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Sushi Ouji
Master Critic Review
Sushi Ouji
8.2
Opened in 2024 by owner Emily Li and chef Ben Chen, Sushi Ouji is a below-street-level SoHo omakase that focuses on a 14-course tasting around Toyosu Market fish at a relatively accessible price point. The small L-shaped counter, curtain-shrouded entrance, and emphasis on interaction with the chef make it feel like a neighborhood secret more than a scene restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes:
14-course omakase tasting, Uni and ikura over rice, Yuzu cheesecake
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Cozy, curtain-hidden omakase counter serving Toyosu-flown fish at a relatively approachable price.
Who should go: Omakase fans wanting intimate, conversation-friendly counter seating.
When to visit: Early weekday seatings for a quieter, more relaxed service.
What to order: Standard 14-course omakase, uni-ikura rice, yuzu cheesecake.
Insider tip: Request seats in front of Chef Chen if you enjoy detailed explanations with each bite.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in this part of SoHo; meters open up slightly after 7pm but expect competition. Closest reliable option is paid garages on Lafayette or Crosby (5–7 minute walk). No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean polished but not formal. Dark denim and a neat top are perfectly appropriate for the counter.
Noise level: Low to moderate — the small counter and below-street entrance keep things quiet enough for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins are rarely accommodated. Without a reservation, expect no availability.
Weekday lunch: Lunch is not offered; omakase is dinner-only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — omakase format centers on fish; a fully vegetarian progression is generally not available.
Vegan options: Not suitable; no vegan omakase and minimal substitutions possible.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance notice. Many nigiri courses are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce and certain marinades require substitution.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate counter, quiet room, and attentive chef interaction make it ideal for a thoughtful, low-distraction first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely. The counter has limited seats and fills early; walk-ins are only taken if someone cancels last-minute.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The tasting format and quiet, intimate room suit adults; teens familiar with omakase may be fine, but younger children may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Intimate, chef-led interaction and a quieter, neighborhood-feel omakase at a comparatively accessible price point.
Skip if: You want a high-energy scene, broader à la carte options, or need flexible dietary accommodations beyond light gluten-free adjustments.