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Sushi by Bou
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi by Bou
8.1
Sushi by Bou at the Emily Hotel is a tiny, time-boxed omakase counter hidden inside Fulton Market, built around 12–17 course chef’s-choice flights. Guests come for the combination of hip-hop soundtrack, intimate bar seating, and polished nigiri progression rather than a long, traditional meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
12-course Signature Omakase, 17-course Bougie Omakase, Bou Reserve Omakase
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Speakeasy-style omakase bar inside the Emily Hotel where hip-hop, tightly timed seatings, and chef-led nigiri flights create a high-energy sushi experience.
Who should go: Couples or small groups wanting a fun, curated omakase.
When to visit: Prime evening seatings; book ahead for weekend slots.
What to order: Signature 12-course omakase, Bougie 17-course, Bou Reserve upgrade.
Insider tip: Arrive a few minutes early to settle in with a cocktail—the 60-minute omakase moves quickly once the first piece drops.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Fulton Market can be limited; nearby paid garages and hotel parking are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Trendy smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean stylish and date-night ready.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — music and bar energy mean you can chat, but it won’t feel quiet or intimate.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Lunch is not typically offered — most seatings are evenings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — omakase is predominantly seafood-focused.
Vegan options: Not recommended — the experience centers on fish and seafood.
Gluten-free options: Often workable — soy sauce alternatives may be available; notify in advance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the counter-style seating and timed omakase make it structured, playful, and memorable, especially if you enjoy a lively soundtrack.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely — seating is minimal and time-boxed, so book ahead online to secure a spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal — the format, price point, and bar-style environment cater to adults rather than children.
Best For
Better for: High-energy, modern omakase with a nightlife vibe rather than hushed fine dining.
Skip if: You want a long, leisurely sushi dinner, quieter conversation, or highly customizable ordering.
Sushi by Bou
8.6
Hidden inside the Emily Hotel, Sushi by Bou runs a tight, hip-hop-scored omakase bar where timed seatings put the focus on high-quality nigiri and hand-crafted bites. It’s less about sprawling maki menus and more about letting the chef drive through a compact, well-paced progression.
Must-Try Dishes:
12-Course Signature Omakase, 17-Piece Bougie Omakase, Chef’s Seasonal Encore Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Tight-seat omakase bar pairing DJ-level hip-hop with chef-driven nigiri.
Who should go: Sushi diehards and date-night duos wanting omakase theater.
When to visit: Later evening seatings for peak atmosphere and energy.
What to order: 12-course Signature Omakase, Bougie Omakase, encore nigiri.
Insider tip: Sit closest to the chef, let them know your preferences up front, and budget a little extra time for encore nigiri after the timed omakase ends.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Fulton Market can be limited; nearby paid garages and hotel parking are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — elevated streetwear, dresses, and button-downs all fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — the hip-hop soundtrack and small space mean it’s energetic but still conversational.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins are uncommon due to timed seatings.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited and typically reservation-only when offered.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — omakase is primarily seafood-driven, and substitutions may be minimal.
Vegan options: Not suitable — the experience centers almost entirely on fish and seafood.
Gluten-free options: Often workable — many items are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce and marinades may require advance notice.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if your date is into sushi — the intimate counter seating and chef interaction make it feel special and memorable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely — the omakase format runs on timed seatings, so it’s best to book ahead online.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — the experience and pricing are geared toward adults, and the counter-service format may not suit young children.
Best For
Better for: High-quality, chef-driven nigiri in a stylish, music-forward omakase setting where the progression is curated for you.
Skip if: You prefer à la carte ordering, large maki menus, quiet dining rooms, or lots of menu flexibility.
Hours
Monday5pm - 11pm
Tuesday5pm - 11pm
Wednesday5pm - 11pm
Thursday5pm - 11pm
Friday5pm - 11pm
Saturday5pm - 11pm
Sunday5pm - 11pm