There’s a bounty of places to eat incredible sushi in New York, but Sushi Masu is a real standout by delivering a first-rate omakase experience that’s extremely affordable. For a limited time, this Upper West Side neighborhood gem is offering a 16-course omakase, in which the chef chooses your dishes, at a fixed price of $78 per person. That’s a huge savings for sushi lovers looking for high-quality fish without maxing out their credit cards.
Located at 286 Columbus Ave—just one block away from Central Park—the chefs at Sushi Masu are churning out delicious and highly executed dishes. During The Knockturnal’s visit, we tasted meticulously created pieces of nigiri, sushi consisting of a slice of raw fish or seafood placed on top of a small mound of vinegared rice, and some sashimi, fish sliced and served without rice. The seafood used in the multi-course meal was incredibly fresh, melting in your mouth like butter. Sushi Masu’s fish is flown in from Japan’s Toyosu market, the world’s largest wholesale fish retailer, and the quality and seasonality are top grade.
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Our omakase consisted of Shima-aji “Striped jack” fish, sea bream, Hamachi yellowtail, Hokkaido Uni, sea scallop, and much more. The rice was warm, allowing the silky Bluefin tuna belly, horse mackerel, and King salmon zuke to shine. A highlight was the Spanish mackerel with cucumbers and the amberjack fish with jalapeno. The dinner concluded with a refreshing, citrus-flavored yuzu panna cotta for dessert. The smooth, creamy, jiggly texture was perfectly cooked and topped with macadamia nuts and a strawberry.
During the extravagant omakase, the chef described every piece of fish that was concocted, and how to eat it—one bite or two? Chopsticks or hands? He was very patient and graciously answered all of our questions. Also, the servers at Sushi Masu were very attentive. They were observant and able to anticipate customer needs. They noticed when our glass was low with water and immediately filled it without us asking.
The scene at Sushi Masu is quiet and elegant. The no-fuss sushi bar seats about 13 guests at the square-shaped counter, where each customer can interact with the chef and see up close how their food gets thoroughly prepared. If you’re not interested in the omakase service, table service is available throughout the restaurant’s two dining rooms.
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Sushi Masu also boasts a selection of soothing hot teas and a vast sake selection that seamlessly pairs with the flavors and texture of its delightful dishes. If you’re looking for some sushi to go, the eatery has launched a takeaway sushi picnic box for a delicious al fresco meal available now through September 1. The box includes eight pieces of nigiri and three signature rolls (spicy tuna, king salmon, and yellowtail) for $48, with the option to add edamame for $5. It is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 pm to 2 pm for takeout only.
Overall, you’re in for a special meal at Sushi Masu. The chefs bring sushi mastery with their refined dishes, and at an affordable price point for a premium omakase experience that has over 10 pieces of super fresh fish, Sushi Masu is a must-visit. Make a reservation now!
