James S.
Yelp
I had been trying to get reservations at this much sought after place for the longest time, only to realize that Nakazawa is no longer there. The chefs here are doing great at continuing the Sushi Sho experience, and the endless continuation of about 30 pieces of exquisite sushi, both taste and presentation, was very impressive. Each piece was unique and showcased the freshest ingredients, and a high quality of craft. Proportion and rice were solid.
For places like this, I'm less focused on the individual pieces, since they will change with each visit, and more with the overall vibe and ultra clean ambiance since I think this will translate more across visits and people.
For $400 pp, the bar for sushi is pretty high, and if you want a taste of some of the freshest seafood crafted to perfection, this is a solid place for you.
Personally, while I enjoyed the variety, it felt very rushed. Each piece was enough for a taste, and if you weren't 100%, that moment had passed. Often I like to savor each piece to really appreciate the complexity of flavor. But here the pieces are very small (but 30 of them!). Service was very attentive, and the next dish always came out surprisingly fast, but it furthered the "rushed" ambiance.
Also, for places like this, I like to feel like I'm building a connection with the chef and staff, but here the experience felt more scripted and formal. I specifically asked about the quality of the uni, and while staff was able to say its bafun uni from Hokkaido, I didn't appreciate being told "it was the most delicious" as an answer.
After finishing the meal they ask you if you want any of the daily specials to add on your meal. The day I went, this included otoro -- which imo should be part of the included meal, not an upsell at the end. For me, ordering omakase is a show me your best, and I didn't like this aspect.
Overall this is still one of the best places in the USA, and I recommend if you want to taste the best the sea has to offer. However, if you are more value conscious, travel to Japan regularly, or want a more personal connection, I'd save this place for later when you want to impress a friend or someone special.
Also, the $40 bara chirashi and $40 futomaki available for takeout also very delicious if you want a taste of Sushi Sho without the full 2 hour experience.