Oh My Omakase! How to Experience DC’s New Sushi Nakazawa

Omakase. It’s a Japanese phrase that means “I’ll leave it up to you.” And when you participate in the experience at DC’s new Sushi Nakazawa, you’ll be left in good hands.

The intimate ten seat sushi bar is now open (with an additional dining room to open shortly) under the direction of Chef/Owner Daisuke Nakazawa and executed by Executive Chef Uchi.  It’s a rare concept for DC, though omakase sushi establishments are prevalent in other of America’s major cities.

So just what should you expect?

Make a reservation.  These are available via Sushi Nakazawa’s website or directly through Resy. It’s a small dining counter and guests stay through the entire experience, so there is no “table turnover.”  You’ll want to reserve your place well in advance.

Sit near the chef. It’s an intimate evening, to be sure, but seats directly in front of the Chef, if possible, ensure even more personal interaction.  He’ll explain what you’re about to eat, of course, but you may also pick up more interesting tidbits, like stories about how he chose the fish in the market that day, or cultural traditions associated with each piece on offer.

Leave your dietary restrictions and preferences at home.  This experience is for the adventurous!  Chef will obviously cater to allergies and serious dietary issues but there is no menu.  You’ll be enjoying the best of what the Chef has chosen to offer on the evening you attend.

Prepare for a 20-course omakase. Sushi Nakazawa’s omakase menu is always changing depending on the Chef’s choices and best fresh fish offerings available, but it will always feature 20 courses — or 20 sushi pieces.

Get the pairings. Wine, sake, beer, champagne and whiskey are available, but we highly recommend the full experience.  Talk to Beverage Director Dean Fuerth about Sushi Nakazawa’s intriguing wine and (our favorite!) sake pairings.

The price is set. Omakase is not inexpensive, but when you consider the full value of the evening: Food, Chef interaction, and sushi prep as entertainment, it’s a steal at just $150 per person (not including beverage pairings, tax, or gratuity).

Sushi Nakazawa is open Monday-Saturday with omakase seatings at 5pm7:15pm and 9:30pm.