Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last year, you’ll probably know that omakase is having a moment in Sydney. The Japanese chefs table-style of dining is an ancient and beautiful tradition, in which the diner leaves themselves completely at the mercy of the chef who dishes out upward of 20 courses with meticulous precision.

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From Sokyo to Kisuke, Nobu, Bay Nine Omakase and Besuto, the production is theatrical, wildly entertaining, super delicious and – more often than not – very expensive. Unless, of course, you score yourself a seat at the Kokumai omakase in Sydney’s Barangaroo. 

The premium sushi train restaurant has introduced a short and sharp omakase at an accessible price point. There are three variants to choose from as well, starting from $60 per person for eight pieces of sushi, a hand roll and miso soup, up to $100 per person for an extended series of courses.

Like in a traditional omakase experience, the sushi and sashimi is hand-selected by the chef, sliced and prepped before your eyes, and served up to you personally by the chef.  

If you prefer to be in the drivers’ seat, that’s fine! The selections on the train range from the familiar fresh fish nigiri to soft shell crab rolls, poke and pillowy tamago while a whole menu is dedicated to made-to-order hot dishes.

Kokumai is located at Shop T3/300 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo. For more details, head to kokumai.com.au.

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