0 Followers
Shinpi Omakase
Master Critic Review
Shinpi Omakase
8.7
Shinpi Omakase is a tiny Madison Avenue counter where a single chef walks guests through a long, seasonal menu of nigiri, sashimi, and wagyu. The experience is slow, detailed, and personal, with a focus on premium product like Hokkaido uni and Miyazaki wagyu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal omakase, Wagyu hand roll, Hokkaido uni nigiri
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 9.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Ultra-intimate omakase built around premium fish and wagyu.
Who should go: Sushi obsessives who want long, chef-led tasting menus.
When to visit: Later seatings when the counter is fully in rhythm.
What to order: Full omakase, plus any add-on wagyu or extra uni.
Insider tip: Mention preferences and allergies early; the chef adjusts courses on the fly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking on Madison Ave; nearest public garages are within 2–3 blocks and typically run $25–$35 for the evening.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy; jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished for the omakase experience.
Noise level: Low - quiet counter setting with easy conversation and chef interaction.
Weekend wait: Reservation-only; walk-in wait is usually not accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Rare lunch availability; typically reservation-only if offered.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Not ideal - the experience is centered on seafood with very limited vegetable substitutions.
Vegan options: Not recommended - no true vegan omakase is offered.
Gluten-free options: Yes with advance notice - soy sauce and some prep can be adjusted, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something memorable and intimate. The slow pacing and chef interaction create a strong shared experience, but it’s better for confident conversationalists than shy small talk.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very unlikely. This is a tiny counter with a set number of seats and courses timed to each seating, so reservations are essentially required.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really. The lengthy tasting menu, quiet atmosphere, and premium pricing make it best suited for adults and older teens who appreciate omakase.
Best For
Better for: Longer, slower, and more personal omakase experiences with premium add-ons like wagyu and uni in an ultra-intimate setting.
Skip if: You prefer flashy, high-energy sushi bars, want à la carte ordering, or need a more budget-friendly or group-oriented experience.