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Omakase 33
Master Critic Review
Omakase 33
8.4
Omakase 33 is an intimate sushi bar on East 33rd Street where a small number of seats wrap around the chef’s counter for a set progression of nigiri, sashimi, and small plates. The experience sits between neighborhood spot and special-occasion splurge, with careful sourcing and a relaxed but focused service style.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s omakase nigiri sequence, Toro and uni combination bite, Seasonal appetizer course
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Tight, chef-led omakase counter with a neighborhood feel.
Who should go: Sushi lovers who like intimate counters over big rooms
When to visit: Later seatings for slower pacing and full experience
What to order: Full omakase, toro-uni bite, sake pairing
Insider tip: Ask about seasonal upgrades like extra toro or uni courses.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in the evenings; nearby paid garages typically run $18–$30 for dinner-length stays. Rideshare is often easier.
Dress code: Smart casual fits the room—jeans and a nice top are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressier for dinner.
Noise level: Low to moderate—quiet enough for easy conversation, with occasional bursts of kitchen energy during service.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation due to the fixed seating format
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; weekday dinner walk-ins may wait 30–45 minutes early in the evening
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—can accommodate a few vegetable-based bites with advance notice, but the experience is seafood-focused.
Vegan options: Not recommended for strict vegans due to the omakase format centered on fish and shellfish.
Gluten-free options: Generally accommodating—most nigiri is naturally gluten-free, and soy sauce alternatives are usually available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's intimate without being intimidating, and the shared pacing of the omakase gives you built-in conversation without awkward lulls.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally on early weeknights if you arrive right at opening, but most prime seatings are reserved in advance due to the limited counter.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—the quiet omakase pacing and raw seafood focus are better suited to teens and adults.
Best For
Better for: A relaxed, neighborhood-feeling omakase that still feels special, with close interaction with the chef and strong value relative to ultra-luxury counters.
Skip if: You’re seeking a long, ultra-luxury multi-hour omakase with rare fish flown in daily—higher-end counters elsewhere will feel more ceremonial.