Michelle M.
Google
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An unforgettable New Year’s omakase experience
We chose Elyu Omakase to welcome the New Year, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we sat down, the experience felt intentional, refined, and deeply thoughtful, exactly what you hope for when marking a special night.
The progression of the menu was impeccable. Each course told a story, balancing technique, seasonality, and creativity. Highlights included the Kumamoto oyster with dashi shell and Siberian caviar, clean, briny, and luxurious, and the Sinuglaw, which beautifully bridged cultures with smoked fish, jamón ibérico, and ikura in perfect harmony.
The sawara with brown butter miso and kabocha was comforting yet elevated, while the chawan mushi with matsutake was delicate and deeply aromatic. The nigiri sequence was flawless, each bite pristine, from kinmedai and sayori to the rich, melt-in-your-mouth otoro and negitoro maki.
Standout indulgences included the Elyu Toast with uni and toro tartare (pure decadence) and the A5 Wagyu with burgundy truffles, expertly prepared and unforgettable. Ending with miso ice cream, pumpkin crumble, and vanilla-poached pear was the perfect, unexpected finale, balanced, warm, and memorable.
The sake pairing deserves special mention. It was beautifully paced and easy to love, flowing seamlessly with the meal and enhancing each course without ever feeling intimidating.
The pairing began with Moon on the Water, light, crisp, and refreshing, an ideal start alongside the opening seafood dishes. This was followed by Kontaki “Pearls of Simplicity” Junmai Daiginjo, smooth and clean, with just enough depth to complement the food. The Shirakawago Sasangori (lightly cloudy sake) was a standout, soft, slightly creamy, and incredibly pleasant to drink.
Midway through the meal, a hot sake was served, perfectly timed and comforting, especially on a winter evening. The progression continued with Kikusui Junmai Taru, which added warmth and richness, and Tenryo Koshu (aged sake), deeper and smoother, pairing beautifully with the heartier courses. The pairing finished with Tozai “Blossom of Peace” Plum, light and gently sweet, a refreshing and easy finish.
Service throughout the evening was attentive without being intrusive, and the pacing was ideal for a celebratory night. Elyu doesn’t just serve food, it curates an experience. Ringing in the New Year here felt intimate, special, and deeply satisfying.
We will absolutely be back. A truly exceptional omakase and a perfect way to start the year. ✨🍣🥂🍶