San Omakase

San Omakase is, without exaggeration, one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had anywhere in the world. From the moment we sat down at the counter, it was clear we were in for something special. The intimacy of the room sets the tone immediately. With so few seats and such a calm, focused atmosphere, you’re not just “having dinner” – you’re being invited into a carefully choreographed experience where every detail has been considered. The Michelin star is absolutely deserved, and it shows in everything from the pacing to the presentation to the balance of the menu. Course after course, the flavors were impossibly fresh and precise. The fish tasted like it had just arrived from the ocean, each bite layered with subtle acidity, umami, and texture. Nothing felt repetitive; every dish built on the last, taking us on a journey that somehow felt both surprising and perfectly coherent. It’s the kind of omakase where you catch yourself smiling at your plate before you even take a bite. What truly elevated the night, though, was the service – especially from Caio. He managed that rare balance of being warm, professional, and genuinely enthusiastic without ever being overbearing. His explanations of each course, pairing suggestions, and easygoing presence made the whole experience feel relaxed and welcoming, rather than stiff or intimidating. By the end of the evening, it felt less like “staff and guests” and more like being hosted by someone who really loves what they do. From start to finish, San Omakase is a wonderful adventure – an intimate, beautifully executed omakase that makes you slow down, pay attention, and savor every bite. If you’re in Rio and care at all about Japanese cuisine, this is an absolute must.

San Omakase is nothing short of extraordinary. It feels genuinely special to experience a restaurant of this caliber in Rio. Having traveled extensively in Japan, I can say this omakase truly honors the Japanese traditions of precision, freshness, and restraint—while confidently expressing its own identity. What impressed me most was the thoughtful integration of Brazilian ingredients to complement the experience, such as Brazilian orange used in place of yuzu, adding a subtle but beautiful local note without compromising authenticity. The dessert course was a standout—arguably better than any dessert I experienced in Japan, which is saying a lot. This was, without question, the best restaurant we visited in Brazil. Every detail—from the impeccable service to the carefully curated progression of dishes—felt intentional and elevated. Bravo to the exceptional team behind an unforgettable, truly world-class dining experience. 5 Stars!!!

Rolled up late to my reservation at San Omakase, which was a bit of a faux pas.The concept of Omakase is to trust the chef and to provide a showcase of their best dishes and ingredients. My arrival wasn’t helped by the discreet nature of the entrance. As expected from a Japanese restaurant the softly lit interior is a minimalist haven of polished amber wood, and clean lines, adorned with bonsai trees on spherical bases. The glamorous Careocas and tourists come here to dine, you’ll need to book early though as the bijou restaurant only has two sittings of 8 people each evening. The tastefully designed shimmering menu outlines the evening’s courses. There were some gorgeous sake pairings. The Kori sake had a fragrant floral taste which perfectly complimented the delicate sashimi and more robust flavours of the wasabi and sushi. There’s nowhere for a chef to hide with seemingly simple sashimi and sushi dishes. The simplicity hides the complexity in ingredients selection and preparation. In San Omakase there’s literally no place for chef Andre to hide either as the stand lined The ingredients for the evening had been sourced across the globe (Japan, Spain, Canada, and locally) to tantalising the senses. I won’t describe all the dishes but they standout dish for me was creamy white flesh of the Ōtoro. The flavour of this was magnified as we were guided to eat the sushi with the fish resting on the tongue. A revelation similar to the time I found out that macvities chocolate differences should be eaten chocolate side down. There are no photos of the evening as this would have been a distraction from the almost reverential feeling of the food preparation and consumption. You’ll have to go to enjoy the full experience.

My partner and I really enjoyed our experience at San Omakase. The food was delicious and the combinations were very creative. The service was top notch as well. Overall a really great experience! Would definitely recommend if visiting Rio!

The perfect Omakase experience in Rio. From the hidden location which is a small room tucked away a leafy street to the personal service, great drinks, incredible food and endless courses to the whole experience. Unique and a fun night out with a partner or friend(s) is guaranteed. Expensive but reasonably priced considering what’s included. Definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for something different in the city.

This was my first omakase experience & all I can say is wow! Fantastic from beginning to end, Andre Kawai’s team are excellent at what they do, true professionals with a knack for detail.

Amazing. Enough said. Don’t ask me any questions. Okay, okay…this is extremely good value for money given the quality of the ingredients used, the final food, and specially the time and care taken by the chefs and staff to provide exceptional service. If you’re traveling from Europe or where your currency is stronger, this is a steal. Final thoughts… the head chef is pretty funny.

San Omakase is nothing short of a sublime experience. From the very first bite, the omakase journey unfolds with incredibly refined flavors, creative combinations, and exquisite balance. Each course is a surprise, thoughtfully crafted and impeccably executed, showcasing outstanding technique and deep respect for ingredients. What truly elevates the experience, however, is the team behind it. The chefs are extraordinary, and the entire staff contributes to creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and magical. It was a unique and unforgettable culinary experience. Highly recommended for anyone seeking something truly exceptional!! Thank you to all the chefs and the staff!