graduation. Two in our group have been there once and the rest of our group had quite a memorable first-time experience with him. As you can see from the pictures of our sixteen items, all the fish was fresh, the uni kept its shape, and Chef did not skimp on the Caviar:) The smokey corn soup had treasures of shrimp as well. Rice was perfectly seasoned and Chef is really skilled with his food torch! If I had to pick a favorite, it's everything he topped with caviar. A close second is the luscious otoro and chutoro. A close third is the yellowtail with freshly zested lemon. Oh and a very close fourth, the sweet scallops. Alright, so top five includes the seared wagyu! I love his attention to detail. Beyond the fun Playlist and partaking in sake with us, our experience was filled with delightful conversation. Chef Aung did not skip a beat, all of the dishes were served with exquisite presentation and taste. Additionally, he gifted our VIPs with a special nigiri complete with candle! Such a lovely touch. Since we were allowed to bring in a birthday cake and supplement the smooth vanilla ice cream with fresh fruity glaze, Chef graciously cut and served the cake after playing a lively birthday song. In the same fashion that he slices fresh fish, we observed Chef Aung clean the frosting off the knife blade with each perfect slice. He enjoyed the sweet potato birthday cake with us and after the clean up, he dimmed the lights and brought out the karaoke. I don't remember what time we left but each of us had at minimum, two songs on his mic. Thank you Chef Aung. We all had a memorable evening with you :) There is truly something to be said about great food and memorable conversation. read more

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Had the best time with Aung and girls last night!! To feel like you're in a club and eating some bomb sushi? A sushi lover's dream!!!! Chef Aung definitely delivered an exceptional 17 course meal with the best beats to go with it. It was Bieberchella, for sure!!! Love the customer service, so comfortable, fun, and personable!!! I love the way it's not so big yet so small in his restaurant, the perfect size for the perfect bites! It was my first time and definitely not my last! read more

Finally checked Aung off my list, and now I'm wondering why I waited so long! Let's start with logistics: yes, they do have parking, but the lot is small and disappears faster than the good toro. Pro tip: come early if you want a spot, otherwise you'll be circling like a sushi boat at a cheap buffet. Dinner is split into two seatings, and we went with the early one. It's currently BYOB, but Chef Aung casually mentioned they just got their alcohol license, so I'm guessing those BYOB glory days are numbered. (RIP to my carefully paired sake stash.) The ambiance? Very on point. The space is sleek and modern, but not "so minimalist you feel like you're eating in a dentist's office." The music adds to the young, chic, slightly hipster vibe. Think cool but not try-hard. Every seat is at the bar in a straight line, which makes it different from the U or L-shaped counters you see at most other omakase spots. At first I thought this would feel awkward, but actually it felt communal, like we were all in it together, front row for the sushi symphony. Now let's talk about the star: Chef Aung. Unlike most other omakase chefs in town, he's not Japanese. He's originally from Burma, has lived and traveled extensively, and brings that wide-open perspective to his cooking. And honestly? It's refreshing. His style is approachable, thoughtful, and polished without being stuck up or fussy. You won't get overly experimental "look at me" dishes that make you wonder if you're eating sushi or modern art. Instead you get clean flavors, top-tier ingredients, and plates that feel creative but balanced. Also: he's actually fun to talk to. Some omakase counters can feel like the chef is lecturing or testing you on your sushi IQ. Aung, on the other hand, is easygoing, down-to-earth, and happy to chat whether you're a seasoned sushi snob or just here for the first time. That alone makes the experience way less intimidating. Overall, the night felt like the perfect blend of serious food and not-so-serious atmosphere. The fish was pristine, the pacing was smooth, and the whole thing just... worked. It's no wonder this place is packed every night. Would I come back? 100%. Next time I'll be earlier (for parking) and maybe with fewer bottles in my bag (because let's be honest, that license is going to kick in soon). Until then, I'll just be over here recommending Aung to everyone who asks me where to get omakase that feels both cool and comfortably human. read more

An intimate omakase spot with a fun, laid-back vibe -- but the sushi itself didn't quite match the atmosphere. The chef definitely kept things entertaining, taking tequila shots every 10 minutes and keeping the mood light and social, which made the experience memorable. However, when it comes to the food, it was just okay. I've definitely had better sushi elsewhere for a similar price point. The fish was fine, but nothing that really stood out or wowed me. Overall, it's a good time if you're going for the experience and the chef's energy, but if you're seeking top-tier sushi quality, there are stronger options out there. read more

My wife and I came to Oahu for my little sister's birthday, and this ended up being the highlight of our entire trip. Chef Aung created an incredible vibe from start to finish. The staff was fun, warm, and genuinely welcoming, and the quality of the omakase was absolutely top tier. We've had omakase in SF, New York, and even Japan, and in terms of overall experience, nothing compares to this. It was the most memorable omakase we've ever had. This will be a permanent stop for us every time we visit Oahu. Bring friends, bring your own booze, and get ready to make core memories. Thank you for an unforgettable night that will stay with us for the rest of our lives. read more

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My friend and I came for the first seating of the night and it can accommodate 8, but there were only 6 total. We brought some beer and seltzers to drink and the other groups did not bring anything. It took a little bit for Aung to warm up and get in his groove in terms of dialogue, but in the end he was fun to talk to and we liked him. I found the dishes to be very nice. The dishes with uni were my favorite and I even enjoyed the the two mackerel preparations though that isn't a preferred fish of mine. When we got to the final piece which was unagi, I wasn't sure if I could even eat it. Even with 2 liquid courses, it's A LOT of food plus a small ice cream dessert. Maybe the 530 seating is tame and the later one is wild, but there was no issue with drunkenness or uncleanliness or anything. The meal was worth the price and I would do it again. read more

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Everything tasted fresh, Service was amazing from Aung & his team! Ambiance was also great, There's about 10 seatings per session, so make sure you make rsvp in advance! 10/10 would go again! read more

Omakase By Aung - Sushi Bars Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Great experience. Interesting menu with dishes that aren't easy to find elsewhere. Fishes are tasty and fresh. Everything was well-prepared and flavorful. The chef and staff were friendly and welcoming. The space is casual but comfortable. Totally worth how much I spent. read more

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Book here NEEEOOOW! I finally made reservations for this omakase months in advance because I seriously was never able to get in. I learned that Aung was a chef in the Bay Area for 8 years prior to the island, and I love supporting other people from the Bay. I booked an 8pm because I wasn't sure what day plans my partner and I had for the day and wanted to make room. We arrived 10 minutes early, but I would say, arriving exactly on the dot or maybe 5 minutes after is acceptable because they didn't let us in until exactly 8pm. The inside is very inviting, dimly lit, and has 10 seats. You're immediately greeted by Aung and his 2 sou chefs (I believe), and their playlist of rap/r&b/sometimes pop was playing. Honestly, it's a lot like my playlist, so I loved the music. They were so welcoming and made great conversation. Once the table was full, they got started right away. Every bite, every course, was INSANE. Every time my partner and I liked something, we would look at each other with our eyes wide open. We did bring 2 of our bottles of white wine, and they provided glasses. This omakase is BYOB, but they did offer tequila shots, which we gladly took. They were pretty slow pace at first, but Aung eventually gave us a shot after every course lmao. I would say they were very nice about those who didn't want to drink, but 8pm is meant for those who want to get lit at the end of the night, even the omakase crew! My boyfriend and I Ubered there, but we were so lit by the end of the night, we were able to walk back to our airbnb in Waikiki lmaoooo. My boyfriend and I agreed that it felt like we were at a friends house just having a nice dinner. The vibes aren't super sophisticated and fancy, which I like. The dress code is also pretty casual, so you can get away with wearing jeans and a t shirt. We had a 16 course meal and it totaled to around $380 (plus tip). To me, it was pretty reasonable per person! I would love to experience this again with Aung and his team next time I'm on the island. read more

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Hands down the funnest and most unique Omakase dinners I have ever been to. Chef Aung cracks me up and it's like a party atmosphere at the restaurant especially when it is BYOB! Service was amazing and the seafood was fresh, sweet and innovative. Will definitely try to hit up this restaurant again next time I go back to Oahu! read more

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If you're looking for a fun, unforgettable night filled with good laughter and the best nigiris, this place is for you. The service was unmatched, probably one of my better omakase experience on Oahu. Aung and his team really take care of you. I came w a bunch of my ladies for girls night without any expectations but left satiated. It's BYOB and the best part is... the staff will drink w you. We ended the night w karaoke during our dinner service and it was probably the highlight of the entire night besides the delicious food. Speaking of food, the nigiri's proportions were spectacular. The ratio between rice and fish - perfection. You can make this experience however you want though. If you just want a nice quiet dinner to enjoy the food, the staff will deliver. If you want a spontaneously wild night like we did, the staff will deliver. Overall, this place will leave you with high vibrations and an experience curated just for you. Book your seats. You won't regret it. read more

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Fun, delicious, and 10000% worth. My family comes all the time and this time I was able to join them! It brought back all the happy memories of Japan, but better because it was BYOB. Each dish was so carefully curated and SO GOOD. Chef and his team are such fun people and they just want to make sure you're having a good time. read more

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Came here because I heard this is the premier sushi place in all of Hawaii, according to Yelp, Beli, and everything else. Happy to report that y'all are correct. Not only is the food here amazing, the experience is the best I've ever had PERIOD. And I've had Michelin sushi in both the US and Japan. Aung is such a fun host and conversationalist, and happily drank with us and got super lit by the end of service. He had special treats for anyone whose birthday it was or who was celebrating anything, and had an incredible playlist full of classic hip hop. Also, I feel he strategically picked who to sit where based on party size and age or something, because it just so happened that everyone seemed to befriend their neighbors and have an amazing time?! Or maybe that's just because he creates such a nice vibe. On to the food, the fish was incredible as you'd expect, but Chef Aung had some cool creative things you don't always see, including smoked fish, partial torched fish, and even a toast dish with uni and caviar that blew our minds. Overall, just go. Don't even think, just go. This is a premier experience and totally worth the money. Bring a bottle not just for yourself but to share with the chef and your seat mates for the best experience. 5/5 read more

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Stopped in off the reco of my niece who lives on the island. Overall conflicted with this spot. Vibe is nice in this counter spot churning through 3 seatings a night plus lunch. You can tell the chef is grinding away. Loud music and a talkative dinner experience is what to expect. Currently still BYOB but I believe they are in process of getting a liquor license. $160 or so for the 15 courses. Not the worst but it did feel in the mid value range when it came to overall creativity. I personally still think tops on the island is Sasabune if you want traditional omakase. These days lots of spots opening up offering omakase format feel more churn and burn since this restaurant format has such a low entry point to open if you have fish sourcing squared away. I think if you're coming w a small group then you will have a good time. The best comparison i can make is sammys romanian for any of those familiar w that old NYC spot. Chatty chef and a light atmosphere w tunes for a fun time. At this price point it may be creeping into the special occasion zone. read more

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When I say Omakase by Aung is an experience, it's an understatement. Experienced it with my boyfriend for his 40th birthday and it was such a treat! Aung is truly wonderful, and his food is nothing short of magical. This restaurant is worth every dollar. Each dish is presented in a luxurious yet casual way--an oxymoron, yes, but Aung's unique style combines beautiful plating with a laid-back dining atmosphere. It feels like you're sharing a meal with good people and good vibes, all while enjoying some of the highest quality fish you've ever tasted. Piece after piece is curated and presented with perfection. Aung's genuine enjoyment of the experience is infectious. He's personable, real, and passionate about good food and drinks, making sure you feel the same. His playlist is also a delightful surprise! We walked in to a fun mix of Adele, Weezer, and "Sweet Caroline," with everyone singing along--something you'd never expect at a place like this! It's also BYOB. We brought a bottle of sake from Japan, and by the end of the meal, we were sharing wine with other guests around us. Whether you're a local or visiting Hawaii, you absolutely need to book a seat at Omakase by Aung. You won't be disappointed! read more

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Of the omakase experiences I've had in Honolulu, Omakase by Aung is definitely the most fun! His place has kind of a hip vibe, with his young staff and pop music that's played. His staff are down to earth, friendly and very hospitable. Chef Aung's sushi creations were impressive, and incredibly delicious! It was my 2 girl friends' birthdays this month, and they really went out of their way to make them feel special. read more

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This was such a a fun experience. We literally had a private dinning experience with Chief Aung. The sushi was so fresh and flavorful. My favorite was the uni toast, the corn soup, and the unagi sushi. Every bite was so well balanced. Chief Aung and the hostess really took care of us. Service has chill vibes and they helped make my husband's birthday really special. There is a small parking area behind the restaurant or public parking across the street. There isn't a sign for this restruant but just look for the door with the frosted window. It's like a secret restaurant. Overall a really fun and yummy place to eat. Chief Aung is so passionate about his craft. Can't wait to come back. read more

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This is one of the best omakase experience I've had. We made reservation about 2-3 weeks before for a Tuesday night. We had about 15 courses and I think I liked almost every one of the courses. The dining area is very cozy and sits only 8 people. In another word, you have a very personal dining experience with the chef. The chef is personable and we chatted with the chef and those sitting around us. I do recommend people to bring alcohol. The chef also drank with us. It was so much fun! We were planning to be sober that night, but we finished the whole bottle between the two of us and I don't regret it! I had a great night and I would recommend this place to everyone who's looking for omakase experience in Waikiki. read more

Amazing experience and incredible staff. Friendly and welcoming people. Every bite was delicious. Great place to celebrate any occasion. They will for surely make it a memorable one. So many dishes to choose from, everything was tasty and carefully put together. Great fun ambiance as well read more

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I waited a couple weeks before posting this review because I'm conflicted about our experience at Omakase by Aung. On the one hand, the food was tasty, the vibe was fresh, and the service was great. On the other hand, Chad Aung was visibly ill and somehow failed to follow allergy restrictions that we double confirmed at the beginning of the meal. Absent those two complaints, Omakase by Aung would have become one of our regular favorites and this review would be five stars. Through an unfortunate accident of timing, I cannot give quite so positive a review. Omakase by Aung is in a nondescript space along Kapahulu Blvd, with no sign or indication that it's even there. I like hidden gems, and this small restaurant is hidden in plain sight. The interior of the restaurant is simple, with a sushi bar that seats maybe 10 people max, but there were only 7 people eating during our visit. Lights are low and the dark colors of the bar and walls contrast with the modern hits playing from Chef Aung's speaker. Chef Aung and his assistant greeted us as we entered, and they took our beers to chill on ice and our whisky to serve when we were ready. BYOB, and consider bringing some to share because that's definitely more fun. The food was very good, and aside from some very loud coughing when he stepped out between courses and occasional sniffles, Chef Aung did a great job preparing everything. Unfortunately, the fear of getting sick battled with the good food, and so we sat watching Chef's every move to make sure there was no visible mishandling that might lead to contamination. If the food was not excellent we would have left after the second course when we realized he was sick, but it was too good, and chef kept his hands clean and away from his face. My favorite dish was the half seared toro, which was a new take on a common dish. The frequent use of uni throughout the menu was also a treat. Overall the fish was all fresh, delicious, and high quality. Premium ingredients were included in most Dishes and were used appropriately. Dishes were tasty and mixed traditional and modern approaches. Our neighbor at the sushi bar was Junior, who also had a shrimp allergy and we were chatting energetically by the end of the meal. I hope he was okay. My wife and son both had allergic reactions to shellfish that somehow got served to tham and is the main reason I felt obligated to leave this review. Sometimes a Chef or the service at a restaurant is just not at the top of their game, and I think that's what happened during our visit. While I would not recommend Omakase by Aung to anyone with a food allergy, I do think it is probably worth a visit for those without allergies. read more

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When you hear "omakase," you expect a renowned sushi chef with years of experience, tradition, and precision. This was not that. Chef Aung is in his 30s, born in Thailand, raised in the Bay Area with time in New York before Hawaiʻi. He's clearly a very hard worker, but the vibe leaned more "lively dinner party" than refined omakase. We attended the 5:30 PM seating, but both Chef and his assistants mentioned that the 8:00 PM seating ends with karaoke. Throughout our meal, the lights dimmed, his wine kept flowing for himself, and tequila shots were taken--all while he was preparing food. He would drink glass after glass, take a shot, and then handle food immediately afterward without washing his hands. At other omakase experiences, chefs are meticulous with handwashing and precision... here, it was noticeably absent. Sanitation was a concern. We saw him cough, handle bottles, open the fridge, and go back to preparing sushi... all without ever washing his hands. That contrast to the high standards typically associated with omakase stood out in the worst way. Unfortunately, my girlfriend was awakened by cramping and diarrhea in the middle of the night after the meal, and symptoms continued into the next day. As for the food, quality was decent compared to a standard sushi spot, but underwhelming when compared to true omakase restaurants. It felt more like good marketing and atmosphere than flawless execution. Overall, this is better suited for those wanting a fun, casual, high-energy night out with sushi at the center. But if you're looking for an authentic, top-tier omakase experience with professionalism and precision, this isn't it. Better advertising than execution. read more

Took my girlfriend here for her birthday dinner and as soon as we sat down we noticed the little nick nacks and toys decorated Round the restaurant and nice teal chairs and wide countertop. There was jazz playing and the vibes already felt cozy like I was eating dinner at a friend's house. Shortly after, we were served the first dish with a quick description. It was very good, the kitchen seemed very cohesive with each dish coming out and each chef being extremely polite while serving each dish. Aung made the dinner very personable by asking each guest questions but not taking away too much from the dinner. Each dish felt pretty unique, small bites as expected with these Omakase places, but we both felt satisfied after every course. All of the dishes tasted very fresh with my favorites being the uni & chutoro! For the price point, expect to leave satisfied and an enjoyable experience, do not expect to be over full. Definitely would recommend this Omakase for celebrations! read more

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Lovely intimate experience with fantastic sushi. Definitely coming back the next time I'm in Waikiki. Detailed breakdown below: **Service & presentation, 5/5** Having 2 chefs make everything in front of you behind the bar is such a cool experience! Their timing and skill is so impressive, and they're also super friendly! **Price & portion, 4/5** This is a splurge at $130, but is definitely worth a try. Each course is seriously delicious. **Taste, 5/5** Out of the 15 courses, there was only one I didn't absolutely love. The super fresh fish, extra touches, attention to detail, and flavor combos were all so impressive and made for perfect bites. There were also a good number of fish I had never heard of (like amberjack, butterfish, and sea bream), let alone tasted before, so the novelty was also fun. There are only 2 seatings a night, so be sure to snag a reservation! **Other notes** BYOB because the restaurant doesn't serve alcohol. read more

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***4.5 STARS*** Recently a friend wanted to thank me and despite initially declining, he insisted on having a meal together and the subject of sushi popped up. I was asked if I've been to Omakase by Aung (OBA), where I've seen some sushi pics and read the review by Randy S. I was interested in trying them out so I finally agreed. Opened back in the summer of 2022, OBA is located near the corner of Kapahulu and Campbell Ave. You'll need to be careful as signage is not to be found but look for glass windows to view a large dining counter with the rear of blue chairs facing you. My friend made a reservation via Open Table where a credit card number is required to hold the reservation. We arrived prior to the first seating of 530pm where one of the staff greeted us to advise they open the doors at 530pm, but they willingly took liquor bottles to chill as they are still BYOB. We were seated when the doors opened at 530pm. Table settings and water glasses were placed in front of you. Staff came to greet us and asked if we had any allergies and questions to get to know us ("Where are you from?" "Are you celebrating a special occasion?" and "How did you find us?"). Most of the 6 couples were from out-of-town and brought their own alcohol. While sipping on our drinks, plates of food were served to us. THE VERDICT: I found the Omakase here to be innovative with highs and lows for my palate. First, I noticed previous pictures of printed menus with details of the seafood's origin, but menus were not provided by informed to you when served. The interior is modern and spacious but the echoes from multiple conversations made it difficult to hear the description. Some of the seafood stated their origin but a handful were just the type of neta (topping), for example "torched toro." Omakase generally highlights what ingredients the chef has obtained and served to you per his recommended preparation, but it's not surprising if you come across some items that don't appeal to you. I was impressed with some dishes that exceeded my expectations, such as the Hokkaido UNI, scallop, and squid. However, I couldn't help but compare to what I am used to. Perhaps I am spoiled by my go to place where the chef sees my name on the reservation list and brings in the seafood that I enjoy eating for me to select from. For those who know me and have read previous sushi reviews, I enjoy shiromi (white fleshed fish) over akami (red fleshed fish). Service was outstanding. Staff came to check on your periodically during the meal checking up on you, refilled water glasses and even assisted in filling up our sake glasses. Impressed with OBA, I texted my sister and her family if they wanted to come here next week for dinner (changing venue of the originally planned location) where they eventually agreed. I see the value in dragging my family here to try OBA out. I am looking forward to my meal here next week with my family. Prior to leaving, I asked the staff if I could add on to the Omakase as some family members are big eaters - - they are eaters and not drinkers. I was advised to text them ahead of time which items I'd like to add on so they can plan. Great customer service. NOTE: The couple to my right were from San Diego and was in town celebrating her 21st (plus 1 yr experience) birthday. Towards the end of the meal, lights were dimmed, and music played with a complimentary "plate" with a candle delivered to her. At first, I thought it was dessert but when I noticed wasabi was supporting the candle, I took a closer look, and it was sashimi. read more

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I was in Waikiki for work and had an evening to myself and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to get omakase! After doing some Yelp research , I landed on going to Omakase by Aung despite the lack of Yelp reviews and how new this place was compared the more established omakase spots. Let me just say this -- Omakase by Aung 10000% exceeded my expectations! Firstly, the service was excellent and unique. Whenever I get omakase, most of the time, the chef is more on the quiet, conservative side. Not Aung! He had fun music blasting and was so entertaining the entire time. I came alone so this was great as I was not awkwardly sitting by myself. Additionally, you can BYOB & staff will pour your drinks for you'! Now to the food -- I loved that it was served on this boujee Versace plate. It def matched the vibe of the environment. Every single bite I had was absolutely delicious. My standout was the cherry blossom trout. Like WOW. The flavors were so unique and the way the fish melted in my mouth - DIVINE! The menu is chefs choice so it may change each day. But Aung definitely brought in such amazing flavor and thought to each dish. I can't wait to come back! read more

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This is a "hidden" gem. If this is your 1st time here, it's a bit confusing to find the entrance. Google map points you to the back but the entrance is in front, and only a tiny sign on the door shows the name of the restaurant. Helpers, do your research first! First of all, I like to let the chef knows his food was top notch. But I was only going to leave 3 stars but thanks to his assistant (waitress), I added the another star. Why is that? -2 stars for your hospitality and my mood... I understand that the rule was to open on time and no exceptions. But sometimes you may want to consider the condition. It was raining outside, we arrived 10 minutes early, and was asked to wait.. The entrance was right on the sidewalk so we ended up standing on the sidewalk against the wall hiding from the rain. At the same time there were 2 homeless person, one on the side corner and one right at the entrance... Smoking weed... Please imagine yourself stuck in the middle with the "wet" smell of weed for 10 minutes, would you be in the mood to eat? If you were to bend your rules just for 10 minutes, you would have avoided this review. 2nd, it's somewhat my fault for not checking this place out and read the reviews before coming. It was our 19th anniversary so I let my wife planned. She ignored the BYOB and didn't mention it to me. As a result, we came empty handed. But I am really glad the food turned out really good and water was just fine as we can taste the full quality of our food. Lastly I really like to add that the chef need to pay more attention to everyone. Not just the folks in front of him. He spent too much time entertaining just the couples in front of him and I personally felt left out as we were seated on the side corner. We were actually there first. My wife and I tried to join the conversation from time to time but it's like we had to go out of our way to do it. I am glad near the end, the nice waitress came and started a conversation with us. Good job! I had to add another star. read more

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Best experience on our trip! This was my first time trying omakase and I wasn't sure what to expect. We had a party of 10 and at first had trouble finding the business as the windows were frosted out. Once we found it they put our drinks on ice and we started taking shots. The staff and chefs were really entertaining and laid back. The playlist was a vibe and the food was delicious. We got the 15 course omakase and got a bonus bday course. 10/10 would recommend if you are looking for a fun dining experience. Great for big groups who like to party. read more

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This is a 17 course omakase, every single course was AMAZING. They import fish from Japan and New Zealand, offering options of fish outside of just the islands of Hawaii. The overall experience was absolutely amazing, Aung and Sarah gave the most splendid evening experience, which was both a great taste experience and fun experience! They even do a mini karaoke session at the end if you are at the 8pm slot! Overall my favorite omakase spot, and I will definitely be coming back. read more

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This is not a traditional omakase, so don't come here looking for that. It's on the casual side and chef is playing his favorite music off his phone. The chef is fun to chat with and personable. The kitchen staff is very minimal, just him and one waitress who helps clear plates, refill waters, wash dishes etc. Chef prepares each bite and serves it. The whole 15 course meal takes about 1.5-2 hours and it's BYOB, no cork fee, and dinner was $140 per person without tip. It was a 12 person bar around the chef. Reservations were so easy using OpenTable. The food itself was tasty and luxurious. He prepares the fresh fish using smoking, curing/marinating, and topping with different fresh herbs, citrus, caviar, or uni. Chef also takes time to ask if there are any special celebrations and prepares poke with a candle as a gift. I had a few points for improvement: - the dessert was underwhelming. it's not a dessert place so I wasn't expecting to be wow-ed but the ice cream was filled with crystals and had an unpleasant texture. I would have preferred something more classic like tamago or mochi but that's just me. - because of the minimal staff for 12 people, there can be significant pauses between bites. also no one cleans off your plate between bites, so sometimes sauce from a prior bite might get onto the next bite. - I think the chef could benefit from explaining more about each dish- ie where the fish is from, what's special about the fish or the preparation, etc. It's a little hard to do this well because he is serving 12 people. read more

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