Althea L.
Yelp
Since Sushi W opened its first location on the Upper West Side, I've visited many times with friends. The one-hour omakase-style course, combined with its no-tipping policy and affordable pricing, made it a great option for a quick yet satisfying meal. When we first went, the UWS location was BYOB due to not having an alcohol license, and the atmosphere felt authentically Japanese--the chefs were Japanese, the host spoke both Japanese and Mandarin, and the fish was simple, fresh, and well-prepared. The chefs chatted with customers just like how it supported to be regarding each pieces, no matter in English or in Japanese language. With the classic sushi chef cheers, the experience was genuinely enjoyable, and everyone left happy.
I'm not sure if the Upper East Side location has maintained that same quality. The pricing remains the same:
* Basic: $53 (12 nigiri & 2 hand rolls)
* Premium: $68 (15 nigiri & 2 hand rolls)
However, the UES location doesn't have Japanese chefs. While the food preparation is decent, it lacks the same level of delicacy, which is evident in how they handle the rice and fish. The sushi rice lacks quality, and the fish and rice fall apart easily--it's simply not well-made. The chefs don't seem to have had enough training, and the place feels more like a fast-food sushi chain than a good omakase experience. They attempt the traditional Japanese-style cheer, but here, it just feels awkward. Unlike the UWS location, which attracted many Japanese customers, I didn't see any at the UES spot when I visited.
The restaurant itself also feels cluttered, with random items placed in corners or on top of cabinets. The open kitchen is messy, the cabinets below especially, and none of the staff--from the chefs to the waiters--are Japanese- which is a big warning sign. They struggle to pronounce the names of their own dishes and drinks correctly, in either Japanese or English, often just brushing through them vaguely.
That said, for taking my kids out, the price is still a great deal compared to authentic omakase restaurants, which usually start at $150 before tips. My kids are still happy, and the seafood is decent for the cost. But it's disappointing to see the loss of authentic Japanese spirit. Sushi W has become just another Americanized sushi spot catering to those who can't distinguish high-quality sushi from mediocre offerings. While it's still worth visiting as a budget omakase option, it no longer provides the authentic dining experience I once enjoyed.
BTW, the location is really East Harlem. Not UES.