Raw Omakase DC

Amazing sushi! I've been to numerous omakase experiences in the city, and this is easily one of the best. The food is simply incredible! The menu strikes the perfect balance of classic nigiri and different innovative dishes. Chef Johnny is the consummate professional, but is easy to talk to and will go out of his way explaining all the dishes. Stop reading this review and just go, now!

A delightful experience. We ate here for my friend's 30th birthday and it did not disappoint. The food was excellent, and chef Johnny was extremely welcoming. We loved the food, the service, and the atmosphere. The wine selections were great too. We would definitely recommend the omakase experience and will be back.

Chef Johnny provides a wonderful experience at the Raw Omakase bar! There's a seasonal menu to describe the fish served during the omakase. The nigiri was very high quality and deliciously prepared! A wonderful omakase at $150 and another great Omakase available to the DC area! Looking forward to coming back.

We celebrated my husband's birthday at this exceptional establishment. I am thrilled to have discovered my new favorite omakase in DC. The 17 pieces of sushi, meticulously crafted by Chef Yi, showcased an impressive attention to detail. The chef's deliberate grouping of various fishes, including white, salmon, tuna, and blue fish, allowed us to appreciate the distinct flavors. My husband opted for the sake pairing, while I chose the wine and sake pairing. The generosity of the pairing was unparalleled, with premium sake and wine selections. Jenistar, the beverage manager, demonstrated impressive knowledge and ensured a seamless experience. Overall, this was the best experience, and we are already planning our return visit with friends.

Amazing Sushi Experience – But the Hostess Needs Improvement. This place absolutely deserves 5 stars for the food and overall dining experience. The sushi was exceptional—incredibly fresh, beautifully prepared, and bursting with flavor. You can tell the chefs are true artists who take real pride in their work. Every dish that came out was a highlight, and the attention to detail was on another level. That said, I do want to mention that the hostess in the 2nd level left a bad first impression. She was rude, abrupt, and wouldn’t even let me finish a sentence when I tried to ask a question. It was a rough start, but everything and everyone that work on the 3rd level was fantastic. Thankfully, the service inside and the incredible sushi more than made up for it. I still highly recommend this spot—it’s a top-tier experience, and I’ll definitely be back. I just hope management addresses the attitude at the front because it can affect the experience of the customers.

Atmosphere is beautiful and intimate. The service was impeccable with both topical wine/sake pairings as well as a great whisky list. The food was fresh, aesthetically pleasing and delicious. Chef Johnny prepares it all right in front of you. He explains everything in detail and is happy to chat about particulars if that’s your thing. On our visit he invited us for a little glass of whisky after dinner to talk shop. Best sushi and service I’ve had in DC.

Raw Omakase at Takara 14 was an incredible experience—intimate, personalized, and truly a journey through flavors and textures. With just four of us at the counter, Executive Chef Johnny took the time to explain each course in detail, guiding us from low oil content to high oil content selections. He was thoughtful in adjusting to dietary preferences and restrictions while maintaining the integrity of the experience. The omakase bar just opened in the fall of 2024 upstairs from their main sushi restaurant, and they’ve created something truly special. They offer two seatings each night at 6:00 PM and 8:15 PM—we opted for the 6:00 PM seating on a Friday night, which allowed for a relaxed and immersive experience. The fish, sourced directly from Japan, was presented with full transparency on its origin and timing. Having done many omakases before, I appreciated how well he explained everything, and some pieces were truly unique. We ended up with 22 courses, including additions from the chef, making it an incredible value. Standouts for me were the Chu Toro, monkfish liver course, A5 Wagyu, and Uni—all melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The fish soup and noodles at the end were comforting, and the corn ice cream was so unique and delicious that I ate it way too fast. Everything was pristinely clean, from the workspace to the dishware. I especially loved the bowls and the way the knives were integrated into the wall decor. A nice touch was being given a pen so I could take notes throughout the meal—it made it easy to remember details about each course and added to the experience. Drinks were just as well thought out—we had the Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo sake, which was smooth, light, and slightly sweet. They also offer a wine and sake pairing with generous pours, making it a great option for next time. The location is convenient near Logan Circle, and while we Ubered, there seemed to be plenty of street parking. Service was impeccable—my water cup was always full, and the staff was attentive without being intrusive. As someone who absolutely loves sushi, this omakase reminded me why—it was a series of melt-in-your-mouth moments that made me giggle and smile throughout the meal. 100% worth it, and I would absolutely go again!

This is your entry level omakaze. Food and service is very good. Selection of dishes and ingredients were interesting and tasty. Parking might be difficult so plan ahead.

Don't come here unless you want to be forever spoiled. Everything was freaking delightful. A great place for date night or any night you need to get your sushi fix because nothing else will come close. Didn't realize how impactful perfectly executed rice in the right temperature can be. That in addition to the best fish money can buy equals a bite like no other. EVERY bite was amazing. Now, need to rob a bank so I can eat here everyday Ambiance 10 Food 10 Drinks 10

This omakase spot is tucked above Takara14 main dining room. You climb a short staircase that is lined with attention grabbing artwork. The table itself was standard, but the personalized name cards were a unique touch. The hospitality was on point. Service was attentive in a quiet, confident way you usually see at Michelin spots. Chef John himself was the goat. Humble, knowledgeable, and engaging -- the kind of guy who would make you excited for monkfish liver. He was also visibly adaptable to anyone with food allergies or preferences. The food was good. Great quality and thoughtfully paced. For what they're charging, it's an excellent value. Definitely a try if you're looking for a date night or special occasion. The reason for the 4 and not the 5 is because of the "char". Some stars of the show, like the wagyu, came out of a forest fire. I'm all for smokiness, but it unfortunately overpowered the meat/fish. I'd highly recommend requesting a lighter char unless you're curious what ashes taste like :) Also, I think I remember hearing that the menu changes seasonally? If that's the case, you won't have to worry about having the same meal twice unless you're coming every week.

Raw Omakase at Takara 14 was an incredible experience--intimate, personalized, and truly a journey through flavors and textures. With just four of us at the counter, Executive Chef Johnny took the time to explain each course in detail, guiding us from low oil content to high oil content selections. He was thoughtful in adjusting to dietary preferences and restrictions while maintaining the integrity of the experience. The omakase bar just opened in the fall of 2024 upstairs from their main sushi restaurant, and they've created something truly special. They offer two seatings each night at 6:00 PM and 8:15 PM--we opted for the 6:00 PM seating on a Friday night, which allowed for a relaxed and immersive experience. The fish, sourced directly from Japan, was presented with full transparency on its origin and timing. Having done many omakases before, I appreciated how well he explained everything, and some pieces were truly unique. We ended up with 22 courses, including additions from the chef, making it an incredible value. Standouts for me were the Chu Toro, monkfish liver course, A5 Wagyu, and Uni--all melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The fish soup and noodles at the end were comforting, and the corn ice cream was so unique and delicious that I ate it way too fast. Everything was pristinely clean, from the workspace to the dishware. I especially loved the bowls and the way the knives were integrated into the wall decor. A nice touch was being given a pen so I could take notes throughout the meal--it made it easy to remember details about each course and added to the experience. Drinks were just as well thought out--we had the Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo sake, which was smooth, light, and slightly sweet. They also offer a wine and sake pairing with generous pours, making it a great option for next time. The location is convenient near Logan Circle, and while we Ubered, there seemed to be plenty of street parking. Service was impeccable--my water cup was always full, and the staff was attentive without being intrusive. As someone who absolutely loves sushi, this omakase reminded me why--it was a series of melt-in-your-mouth moments that made me giggle and smile throughout the meal. 100% worth it, and I would absolutely go again!

Location: On the 3rd floor, above Takara 14. FYI, it's all stairs and I did not see an elevator in the building. Another con is that the restrooms are only located on the 2nd floor. Reservations: Easy to make online via their website. They take a $150 deposit per person when you book which is applied to your final bill. Reservations are non-refundable. Seatings: Two a night at 6pm and 8:15pm for an 8 person sushi counter. We had the 8:15pm reservation and were seated about 15 min late - this seems to be a normal occurrence for the 2nd seating, based on other reviews. We were there for almost 3 hours. Drinks: You can order from the bar but they also offer an $85 drink pairing which includes both wine and sake. The drink pairing was great and went well with each course. The sommelier was very informative and enthusiastic! Food: 18 courses of amazing dishes! The sushi is fresh and delicious and the non sushi dishes were equally as tasty. Chef Johnny is friendly and engaging and the intimate atmosphere really made the experience feel special. I informed them we were celebrating my friend's birthday and they brought out a candle for her with dessert, which was a nice touch. I definitely recommend this place if you love sushi!

Incredible from start to finish! Very small, personal, and more intimate dining experience. Key word- EXPERIENCE. Chef tells you about everything you're eating, where it came from, traditional names. The wine and sake pairing really elevated the experience- and boy are they generous with pours. Everything was delicious. Would highly recommend!

This issee how the menu evolves. It deservhands down the best sushi I've had in the Washington DC area. Without a doubt this is better than Nakazawa and others. I live in NYC but visit DC a lot, and this omakase was a treat that I just didn't expect to have in DC. Chef Johnny and Jennistar are just great hosts. We came as a group of 4, which is half the omakase room, for the 8:15pm seating, which is the time you want to come to get all the courses you can. We did the drinks pairing and that was 100% the right choice. We were provided with a gruner, chardonnay, champagne, light malbec (from France), and a few sakes. I had Dassai 23 in this pairing in addition to a great champagne. This truly was the best drinks pairing I've ever seen at an omakase, and for $85 additional, just such a deal! Jennistar just kept it coming, and was also the friendliest and kindest human. Love her! Hard to say I had a favorite piece, but you can never go wrong with O-Toro or Salmon Toro, both pieces were very good. I love uni and they had Uni straight in from Hokkaido. It was really quite good. Not a single piece is one I would have moved off the menu, potentially the snapper, but that's just a personal preference. I will continue to come back as this was just such an experience. I do wish it wasn't up 3 flights of stairs with two restaurants that are not as nice, but it is what it is. The food, service, and ambiance upstairs more than make up for it and I cannot wait to see how it evolves. It more than deserves a michelin star, and so I hope we see one there!

Of course I had to visit another omakase restaurant in DC. This time it's @rawomakasedc which is connected to Takara 14. Raw Omakase is led by Chef John Yi. As you walk in you're led up the stairs and enter into Takara 14, but then you're lead up another staircase into a private dining room that seats 8. Opening 4 months ago, you are greeted with a nice music selection and an intimate setting for $150 which includes 18 courses. For the meal I started off with some soba noddles and then some fantastic pieces of sushi. The dining experience was amazing and it was great to meet new people. We were also given a personalized menu in order for us to take notes regarding our dining experience. Since I was celebrating my birthday, they presented me a candle!!! And to top it all off, all guests received a painted portrait of a fish at the end of dinner. If you're looking for an amazing omakase experience in DC, check out Raw Omakase DC located in DC!!! I can definitely see them getting a Michelin star soon. Below are some of my favorite pieces!!! Kinmedai - Golden Eye Snapper Hotate - Scallop Fuji- Salmon Seared Salmon Tori Chi Toro - Tuna Otoro - Fatty Tuna Saba - Pacific Mackerel A5 Wagyu Unagi #foodie #food #foodporn #sushi #sushilover #omakase #chilebougie #chilebougieeats #foodreview #chilebougietravels #foodiegram #cocktails #chiamakalkalu #blackfoodie #japan #foodcritic #japanesefood #dmv #dcfood #dcfoodie #tastemademedoit #EaterDC #dceats #dcfoodreview #dmvfoodreview #mdfoodie #marylandfoodie #rawomakaseDC #takara14

Good dinner but here are some critiques. Food and alcohol overall went well. $150 for omakase (must reserve online). Chef Johnny was engaging and explained every course, so it was a pleasure to sit at the bar. There are cheaper omakase in NY, but you won't get the same experience necessarily where the chef explains everything. Tweaks: I had an 8:15 PM reservation. I came at 8:17 and the host said someone would meet me at the stairs and take me up. I asked to wash my hands and I took a couple minutes. I came out and I was confused because another waiter said someone would take me up. What should have been said was that they were still cleaning up and would I mind waiting at the bar (which the other 7 people were doing, which I suspected but wasn't sure). If they said that they were running a little behind, I would be like, of course: take your time. But they only said someone would take me up, and when no one did, I was getting confused and disgruntled since we weren't seated until 8:30. And it was of a miscommunication issue, since I felt like I was getting fobbed off, not due to the actual wait time. The service was great from the main chef, the sous chef, and Janice (our sommelier). Great explanations and why certain drinks were chosen. But the another big issue was bill. I paid in advance for the omakase and I got hit with a 20% service fee. They should have included that in the regular price. I was only expecting to pay $85 for the alcohol pairing plus tax, not an extra 20%. I wished they charged $175 or $180 for the omakase and not charged a service fee, because I would be a lot happier and less blindsided. NY charges $90 for a similar amount of courses and no service fees. Overall, a good place for DC. But that service fee may kill me.

We booked for the 8:15 seating, which allots more courses for the meal. We started our seating 30min late, but boy was the meal worth it. I think we found our new favorite sushi spot in the DMV! The sushi counter seats 8 and everyone has a front row seat with Chef Johnny at the helm crafting each course. It was a fun couple of hours of both jokes and fish education from Chef Johnny. This is not your frou frou experience. It's very down to earth..homakase "rustic omakase" and was very well received by everyone. Usually for omakase, we have our favorite courses - really can't choose even our top 3 because every piece of fish was so tasty. You can taste the quality being used. Almost every course was nigiri style, which is appreciated. The courses contained some rare types of fish not normally seen. Every piece of fish was buttery fresh, sweet (when appropriate), and the flavor balances from Chef were perfect. Music is on point as well! Parking is a nightmare so arrive early to have time to look. We can't wait to be back for more. This is exactly the type of sushi spot we need more of in the area. Highly highly recommend.

Our raw omakase experience was absolutely incredible in every way. If you're even slightly considering giving this a try, stop thinking and just do it. This is not a meal. It's a dining experience. It's a food journey. Every single bite is part a story you need to read. Book your seats now.

Such a lovely dinner experience. Chef Johnny really helped to create that "eating in a friend's basement" experience but elevated. Looking forward to returning and encouraging others to experience this!

I usually go to few restaurants, but their service and hospitality lift me speechless.